Verdict: Manila is 8% cheaper — saving you $70/month ($840/year)
Kuala Lumpur ($890/mo)
Manila ($820/mo)
1BR Apartment (Center)
$550
$450
1BR Apartment (Outside)
$320
$250
Cheap Meal
$3
$3
Mid-Range Meal
$10
$10
Transit Pass
$25
$20
Utilities
$60
$80
Internet
$25
$30
Groceries
$140
$150
CategoryKuala LumpurManilaDifference
1BR Apartment (Center)$550$450+$100
1BR Apartment (Outside)$320$250+$70
Cheap Meal$3$3
Mid-Range Meal$10$10
Transit Pass$25$20+$5
Utilities$60$80$-20
Internet$25$30$-5
Groceries$140$150$-10
Total Estimated$890$820$70 (8%)

Safety Index

Kuala Lumpur: 60/100

Manila: 45/100

Average Monthly Salary

Kuala Lumpur: $1,100

Manila: $700

Relocating to Manila?

Save on your move with these essential services for expats and remote workers.

Full Kuala Lumpur Guide
Costs, tips & more →
Full Manila Guide
Costs, tips & more →

More Comparisons

kuala lumpur vs tokyo
Japan
$1,980/mo
kuala lumpur vs osaka
Japan
$1,598/mo
manila vs fukuoka
Japan
$1,280/mo
manila vs sapporo
Japan
$1,195/mo

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kuala Lumpur cheaper than Manila?

Manila is approximately 8% cheaper.Kuala Lumpur costs around $890/month vs Manila at $820/month. That is a saving of $70/month ($840/year).

Which city has cheaper rent — Kuala Lumpur or Manila?

Manila has cheaper rent.Kuala Lumpur charges $550/month for a city-center 1BR, while Manila is $450/month.

Which city is safer — Kuala Lumpur or Manila?

Kuala Lumpur is safer, with a safety index of 60/100 vs 45/100.