Cost of Living in Puerto Princesa - Updated Prices & Insights

Monthly Cost of Living

Living costs for one person come to about $714 monthly including rent, or $427 excluding housing.

Estimated monthly costs for a couple: $1,062 with rent, or $656 without housing.

Monthly costs for a family of three come to about $1,409 including rent, or $885 for daily expenses alone.

Puerto Princesa sits 48–52% below the global median across household types. Within Asia, costs are well below average (35% lower) – one of the most affordable options in the region.

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🍽 Eating Out
Cost
Range
Meal at Budget Restaurant
$4.38 ₱273
$2.39 ₱149
$5.58 ₱348
Three-Course Dinner for Two, Mid-Range
$16.56 ₱1,033
$11.03 ₱689
$29.50 ₱1,841
Fast Food Meal (McDonalds, etc)
$4.41 ₱275
$3.92 ₱245
$4.90 ₱306
Cappuccino
$2.38 ₱148
$1.63 ₱102
$2.94 ₱183
Coke/Pepsi/Fanta/Sprite (0.33 liter bottle)
$0.91 ₱56.5
$0.50 ₱31.17
$1.17 ₱72.7
Water (0.33 liter bottle)
$0.49 ₱30.39
$0.38 ₱23.84
$0.61 ₱38.14
Local Beer (0.5 liter draught)
$1.26 ₱78.7
$1.14 ₱71.1
$2.44 ₱152
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)
$2.37 ₱148
$2.37 ₱148
$2.37 ₱148
🛒 Groceries & Markets
Cost
Range
Milk (1 liter)
$1.76 ₱110
$1.56 ₱97.3
$1.97 ₱123
White Bread (500g)
$1.00 ₱62.4
$0.49 ₱30.58
$1.53 ₱95.6
Rice (white) (1kg)
$0.78 ₱48.55
$0.70 ₱43.69
$0.86 ₱53.4
Eggs
$1.76 ₱110
$1.38 ₱86.2
$1.96 ₱123
Local Cheese (1kg)
$5.30 ₱331
$3.16 ₱197
$18.97 ₱1,184
Chicken Fillets (1kg)
$5.51 ₱344
$5.51 ₱344
$5.51 ₱344
Beef Round Steak (1kg)
$6.91 ₱431
$5.69 ₱355
$8.13 ₱507
Apples (1kg)
$2.40 ₱150
$1.64 ₱102
$3.60 ₱225
Banana (1kg)
$0.92 ₱57.5
$0.67 ₱41.85
$1.17 ₱73.2
Oranges (1kg)
$2.74 ₱171
$1.65 ₱103
$4.13 ₱257
Tomato (1kg)
$1.15 ₱71.9
$0.48 ₱29.76
$1.91 ₱119
Potato (1kg)
$1.49 ₱92.9
$1.41 ₱88.0
$1.57 ₱97.8
Onion (1kg)
$1.32 ₱82.6
$1.09 ₱68.0
$1.56 ₱97.2
Lettuce (1 head)
$0.78 ₱48.83
$0.39 ₱24.42
$3.13 ₱195
Water (1.5 liter bottle)
$0.72 ₱45.12
$0.49 ₱30.50
$1.02 ₱63.6
Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro, Camel)
$2.94 ₱184
$2.62 ₱163
$3.27 ₱204
Wine (Bottle)
$7.02 ₱438
$5.46 ₱341
$8.57 ₱535
Local Beer (0.5 liter bottle)
$1.02 ₱63.9
$0.84 ₱52.3
$1.15 ₱71.9
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)
$1.30 ₱81.2
$1.26 ₱78.7
$1.34 ₱83.6
🚌 Getting Around
Cost
Range
One-way Ticket (Public Transport)
$0.25 ₱15.60
$0.19 ₱12.00
$0.31 ₱19.20
Public Transport Monthly Pass (Regular Price)
$11.53 ₱719
$5.73 ₱357
$11.53 ₱719
Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)
$0.81 ₱50.7
$0.73 ₱45.59
$0.81 ₱50.7
Taxi (Normal Tariff) (1km)
$0.22 ₱13.87
$0.12 ₱7.52
$0.62 ₱38.73
Taxi 1hour Waiting (Normal Tariff)
$1.94 ₱121
$1.62 ₱101
$3.24 ₱202
Gasoline (1 liter)
$1.04 ₱65.2
$1.02 ₱63.9
$1.14 ₱70.9
Midsize Hatchback 1.4l (Volkswagen Golf, Toyota Prius, Honda Civic, etc)
$16.9K ₱1.1M
$12.7K ₱789.4K
$21.2K ₱1.3M
Compact Sedan 1.6l (Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Kia K4, Hyundai Elantra, etc)
$19.7K ₱1.2M
$19.7K ₱1.2M
$19.8K ₱1.2M
🧾 Monthly Utilities & Internet
Cost
Range
Utilities for 2 People in 2-bedroom Apartment (Heating, Electricity, Gas, Water, Garbage) (85m2)
$63.1 ₱3,937
$57.4 ₱3,579
$68.8 ₱4,294
SIM Card Monthly Plan (Calls and 10GB+ Data)
$10.88 ₱679
$7.92 ₱494
$13.84 ₱864
Internet (50+ Mbps, Unlimited Data)
$24.45 ₱1,526
$11.05 ₱689
$42.63 ₱2,660
🎉 Sport & Entertainment
Cost
Range
Gym Membership (Monthly)
$32.25 ₱2,012
$8.06 ₱503
$32.25 ₱2,012
Tennis Court (1 Hour on Weekend)
$4.97 ₱310
$3.30 ₱206
$4.97 ₱310
Cinema Ticket
$5.08 ₱317
$3.75 ₱234
$7.03 ₱439
🧸 Childcare & Education
Cost
Range
Preschool or Kindergarten, Full Day, Private, 1 Child (Monthly)
$131 ₱8,197
$32.84 ₱2,049
$315 ₱19.7K
International Primary School, 1 Child (Yearly)
$7,903 ₱493.2K
$4,637 ₱289.4K
$17.6K ₱1.1M
👕👟 Clothing & Footwear
Cost
Range
Jeans (Levis 501 Or Similar)
$32.15 ₱2,006
$6.39 ₱399
$79.9 ₱4,985
Summer Dress (H&M, Zara, etc)
$19.63 ₱1,225
$5.13 ₱320
$48.07 ₱3,000
Sport Shoes (Adidas, Nike)
$73.0 ₱4,555
$48.66 ₱3,036
$97.3 ₱6,072
Men's Leather Business Shoes
$55.4 ₱3,454
$18.98 ₱1,184
$79.1 ₱4,934
🏠 Accommodation & Living
Cost
Range
1-bedroom Apartment, City Center (Monthly)
$289 ₱18.0K
$242 ₱15.1K
$323 ₱20.1K
1-bedroom Apartment, Outside City Center (Monthly)
$204 ₱12.7K
$163 ₱10.2K
$244 ₱15.3K
3-bedroom Apartment, City Center (Monthly)
$515 ₱32.1K
$476 ₱29.7K
$555 ₱34.6K
3-bedroom Apartment, Outside City Center (Monthly)
$319 ₱19.9K
$319 ₱19.9K
$319 ₱19.9K
Buy Apartment in City Center (m2)
$2,600 ₱162.2K
$802 ₱50.1K
$2,600 ₱162.2K
Buy Apartment Outside City Center (m2)
$1,047 ₱65.3K
$322 ₱20.1K
$1,047 ₱65.3K
💵 Salaries & Financials
Cost
Range
Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax)
$221 ₱13.8K
-
20-Year Fixed Mortgage Interest Rate (Annual %)
8.12
8
8.25

CityCost data is based on AI and user input – minor inaccuracies may occur.

Last update: August 31, 2026

Cost Breakdown

Expect to pay about $289 for a central one-bedroom, or $204 outside the center. At 130% of the average salary ($221), housing is the biggest financial pressure.

Average take-home pay sits at $221, while typical expenses reach $714. The gap means tight budgeting for locals, though expats with foreign income can live comfortably.

Expect to spend about $177 monthly on groceries. Dining out at a mid-range restaurant costs roughly $17.00 for two – well below the Asian average of $36.00.

Public transport is priced at around $11.53 per month – among the cheapest in Asia (average $34.00).

Cost Highlights

Imported beer is cheaper than 96% of cities in Asia

Taxi is cheaper than 90% of cities in Asia

Puerto Princesa Median Internet Speeds (Updated April 2026)

Mobile

Download
Mbps
Upload
Mbps
Latency
ms

Fixed Broadband

Download
Mbps
Upload
Mbps
Latency
ms
The chart highlights the Precision Threshold for mobile and fixed broadband internet speeds, updated quarterly.
Digital Nomad Cost of Living Index
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Cost of Living in Puerto Princesa - Frequently Asked Questions
How does Puerto Princesa compare in terms of affordability for travelers, expats, and digital nomads?
Puerto Princesa tends to offer a favorable balance of value for travelers, expats, and digital nomads who prioritize quality of life over a fast-paced urban tempo. In terms of Cost of Living in Puerto Princesa, Philippines, everyday expenses sit in a comfortable range, with practical options for food, lodging, and local transport that won’t strain a budget. Modest guesthouses and longer-stay apartments cover a spectrum from simple to comfortable, while markets and casual eateries deliver flavorful meals at friendly prices. For digital nomads, the pace is manageable, internet access is available in key areas, and easy access to nature adds lifestyle appeal. If you value safety and walkable neighborhoods, you’ll likely perceive strong value here. Tip: Start with a short trial stay to spot the right neighborhood and internet spots.
What does daily life look like for someone renting, eating, and getting around in Puerto Princesa?
Daily life centers on a compact city core where markets, seafood stalls, and casual eateries shape meals. When you search for housing, expect options from simple rooms to modest apartments with flexible leases, often near services and transit routes. Food is diverse, with fresh options at markets and casual restaurants that reflect local flavors. Getting around relies on tricycles and jeepneys for short hops, with taxis and bike rentals for longer trips. Co-working spaces and Wi-Fi-friendly cafes support remote work. Understanding Puerto Princesa, Philippines living cost helps you plan a balanced routine. Tip: Test a few neighborhoods with different commuting times before settling in.
Which neighborhoods fit different budgets and lifestyles, and what budgeting approach helps you maximize value?
Neighborhood fit in Puerto Princesa ranges from busy, service-packed centers to quieter coastal and inland pockets. For budgets and lifestyle, picture a spectrum where convenience-oriented areas place you near markets and transit, while calmer zones offer more space and slower rhythms. A practical budgeting approach divides your needs into housing, food, transport, and activities, then tests a lean baseline against a comfortable baseline. Favor locally owned eateries, seasonal fresh produce, and shared transportation to stretch value. Seasonality influences crowds and availability, so think about timing when you search for stays. Tip: Choose a month-long stay in a couple of neighborhoods to feel the vibe before committing.
How much does it cost to live in Puerto Princesa per month?
Plan for roughly $714 a month in Puerto Princesa if you're renting, or around $427 for non-housing expenses. That covers one person's basics: food, bills, getting around, and a modest social life. Couples and families will need more, especially for housing and childcare.
How much does it cost to live in Puerto Princesa in 2026?
As of 2026, monthly living costs in Puerto Princesa come to around $714 including rent, or roughly $427 excluding it. Numbers shift a bit by season and neighborhood, but this range works well as a planning baseline.
What salary is needed for a comfortable life in Puerto Princesa?
Around $1,072 take-home puts you in a comfortable spot in Puerto Princesa – enough for rent, food, bills, and a bit of savings. Drop below that and you'll probably need to share a flat, stick to cooking at home, or pick a neighborhood further out.
How much should I budget for housing in Puerto Princesa?
Where you live in Puerto Princesa makes all the difference. Central one-bedrooms cost about $289; commute-friendly outer districts come in around $204. Overall, the market runs from $204 to $289 depending on size, location, and apartment condition.
What does commuting cost in Puerto Princesa?
A monthly transit pass in Puerto Princesa goes for roughly $11.53, which is one of the lighter items on a monthly budget. Coverage across residential and business areas is solid, and most residents without a car rely on it daily.
What are kindergarten prices in Puerto Princesa?
Childcare averages $131 monthly at a private kindergarten in Puerto Princesa. For many families, this single cost rivals rent, so it's essential to factor in before making a move.
Is $1,000 enough to live comfortably in Puerto Princesa?
$1,000 stretches far in Puerto Princesa – all-in monthly costs average only $714. The surplus means you can build savings, travel a bit, and live above the local average without much effort.
Is Puerto Princesa expat-friendly?
Expats in Puerto Princesa enjoy clean air, digital nomad infrastructure, beach access, and monthly costs average around $714. The international crowd is active and welcoming, and practical stuff – bank accounts, apartment hunting, healthcare – is all manageable with some basic prep.
Is it possible to save on a local salary in Puerto Princesa?
Monthly expenses in Puerto Princesa run around $714, so putting money aside takes more than $1,072 in income. Keeping housing costs low and avoiding lifestyle creep are the keys to building a decent savings rate here.
Can you backpack through Puerto Princesa cheaply?
Budget travelers love Puerto Princesa – low prices across accommodation, food, and transport make it one of the most backpacker-friendly cities around. Long-stay costs come to just $714 monthly; short-term visitors can get by on even less with hostels and local food.

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