@@zeusmaryusep I lived in pi for 2 and half years. What you said is all true for the stupid. I have two houses and a big farm. One is a rental. But I have it good with the local barangay health clinic. If I need brain surgery or a heart transplant I'm screwed.
just checked my SS status, if i retire at 62 ill get $2100 per month. and at 67 $3075 and finally at 70 $3700. im 57, im retiring at 62. moving to the philippines in 2028.
If your numbers are accurate it means you had decent jobs most of your life. That should mean you also have other sources of money (ie house, 401K, IRA, retirement from employer) you should be fine providing you are somewhat disciplined.
There's always pros and cons no matter where we live but there is an option in life. If you could live and travel like the locals, you can even stretch your mighty dollar much further. Life is short to do the things we don't love doing. Budgeting our financial requires commitment and discipline. We came to this world barehanded and we go back with nothing but life is very precious. Peace out from a genocide survivor under the Khmer Rouge Cambodia from 1975 to 1979. I had to escape by boat from Cambodia to Panay Island, Philippines in late 1979. I was thrown in jail there and finally I came to the US in 1981. Work smart, save hard as early as possible and took my early Retirement at 55. Retired cheap Asia!
Very good points Khmer Minsota! I have read the book, "They Came for My Father First" (Title May be Different) about Cambodia and the Khmer atrocities and I have read and watched several books/videos about it. Very sad history and I am so glad you survived it. Best wishes for all of your plans. I met a Cambodian girl in Phoenix who lost her family there.
My wife has her own house (we renovated the house of her late parents, because her siblings had no use for it, having their own), good for 2 people, in a barangay where I am the only Americano far and wide, in a suburb of Cagayan de Oro City. Poor people live there as well as middle-class-people, also many of our close relatives in their own houses. People know me for my very modest lifestyle and my generosity, but also for my respect for the people and my love of hot weather. Last December we spent no more than 600 Dollars for both of us and this already includes some high quality-dentist work and buying a new couch. The house has no air-condition, because it only makes me sick. My sleeping-room often has up to 85 degrees F during the night (sun shining through the window from morning to evening), but I sleep perfectly well at such temperature. During rain, I collect water in buckets (to the amusement of my family-members around) to save on the water-bill. This is used for showering, toilet-flush and washing dishes. All my relatives told me that they never met an Americano like me - and many are well travelled, because they can afford. I am not an American, by the way, but I don't mind the Americano.
Thanks for another good video Rod. I budget about $2500 a month and live quite nicely here in Cebu. I have a nice 2BR apartment on the 21st floor of a modern building (Winland Towers). You can live so much better here on the same pension compared to the US.
Thanks Mike. I have done a couple of videos in Winland Towers. Have they raised the condo dues there? Ours in City Suites have gone from 62 to 75 and now 100 pesos/sq meter in the last 6 months.
Glad to have read your post. I'm planning on retiring in 5 to 7 yrs, either at 60 or 62 yrs old. My company pension will be approximately 2800. I plan on visiting first, but if I can stand the weather, I may settle there and live on my pension and let my 401k and SS grow before I tap them. It seems that I may be able to live well in retirement and still leave a small fortune for my grown daughter. I'm curious if you can tell me if they have good places and boats down there where you can fish? I'm aware that you're on islands, but I'm wondering if the fish are safe to eat and do you need a fishing license?
@@freedomwillring6749 I don't know much about the fishing. The locals fish and sell their fresh catch at local markets (e.g. Carbon night market). I have eaten the locally caught fish many times and haven't gotten sick, so I hope that it's safe. You should come here to visit. I'm very happy here and think you will be too. I currently pay 35k pesos (about $630 USD) for a nice 2BR place, but people tell me that I'm overpaying and can go cheaper.
Honest, clear, realistic and wise, as always! Budgets of expats must be so much different according to their own way of living. It must be a bit disturbing at first to realise that only (mainly) cash is used in most cases. Great job Rod! Thank you very much💛
Good video, I have been living in the Philippines for five years and been renting in Cebu since 2019. I'm on my second Condo in the same building in building. One of the things I try not to do is pay 2 months security. I offer them one month advance, one month security and I successfully negotiated that on this Condo we moved into last year. After my experience renting a house where I paid "1st and last month" security I no longer do that. I offer to pay cash every month and they're happy about that unless the owner doesn't want to come and collect the rent then you can open a BDO account and do bank to Bank. Definitely don't do "1st and last month". It's a dealbreaker here for me and I got burned.
Thanks Stephen. Many, but not all, landlords will negotiate terms of a lease. I hate tying up that much cash also and I take proper care of property and pay on time.
@@AmazingPhilippines1 Do you live in a Condo? Is there a video for your condo and rent you pay? Sorry there are so many videos it's not easy finding the relevant one.
My biggest suggestion if your not from the Philippines, live there for 6 months or more. Don’t believe the hype, each to his own. If your still a happy camper than extend your stay. Always have plan B & C & even D. As Murphy’s Law will happen, everyone has an expiration date.
Yep...the Hype is incredible...the Philippines of 40 years ago is gone....relaxing?...used to be....before all the cars and motor bikes and millions of more humans....I am more stressed by the Traffic here than I was in the US
Don't count on others. Count on yourself. Thats the murphy's law in the Philippines . Don't trust people and surtain not the family. They only comes to get something from u . Where i live the people are gentil , but i not trust one of them. They smile in your face and stab u in the back. u need to hear them talk about u but they not realize that i understand tagalog just as good as them only i use english . And many expats forget one thing that is that they have to behave decently and that is where the shoe pinches. Don't think that you will be served at your call. it is as shown by a survey. The question was foreigners were welcome in the Philippines. the answer was… Joe we don't like you we like only your money.
@@jimf937 the Sages of old and Native Shaman ....said a time would come with this Civilization....when Madness would Reign ...and Men would see Evil as Good and Good as Evil....the Masses would choose or be numb to Rude Noise....Congestion...Crowding....the City Rat Race....the Artificial over the Natural ...something like in the Movie Noah....and if that is Not what I see here in Angeles City....??...what is driving Motorbikes like Kamakazi Suicide Pilots ..the Area has been destroyed...but the Locals believe they are living large ..like Americans ..but it is becoming Hell on Earth....and only Demons love Hell ..and feel comfortable in it...Noise? we have taken Urban Noise to new levels...and God created no such disharmonious vibration...if this is what Humans need to Live...they will not live very long ..Earthquakes and Volcanoes will smooth out our Mistakes
Good video Rod. You covered alot of things. Throughout my little Philippines journey here these past couple years I have learned that it is not as cheap as what some may think to live in the PH. I think living on $1,000 a month (or less) is dangerous. $1,500 seems like a safe number but even with that you gotta be careful. Running out of money in the Philippines is a very bad look and there is no safety nets over there to save us expats. I'm shooting for $2,000 a month and $50,000 in savings. Prolly gonna take me a few years to get there but it's better to wait and tough it out here in America for awhile then to get impatient and just hop on a plane and go not fully prepared. I'm not going to wind up on some vlpggers channel filming me while I'm on the streets of Manila begging. Nobody wants to be that guy... Take care ✌️
$2000 a month, you should be fine in most of the philippines. $1000-$1500, you are limited to where you can settle in. If you're planning on renting first, you need to prepare for 2 things. Some rentals are furnished, and you don't need the basic necessities, but the majority are not. I spent upwards of $15k on basic things like a bed, refrigerator, ac splits, dinner table/chairs, TV, stove, washer, couch, etc. As I settled in, I added probably another $5k for other things you just don't think about before coming here, like internet/TV deposit, rental deposits, water bottles/dispenser, propane gas tank, dishes, silverware, fans, dirty clothes hamper, bed sheets, pillows, etc. There are many more things I could add, but hopefully, this has helped a little for your planning. Good luck with your journey
@Roy Exploring The Philippine's Thank you sir yes I figured about $10k start up fund. Maybe more... I'm hoping to start my cybersecurity career and if that pans out I'll be around $9,000 a month. Definitely can live a good life there with that going on lol Just gotta work for it that's not that hard to do. Take care and good luck on your journey as well
@@throughblindeyesmyphilippi2015 I arrived last September. I fumbled around in cebu, lapulapu, culasi antique, and then iloilo. Fumbled because i stayed in hotels/motels and Airbnbs. My plan never included living in the provinces. I'm more Lisa than Oliver Wendell Douglas :). As Rob has made clear to and other as well, your costs will depend on your desired lifestyle. I spent a week on an island. Communal bathing looking at stars after dark is cool...for a week only! I had some learning experiences with Airbnbs. So I'm skeptical now. But i was able to connect with an owner who wanted a long-term guess and a marriage was made. My real point here is housing is my biggest expense. And i pay less than a third of what i was paying in the states. A studio condo with all the fixings. Food is now my biggest expense. Cellphone and visa next. I walk everywhere and have gradually learned the transportation system (but too tall for jeepneys). So knowing what housinf lifestyle you what is key. At least it was for me.
@Darius Slade Hey thx for sharing! Yes it depends on one's lifestyle. But still I don't think it's as safe anymore to be trying to live their for $1,000 a month. Leaves no room for error whatsoever and that's not safe. I say no less than $1,500 a month these days to be fair
I chose to retire to Thailand instead of the Philippines because of the condo rental price. I am getting a condo for 215, view of the ocean , large pool, gym, on the baht truck route and retail area on the first floor. The closest Philippine condo to this was 500 US. All other costs are about the same.
@@AmazingPhilippines1 they are still over building , find a condo 15 years old can be a great price, new condos are expensive. I live next to Pattaya in Jomtien
I like your idea of bringing attention to the many things people don't think about as a cost, but they do add up. However, see below my observation as to realistic costs and some that I see as over estimating a true budget. Rentals, from what I've seen, are not down in price. In fact, they have been considerably higher since early 2022. And with the number of foreigners coming every day, it's driving the price higher because filipinos know they will pay that higher price. For a rent that was, let's say, P25,000 prior to and within the pandemic, some have climbed to as much as P35,000-45,000. Again, this most likely is due to the surge of foreigners coming and squandering their dollars around and accepting these increases because they don't know any better. As to food, I think your numbers are a bit high. Yes, inflation has risen, but my food bill for 2 is about P15,000 per month, and we eat exceptionally well. We mostly cook our meals because grab can break your budget quickly. But that doesn't mean I skimp on the foods I like as a westerner either.w ACR card is not required after 6 months. It's required after being here 59 days, and immigration will not allow you to file any tourist extension without it after 59 days. I'm not sure where you got your numbers for cost, but an ACR card is $50usd, NOT $500usd. I spend approximately $365 per year on immigration and that includes all the express lane fees and ACR card. That's P20,050 per year and breaks down to P1,670 per month. You can add another P250 pesos 2 times a year I pay for travel to immigration. As to using a cellphone, I purchased a P399 gigalife nonexpiry 16GB inter et and P500 peso phone data nonexpiry, which so far averages out to P128 pesos per month. If you use cellphones a lot, P500 pesos per month should be plenty unless you only call landlines, which is very expensive than calling another cellphone. Anyway, those are my realistic costs for a few basics needed in my budget. Everyone is different in the way they shop, how much they adapt to weather for ac, and if they have an inverter ac, if they leave their lights on, if they only buy brands of food they had in their country, etc. There are way too many variables to give a budget on every lifestyle. To me, a good budget starts at what currency rate your budget will be. Mine is budgeted at a rate of p45 per dollar. If it stays higher, great, more to save. Rate of exchange changes daily, and every expat should realize, making a budget at current rates is basically irresponsible and possibly sets you up to fail.
Thanks Roy. I misspoke on the ACR card and will do an update soon to cover other issues as well. I have noticed many online listings quite high and my thinking is that they set it high so they can negotiate down to a reasonable rate and still make money. The vacancy rate is still quite high in many PH cities, with Manila about 17+ percent whick is very high. After the "high season" is over in a month or 2, more expats may be coming if airline prices drop a bit. Cheers!
Good information as I was thinking about eventually coming to the Philippines to stay, been there a few times in my past, getting ready to retire and I have a pension as well as SSI coming within the next 15 months, I am familiar with the Butuan city, CDO, Camiguin island areas and no so much around Cebu, depending on my personal budget, I should look into renting a house or condo, since I cannot own land there and the average costs of renting a home/ gated community is different in the provinces vs the city and by how much. Thanks for any info you can provide.
Living in PI with my PI wife costs me around $2000. I have a house in Goa India, living there is around $1500, also we spend time in Morocco which is about $1200. If I didn’t have PI wife I would choose Thailand, things work better and the food is much much better.
Food is a question of taste. I prefer Philippino and Chinese food to Thai. And in the Philippines everyone speaks English, in oppostion to Thailand. My Philippino brother-in-law told me of his troubles to make people understand that he would like to buy rice at a foodstall, because nobody knew a single word of English. He then found a single rice-grain on the ground and showed it to them. Only then they understood with a loud laughter.
@@wernerschneider4460 ah yes Balot and pink hot dogs with marshmallows Years ago i tried a hamburger at their McDonald's Spit it out ad threw it away Meat was nasty
Sounds excellent about the budgeting; however, many older retirees don't plan ahead for medical expenses and the impact of declining health in their older years. I really like the dynamics of moving to lower cost of living places, because going into homecare is very expensive in developed countries. In the Philippines and other lower cost of living countries, there's so many more options like having family or hired help to assist - people can stay at home instead of paying for high cost assistance. Living longer means there will likely be some expensive medical issues arising over time.
Very true Dennis. My friend at 82 had an aneurism and his "helper" girlfriend is taking care of him at home much better than an expensive nursing home would.
Before i went to the Philippines i have taken a healt insurance in Europe. I pay yearly 139 euro and it covers all costs for medical care in the Philippines even the medicines . So there are no expensive medical issues
@@JoBosman Good idea to be concerned about your health, Jo, because issues arise as we age. I had a history of no issues, but recently had spots in my bladder - this is now more common in older men - I'm getting treatment now, BUT getting older some places you cannot get health insurance abroad, so many are well advised to have a fall back plan for unknown issues. Retain your insurance back home and keep a local address, so you can return for anything serious. Maybe use travel insurance abroad, too. Some locations will take advantage of tourists without insurance abroad, so stay protected for accidents or health ins.
8% inflation.. but reality food\energy inflation is a LOT higher. We spend about 2500 usd a month, more some times less others. This is NOT counting money earned\spent for our businesses, just our personal lifestyle. We own outright our home and commercial site. We do have a new car, and other niceties. We can spend more easily, but we are fairly frugal, especially waiting to see what 2023 will be like. 9 years full time, and doing fine.
I think many go for price and don't realize how much you can actually save with an inverter. Many don't even know what it is or how it works. Inverter is by far the way to go.....
As a landlord i pass on the cost to the tentant via the rent for split type. split types cost around 40k plus fitting so i divide the cost by 12 and the tenant pays each month. which works out more than some pay per month for electric on a studio. So what you save overall might not be that much. Some studio condos etc as dont have the correct fuse for a 2HP split type and other PMO dont give permission .
I've been in the Philippines since August of '18. I lived in town in Leyte until July of 2022...now I'm in rural Bohol. My SSDI is about $1000 a month. No problem at all. I have a fiancée with 2 kids and we live well.
the cost of condominiums in philippines are unreasonably very expensive , and you have to buy also the parking lot and the measurements are unreasonably small .
I'm a 100% disabled US veteran, so I have that monthly income, plus SS and pension. It sounds like I could live a lot better there then here in the States. If I moved anywhere it'd probably be Manila as they have a VA outpatient clinic there.
Be aware that the VA in the Philippines is under different rules; they will ONLY help you with verified service-related medical issues. (For me, this means hearing aids, but no help with my MS or diabetes. Didn’t know that before arriving. 🙄)
Consider moving to a low cost state in the US. We bought a house in an inexpensive state in the US, paid it off in 10 years, live 30 minutes from a VA and civilian medical center, MTF and big city. State income and property taxes are low here, as is crime and unemployment.
My maximum monthly budget for living expenses is 500 pesos per day or $300/month. I'm married a Filipina who is the property manager here. We live in a 3-bedroom house in Iloilo. I don't buy or consume alcohol or tobacco. We go out to casual dining restaurants 2-3 times a month. I enjoy cooking my own food in my own kitchen using mainly whole foods and limited amounts of meat. I have gas and electric cooking appliances as well as cast iron pans, silicone baking molds, and many fun kitchen gadgets. My electricity & waterfalls run 2500-3000 pesos per month.
I have learned from talking to people over the past year you can live pretty cheap there. The key from what I have learned is to stay out of the larger cities and have some locals help you to get a house and get setup. From private contacts the best places to rent aren't advertised. I know guys who live in beautiful beach houses for $380 US a month all in to include internet. I think it's just a matter of talking to and knowing the right people. Like anywhere if you go as an expat and never mingle with the public you will live like an expat. That means you will always pay more.
Good points. Cost of living is important for many of us living here. I have considered living outside of the city. I would definitely travel more as I would get bored probably.
I only mingle with the locals when in the Philippines, never with expats. There are no expats in our barangay and the neighboring ones for luck. Those live in different parts of the city.
I have a 100 m2 apartment. I run AC almost constantly. We have a big unit downstairs that cool s the whole downstairs and then small units in each of the bedrooms. During the day we run the downstairs units and at night we run the unit in our bedroom -- we don't cool the upstairs during the day or the downstairs at night. Our electric bill is about P5000 per month, circa $100. I consider that reasonable. If it was too high, we could cut it by turning the AC down or off. Note that AC is likely to be the bulk of your electric bill. Running lights, tv, computer, etc are very small in comparison.
One thing I've been told is not to expect the refund of your deposit funds. To be on the safe side assume it's part of your first year's rent. So if you rent a place for 20,000 a month with a deposit of 40,000 your true rent if you only stay a year could end up being 23,330 a month. So that's about an extra $66 bucks a month. I've heard more than a few expats on UA-cam who rarely get deposits refunded. It's the price of being an expat in the Phil's. After all your are perceived as a RICH guy so you can afford it. Same thing goes for loaning money, don't expect to get paid back. Consider it a gift to the person.
@@jimf937 I wonder what action the landlord would try and take if you stopped paying rent. I assume the local police would be called. I assume the police would always side with the Filipino landlord. Might be worth checking the PI eviction laws before you stop paying rent.
i have been here over 5 years, i only have lived in condos. I have always received my full deposit back. But i always use rentpad website, and i use a realtor company. I would not trust renting from a private owner at all.
Thanks for sharing! And thanks for using Philippine Pesos in the budget! That's not many Y tubers that does this, but it helps us non-US citizens a lot as the triangle exchange rate between PHP-US$ and NOK vary a lot over the years.
Ciao thanks for the video, maybe something has changed in 2024? possibly in the next video make a table, account plus account, expenses item . Grazie ciao from Italy
Thanks for a comprehensive and very useful budget breakdown Rod. There were a few things mentioned that I hadn’t really considered. I hope to catch up with you sometime.
Someone, I think it was Texas Filipino, said that it's best to just travel around the area you want to live in. Because the best deals are from signs that people put up. Places advertised online and in newspaper are usually higher. He was showing a nice 4 bedroom 2 bath house that a guy got for $223.00 monthly. The big yard was a mess, very overgrown and plenty junk, also no AC and no hot water. But it will be very nice after they clean it up.
You don’t need hot water in the Philippines. Took hundreds of showers there, and not once did we need a hot water knob. Just need hot water for tea and coffee
Thank you for the budget video I think I’m gonna be at close to $4000 US a month but I’m still going to budget maybe try to live on 1500 and save the rest just let it accumulate. Good advice Rod
When I retire a few more years I will choose Cambodia and live a few miles from Vietnam Border or second choice a few miles westside from Thailand. Costs of living cheaper but depends lifestyle
If you are living in the city the cost of food, rent, eating out is definitely higher than than a smaller town. Also rent could be eating too much of your budget if you are wanting the exact same housing as back home. Some are spending 600 + a month on rent. Boils down to how much you have per month and if you are still trying to live a western lifestyle ,but just in a different country.
Water bills here are small. I pay about $5 per month for tap water and maybe $10 for drinking water. Oh, don't drink the tsp water. In most of the country its not filtered or treated. Tsp water is for washing. Get bottled water to drink. I live in cebu and the city says the tap water is drinkable, but I haven't tried it.
I have been in Baguio City for 9 years now, 25k pesos for rent, we don't drink much, electricity and water are 2K pesos per month max, no fan, no air, its cold here. As everywhere food is going up so about $300 per month for both of us. We can survive typically for $1200 to $1500 for all we do in a large house with a lucky find on this price. Typical maybe 40K per month for a foreigner here in a nice house. Another factor to actually worry about is the exchange rate but I honestly believe in the future it will get better as this country is seeking more foreign investment, that is YOU so they need to make your money stronger. Anything above 50 is great but it is slowly dropping back to that range right now but when it hit 60 a couple months ago, I changed enough to last for an entire year of expenses so I made 20% profit from the baseline rate. Baguio is a place for peace and quiet and relaxing in the cool temps, the nightlife is minimal, only a little so it can be a party place for a long weekend but you need to know where to go to get into trouble, its nothing like Angeles or Subic areas, sorry. For many coming here to the PI to stay, drinking and woman will suck up your money the most and this is the part where you may end up living beyond your means. You can rent for $100 in a hole, and you can eat for $3 a day, but WHY? BARS & GIRLS are no longer cheap like Pre-COVID, nothing is the same as before if you were here before. Koreans have bought up Angeles, Nuf said.
@@davidbowyer6642 I needed to live here to go to University on my GI BILL and of course had a fair deal on that house, we just moved as the old house is becoming a resto-bar and we wanted to stay in the area as we moved ourself just down the road. I am thinking since you said large apartment, maybe your place and my place are similar in cost per square meter, I have a very large 2-floor house with an awesome view which ups the price a bit. If we like to walk home from SM, it's a good walk, 20 minutes towards Hillside.
@@DuaneDonaldson that sounds like you have a nice place. We stay in the apartment since it is next door to the private school our daughter attends. I don't mind being a little far away from the city but it's not so bad maybe 40 minutes to SM by jeepney. Most of the time we go to Center mall in La Trinidad.
@@davidbowyer6642 off track question, do you have a USA PayPal, seems the system has changed and I have been blocked with my PH IP access here??? Mine is also attached to my USA bank, I dont get it, I cannot even access the PP public site on Google
If you spend time in the Philippines and get to know your favorite areas, it can pay off. We pay 8000 peso for a decent 2 bedroom, two bath house, 20 minutes walk from a good beach. This is in provincial Bohol...a beautiful area.
I'm looking for a place there for around that price in Bohol. I pay 6,500 pesos a month for a nice 2 bedroom house near Tagaytay with a gate, quite neighborhood.
@@ShawnsLifeInThePhilippines It depends on what area works for you. The southern side of the island, where the nice beaches are, is the more expensive side of the island. Apart from beaches, the north side is cheaper, up from Ubay, or Tubigon for example...kind of depends on what you are looking for.
@@aphilippinesadventure9184 I'm really looking for a nice, safe place to raise my 2 kids, less people, safe area and a good school. What would you recommend?
I renewed my US passport through the US embassy in Manila. Went through the contacted courier service suggested by the embassy. Just finished transferring the arrival stamp and visa stamped from the old passport of the new passport. Took me two trips to the Philippines Bureau of Immigration. A lot of time traveling by bus this past week hahaha. We are anywhere from 3 to 6 hours by bus, each way. Depending on traffic, of course. Busman holiday hahaha.
It depends on people's standards, some can get by with next to nothing, and others like higher standards. There is no same budget for everyone in the Philippines. The only sure thing is that most people should have at least 1 million pesos for unexpected illness and hospitalization. I lived in the Philippines for 10 years from 2006 until I moved to Spain in 2016 and I see that my consumption is somewhat less here in Spain but plus is that the healthcare is free for most Europeans here in Spain.
You go to the nice condos your still gonna pay 30-40 thousand pesos a month then you pay for cable 2200 pesos a month then electric will be around 7-12 thousand pesos a month
I feel poor in America with 3200$ a month pension I would feel like a millionaire in the Philippines. I might be forced to sell my house take that cash with my pension and just live like a rock star overseas. I figure I got 25 years left why die with money spend it all.
nice video my friend. thanks for sharing. i thought life in philippines would be low cost but i now realize it isn t. anyway i m planning a trip on my own in the country. 2-3 in manilla and then fly to cebu and palawan. is there any dangers i should take care? crime maybe? i believe locals are gently but i m not sure....thnanks again brother, have fun
I don't pay rent, because my wife and I own property, from which we garner about 70,000PP per month, plus a store that we own and probably gets us a further 20000PP per month. That is enough so we don't dig into our savings, which we use for holidays overseas and other treats. I reckon we clear about USD 2000 every month, but that is all on us since we have no rent to pay and our expenses are nowhere near that amount. I don't eat meat - initially for health reasons but then for moral choices - my choice and I am not going to impose my views on others - I shop at markets where I get my fruit and vegetables pretty cheaply. The only big outlay I had was when I had a motorbike accident about 9 months a go. A pissed up motorcyclist took me out and severely damaged my leg. That cost about 100,000 PP, but eventually I got it back because I have insurance. My biggest weakness is for 12 San Mig Lights a day, plus half a pack of fags (cigarettes to me American friends).
There is no cut-sheet budget in the Philippines nor anywhere else in the world. Typically your budget is based on your income with a floor budget of course being the bare minimum you need to survive. I like living in a nicer area, enjoy golfing, travel, going out a couple of times a week, and basically pamper myself for all the years I busted my ass working. I don't like being stagnate, staying in the house all day watching the world slip by via the internet or TV. To enjoy that, I would need at least $4k a month in the Philippines or anywhere else in SEA. Thankfully I started planning this about 14 years ago and I will be far above that amount when I retire in a couple of years. Too many expats move to the Philippines almost out of a necessity due to low retirement income. Far better to plan ahead and don't have your income dictate where and what you will do in retirement.
That's true, I built a house in 2006 and have been in Philippines Since 1998. We spend about 3-3.5k usd a month, maybe some extra for holidays etc so 4000 usd are a good number. We live comfortable with own house, pool, maids etc but nothing fantastic, fairly simple and have two kids in school. I'm still working and are 48, now I'll invest in solar as electric is expensive and some other things to reduce cost before I retire.
Yeah, let's be honest it's going up weekly if not daily. My lifestyle is getting restricted rapidly, and electricity and food prices are going up monthly. Living on a fixed income is getting harder.I once had a car, but not now, I used to go out regularly not now.
Never pay 2 Months Deposit plus current months rent. I have rented 3 different Homes in Philippines and yes they Ask but I never just pay 2 months Deposit. I pay 1 Month plus current month. Then when I move, I Consume the 1 month Deposit. I also have a Meter reading for electric and water. or Just pay it when it comes due. I pay less than p10,000 per month plus water , Electric, and association Fee. In Bacolod and In Dumaguete. Food Costs have gone Up and Rent has gone down.
@oceanpro Alaska, the 2 biggest rent scam I have heard about is landlord not refunding deposits and overcharging renter for electric and water if you are paying landlord directly for those monthly expenses. I saw a comment on another channel where the guy said the landlord charged 7,000 a month for electric and water and the guy rarely ran his aircon in a small apartment. What a rip off!
@@danielhackney7806 Yes you are 100% correct. I will never pay the Landlord Direct for Electric. If you do, You will pay an Inflated rate.I always pay the Electric Company Direct. Its pretty simple, If you don't pay the Electric, Then they will Cut of your electric. If a Potential Landlord demands you pay them for Electric or Internet, RUN Away, You are about to be Scammed.
After a lot of moving around renting in Dumaguete I luckily checked out a place that I had passed by frquently. I rent a room above a restaurant, it is spacious enough for my wife and myself, furnished, tv, refrigerator, rooms cleaned, towels provided, and my water and electricity is included in my rent of P13,500 per month, I have aircon running and there is no contract, move in and pay month to month. I live just a few minutes walk from downtown and the boulevard so no transport problems. It would be hard to find anything else as good as this anywhere. By the way, the ACR card is $ 50 per year..
@@MsLilBit8344 No, Most Landlords are Honest. It's VERY IMPORTANT to get everything in writing, Just so you will not have any Misunderstanding. I prefer to deal directly with the Owner., However now I am dealing with an Agent on the current property I am renting. I have to say she is Straight Up and I am getting a Good deal on my Lease.
One issue here needs to be clarified because I'm pretty sick of hearing the wrong statements constantly being regurgitated. A permanent resident, married to a Filipina national can own up to 10 properties. They own the house and the land or if it's a lot they own the lot/land. Both names are on the titles to automatically be transferred to one or the other should one pass away. Or should they separate, one cannot sell without the endorsement of the other. The 25 or 30 year lease applies to the pensioners visa not the permanent resident visa. My wife is a realtor here and the laws are very clear and simple.
Food: if you eat the same things you ate in the US, it will cost a lot because they have to be imported. Like I saw strawberries for $20 per quart. But if you eat local foods its way cheaper. Instead of eating peaches c and plums, here I eat mangoes and papaya. I rarely get beef but often get shrimp. Etc. I spend about $400 per month for my wife and me. Oh, that's buying mostly at the supermarket. Its cheaper at open air markets and the food is fresher, but not the same cleanliness standards.
I have a house in iloilo. My monthly expenses when I'm home, a modest neighborhood, are less than 20k. It depends on what you can do without and if you have local help. My wife is good with money, my diamond. If you try to live like a foreigner you are going to pay like a foreigner. Expect power brown outs and internet to go out at random, keep candles and things to prepare. Extending a tourist visa is about 4k a month. If you have 2k usd each month you can live like a king.
Thanks for the video, my monthly budget is $1500 and I live in Tunasan, Muntinlupa City plus don't rely living pension to pension, you need extra savings and emergency funds. I'm very happy enough not paying any mortgage or rent. I know 5 farangs living there and all military veterans.
You need $10,000 dollars to live comfortably in Philippine my sister try that for 6 months now she back again in America 🙈 she said is a biggest mistake energy hospital bills mostly everything is priced of gold
I like the place that I am living in right now in the USA way better than any of the condos in the video. They didn’t impress me that much. I have a nice yard, at least to me. The condos appear to have no yard whatsoever. I bought the house outright and the house is in an area with low property taxes, no HOA fees, and it is a low maintenance type house which I paid outright - no mortgage or rent. I’d think I’d like it better where I am now. I had the experience of being an expat for 7-8 winters in Mexico and Guatemala. Seeing all the ships at see in the video, I get the impression I wouldn’t like the location where the camera was placed taking the video. It looks like it is a some major port with ships going in and out and very densely populated area.
@@AmazingPhilippines1 I am not too good about how to say it the right. I think it is about if you have the intention of relocating to another country, you have to dig I call it “really deep” to determine whether you are going to like wherever going are going to move to even if it is within in your own country. I sure like to, I don’t know how to say it the right way, do one of these “digging deeps” as far as whether I would really like it in the Philippines. You never know, I might find out that after doing a thorough investigation, the Philippines you never know might be a place I really like but I think it is contingent about upon, for example, a suitable living situation. I may not like living in a slum neighborhood like in Manila but also I don’t think some luxury condominium in a resort area or house like the ones shown in your video I wouldn’t be very happy with either. I have watched a lot of Thailand videos about the Phuket area and it has the appearance of an area I wouldn’t like one bit. I have to work on this and dig up what I think an area has to have before I would like it. Who knows. Maybe I might be surprised what the Philippines has to offer. I think it has to do a lot with the people whether you like an area or not. If they are very snottish or arrogant, I don’t think I like the area. It takes a while for the right thoughts, the things to consider, to come to mind so as they do, I will bring them to you. One the things that brought me to this area where I am right now is that where I live, we got a nice lake where I live and you don’t have rules where it is prohibited to swim anywhere except in designated areas and in some places only when lifeguards are on duty. A lot of areas in the USA aren’t like that. I don’t how it is in the Philippines. Another thing is freedom to build what you really want if you have a piece of land. In most parts of the USA, you are dictated how your house is supposed to look, how it is supposed to be built, etc. because of certain situations, namely very restrictive laws. In most areas of the USA, it prohibited to a person to live in some small shed, say you wanted to use it as a starter house and then expand as you get the money without having to borrow. They say it is “substandard housing”. Also, aren’t there these land leeches in the forest, dangerous marine creatures in the sea, etc. All those things you got to consider in determining whether you like an area. You got to see what the situation is and then take it from there. I am one of those who is very big on the subject of “situational awareness”.
Hi Vernon, couple things to consider too. My understanding is that foreigners are not allowed to own land in the Philippines. They are able to own the structure only. Also, it’s been mentioned earlier, but I’m a firm believer in renting anywhere you decide to go, for six months or more, before deciding on purchasing a building. Good to see what’s it’s like for a while, and then assess your own happiness level at that point. I’ve visited the Philippines, probably eight or nine times, and I love it there. I live in upstate New York presently. I plan on traveling a lot when I retire at 59 years of age. If I decide to stay a good amount of time in the Philippines, I will be renting. I’m 57 now
In 2028 when I retire, I'll have more than $4k a Month in income between Social Security & my Pensions... My "Trial Budget" is about $2500 US, figuring Inflation puts it at about $3k... I can handle $1k monthly going into savings... I'm planning about $5K in startup costs... Is that reasonable?
I brought my American cell phone, and then I also bought a Filipino phone. So I have the US number to give to my bank etc back in the US, and a Filipino number for use here. I got a cheap US phone plan. Mostly I use WiFi calling so there's no roaming charge. But warning: lines are often busy, apparently there is a sharp limit on connections to US. Maybe depends on your carrier, I don't know. Filipino phones you don't get a "phone plan". You " buy load" for your phone, its all prepaid. I don't use my phone that much do I only spend maybe =4 per month. My wife is constantly calling family but still only costs less than $10 per month.
Plus the exchange rate cannot get higher and higher with the World Inflation? And like you said food, utilities, internet service and phone have no restrictions on getting more expensive? And I would be afraid of getting stranded out in PI!
Never in THE city, I don't like cities. Regardless where in the world. Only in green suburbs or beyond. And in Manila I don't even want to be buried (same for my wife), a monster.
Remember economies and currency can change, even drastically. When I lived in the Philippines in 1990 the peso to dollar rate was only 25 to 1... Half of today's rates.
If I retired right now, I would be making roughly $7000 USD per month. This is a combination of federal govt. pension, thrift savings and social security. I think retiring to the Philippines sounds like a great option for me and my wife who is from the Philippines.
The stores vat the mall take my US credit card no problem. Same for nicer restaurants , hotels, and tourist spots. Small shops don't take credit cards my American cards do not work with most Filipino online services. I recommend you get a g cash account. Its an account tied to your cell phone. Its a debit account: you add money to it and then you can spend it. I use mine for online services. Many stores take it but I've never tried to do that.
i am missing videos on what is the MINIMUM amount of money you need to LIVE COMFORTABLY in the Philippines. For example i spend around 30,000 peso a month which is far far away from all the videos you guys are posting. I must say i built my own house paid for in cash so i have no rent fee. i also live in a province so prices are lower than living in a nice coastal area. Of course, if you want to have a lavish life which is not really necessary because you will have a better life here in the Philippines than back in your home country then you will pay more. IF you have so much money and you are not really concerned what you spend then thats another thing but expats who are thinking of moving to the Philippines need to know what they really need.
Thanks Ian. Sounds like you are happy with your choices. "Minimum" required would vary greatly depending on the individual requirements of course. I would also suggest maintenance costs need to be figured in, insurance and/or a repair/rebuild fund depending on the risks in your area. I have heard of a couple people who tried living very cheaply in Nipa huts for a time but eventually could not handle it. "Comfort" level is also quite subjective.
I'm a Philippine expat. Your expenses depend on your lifestyle. If you like to live beyond your means, your income from your homeland still won't suffice!
Cost of living really depends on location. What one pays in Manila or Cebu is always going to be more. Where I live about an hour south of the manila airport, it’s a huge difference. Since I am financially secured. We built our 5br,5ba over 15 years ago for $60K in cash. It’s worth 3-4 times that much today. Our cost of living is approximately $2K to $2.5K (US Dollars) per month. Plus, We save more than that every month. But rent can vary from city to city, province to province or town to town. It comes down to planing your situation and having a decent retirement. $1000 a month retirement is not the best situation in my humble opinion 💞
When I was in Ermita, Manila, I rented a furnished studio condo in Robinsons Place for 25k/mo. I was on the 15th floor with a balcony and an incredible view! I really miss that view being back in San Antonio now. I ran the split air-con 24/7 and it cost me 4500/mo. Internet was about 2k/mo (short term 2 months) but it was fast and very reliable (PLDT). The huge mall downstairs was very convenient, probably too convenient, lol. I tried to hold the food/dining out spending to about 6000/week but it was tough. My gf cooked most of the time so that helped a lot.
BTW I'm sure the split air con saved me a lot of money. I think it could have been close to double the electricity usage if I'd had a conventional A/C.
Saw another video stating that several months before relocating to the Philippines you better start getting your Social Security if that applies to you.
Good video Rod love your vlog But the ACI card didn't cost 500 US maybe 3000 php pesos thats what I paid and 10000 pesos or a little more for the 6 month extension in Mactan office Island mall
I just had my 80th B'Day and remain in good health and active; however, moving abroad most insurance firms would likely not accept me due to age. We get insurance for my wife, but she will qualify; however, I probably will have to go without insurance. I can continue Medicare, but I'll be out of country and coming home may be more costly and sometimes just getting an apt. can take a month or two for some specialists. Maybe I can get a travel insurance, but they may have age restrictions, too.
Glad to hear you are in good health Dennis. I have a friend 81 who was quite healthy until he had the booster then went down hill fast. PhilHealth is on relatively cheap option for hospitalization but they do not cover foreigners for the most critical and expensive procedures any longer. It is worth having. You are correct, most insurance here does not want anyone over 60-65.
@@AmazingPhilippines1 - the option of just paying cash is wise for older expats. Something congested my lungs in Mexico, so I went to a doctor and he charged me $4.40 for the visit and provided a program including prescriptions. Next door, the pharmacy filled the prescriptions and charged me $22 for everything; plus, they refunded me $2.20 for the doctor's visit. When I returned home, I visited my doctor with the prescriptions and he said it's the same treatment used here in the USA, but this also included extra strong medication, so he was impressed, but said "It would cost a tourist a lot of money to get treated in the USA". I asked "Why such a huge difference?" He said "GREED"!!! The moral of this story is DO NOT BE DETOURED FROM MOVING ABROAD DUE TO HEALTH CARE.
Great video and hopefully it pops that unrealistic "bubble" that many people have when it comes to living abroad. IMO $1,500 a month is the bare minimum (emphasis) to get by in the Phils wich includes a standard of living that will not be on par with what you would have become accustomed to in the USA or Canada. $1,500 is also assuming everything goes 100% as planned. And as we all know, life rarely goes as planned. It's imperative that in addition to any expected income, a nice sized savings account just in case things go wrong.
I am satisfied with far less than 1500 $ a month (for two) in Central Europe: Even here we have a very modest lifestyle out of own choosing, even more when we are in the Philippines.
Between my federal retirement, VA disability (100%), my social security, and my wife's social security disability comes out to roughly $9600/month or 550,000 pesos. Could we afford an oceanfront home with a real kitchen (full size fridge, oven, cooktop, microwave, dishwasher) good water with strong pressure?
Couldn't agree more. I've been here over 7 years and things have gotten very expensive. I'm between 3k to 3500 per month. We own our home and cars so no money going for those expenses. $1000 per month in my opinion isn't really attainable.
@@MsLilBit8344 I live a western lifestyle, own a nice home, buy western food and run the AC. We do have a large property and spend a lot on fuel etc. BTW, electric is expensive here if like me you enjoy cool air. I know a few guys who get by on social security, but I wouldn't say they are living well, as a matter of fact one is heading back to the US to be near family in his old age. Best to do a long vacation and see if it's for you.
My lifestyle in not only simple in the Philippines, but even more here in Central Europe. I don't need classical luxury, it doesn't give me any satisfaction. Maybe that's why I am able to cope so easily when I am in poor countries. In the Philippines even our tap-water is usually only available late at night for a couple of hours due to lack of pressure (our neighbors don't have the problem). I didn't mind 25 years ago, and I don't mind now. This was one reason why my wife (an academic) was so fascinated with me from the very beginning we knew each other.
Medical care here is cheap. Typical doctor visit with no insurance is $20. I hurt my arm recently and got an X-Ray to see if anything was broken and it cost $30. Had a blood test and it cost $5. You don't need a prescription for most meds. I've generally found that meds here without insurance cost about the same as what I paid in copays in the US. Like I need dome eye drops for glaucoma. Cost me $30 copay in US. Cost me P1500, A little under $30, here. But with doctors and labs so much cheaper, meds can be your biggest health expense. Oh, I have insurance, but I got a $2500 deductible which I doubt ill hit do I haven't bothered to file any claims.
Housing and food are the greatest expense, regardless of where in the world you live and are not getting any cheaper. For someone, like me who has visited the Philippines darn near every year since 2008 and who has actually lived there, should IMO buy instead of renting. Install an AC solar system depending on your area. Shop where the locals shop and cook meals at home during the week. Eat out and explore on weekends using the car you really should purchase.
I think almost half of my food-intake last December was bananas, fresh and self-fried ones. The cheapest and smallest on the market are the best. Two pounds a day was normal for me. I always buy them from poorer people who sell their own products. Every second or third day.
I would be at $1,600 a month, 😔 and it sounds like I would be living like a peasant according to some people in the comment section, but it sure beats being homeless in the U.S.🤷
Just say NO to 2 months deposit. There is always a new deal tomorrow. And just say NO to add-ons. Landlords generally do not give the deposits back. Costs have a risen a lot in the past 5 years.
There are options and negotiables with some. I have gotten my 5 deposits back but have heard some bad stories also. Yes, costs have gone up quickly because of demand and low vacancies. Now there are thousands of vacancies so more options.
I had a small house built for me & the family, so that's a outlay that's out of the way. I also live o a smallish islad without a city. Two adults & two primary school kids. To cover all our mthly bills & food we'll just get through with 22,000 pesos ................................ & that really is 'just'. Extra 5,000 would make it easier, but extra 10,000 would be comfortable. Realistically, to cover medical emergecies & all except the basic family eeds, you'd have to look at about 40-60,000 pesos per mth. Add 10-20k if you have to ret, & aother 10k if you live i a city. These are pretty basic livig costs ..................... the more you do, the more it'll cost. 6 years ago it was 10-20% less.
+Travis Bicknel ..... the php to usd xchnge rates fluctuate yr. in/yr. out but nowadays on the avg. it's usually between the bracket of P48 - P55 to $1usd, so for convenience purposes most ppl just use the P50 to $1usd conversion rate as it's just easier .....
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what could I do with 250,000.00 pesos a month?
@@gordonkistler916a lot of fun
@@gordonkistler916 get in trouble.
@@zeusmaryusep this is very true. They will milk the blood out of a foreigner.
@@zeusmaryusep I lived in pi for 2 and half years. What you said is all true for the stupid.
I have two houses and a big farm. One is a rental. But I have it good with the local barangay health clinic.
If I need brain surgery or a heart transplant I'm screwed.
just checked my SS status, if i retire at 62 ill get $2100 per month. and at 67 $3075 and finally at 70 $3700. im 57, im retiring at 62. moving to the philippines in 2028.
chicken feed
Yep it’s not really enough, UNLESS, you buy a condo or small house and pay it off before retiring
@@50whatnomadtravelnursemtb5 that budget be ok how many times been in Philippines 🇵🇭
You can live comfortably with 2k a month so go go go life is too short .
If your numbers are accurate it means you had decent jobs most of your life. That should mean you also have other sources of money (ie house, 401K, IRA, retirement from employer) you should be fine providing you are somewhat disciplined.
There's always pros and cons no matter where we live but there is an option in life. If you could live and travel like the locals, you can even stretch your mighty dollar much further. Life is short to do the things we don't love doing. Budgeting our financial requires commitment and discipline. We came to this world barehanded and we go back with nothing but life is very precious. Peace out from a genocide survivor under the Khmer Rouge Cambodia from 1975 to 1979. I had to escape by boat from Cambodia to Panay Island, Philippines in late 1979. I was thrown in jail there and finally I came to the US in 1981. Work smart, save hard as early as possible and took my early Retirement at 55. Retired cheap Asia!
Very good points Khmer Minsota!
I have read the book, "They Came for My Father First" (Title May be Different) about Cambodia and the Khmer atrocities and I have read and watched several books/videos about it. Very sad history and I am so glad you survived it. Best wishes for all of your plans. I met a Cambodian girl in Phoenix who lost her family there.
Congratulations! That’s the attitude we should all have.
My wife has her own house (we renovated the house of her late parents, because her siblings had no use for it, having their own), good for 2 people, in a barangay where I am the only Americano far and wide, in a suburb of Cagayan de Oro City. Poor people live there as well as middle-class-people, also many of our close relatives in their own houses. People know me for my very modest lifestyle and my generosity, but also for my respect for the people and my love of hot weather. Last December we spent no more than 600 Dollars for both of us and this already includes some high quality-dentist work and buying a new couch. The house has no air-condition, because it only makes me sick. My sleeping-room often has up to 85 degrees F during the night (sun shining through the window from morning to evening), but I sleep perfectly well at such temperature. During rain, I collect water in buckets (to the amusement of my family-members around) to save on the water-bill. This is used for showering, toilet-flush and washing dishes. All my relatives told me that they never met an Americano like me - and many are well travelled, because they can afford. I am not an American, by the way, but I don't mind the Americano.
$600 a month is just ok but you’ll have no extra money for emergency use
So is 1000 good enough. Must people say its not then you here tales like yours
Thanks for another good video Rod. I budget about $2500 a month and live quite nicely here in Cebu. I have a nice 2BR apartment on the 21st floor of a modern building (Winland Towers). You can live so much better here on the same pension compared to the US.
Thanks Mike. I have done a couple of videos in Winland Towers. Have they raised the condo dues there? Ours in City Suites have gone from 62 to 75 and now 100 pesos/sq meter in the last 6 months.
I'm not sure exactly what the condo dues are here. I pay a fixed amount to the owner and he pays condo dues and his expenses out of that.
Quite nicely if you have the right partner, the right habits and less bad habits and in-laws.
Glad to have read your post. I'm planning on retiring in 5 to 7 yrs, either at 60 or 62 yrs old. My company pension will be approximately 2800. I plan on visiting first, but if I can stand the weather, I may settle there and live on my pension and let my 401k and SS grow before I tap them. It seems that I may be able to live well in retirement and still leave a small fortune for my grown daughter. I'm curious if you can tell me if they have good places and boats down there where you can fish? I'm aware that you're on islands, but I'm wondering if the fish are safe to eat and do you need a fishing license?
@@freedomwillring6749 I don't know much about the fishing. The locals fish and sell their fresh catch at local markets (e.g. Carbon night market). I have eaten the locally caught fish many times and haven't gotten sick, so I hope that it's safe. You should come here to visit. I'm very happy here and think you will be too. I currently pay 35k pesos (about $630 USD) for a nice 2BR place, but people tell me that I'm overpaying and can go cheaper.
The "bottom line". Live by the "GOLDEN RULE". If you have the "gold", you make the rules. This is true in life and especially in a relationship.
Honest, clear, realistic and wise, as always! Budgets of expats must be so much different according to their own way of living.
It must be a bit disturbing at first to realise that only (mainly) cash is used in most cases.
Great job Rod! Thank you very much💛
Many thanks Shineamen. We all have different budgets and requirements. Take care there in France!
Wat is disturbing if jou use cahs there cahs is the king worldwide Euro dollar fen jou the king in the monkey land find out
Good video, I have been living in the Philippines for five years and been renting in Cebu since 2019. I'm on my second Condo in the same building in building. One of the things I try not to do is pay 2 months security. I offer them one month advance, one month security and I successfully negotiated that on this Condo we moved into last year. After my experience renting a house where I paid "1st and last month" security I no longer do that. I offer to pay cash every month and they're happy about that unless the owner doesn't want to come and collect the rent then you can open a BDO account and do bank to Bank. Definitely don't do "1st and last month". It's a dealbreaker here for me and I got burned.
Thanks Stephen. Many, but not all, landlords will negotiate terms of a lease. I hate tying up that much cash also and I take proper care of property and pay on time.
@@AmazingPhilippines1 Do you live in a Condo? Is there a video for your condo and rent you pay? Sorry there are so many videos it's not easy finding the relevant one.
My biggest suggestion if your not from the Philippines, live there for 6 months or more. Don’t believe the hype, each to his own. If your still a happy camper than extend your stay. Always have plan B & C & even D. As Murphy’s Law will happen, everyone has an expiration date.
Good point.
Yep...the Hype is incredible...the Philippines of 40 years ago is gone....relaxing?...used to be....before all the cars and motor bikes and millions of more humans....I am more stressed by the Traffic here than I was in the US
Don't count on others. Count on yourself. Thats the murphy's law in the Philippines . Don't trust people and surtain not the family. They only comes to get something from u . Where i live the people are gentil , but i not trust one of them. They smile in your face and stab u in the back. u need to hear them talk about u but they not realize that i understand tagalog just as good as them only i use english . And many expats forget one thing that is that they have to behave decently and that is where the shoe pinches. Don't think that you will be served at your call. it is as shown by a survey. The question was foreigners were welcome in the Philippines. the answer was… Joe we don't like you we like only your money.
@@jimf937 the Sages of old and Native Shaman ....said a time would come with this Civilization....when Madness would Reign ...and Men would see Evil as Good and Good as Evil....the Masses would choose or be numb to Rude Noise....Congestion...Crowding....the City Rat Race....the Artificial over the Natural ...something like in the Movie Noah....and if that is Not what I see here in Angeles City....??...what is driving Motorbikes like Kamakazi Suicide Pilots ..the Area has been destroyed...but the Locals believe they are living large ..like Americans ..but it is becoming Hell on Earth....and only Demons love Hell ..and feel comfortable in it...Noise? we have taken Urban Noise to new levels...and God created no such disharmonious vibration...if this is what Humans need to Live...they will not live very long ..Earthquakes and Volcanoes will smooth out our Mistakes
Good video Rod. You covered alot of things. Throughout my little Philippines journey here these past couple years I have learned that it is not as cheap as what some may think to live in the PH. I think living on $1,000 a month (or less) is dangerous. $1,500 seems like a safe number but even with that you gotta be careful. Running out of money in the Philippines is a very bad look and there is no safety nets over there to save us expats. I'm shooting for $2,000 a month and $50,000 in savings. Prolly gonna take me a few years to get there but it's better to wait and tough it out here in America for awhile then to get impatient and just hop on a plane and go not fully prepared.
I'm not going to wind up on some vlpggers channel filming me while I'm on the streets of Manila begging.
Nobody wants to be that guy...
Take care ✌️
$2000 a month, you should be fine in most of the philippines. $1000-$1500, you are limited to where you can settle in. If you're planning on renting first, you need to prepare for 2 things. Some rentals are furnished, and you don't need the basic necessities, but the majority are not.
I spent upwards of $15k on basic things like a bed, refrigerator, ac splits, dinner table/chairs, TV, stove, washer, couch, etc. As I settled in, I added probably another $5k for other things you just don't think about before coming here, like internet/TV deposit, rental deposits, water bottles/dispenser, propane gas tank, dishes, silverware, fans, dirty clothes hamper, bed sheets, pillows, etc.
There are many more things I could add, but hopefully, this has helped a little for your planning. Good luck with your journey
@Roy Exploring The Philippine's Thank you sir yes I figured about $10k start up fund. Maybe more...
I'm hoping to start my cybersecurity career and if that pans out I'll be around $9,000 a month. Definitely can live a good life there with that going on lol
Just gotta work for it that's not that hard to do.
Take care and good luck on your journey as well
@@throughblindeyesmyphilippi2015
I arrived last September. I fumbled around in cebu, lapulapu, culasi antique, and then iloilo. Fumbled because i stayed in hotels/motels and Airbnbs. My plan never included living in the provinces. I'm more Lisa than Oliver Wendell Douglas :). As Rob has made clear to and other as well, your costs will depend on your desired lifestyle. I spent a week on an island. Communal bathing looking at stars after dark is cool...for a week only! I had some learning experiences with Airbnbs. So I'm skeptical now. But i was able to connect with an owner who wanted a long-term guess and a marriage was made. My real point here is housing is my biggest expense. And i pay less than a third of what i was paying in the states. A studio condo with all the fixings. Food is now my biggest expense. Cellphone and visa next. I walk everywhere and have gradually learned the transportation system (but too tall for jeepneys). So knowing what housinf lifestyle you what is key. At least it was for me.
@Darius Slade Hey thx for sharing! Yes it depends on one's lifestyle. But still I don't think it's as safe anymore to be trying to live their for $1,000 a month. Leaves no room for error whatsoever and that's not safe. I say no less than $1,500 a month these days to be fair
@@throughblindeyesmyphilippi2015 adults live by their decisions and actions.
I chose to retire to Thailand instead of the Philippines because of the condo rental price. I am getting a condo for 215, view of the ocean , large pool, gym, on the baht truck route and retail area on the first floor. The closest Philippine condo to this was 500 US. All other costs are about the same.
I heard Thailand over built years ago so more competition and lower prices Rick.
@@AmazingPhilippines1 they are still over building , find a condo 15 years old can be a great price, new condos are expensive. I live next to Pattaya in Jomtien
Hotels about double the price of Thailand hotels.
@@Steven-t9sand not as nice
I like your idea of bringing attention to the many things people don't think about as a cost, but they do add up. However, see below my observation as to realistic costs and some that I see as over estimating a true budget.
Rentals, from what I've seen, are not down in price. In fact, they have been considerably higher since early 2022.
And with the number of foreigners coming every day, it's driving the price higher because filipinos know they will pay that higher price. For a rent that was, let's say, P25,000 prior to and within the pandemic, some have climbed to as much as P35,000-45,000. Again, this most likely is due to the surge of foreigners coming and squandering their dollars around and accepting these increases because they don't know any better.
As to food, I think your numbers are a bit high. Yes, inflation has risen, but my food bill for 2 is about P15,000 per month, and we eat exceptionally well.
We mostly cook our meals because grab can break your budget quickly. But that doesn't mean I skimp on the foods I like as a westerner either.w
ACR card is not required after 6 months. It's required after being here 59 days, and immigration will not allow you to file any tourist extension without it after 59 days. I'm not sure where you got your numbers for cost, but an ACR card is $50usd, NOT $500usd. I spend approximately $365 per year on immigration and that includes all the express lane fees and ACR card. That's P20,050 per year and breaks down to P1,670 per month. You can add another P250 pesos 2 times a year I pay for travel to immigration.
As to using a cellphone, I purchased a P399 gigalife nonexpiry 16GB inter et and P500 peso phone data nonexpiry, which so far averages out to P128 pesos per month. If you use cellphones a lot, P500 pesos per month should be plenty unless you only call landlines, which is very expensive than calling another cellphone.
Anyway, those are my realistic costs for a few basics needed in my budget. Everyone is different in the way they shop, how much they adapt to weather for ac, and if they have an inverter ac, if they leave their lights on, if they only buy brands of food they had in their country, etc. There are way too many variables to give a budget on every lifestyle. To me, a good budget starts at what currency rate your budget will be. Mine is budgeted at a rate of p45 per dollar. If it stays higher, great, more to save. Rate of exchange changes daily, and every expat should realize, making a budget at current rates is basically irresponsible and possibly sets you up to fail.
Thanks Roy. I misspoke on the ACR card and will do an update soon to cover other issues as well.
I have noticed many online listings quite high and my thinking is that they set it high so they can negotiate down to a reasonable rate and still make money. The vacancy rate is still quite high in many PH cities, with Manila about 17+ percent whick is very high. After the "high season" is over in a month or 2, more expats may be coming if airline prices drop a bit. Cheers!
Good information as I was thinking about eventually coming to the Philippines to stay, been there a few times in my past, getting ready to retire and I have a pension as well as SSI coming within the next 15 months, I am familiar with the Butuan city, CDO, Camiguin island areas and no so much around Cebu, depending on my personal budget, I should look into renting a house or condo, since I cannot own land there and the average costs of renting a home/ gated community is different in the provinces vs the city and by how much. Thanks for any info you can provide.
Living in PI with my PI wife costs me around $2000. I have a house in Goa India, living there is around $1500, also we spend time in Morocco which is about $1200. If I didn’t have PI wife I would choose Thailand, things work better and the food is much much better.
Thanks for your thoughts Andy!
I agree Andy Thailand is much nicer
Food is a question of taste. I prefer Philippino and Chinese food to Thai. And in the Philippines everyone speaks English, in oppostion to Thailand. My Philippino brother-in-law told me of his troubles to make people understand that he would like to buy rice at a foodstall, because nobody knew a single word of English. He then found a single rice-grain on the ground and showed it to them. Only then they understood with a loud laughter.
@@wernerschneider4460 ah yes
Balot and pink hot dogs with marshmallows
Years ago i tried a hamburger at their McDonald's
Spit it out ad threw it away
Meat was nasty
Sounds excellent about the budgeting; however, many older retirees don't plan ahead for medical expenses and the impact of declining health in their older years. I really like the dynamics of moving to lower cost of living places, because going into homecare is very expensive in developed countries. In the Philippines and other lower cost of living countries, there's so many more options like having family or hired help to assist - people can stay at home instead of paying for high cost assistance. Living longer means there will likely be some expensive medical issues arising over time.
Very true Dennis. My friend at 82 had an aneurism and his "helper" girlfriend is taking care of him at home much better than an expensive nursing home would.
Before i went to the Philippines i have taken a healt insurance in Europe. I pay yearly 139 euro and it covers all costs for medical care in the Philippines even the medicines . So there are no expensive medical issues
@@JoBosman Good idea to be concerned about your health, Jo, because issues arise as we age. I had a history of no issues, but recently had spots in my bladder - this is now more common in older men - I'm getting treatment now, BUT getting older some places you cannot get health insurance abroad, so many are well advised to have a fall back plan for unknown issues. Retain your insurance back home and keep a local address, so you can return for anything serious. Maybe use travel insurance abroad, too. Some locations will take advantage of tourists without insurance abroad, so stay protected for accidents or health ins.
@@JoBosman hi! I'm also a retiree living in Germany, just asking where did you get a health insurance in Europe?
@@JoBosman What health insurance company, please ?
I am always watching, always believing, always enjoying, always grateful for you for all your hard work in making these videos..
Thanks 👍👌👍🤗😎🥂
8% inflation.. but reality food\energy inflation is a LOT higher. We spend about 2500 usd a month, more some times less others. This is NOT counting money earned\spent for our businesses, just our personal lifestyle. We own outright our home and commercial site. We do have a new car, and other niceties. We can spend more easily, but we are fairly frugal, especially waiting to see what 2023 will be like. 9 years full time, and doing fine.
No matter where you live, always make sure that you have an inverter split air-conditioning. The electric cost will be far less.
I agree.
I think many go for price and don't realize how much you can actually save with an inverter. Many don't even know what it is or how it works. Inverter is by far the way to go.....
I run my split 24/7 and my electric bill is between 7 and 8000 pesos each month
As a landlord i pass on the cost to the tentant via the rent for split type. split types cost around 40k plus fitting so i divide the cost by 12 and the tenant pays each month. which works out more than some pay per month for electric on a studio. So what you save overall might not be that much.
Some studio condos etc as dont have the correct fuse for a 2HP split type and other PMO dont give permission .
I've been in the Philippines since August of '18. I lived in town in Leyte until July of 2022...now I'm in rural Bohol.
My SSDI is about $1000 a month. No problem at all. I have a fiancée with 2 kids and we live well.
Thanks for sharing that Lee.
@@AmazingPhilippines1 o
What? !,000.00 a Month? You must be eating a lot of dried Fish and NFA Rice and living in a Nipa Hut.
BS. I lived in Baybay and Ormoc. Middle class life at $5000 US a month.
the cost of condominiums in philippines are unreasonably very expensive , and you have to buy also the parking lot and the measurements are unreasonably small .
It's because one doesn't pay the true price. The realtor and other jokers inflate it for a cut
I'm a 100% disabled US veteran, so I have that monthly income, plus SS and pension. It sounds like I could live a lot better there then here in the States. If I moved anywhere it'd probably be Manila as they have a VA outpatient clinic there.
The VA in Manila works well for many Zinmar. I have a friend who goes there twice a year for a checkup.
Same here I’m 56 so just visiting so far
Be aware that the VA in the Philippines is under different rules; they will ONLY help you with verified service-related medical issues.
(For me, this means hearing aids, but no help with my MS or diabetes. Didn’t know that before arriving. 🙄)
And you have to sign up for the foreign VA program
Consider moving to a low cost state in the US.
We bought a house in an inexpensive state in the US, paid it off in 10 years, live 30 minutes from a VA and civilian medical center, MTF and big city.
State income and property taxes are low here, as is crime and unemployment.
My maximum monthly budget for living expenses is 500 pesos per day or $300/month.
I'm married a Filipina who is the property manager here. We live in a 3-bedroom house in Iloilo.
I don't buy or consume alcohol or tobacco. We go out to casual dining restaurants 2-3 times a month. I enjoy cooking my own food in my own kitchen using mainly whole foods and limited amounts of meat.
I have gas and electric cooking appliances as well as cast iron pans, silicone baking molds, and many fun kitchen gadgets.
My electricity & waterfalls run 2500-3000 pesos per month.
Oh, and our rent is 0 pesos per month.
Cool! Sounds like you are set up pretty well. I also prefer cooking my own food much of the time and eating healthy. Cheers!
I want to date a property manager woman….haha
I have learned from talking to people over the past year you can live pretty cheap there. The key from what I have learned is to stay out of the larger cities and have some locals help you to get a house and get setup. From private contacts the best places to rent aren't advertised. I know guys who live in beautiful beach houses for $380 US a month all in to include internet. I think it's just a matter of talking to and knowing the right people. Like anywhere if you go as an expat and never mingle with the public you will live like an expat. That means you will always pay more.
Good points. Cost of living is important for many of us living here. I have considered living outside of the city. I would definitely travel more as I would get bored probably.
I only mingle with the locals when in the Philippines, never with expats. There are no expats in our barangay and the neighboring ones for luck. Those live in different parts of the city.
I have a 100 m2 apartment. I run AC almost constantly. We have a big unit downstairs that cool s the whole downstairs and then small units in each of the bedrooms. During the day we run the downstairs units and at night we run the unit in our bedroom -- we don't cool the upstairs during the day or the downstairs at night. Our electric bill is about P5000 per month, circa $100. I consider that reasonable. If it was too high, we could cut it by turning the AC down or off. Note that AC is likely to be the bulk of your electric bill. Running lights, tv, computer, etc are very small in comparison.
One thing I've been told is not to expect the refund of your deposit funds. To be on the safe side assume it's part of your first year's rent. So if you rent a place for 20,000 a month with a deposit of 40,000 your true rent if you only stay a year could end up being 23,330 a month. So that's about an extra $66 bucks a month. I've heard more than a few expats on UA-cam who rarely get deposits refunded. It's the price of being an expat in the Phil's. After all your are perceived as a RICH guy so you can afford it. Same thing goes for loaning money, don't expect to get paid back. Consider it a gift to the person.
Thanks Daniel. I guess I have been lucky and alway received my deposit back but it is a risk to be considered.
@@AmazingPhilippines1 Yes you are lucky, losing rental deposits in the PI is an ongoing issue I have heard from expats in the PI.
@@jimf937 I wonder what action the landlord would try and take if you stopped paying rent. I assume the local police would be called. I assume the police would always side with the Filipino landlord. Might be worth checking the PI eviction laws before you stop paying rent.
i have been here over 5 years, i only have lived in condos. I have always received my full deposit back. But i always use rentpad website, and i use a realtor company. I would not trust renting from a private owner at all.
Some of my Philippino family members have much more money than I have. Nobody considers me rich compared to them and with my lifestyle.
Thanks for sharing! And thanks for using Philippine Pesos in the budget! That's not many Y tubers that does this, but it helps us non-US citizens a lot as the triangle exchange rate between PHP-US$ and NOK vary a lot over the years.
Glad it was helpful!
Ciao thanks for the video,
maybe something has changed in 2024?
possibly in the next video make a table, account plus account, expenses item . Grazie ciao from Italy
I interviewed my girlfriend about her budget the other day its interesting to hear the comparisons.
Thanks for a comprehensive and very useful budget breakdown Rod. There were a few things mentioned that I hadn’t really considered. I hope to catch up with you sometime.
Someone, I think it was Texas Filipino, said that it's best to just travel around the area you want to live in. Because the best deals are from signs that people put up. Places advertised online and in newspaper are usually higher. He was showing a nice 4 bedroom 2 bath house that a guy got for $223.00 monthly. The big yard was a mess, very overgrown and plenty junk, also no AC and no hot water. But it will be very nice after they clean it up.
Yes, it is true and that has been my advice for many years also.
You don’t need hot water in the Philippines. Took hundreds of showers there, and not once did we need a hot water knob. Just need hot water for tea and coffee
We have no hot water either, we shower out of a big bucket. That's enough and saves water too. And water is never cold anyway in these temperatures.
Thank you for the budget video I think I’m gonna be at close to $4000 US a month but I’m still going to budget maybe try to live on 1500 and save the rest just let it accumulate. Good advice Rod
When I retire a few more years I will choose Cambodia and live a few miles from Vietnam Border or second choice a few miles westside from Thailand. Costs of living cheaper but depends lifestyle
Very good information!! 1500 $ is a low budget, probably 2500 $ makes life a bit easier!!
Good video
Thanks Rod
I agree George but most do not have that much.
If you are living in the city the cost of food, rent, eating out is definitely higher than than a smaller town. Also rent could be eating too much of your budget if you are wanting the exact same housing as back home. Some are spending 600 + a month on rent. Boils down to how much you have per month and if you are still trying to live a western lifestyle ,but just in a different country.
Water bills here are small. I pay about $5 per month for tap water and maybe $10 for drinking water. Oh, don't drink the tsp water. In most of the country its not filtered or treated. Tsp water is for washing. Get bottled water to drink. I live in cebu and the city says the tap water is drinkable, but I haven't tried it.
I have been in Baguio City for 9 years now, 25k pesos for rent, we don't drink much, electricity and water are 2K pesos per month max, no fan, no air, its cold here. As everywhere food is going up so about $300 per month for both of us. We can survive typically for $1200 to $1500 for all we do in a large house with a lucky find on this price. Typical maybe 40K per month for a foreigner here in a nice house. Another factor to actually worry about is the exchange rate but I honestly believe in the future it will get better as this country is seeking more foreign investment, that is YOU so they need to make your money stronger. Anything above 50 is great but it is slowly dropping back to that range right now but when it hit 60 a couple months ago, I changed enough to last for an entire year of expenses so I made 20% profit from the baseline rate. Baguio is a place for peace and quiet and relaxing in the cool temps, the nightlife is minimal, only a little so it can be a party place for a long weekend but you need to know where to go to get into trouble, its nothing like Angeles or Subic areas, sorry. For many coming here to the PI to stay, drinking and woman will suck up your money the most and this is the part where you may end up living beyond your means. You can rent for $100 in a hole, and you can eat for $3 a day, but WHY? BARS & GIRLS are no longer cheap like Pre-COVID, nothing is the same as before if you were here before. Koreans have bought up Angeles, Nuf said.
I have a large apartment in La Trinidad and only pay 9k a month for rent so that's why I don't live in Baguio city.
@@davidbowyer6642 I needed to live here to go to University on my GI BILL and of course had a fair deal on that house, we just moved as the old house is becoming a resto-bar and we wanted to stay in the area as we moved ourself just down the road. I am thinking since you said large apartment, maybe your place and my place are similar in cost per square meter, I have a very large 2-floor house with an awesome view which ups the price a bit. If we like to walk home from SM, it's a good walk, 20 minutes towards Hillside.
@@DuaneDonaldson that sounds like you have a nice place. We stay in the apartment since it is next door to the private school our daughter attends. I don't mind being a little far away from the city but it's not so bad maybe 40 minutes to SM by jeepney. Most of the time we go to Center mall in La Trinidad.
@@davidbowyer6642 off track question, do you have a USA PayPal, seems the system has changed and I have been blocked with my PH IP access here??? Mine is also attached to my USA bank, I dont get it, I cannot even access the PP public site on Google
@@DuaneDonaldson sorry I don't have PayPal.
If you spend time in the Philippines and get to know your favorite areas, it can pay off. We pay 8000 peso for a decent 2 bedroom, two bath house, 20 minutes walk from a good beach. This is in provincial Bohol...a beautiful area.
Thanks and enjoy your place!
I'm looking for a place there for around that price in Bohol. I pay 6,500 pesos a month for a nice 2 bedroom house near Tagaytay with a gate, quite neighborhood.
@@ShawnsLifeInThePhilippines It depends on what area works for you. The southern side of the island, where the nice beaches are, is the more expensive side of the island. Apart from beaches, the north side is cheaper, up from Ubay, or Tubigon for example...kind of depends on what you are looking for.
@@aphilippinesadventure9184 I'm really looking for a nice, safe place to raise my 2 kids, less people, safe area and a good school. What would you recommend?
I renewed my US passport through the US embassy in Manila. Went through the contacted courier service suggested by the embassy. Just finished transferring the arrival stamp and visa stamped from the old passport of the new passport. Took me two trips to the Philippines Bureau of Immigration. A lot of time traveling by bus this past week hahaha. We are anywhere from 3 to 6 hours by bus, each way. Depending on traffic, of course. Busman holiday hahaha.
It depends on people's standards, some can get by with next to nothing, and others like higher standards. There is no same budget for everyone in the Philippines. The only sure thing is that most people should have at least 1 million pesos for unexpected illness and hospitalization. I lived in the Philippines for 10 years from 2006 until I moved to Spain in 2016 and I see that my consumption is somewhat less here in Spain but plus is that the healthcare is free for most Europeans here in Spain.
Good points. Thanks!
You go to the nice condos your still gonna pay 30-40 thousand pesos a month then you pay for cable 2200 pesos a month then electric will be around 7-12 thousand pesos a month
Thanks Jerry but I think your numbers are quite high, especially the electric.
Our electric bill for last December was 1.700 Pesos, although we have a good fridge.
Alot of factors contributes to that. The biggest is how many relatives live in the house with you.
I feel poor in America with 3200$ a month pension I would feel like a millionaire in the Philippines. I might be forced to sell my house take that cash with my pension and just live like a rock star overseas. I figure I got 25 years left why die with money spend it all.
I've never seen a brinks truck following a hearse. Spend it while you are here because you won't get a chance to spend it later.
Thailand is good also
@@ohno-zx4if Your delusional thinking 3200$ US will have you living large here. If you want a dirt flat and eat fried fish come aboard.😄
nice video my friend. thanks for sharing. i thought life in philippines would be low cost but i now realize it isn t. anyway i m planning a trip on my own in the country. 2-3 in manilla and then fly to cebu and palawan. is there any dangers i should take care? crime maybe? i believe locals are gently but i m not sure....thnanks again brother, have fun
You are the most informative period!~!! Thank you , I am bout to pull the cord
I think you were wrong about the cost of an ACR card. It costs $50 not $500
You are correct. I misspoke snucky.
I don't pay rent, because my wife and I own property, from which we garner about 70,000PP per month, plus a store that we own and probably gets us a further 20000PP per month. That is enough so we don't dig into our savings, which we use for holidays overseas and other treats. I reckon we clear about USD 2000 every month, but that is all on us since we have no rent to pay and our expenses are nowhere near that amount. I don't eat meat - initially for health reasons but then for moral choices - my choice and I am not going to impose my views on others - I shop at markets where I get my fruit and vegetables pretty cheaply. The only big outlay I had was when I had a motorbike accident about 9 months a go. A pissed up motorcyclist took me out and severely damaged my leg. That cost about 100,000 PP, but eventually I got it back because I have insurance. My biggest weakness is for 12 San Mig Lights a day, plus half a pack of fags (cigarettes to me American friends).
Interesting story Joshua. Thanks for sharing. My limit is about 5 San Migs and maybe a couple times a week with friends who want to go out.
Great information Rod. Thank you. Everything considered, I hope to be in the Philippines by April 2024. Would love to buy you a beer one day Rod.
Cool! Stay in touch tw.
There is no cut-sheet budget in the Philippines nor anywhere else in the world. Typically your budget is based on your income with a floor budget of course being the bare minimum you need to survive. I like living in a nicer area, enjoy golfing, travel, going out a couple of times a week, and basically pamper myself for all the years I busted my ass working. I don't like being stagnate, staying in the house all day watching the world slip by via the internet or TV.
To enjoy that, I would need at least $4k a month in the Philippines or anywhere else in SEA. Thankfully I started planning this about 14 years ago and I will be far above that amount when I retire in a couple of years. Too many expats move to the Philippines almost out of a necessity due to low retirement income. Far better to plan ahead and don't have your income dictate where and what you will do in retirement.
That's true, I built a house in 2006 and have been in Philippines Since 1998. We spend about 3-3.5k usd a month, maybe some extra for holidays etc so 4000 usd are a good number. We live comfortable with own house, pool, maids etc but nothing fantastic, fairly simple and have two kids in school. I'm still working and are 48, now I'll invest in solar as electric is expensive and some other things to reduce cost before I retire.
Good points Rich! Most retirees are month to month I think, with little savings, just like in the USA.
Other provinces are less. I live in Benguet in I spend less cash than in the city...and I'm happy.
Cooler up there also, right?
Yeah, let's be honest it's going up weekly if not daily. My lifestyle is getting restricted rapidly, and electricity and food prices are going up monthly. Living on a fixed income is getting harder.I once had a car, but not now, I used to go out regularly not now.
Never pay 2 Months Deposit plus current months rent. I have rented 3 different Homes in Philippines and yes they Ask but I never just pay 2 months Deposit. I pay 1 Month plus current month. Then when I move, I Consume the 1 month Deposit. I also have a Meter reading for electric and water. or Just pay it when it comes due. I pay less than p10,000 per month plus water , Electric, and association Fee. In Bacolod and In Dumaguete. Food Costs have gone Up and Rent has gone down.
@oceanpro Alaska, the 2 biggest rent scam I have heard about is landlord not refunding deposits and overcharging renter for electric and water if you are paying landlord directly for those monthly expenses. I saw a comment on another channel where the guy said the landlord charged 7,000 a month for electric and water and the guy rarely ran his aircon in a small apartment. What a rip off!
@@danielhackney7806 Yes you are 100% correct. I will never pay the Landlord Direct for Electric. If you do, You will pay an Inflated rate.I always pay the Electric Company Direct. Its pretty simple, If you don't pay the Electric, Then they will Cut of your electric. If a Potential Landlord demands you pay them for Electric or Internet, RUN Away, You are about to be Scammed.
After a lot of moving around renting in Dumaguete I luckily checked out a place that I had passed by frquently. I rent a room above a restaurant, it is spacious enough for my wife and myself, furnished, tv, refrigerator, rooms cleaned, towels provided, and my water and electricity is included in my rent of P13,500 per month, I have aircon running and there is no contract, move in and pay month to month. I live just a few minutes walk from downtown and the boulevard so no transport problems. It would be hard to find anything else as good as this anywhere.
By the way, the ACR card is $ 50 per year..
@@oceanproalaska2203 is being dishonest the norm?
@@MsLilBit8344 No, Most Landlords are Honest. It's VERY IMPORTANT to get everything in writing, Just so you will not have any Misunderstanding. I prefer to deal directly with the Owner., However now I am dealing with an Agent on the current property I am renting. I have to say she is Straight Up and I am getting a Good deal on my Lease.
One issue here needs to be clarified because I'm pretty sick of hearing the wrong statements constantly being regurgitated.
A permanent resident, married to a Filipina national can own up to 10 properties. They own the house and the land or if it's a lot they own the lot/land. Both names are on the titles to automatically be transferred to one or the other should one pass away.
Or should they separate, one cannot sell without the endorsement of the other. The 25 or 30 year lease applies to the pensioners visa not the permanent resident visa.
My wife is a realtor here and the laws are very clear and simple.
Just cannot help to press the LIKE button....LOL. ( actually I do that allways for your videos Rod ...but now right at the beginning, nice surprise!)
LOL! Thanks Leo. I thought you would notice the location.
Food: if you eat the same things you ate in the US, it will cost a lot because they have to be imported. Like I saw strawberries for $20 per quart. But if you eat local foods its way cheaper. Instead of eating peaches c and plums, here I eat mangoes and papaya. I rarely get beef but often get shrimp. Etc. I spend about $400 per month for my wife and me. Oh, that's buying mostly at the supermarket. Its cheaper at open air markets and the food is fresher, but not the same cleanliness standards.
A great show covering the most important topic of all your opinions and advice are very sound our budget family of three $ 1500 per month
Thanks for your info Michael. You are doing well with 1500/month.
$1,500 per month would probably not be sustainable in a major city area for a family of 3. You may be able to do so in a province where it's cheaper.
@@rfbos yes correct
I have a house in iloilo. My monthly expenses when I'm home, a modest neighborhood, are less than 20k. It depends on what you can do without and if you have local help. My wife is good with money, my diamond. If you try to live like a foreigner you are going to pay like a foreigner. Expect power brown outs and internet to go out at random, keep candles and things to prepare. Extending a tourist visa is about 4k a month. If you have 2k usd each month you can live like a king.
I enjoyed Iloilo on my trip over a few years ago Courtney. Hope to visit again later this year.
i make 140k in America but was happier on 500 a month in the Philippines
What did you do for work in the US, was you a physician ?
Thanks for the video, my monthly budget is $1500 and I live in Tunasan, Muntinlupa City plus don't rely living pension to pension, you need extra savings and emergency funds. I'm very happy enough not paying any mortgage or rent. I know 5 farangs living there and all military veterans.
Hi Rod good explanation from someone like you that’s been there awhile thanks n Happy New Year to you👍
Philippines is a beautiful place, good weather, good food.
Yes, thank you.
@@AmazingPhilippines1
What is it like for a disabled person? Are people judgemental towards the disabled? What about accessibility?
@@MsLilBit8344 Everywhere I've been wheel chair access is basically nonexistent. That even includes sidewalks entrances etc.
The beach is badly maintained,the food sucks,infrastructure is terrible compared to Other Asian countries
. It's hard to get around if your not in good shape. I'd not want to be in a wheelchair here.
You need $10,000 dollars to live comfortably in Philippine my sister try that for 6 months now she back again in America 🙈 she said is a biggest mistake energy hospital bills mostly everything is priced of gold
I like the place that I am living in right now in the USA way better than any of the condos in the video. They didn’t impress me that much. I have a nice yard, at least to me. The condos appear to have no yard whatsoever. I bought the house outright and the house is in an area with low property taxes, no HOA fees, and it is a low maintenance type house which I paid outright - no mortgage or rent. I’d think I’d like it better where I am now. I had the experience of being an expat for 7-8 winters in Mexico and Guatemala. Seeing all the ships at see in the video, I get the impression I wouldn’t like the location where the camera was placed taking the video. It looks like it is a some major port with ships going in and out and very densely populated area.
We are fortunate to have so many options Vernon. The PH is a small nation with a huge population and densely populated.
@@AmazingPhilippines1 I am not too good about how to say it the right. I think it is about if you have the intention of relocating to another country, you have to dig I call it “really deep” to determine whether you are going to like wherever going are going to move to even if it is within in your own country. I sure like to, I don’t know how to say it the right way, do one of these “digging deeps” as far as whether I would really like it in the Philippines. You never know, I might find out that after doing a thorough investigation, the Philippines you never know might be a place I really like but I think it is contingent about upon, for example, a suitable living situation. I may not like living in a slum neighborhood like in Manila but also I don’t think some luxury condominium in a resort area or house like the ones shown in your video I wouldn’t be very happy with either. I have watched a lot of Thailand videos about the Phuket area and it has the appearance of an area I wouldn’t like one bit. I have to work on this and dig up what I think an area has to have before I would like it. Who knows. Maybe I might be surprised what the Philippines has to offer. I think it has to do a lot with the people whether you like an area or not. If they are very snottish or arrogant, I don’t think I like the area.
It takes a while for the right thoughts, the things to consider, to come to mind so as they do, I will bring them to you. One the things that brought me to this area where I am right now is that where I live, we got a nice lake where I live and you don’t have rules where it is prohibited to swim anywhere except in designated areas and in some places only when lifeguards are on duty. A lot of areas in the USA aren’t like that. I don’t how it is in the Philippines. Another thing is freedom to build what you really want if you have a piece of land. In most parts of the USA, you are dictated how your house is supposed to look, how it is supposed to be built, etc. because of certain situations, namely very restrictive laws. In most areas of the USA, it prohibited to a person to live in some small shed, say you wanted to use it as a starter house and then expand as you get the money without having to borrow. They say it is “substandard housing”. Also, aren’t there these land leeches in the forest, dangerous marine creatures in the sea, etc. All those things you got to consider in determining whether you like an area. You got to see what the situation is and then take it from there. I am one of those who is very big on the subject of “situational awareness”.
Hi Vernon, couple things to consider too. My understanding is that foreigners are not allowed to own land in the Philippines. They are able to own the structure only. Also, it’s been mentioned earlier, but I’m a firm believer in renting anywhere you decide to go, for six months or more, before deciding on purchasing a building. Good to see what’s it’s like for a while, and then assess your own happiness level at that point.
I’ve visited the Philippines, probably eight or nine times, and I love it there. I live in upstate New York presently. I plan on traveling a lot when I retire at 59 years of age. If I decide to stay a good amount of time in the Philippines, I will be renting. I’m 57 now
Very interesting topic. Enjoy and stay safe
Thanks Anne.
@@AmazingPhilippines1 welcome
In 2028 when I retire, I'll have more than $4k a Month in income between Social Security & my Pensions... My "Trial Budget" is about $2500 US, figuring Inflation puts it at about $3k... I can handle $1k monthly going into savings... I'm planning about $5K in startup costs... Is that reasonable?
I think those are reasonable numbers Ted. Good luck and stay in control of your money.
Living standard differs. The important thing is to live within your means. Even though your dollar goes a long way.
I brought my American cell phone, and then I also bought a Filipino phone. So I have the US number to give to my bank etc back in the US, and a Filipino number for use here. I got a cheap US phone plan. Mostly I use WiFi calling so there's no roaming charge. But warning: lines are often busy, apparently there is a sharp limit on connections to US. Maybe depends on your carrier, I don't know. Filipino phones you don't get a "phone plan". You " buy load" for your phone, its all prepaid. I don't use my phone that much do I only spend maybe =4 per month. My wife is constantly calling family but still only costs less than $10 per month.
Plus the exchange rate cannot get higher and higher with the World Inflation? And like you said food, utilities, internet service and phone have no restrictions on getting more expensive? And I would be afraid of getting stranded out in PI!
You shoulder also consider where you intend to stay. Staying in THE City or I THE provinces. IF your staying alone or with a partner or family.😊
Never in THE city, I don't like cities. Regardless where in the world. Only in green suburbs or beyond. And in Manila I don't even want to be buried (same for my wife), a monster.
Remember economies and currency can change, even drastically. When I lived in the Philippines in 1990 the peso to dollar rate was only 25 to 1... Half of today's rates.
Very true! Thanks.
If I retired right now, I would be making roughly $7000 USD per month. This is a combination of federal govt. pension, thrift savings and social security. I think retiring to the Philippines sounds like a great option for me and my wife who is from the Philippines.
Jep.
The Philippines has a lot to offer Bob. Good luck with your plans.
Do you qualify for bridge to SS?
If I had $7000/month, I would spend a lot of time traveling. There is so much to see and so little time to see it all. 👍🏻
The salary of the President of the Philippines is $6,806.00 per Month. So you have a better income than him .
Appreciated Thanks
The stores vat the mall take my US credit card no problem. Same for nicer restaurants , hotels, and tourist spots. Small shops don't take credit cards my American cards do not work with most Filipino online services. I recommend you get a g cash account. Its an account tied to your cell phone. Its a debit account: you add money to it and then you can spend it. I use mine for online services. Many stores take it but I've never tried to do that.
i am missing videos on what is the MINIMUM amount of money you need to LIVE COMFORTABLY in the Philippines. For example i spend around 30,000 peso a month which is far far away from all the videos you guys are posting. I must say i built my own house paid for in cash so i have no rent fee. i also live in a province so prices are lower than living in a nice coastal area. Of course, if you want to have a lavish life which is not really necessary because you will have a better life here in the Philippines than back in your home country then you will pay more. IF you have so much money and you are not really concerned what you spend then thats another thing but expats who are thinking of moving to the Philippines need to know what they really need.
Thanks Ian. Sounds like you are happy with your choices. "Minimum" required would vary greatly depending on the individual requirements of course. I would also suggest maintenance costs need to be figured in, insurance and/or a repair/rebuild fund depending on the risks in your area. I have heard of a couple people who tried living very cheaply in Nipa huts for a time but eventually could not handle it. "Comfort" level is also quite subjective.
There condo and house prices are on even par as the US if your buying.
I noticed that when looking for houses online.
I'm a Philippine expat. Your expenses depend on your lifestyle. If you like to live beyond your means, your income from your homeland still won't suffice!
Good point!
Suggest you buy your own house and lot before retirement.
foreigners cannot own land but can lease it.
Just live simple life and you’ll be fine in the Philippines.
I pay p8,000 per month for my 2 bdr 1 bth place in the Philippines.
Good deal Chuck. I may look for something like that when my lease is up.
Great video buddy. I really enjoyed it. You need to get your next acr card in dumuguete
Is Dumaguete really a cheap place to live for low-budget expats?
Cost of living really depends on location. What one pays in Manila or Cebu is always going to be more. Where I live about an hour south of the manila airport, it’s a huge difference. Since I am financially secured. We built our 5br,5ba over 15 years ago for $60K in cash. It’s worth 3-4 times that much today. Our cost of living is approximately $2K to $2.5K (US Dollars) per month. Plus, We save more than that every month. But rent can vary from city to city, province to province or town to town. It comes down to planing your situation and having a decent retirement. $1000 a month retirement is not the best situation in my humble opinion 💞
I agree.
When I was in Ermita, Manila, I rented a furnished studio condo in Robinsons Place for 25k/mo. I was on the 15th floor with a balcony and an incredible view! I really miss that view being back in San Antonio now. I ran the split air-con 24/7 and it cost me 4500/mo. Internet was about 2k/mo (short term 2 months) but it was fast and very reliable (PLDT). The huge mall downstairs was very convenient, probably too convenient, lol. I tried to hold the food/dining out spending to about 6000/week but it was tough. My gf cooked most of the time so that helped a lot.
BTW I'm sure the split air con saved me a lot of money. I think it could have been close to double the electricity usage if I'd had a conventional A/C.
When was that? So rent, internet and electricity was about $600.00
@@Amen.22 I was there in Oct/Nov 22. Yes around $600 for all.
It is an increadable view. I stayed on the top floor for 3 nights there with a view of the bay and my GF claimed to be able to see Deturtes place.
I love great view Gary. I hope to visit Manila sometime this year.
If you are making over $40000USD per year, is life going to be good?
Also, in your opinion, is it worth it?
Saw another video stating that several months before relocating to the Philippines you better start getting your Social Security if that applies to you.
Depends on what part your in
True Willard.
Good video Rod love your vlog
But the ACI card didn't cost 500 US maybe 3000 php pesos thats what I paid and 10000 pesos or a little more for the 6 month extension in Mactan office
Island mall
Correct William. I misspoke. $50 for the ACR card I think.
I just had my 80th B'Day and remain in good health and active; however, moving abroad most insurance firms would likely not accept me due to age. We get insurance for my wife, but she will qualify; however, I probably will have to go without insurance. I can continue Medicare, but I'll be out of country and coming home may be more costly and sometimes just getting an apt. can take a month or two for some specialists. Maybe I can get a travel insurance, but they may have age restrictions, too.
Glad to hear you are in good health Dennis. I have a friend 81 who was quite healthy until he had the booster then went down hill fast. PhilHealth is on relatively cheap option for hospitalization but they do not cover foreigners for the most critical and expensive procedures any longer. It is worth having. You are correct, most insurance here does not want anyone over 60-65.
@@AmazingPhilippines1 - the option of just paying cash is wise for older expats. Something congested my lungs in Mexico, so I went to a doctor and he charged me $4.40 for the visit and provided a program including prescriptions. Next door, the pharmacy filled the prescriptions and charged me $22 for everything; plus, they refunded me $2.20 for the doctor's visit. When I returned home, I visited my doctor with the prescriptions and he said it's the same treatment used here in the USA, but this also included extra strong medication, so he was impressed, but said "It would cost a tourist a lot of money to get treated in the USA". I asked "Why such a huge difference?" He said "GREED"!!! The moral of this story is DO NOT BE DETOURED FROM MOVING ABROAD DUE TO HEALTH CARE.
Moving to the Philippines in October. "Retired" at 38 due to digital investments paying off. Currently pulling in 800 a week and growing.
Cool! Good luck with your plans!
Watching from Brampton, Ontario, Canada ❤❤❤❤❤
Nice assessment and break down. This should really help those relocating.
Great video and hopefully it pops that unrealistic "bubble" that many people have when it comes to living abroad. IMO $1,500 a month is the bare minimum (emphasis) to get by in the Phils wich includes a standard of living that will not be on par with what you would have become accustomed to in the USA or Canada. $1,500 is also assuming everything goes 100% as planned. And as we all know, life rarely goes as planned. It's imperative that in addition to any expected income, a nice sized savings account just in case things go wrong.
Good points. Inflation and shrinkflation are major issues here also.
I am satisfied with far less than 1500 $ a month (for two) in Central Europe: Even here we have a very modest lifestyle out of own choosing, even more when we are in the Philippines.
Between my federal retirement, VA disability (100%), my social security, and my wife's social security disability comes out to roughly $9600/month or 550,000 pesos.
Could we afford an oceanfront home with a real kitchen (full size fridge, oven, cooktop, microwave, dishwasher) good water with strong pressure?
You have a wonderful gift for explaining things. Were you a teacher at some point?
Thanks Jim. I have a teaching degree but spent most of my time in business management.
An expat expecting any similarity to a western life style needs a MINIMUM of $3000/mo. I'm OK, but a lot of my fellow retirees are not.
"Western lifestyle" also varies greatly by region and the person involved and what they expect.
Couldn't agree more. I've been here over 7 years and things have gotten very expensive. I'm between 3k to 3500 per month. We own our home and cars so no money going for those expenses. $1000 per month in my opinion isn't really attainable.
I thought it was cheaper? I don't get that much a month here in the US
Why so much
@@MsLilBit8344 I live a western lifestyle, own a nice home, buy western food and run the AC. We do have a large property and spend a lot on fuel etc. BTW, electric is expensive here if like me you enjoy cool air.
I know a few guys who get by on social security, but I wouldn't say they are living well, as a matter of fact one is heading back to the US to be near family in his old age.
Best to do a long vacation and see if it's for you.
My lifestyle in not only simple in the Philippines, but even more here in Central Europe. I don't need classical luxury, it doesn't give me any satisfaction. Maybe that's why I am able to cope so easily when I am in poor countries. In the Philippines even our tap-water is usually only available late at night for a couple of hours due to lack of pressure (our neighbors don't have the problem). I didn't mind 25 years ago, and I don't mind now. This was one reason why my wife (an academic) was so fascinated with me from the very beginning we knew each other.
Medical care here is cheap. Typical doctor visit with no insurance is $20. I hurt my arm recently and got an X-Ray to see if anything was broken and it cost $30. Had a blood test and it cost $5. You don't need a prescription for most meds. I've generally found that meds here without insurance cost about the same as what I paid in copays in the US. Like I need dome eye drops for glaucoma. Cost me $30 copay in US. Cost me P1500, A little under $30, here. But with doctors and labs so much cheaper, meds can be your biggest health expense. Oh, I have insurance, but I got a $2500 deductible which I doubt ill hit do I haven't bothered to file any claims.
I missed the how much dose a gf cost video
66000 pesos is approx 8.300 dkk which you easy pay per month for a 2-3 bed appartment in Denmark
You are one hundred percent right
Housing and food are the greatest expense, regardless of where in the world you live and are not getting any cheaper. For someone, like me who has visited the Philippines darn near every year since 2008 and who has actually lived there, should IMO buy instead of renting. Install an AC solar system depending on your area. Shop where the locals shop and cook meals at home during the week. Eat out and explore on weekends using the car you really should purchase.
Thanks Ken!
Over 70, medical and medicine can be your biggest expense. House, car and furniture already paid
I think almost half of my food-intake last December was bananas, fresh and self-fried ones. The cheapest and smallest on the market are the best. Two pounds a day was normal for me. I always buy them from poorer people who sell their own products. Every second or third day.
I would be at $1,600 a month, 😔 and it sounds like I would be living like a peasant according to some people in the comment section, but it sure beats being homeless in the U.S.🤷
Good point J. D. Keep control of your money. One trap is to start tying to solve the many needs here. Have emergency money and a plan B and C.
I think most people are around where you are. Probably be best to ignore those who want to brag about their retirement.
I think a lot of these folks are from the rich. They talking about they made 4k USD. Lol. Not here in the Midwest USA unless you a doctor
Just say NO to 2 months deposit. There is always a new deal tomorrow. And just say NO to add-ons. Landlords generally do not give the deposits back. Costs have a risen a lot in the past 5 years.
There are options and negotiables with some. I have gotten my 5 deposits back but have heard some bad stories also. Yes, costs have gone up quickly because of demand and low vacancies. Now there are thousands of vacancies so more options.
I had a small house built for me & the family, so that's a outlay that's out of the way. I also live o a smallish islad without a city. Two adults & two primary school kids.
To cover all our mthly bills & food we'll just get through with 22,000 pesos ................................ & that really is 'just'. Extra 5,000 would make it easier, but extra 10,000 would be comfortable.
Realistically, to cover medical emergecies & all except the basic family eeds, you'd have to look at about 40-60,000 pesos per mth. Add 10-20k if you have to ret, & aother 10k if you live i a city.
These are pretty basic livig costs ..................... the more you do, the more it'll cost. 6 years ago it was 10-20% less.
Hey Rod, I read somewhere back in 1997 the exchange rate was about php25.00 to $1.00. Do you forecast stability in the future for php currency?
I read an article recently that forecast a weak peso through the rest of the year Travis but that could change. 48.5 when I came here in 2015
+Travis Bicknel ..... the php to usd xchnge rates fluctuate yr. in/yr. out but nowadays on the avg. it's usually between the bracket of P48 - P55 to $1usd, so for convenience purposes most ppl just use the P50 to $1usd conversion rate as it's just easier .....