$800 USD Budget in the Philippines/Cost of Living in Philippines

$800 USD Budget No Way/$2500-$3000 Sweet Spot Budget? No Way/ Philippine Retirement Budget/Money Matters/‪@mikesphilippineretirement‬ /Cost of living in the Philippines
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I RETIRED TO THE PHILIPPINES IN 2022, LIVING ON A BUDGET WITH MY FILIPINA GIRLFRIEND IN DUMAGUETE.
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[@Filo-Joe]

My budget is $2000/month including my girlfriend that I boom boom whenever I want.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

what is boom boom hahaha

[@Filo-Joe]

Hahahaha

[@flog1010]

Yeah. Boom boom all night used to be 500 but you foreigners ruined it.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

is that a dance song..hmmm

[@bigjohnson7415]

​@@flog1010 Pesos?

[@justjamjian]

Hello! This video's randomly thrown at me by the algorithm. To me, $800 will get you a comfortable lifestyle here in the Ph. Just learn the local way. Don't always buy at the grocery store, practice buying & supporting local products from local markets. For the basics like rice, oil, condiments, buy in bulk. And find a Filipina wife/gf who is smart, practical, & fun to be with. Don't just settle for random girl u can find anywhere, that could be a liability. Hahaha That's all! Good luck to you all! Enjoy the Philippines!

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

are you in Dumaguete?

[@MrAcousticman7]

@@mikesphilippineretirement he lives smart -ur still green mike lol

[@Andrew32100]

I Probably will never go to the Philippines. But I highly agree with you. About the gf\wife\shopping local part at least.

[@ravenlorans]

Single???? Hint Hint..

[@escapetothephilippines1551]

Good advice, Mike. I just put out a budget video that outlined costs just above $1,000 USD. NO WAY I would want to go lower than that. I do, however, see my Filipina girlfriend as a benefit rather than a budget cost. She knows where to find the bargains, she has the connections that help us and I NEVER get a skin tax. She is like a protective little Rottweiler when it comes to that. But my lifestyle is what I like to call an "Ameripino" lifestyle. It is Filipino with just a few Western extras.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Yes a good girl friend is a plus

[@bradleymiller7375]

Perfect!

[@cosmickiwi08]

I live in a smaller town in the province close to a few nice beaches. I'm renting a nice 3 bdrm house, 2 bathroom, large secure yard and about 10 minute walk to markets, supermarket and 7-11. I have air con but don't use it and have gotten used to cold showers and enjoy them now. I cook healthy fresh food at home mostly but do eat out sometimes and look for deals. I've got a 4x4 multicab and bought a German shepherd pup for company and excercise and am loving life. I've got a gorgeous gf with no kids but she doesn't live with me full-time as she works in another town and lives with her family and it's a great arrangement. My costs all up are around $700 per month including food and all bills so if you get away from the cities and other expats it is possible.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks for sharing

[@Plough78]

Where about are you. I'm going in a month or two. I need try maintain budget of no more than $1000/month ... But have 2k for month one getting setup *Crap Game*

[@cosmickiwi08]

@@Plough78 I'm in southern Negros Occidental but many places offer the same thing. I sent 5 huge balikbayan boxes full of kitchen stuff, tools, clothes, home entertainment stuff including projector tv etc, CDs, DVDs ,books , games etc, etc to set myself up but also my place is fully furnished. I still had to buy good quality mattresses, new fridge, kitchen appliances, truck, dog, fans, and a few other accessories so my start up costs were around4-5 grand. Then there is also ongoing costs of visas, acr card and driver's licence to consider so your 2 grand will go quickly. I don't know your situation or expectations but if you plan on drinking, partying or dating any Filipinas your money will go very quickly too. I also have a good chunk of money in savings to fall back on if something happens but haven't had to touch it yet, knock on wood. Good luck though and hope it works out for you.

[@Plough78]

@@cosmickiwi08 Well I'm almost a non drinker now. I do once in a blue moon and wish I hadn't after every time. I'm edging toward going fully T Total in the very near future. On the accommodation front I don't need anything flash. Simple yet comfortable condo / one bedroom house. Regarding food I'm perfectly content with simple home cooked food or local meals 95% of the time. I only drive motorbikes.. My main priority is getting healthy.. Hit the gym and join a boxing Club. Do want a woman but not interested in mongering any more. This trip just a test, maybe stay 6 months. Then I'll go work Europe after for a bit. *Crap Game*

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

@@Plough78 I am in Dumaguete...When I rented my house the cost was 1 month rent and 2 months deposit...that would eat your start up pretty fast

[@charlesbronson5235]

I had some $500 months in the Philippines back in 2004 after settling in and getting started. That was a whole different world than today’s . $2,000 a month is unnecessary for me even today. I don’t live beyond my means and surly don’t want to be looked at like I got Bank 🏦

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks charles..you got Game not Bankl Hahaha

[@charlesbronson5235]

@@mikesphilippineretirement The older the wiser they say. I’ll be 60 in October and hope I get to enjoy a bit after that.

[@fendermon]

That's the thing (about bank) I couldn't imagine wanting people to think I have excess cash. There is no upside to that at all. @ Charles

[@charlesbronson5235]

@@fendermon precisely but yet people still do there in the Philippines and not just Americans.

[@JamesDavis-mg8ih]

Hello Mike, I am living in LA Union renting a room. I have access to Air Conditioning but never use it. I have a warm shower, all appliances and still live a balanced life for about 6k pesos as a single guy. If I wanted to live here with a family in a bungalow I can easily get by with $300-500 budget. You do not need a car/motorbike to live in the PH. You do not need a Condo or a Subdivision. There are sacrifices but not as bad as you may think. Living in Paradise

[@rooster1012]

You didn't listen to him at all, he just said if you are retired and want to live comfortable and not just exist, you are a young guy and are willing to slum it more than us older people that like our creature comforts and have a higher standard of living than you do.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Your not enjoying anything renting a room ..that is so much bs living in the philippines 6k is what 120 dollars USD 20 of that or more is just for your visa. Rent min. living in a shit hole $40..Elect and water..$25....so you tell me for the balance you never travel into the city buy food..not my idea of a life..rice 2 times a day...do you buy soap to shower with..wipe your butt with banana leaves...come on man that is b/s 6k php a month

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Who is he kidding

[@SDted]

​@@mikesphilippineretirement look at his name, Rooster 101, he's a f-ing chicken!!! Some people, well I can do this and I can that!!!! So can trained monkeys!!! I agree with you Mike!!!

[@charlesbronson5235]

@@mikesphilippineretirement 😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂

[@Robmar40]

The sweet spot for 2 is $2000-3000 per month. If you want to live in Makati or BGC it goes up to $3k-$4k.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for the info

[@Geoduck.]

Mike is right. Don't forget as Mike has stated in other videos we must all have a realistic emergency fund and an exit plan contingency fund.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thank you

[@Geoduck.]

@@inteland2734 Entirely true. I'm sure some would say this is far too much but I agree with you. We personally know of individuals who moved to Cebu with less than $10K although they are successful they have no backup or exit plan. My wife and I also know of one man is way behind on his visa. When they find him he will be blacklisted but worse has no cash for an airline ticket.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

@@inteland2734 you do not need that much...but the more you have the better..you made some good points

[@cecilwampler8733]

I think Cambodia has me spoiled. You would be set with $800 here. My rent is $130 plus electricity.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

I am sure you can find cheaoer living there just look harder

[@seriodesignfx]

I live just fine on $800/month in Cebu. You have to adopt a Filipino lifestyle. My Filipino fiancee and friends warned me about how ex-pats get taken advantage of. I live in a 2 bedroom townhouse, in a gated community and swimming pool. Shop around guys you can do way better if you try. The average Filipino makes $6,000 per year and they raise a family on it.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Good you enjoy the filipino lifestyle

[@Curleymctell]

Thanks for commenting what many of us know to be true.

[@dominichoward4833]

All these guys saying, show it. I never seen any videos of people actually living a good life in 800 a month. Probably can't even afford the camera to film😂

[@samwalker1691]

Hope to be there April/May. I'm 62 recently divorced. My monthly income will be $2250 W/$400K in Start-Up/Reserve so I feel like I will be ok

[@billyjohnson9166]

Your ok for sure. Hopefully your 400k is also creating income CDs or dividends.

[@bigjohnson7415]

Nice! Just don't support the Baranguay!

[@kennethboehnen271]

Perfect

[@kellyswanson746]

$400,000 U.S. dollars? You won't run out.

[@kevink1214]

Thanks Mike!! There are those that have a lot of "need to haves, or want to have" which then increases the cost of living. They will make it seem that you can not live for less than some specified dollar amount, which for them is right, but to someone else it is overkill. Living in any area that has a larger population of foreigners, the cost is going to be higher. Renting vs owning certainly is going to make a sizable difference as well on the monthly budget. Some places people say they get 150 to 200 a month electric bills even if they only run the AC at night, whereas in other areas they pay far less. Living higher up means no need, or less need of AC because of the cooler nights. The heat does not bother me, whereas another person runs from AC to AC. Also living in the province is not necessarily living like a native, which to many seems to mean living poorly. Lastly, someone that lives just above the poverty line in the USA is not going to get any govt assistance, however can live a pretty good life in the Phil as compared to back home. This person still would need to have a good amount in savings to cover emergencies.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for sharing

[@jimscholz2997]

Nice video Mike... I am really enjoying your channel... Tks..

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@Gary-lj7pi]

I agree with you Mike .. Thanks for your input .

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks Gary

[@theaverageman5244]

Good Job Mike. Thanks for laying it out so clearly. Looking forward to meeting you in person someday.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Can't wait!

[@billyakin3301]

Thanks Mike 😊 Thanks Janet 😊 Great advice Mike. From everything I have read and seen, you are absolutely correct. 👍

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Excellent!

[@anthonymoody2897]

You are absolutely right, $800 dollars isn’t going to cut it in the Philippines. When we come to the Philippines and stay on average for 3-4 months a year we plan on living on $2,500-$3,000 dollars a month. This allows us to live very comfortably in Dipolog.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for your comment and sharing

[@BarakTheWonderer]

Thanks for a realistic and honest video. This will be helpful to people.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Glad it was helpful!

[@AlfredGuajardo]

Thank you for all the realistic information 🙂 it sounds like you know from experience , again thank you much. Al

[@tonyhernandez9745]

Thanks Mike for the update. In South Africa $1000 places you in the 5% earners. You can live comfortably here, however the crime let's the country down.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

I would never live in Africa no matter how cheap

[@Elvin6219]

Thanks for the info, Mike 👍

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

You bet!

[@billyjohnson9166]

I’ve never figured out my budget. I own my own condo and I own a condo I rent out in cebu. I also own my own car. I have multiple streams of income. My guess is I spend $2,300 - $2,500 a month not including travel. That doesn’t include health insurance which is $600.00 a month.

[@Resmith18SR]

I'm retired American living here in Mexico for many years and I don't find it difficult to live on $700 or $800 dollars a month. Of course it would be great to have double or triple that amount but I'm happy despite what you think and it can be done and I'm living proof. I'm sure I could do the same there in the Philippines and you shouldn't give the impression or idea that someone can't enjoy your life on that amount. The Mexican people here are happier than you are and live on less than $600 a month. Quality of life in the U.S. on $1000 a month if that's all you are receiving from Social Security is not even possible. Where in the U.S. right now can you rent a decent place if you're only receiving $1000 a month?

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks for sharing

[@frankkluz9787]

Dave in Cambodia lives on $700 - $800 / month. (U-TUBE) -- He says "you can - and you will - if you have to" !!! -- In Siem Reap he says '''you can have quite a comfortable life on that amount''' there. A few others I have seen in the Philippines are doing it too and are very content knowing they could never live that good in the US. -?- I'm sure you can in some areas of Mexico as well. -- Colombia is another place in rural areas it can be done.

[@billblane7725]

Mike, your Vids are great, to the point, no BS factual. You tell it like it is. 👍

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

I appreciate that

[@Carl314]

Awesome video. Thanks Mike.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks Carl

[@ehime4u2]

Very true and honest opinion. $800? I don't know anywhere you can live on that. A lot of retired people living in cars in the U.S. SSN retirement doesn't afford much these days.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

cost keep going up

[@ehime4u2]

@@mikesphilippineretirement That's what I keep hearing (and seeing). Prices in Japan have been slowly creeping up. They do it slowly and people don't notice as much

[@noahcount7132]

It's appreciated, Mike, that you speak the unvarnished truth about expat life in the Philippines.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thank you

[@DustyRhodesjr]

Thanks, Mike. You are right on the money. I've lived here off and on for 50 years, permanently since 2006. A couple emphases, although you have dealt with such in the past. Medical/hospital expenses are potentially a nightmare. My wife (We are northern Luzon folk) had HUGE hospital and medicine expenses. If we had not be well above the sweet spot, the results would have been unthinkable. These things always happen. Also, as you say, expectations may be beyond reality. My wife needs a driver and a maid. We are old. One gets tired of roughing it. Guys, listen to Mike.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks for your comments

[@Matipid_Lolo]

Living in Houston vs New York City vs Chicago vs New Orleans vs etc , etc. The cost of living is vastly different depending upon where you live in America. Same in the Philippines. Cost of living is very different depending upon where you choose to live and how you live. Cost of living in Dumaguete is skewed by the concentration of old retirees from the West.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

yes but broke in New York is the same in New Orleans...If you have good income every place is fun but broke is no fun anyplace

[@DHarri9977]

Hey Mike/Janet, with all the different budget vlogs floating around most of which support having a good strong budget of at least 1500 monthly you would think this would be a no-brainer but you'll always have exceptions in terms of individual lifestyles and other scenarios. Having startup monies, and medical emergency funds, until you decide if you want to get insurance or self-insure would be important as with having an exit strategy (funds set aside) in the event you would need to make a quick exit back to your home country. Anything under that amount to me would defeat the purpose of living in the Philippines and being retired.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

fully agree

[@jspice-kl2wc]

Thank you for the great information. 👍👍👍

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Glad it was helpful!

[@mavithsumalpong603]

A foreigner and his filipina can live good off of $1,192 US dollars budget. Living longterm rental in IT Park, eating out 2 to 3 times per week, doing activities or traveling to another Islands, plenty of groceries. This includes a $400 US dollars grocery budget.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

hard to believed IT Park Traveling to different islands 2 people if groceries are 400 leaves 792 for rent, elect. and eating out 2 times a week does not add up sorry

[@mavithsumalpong603]

​@@mikesphilippineretirementWell it's true! Different lifestyle!! Our priorities are different than yours. Neither of us drink alcohol nor smoke cigarettes. Neither of us go to night clubs or bars!! We eat lots of beans, fruits and vegetables! We drink lots of tubig. No coffee and no tea! Your priorities are your priorities!!

[@GBU61]

If a man decides to retire outside the US, he will need ($10,000-$20,000) in reserves before he makes the move. He should also be prepared for start up costs of at least $3000. Too many guys think about all the pros without considering all the cons. I have looked at a few websites on cost of living comparisons and no matter where a guy chooses (outside the West) $1500 seems to be about right. The one thing many do not consider is that the cost of living will be going up over time. Anywhere from $1500 (Lower end) to $2000 should make for a reasonable monthly budget. Most men come to the Philippines for a relationship so that cost will need to be added in since he is now paying for more than himself.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

great insight my friend

[@tedjohnson4451]

My viewpoint is a little different... Since I was a teen I've worked around OFWs quite a bit... Two of my Ex's Brothers married Filipinas [Metro Manila & Cavite Province]... So before I started planning to relocate I had a "bit" of info. I can't see $800 unless you are living out in the Provinces in a Bamboo house. Myself: With my Pension & Social Security in no more than 5 years... I'll be positioned to be in the "Sweet Spot" & put away $1K USD monthly for emergencies. And after a year, decide if I want to stay in the Philippines.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

great planning

[@DavidSheridan-kt7hv]

Your budget will usually start with rent and go from there. I live just outside of Cebu City and there is 3 of us and i only pay around $140 per month for rent(2br). I can keep our expenses around $900 per month and have money leftover plus have a 5 figure savings account. I have been here since Aug and have taken 2 trips as well

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

is that rent total or just your 1/3

[@DavidSheridan-kt7hv]

@@mikesphilippineretirement That is our total rent 7500php

[@DavidSheridan-kt7hv]

I have seen some rents on another vlog in Luzon for $80 to $100 US for single or 2 people-not huge but livable

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

@@DavidSheridan-kt7hv Thanks for the info

[@bobb7918]

Great video. Talk to people here in the US and they do not realize how much they really are spending each month. All those little thing add up and there is always something that needs to be fixed or replaced. Good job!!!

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks for sharing

[@fendermon]

Great balanced info. -subbed

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Awesome, thank you!

[@fendermon]

@@mikesphilippineretirement You bet :)

[@craiglatimer5723]

Wow! Live better on $800 in the US than the Philippines, or Cambodia where I happen to be. Not possible. $10 a day to eat very healthily here is plenty. $150-200 clean nice safe apts. with hot water and cable TV are plentiful. Some with pools. Phone, elec., WIFI $60. Easy to bike and walk everywhere. Save $100-200 a month. $500 to get to Guam if you have medicare. $30 a month for travelers ins. covering medical here and trans. to Guam if need be. Easy to live on under $800.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for sharing

[@kj7444]

nice video , honest thanks

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks

[@lannyg]

$800 would be very tough. I'm concerned about $1500 a month and i'll be in the province.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

800 is very tough...1500 is much better

[@dominichoward4833]

Thank you for putting this out. People are talking nonsense thinking living abroad can be enjoyable on less than 1500. They are insane, especially if they are fromnl the US. Many programs that will make your life salvageable their. I see all these people saying less and they are either lying or setting people up with hopes and dreams and are no where to be found on actually demonstrating an enjoyable life.

[@RidingwithStymie]

Bravo for the sober, wise words!

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thank you

[@mortensneisenhullebergstue2661]

You can live on 1000 and still have a good life. Dependz on what you like to do,so 800 is around 43000peso,that is enough for most midfle class filipinos with family. Its no problem,depends on your state of mind.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

sure but not the life most retired expats want

[@frankschrock4484]

I have a very nice brand-new one bedroom in Bacong. My rent is 190.00 a month. Unfurnished. And believe me I'm not living on a thousand or less. I eat dinner out at least 3 times a week, and a couple of lunches. And my electric bill is 80 bucks a month. I own a car as well. One word of advice is, if you're going to live in Dumaguete, stay out of Bilcriss. I spend about 200. a month in there. And that's just specialty stuff, not grocery shopping. Restaurants are not too pricey. Don't know how much I spend and don't want to know. Good luck.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks frank....is that an apartment you live in..any empty units??

[@frankschrock4484]

@@mikesphilippineretirement No he filled it up immediately, and he tells me that he has a waiting list. Yes it is an apt, right across the road from Monty's house.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

@@frankschrock4484 Thanks Frank

[@josephperez5113]

Thanks!

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Welcome! ,,THANKS JOSEPH

[@lavonyoung2366]

Hi Mike, Budget is a tuff subject. I have been in and out of the Philippines for many years and you see some people struggling but surviving and you see some people struggling but spending a lot. I personally spend in the upper portion of the sweet spot that you was talking about. I know that I could survive on much less. But I am lucky enough to have a pretty good retirement coming in and I never spend more than I have coming in. I feel that's the key. Never spend more than you have coming in each month.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

It is a tuff subject but I hope everyone coming here on a small budget just takes sometime and think about it

[@edgarwangsmo6]

Very wise advice❤ !

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks

[@peternielsen5998]

Hi Mike, I'm from Australia and I plan to spend around 6 months in the Philippines and 6 months in Australia each year until I reach retirement age in 7 years. I plan to spend my time mostly in the provinces as I'm not fond of big Cities. My budget at the moment I envisage being around $1500 Aud or around $1000 Usd per month. I love Filipino food and would either cook for myself or visit a Calandaria. Probably rely on public transport especially at the start. I have been to the Philippines many times before and like the people and life style. I'll see how I go. If I need to raise the budget I can. I want to keep my residency in my home country as to get my age pension, I do need also the residency. After which I can move permanently to the Philippines and I should have a better idea also, where I want to set up base. Thats the plan at the moment any how. Subject to change. :)

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

best of luck my friend..thanks for sharing

[@sdnalyam]

What sort of visa do you use for the Phiullipines?.This is the sort of thing i would like to do.What do you do for accomadation there?.

[@peternielsen5998]

@@sdnalyam As its only each time a 6 months stay, I'll just be getting (paying) for tourist visa extensions. I'll most likely try to find a longer term airbnb which is in my price range. If your staying for longer periods then the price per month is normally cheaper.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

@@sdnalyam we rent a house

[@Ty-dt8xv]

Great video 👍 I’m coming to the Philippines very soon my monthly budget is in what you call the sweet spot it’s 3000 per month US . I appreciate your videos very informative are use them for information for when I come to the Philippines.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Sounds great!

[@agripinad8848]

yes, you are totally right mark, i agree, ill do the same way you are doing, i want a good life on my retirement, actually in 2 yrs we are going back home and planning to retire in the phils, by the way im a filipina living here in US with my kids, but they all grown and married here in colorado, actually i already build a retirement house in phils in pampanga and in 2 yrs we are looking forward to retire there….

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thank you for sharing

[@Synfulz]

Agree on not trying to live here at $800. It is a failure waiting to occur. One major medical issue and your toast. Now in regards to the "sweet spot" that is definitely dependent on where and how you choose to live. I agree it can be $1700-2000. But near bigger cities that higher number is reasonable for the care free, comfortable life. Myself I certainly enjoy here in the Philippines. I will be hitting the links again in the morning. ⛳️ Just 9 months and I can file for my SS which will be a nice bump.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

you do not need it donate to the USA budget...hahaha just kidding

[@ejtaylor73]

Nice to see someone FINALLY give the HARSH TRUTH!!! Not sugar coating it and filling people's heads with dreams just to get there and find out how screwed they are. Of course a budget video is ONLY for the person giving it, everyone else's OWN lifestyle will dictate THEIR budget. The ONLY thing a budget video can provide is to give people an idea of what type of things they need to consider and costs of items when planning THEIR OWN budget. Many budget videos say the sweet spot is around $1500 a month GUARANTEED income, if that's not you, work a little longer and get there before retiring. GUARANTEED monthly income, don't expect KZbin or other online jobs to be your source of income, the amount you make from it is NOT always guaranteed.

[@doninbaras]

​@@ajw9377 You are comparing a Filipino lifestyle to a Western, which are vastly different. Most single Filipino's live with their family which greatly cuts down on costs. Not very many expats that can transition to a Filipino lifestyle.

[@Ocean-in-Motion]

@@ajw9377 i disagree with you. I am here in Cebu city and I am 68 years old. There are certain things that I do not want to do that at this age and I need to pay for it, like taking shower with hot water. Having AC available to me for hot days and hot nights and humid days. Not waiting for Jeepney and take taxi. Philippines is not famous for its culinary compare with other Asian countries. I need to cook for myself most of the time. Simple things like cilantro, mint, parsley and spinach, beans and lentils are available only in 1-2 supermarkets in Cebu city. We are not talking about drinking coffee or alcohol daily. $1,500 expenses per month is not a luxury life style here. $1,500 is the cost of renting an apartment in Dallas per month, if I need to pay $800 I need to move to El Paso for example. I will be still in US but different city. Same here in Philippine.

[@garrylafferty100]

@@ajw9377 i diagee $250 not enough that might buy filipino food for a month my girlfriends internet alone $38 electric can be $40 with no con air i assume you mean she has no children

[@kennethsuggs2546]

I just seen a u tuber video just came out today he lives in condo unit in cebu single studio apartment for 283 a month his total cost of living each month bout 600 he says so I guess it all your life style u want keep he seems be happy there been there 2 years now he says don’t know if I’m allowed to give his channel or not but yes I agree with this video 1500 be great but they lot they don’t get that much a month just saying

[@SDted]

​@@kennethsuggs2546 I watched that video. Yes, nice condo. Sit on his own balcony and looks across the city for excitement! Only eats twice a day and cooks for himself. Doesn't go anywhere, THATS NOT LIVING THAT'S EXISTING!!!! Maybe it would be ok if you're 98 yrs. old with dementia!!! Man........

[@nicholassay8724]

I was really worried - I thought you meant $800 a week isn't enough! Thanks for the great content!

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

hahaha...a month..thanks for watching

[@misssmith2746]

Your right about that. I will go back and forth to visit my elderly U.S.citizen parents. it's nice to visit but living in the Philippines don't know if I want to live there.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks you for the comment

[@walterallard2593]

My wife and i can live very well here on 800.00 hundred but are home is payed for we have no rent and we have hot water moter bike payed for i bought new the house is 2 bed room and we pay life ins every month for my wife my life ins is payed for back in the

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

yes so add 400 for rent your at 1200 good job have a good wife and nice home my friend

[@LIGHTNING351]

Good video Mike.....

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks 👍

[@douglasdague4901]

Right On brother. Tell it like is

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Always!

[@nandorblue]

if you speak the local language fluently and cook at home and understand and learn the culture and use the culture for your benefit then you can you live well on 800!

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

I do not think so...sorry

[@MyLifeThai371]

Most of the retirees that I know only get $900/month social security checks, so people had better be able to budget.

[@nandorblue]

@@mikesphilippineretirement I do speak very good Ilonggo and it makes a big difference. It saves me money!

[@charlesanderson6986]

Yes sir I agree with you about the $1500to 1700 . when I live in the Philippines sometimes a year at a time I tend to spend $3500 to $4000 a month but I travel and stay at nice resorts and eat out . I’ve been traveling there for 23 years now and I do have a nice house in northern Luzon.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks for sharing

[@tracymorgan5386]

In the US if you only getting $800 a month you can get Medicaid which is free medical care for practically everything, food stamps, if you are a certain age low income senior housing where rent is based on 30% of income, help with electric bill, food pantry, low or free Wi-Fi( depending which state you live)etc.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

better support in your home country

[@craiglatimer5723]

You can a very small amount of food stamps if any if you are making $800 a month in the US.

[@piratecovephilippines4711]

Been here 8 years full time and have lived on 1K to 1.2K just fine. We don't live in a expat area or tourist spot but it a large city outside of Manila where we pay less than 100 a month on rent on a small two bedroom house with a private secure yard. We have Aircon, hot water, eat very well , new car. I don't go without what I need at all. Of course a budget and income are 2 different things all together. We live on less than half of our income and have put away a good fund for emergency. Over the years you learn how to reduce the cost to live better. Much has to do with location and lifestyle .

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

If your paying only 5k php a month for a house and private lot send me a photo here is my e mail...thanks [e-mail]

[@hansreynders6853]

That's hard to believe. I live suburban Manila too and you won't find a two bedroom house under 10,000 peso. You must have found the needle in the haystack or your house has two small rooms only.

[@piratecovephilippines4711]

@@hansreynders6853 , stop by anytime and see for yourself. Malolos Bulacan

[@hansreynders6853]

@@piratecovephilippines4711 Ah, maybe Malolos is just far away enough for lower prices, more than San Mateo, Rizal which is next to Quezon City.

[@piratecovephilippines4711]

@@mikesphilippineretirement , even better. I just uploaded a short just for you.

[@daveosch]

good info - hoping it stays in that range for a couple years - 2.5 years to go till retirement

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

We all hope

[@emzgreen1090]

2500 budget is perfect .My husband is retire and he get that much .We can afford to retire there now but I am still working so hopefully in the next couple years we will be able to come to Cebu.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for your comment..we wish you the best

[@emzgreen1090]

@@mikesphilippineretirement thank you

[@pensionandapassport]

I would add that you should double your budget for the first few months. Im on the search in Thailand right now and im burning through cash. Ill be headed out your way mike, maybe in a few weeks. Im thinking of starting in Cebu City first. For me its all about the vibe of an area. The only way to do that is boots on the ground.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

yes i call that start up money until you settle in

[@pensionandapassport]

​@@mikesphilippineretirement Yes sir, I look at it as investing in yourself. Finding that right spot for you. Love the channel, solid advice from you.

[@danielbeumel4165]

You are right on the money! I'm planning on moving here in 18 months, I come every 3 months. You are so correct.

[@worldtravelventures]

my plan is to come with about $4500 per month after my insurance costs, for the first 2 years, then I will receive SS and I plan to tap into my Roth IRA at that time as well. I dont really plan to stay in one place. I want to hop around all of SE Asia with short visits to Japan and Australia from time to time.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

sounds like a great plan

[@edwardbland2797]

I'm coming sometime this year to live in either Philippines or Thailand and I will have about 3000 so thank you for the information.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Have fun! your in good shape

[@pensionandapassport]

I'm in Thailand right now. Been to pattaya and now phuket, hua hin next. The air quality is rough right now, phuket not too bad though. Although phuket is more expensive for sure and huge tourist area. Tons of people on the beaches right now.

[@kenlyn2208]

Nobody takes into account the exchange rate. Rarely do people save… wasn’t that long ago that the USD was 47.

[@flog1010]

Yeah. I came here for the spam and was so disappointed. Need that sweet spot for spam and a girl to fry it. Yummy

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

one of my fav. comments

[@davidmartin5179]

Thanks Mike and Janet. Great advice

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Our pleasure!

[@royfleury9860]

Well said Mike. I am moving there to San Pedro laguna just outside of Manila. I will have a budget of around $2000 Canadian. Based on my discussions with my girlfriend that budget will be fine. I will have an emergency fund left in Canada.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Sounds like a good plan

[@airlinename2614]

I will also be in Laguna. Yeah, 2k seems like my sweet spot as well.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

@@airlinename2614 wish you all the best 2k should be good

[@haraldg.83]

Great content! And what about medical treatment?

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

What about in my budget I put 300 usd away for Medical kzbin.info/www/bejne/rXOyfKaXnpaLpqs

[@faronray5765]

When I talk to people, I tell them not to try to come here to the Philippines for less than $1000 a month budget unless you just want to exist. You are just rolling the dice and asking for trouble if that's all you got. Don't come here to exist, come here for a good life. I'm tired of expats that come here on almost nothing wanting other Expats to be their retirement(begging for money). I'm retired in Cebu City and my income is around $2700 a month. Budget is around $1500 avg a month for a household of 5 but does not include travel or house payment.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

big family so add 400 for rent your at 1900 great budget and sounds like you have a nice life here

[@ericeengel2446]

Hi Mike today i saw a 600 usd budget video from Bigg World Cinema channel., i would not like to live that life.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

who would ??

[@bruceklein9008]

I will have $2000+ a month available. I will also be living on my boat.Won't need a condo,but will need to hit a marina 1 or 2 times a months.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

best of luck

[@kennethboehnen271]

I think the sweet spot is around $3k+/mo of passive income plus at least 100k in savings. This includes a bit of regional travel and activities. It also allows for inflation and unexpected expenses. The sweet spot doesn't mean that you can't live cheaper, but 3k/mo is the sweet spot to live comfortably, IMO.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

that is high for the sweet spot...but prefect for a great quailty of life in the Philippines

[@suckthis1152]

I agree with this 100 percent

[@timgutierrez2211]

I am 70 yo in good health, and retired at 55. If I had been following you back then, I would have been trmpted to take a vacation there. Finding a womna would be secondary, but being mostly a Loner, I could live well and still save a lot of money each month. I am from San Diego Ca and lived near atown called Mira Mesa. We call it Manilla Mesa because a lot of the Navy guys who married ladies from the Phil live there. It is a great community. I can see why a single man today would retire ther. You get to an age where you just want to take it easy and not worry about what time you return from the beach or you can fish all day and not have to pay any mind to this society here full of Salon queens and all their nonsense....lol

[@carmelaelliott227]

I think $3,000 monthly is pretty good for a couple no kids, with this amount it’s comfortable and your living the life of an expat, I know because that’s my budget now. No mortgage because beach house was fully paid so with car.

[@sdnalyam]

Great to see someone being honest, so much bullshite on KZbin and Blogs.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thank you

[@MyLifeThai371]

I'm pretty sure "Bigg World Cinema" youtube channel, said he lives on $600 in Cebu. He does the long term condo lease for a discount and cooks all his own healthy meals at home.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

so tell me about his budget..how much is his rent? how old is he? A long term lease you can get a few hundred peso of the monthly rent Is he in a rat hole or a very nice condo with pool ..the question is do you just want to esist here or enjoy life and the retirement your dreamed of

[@davidrivers2385]

My wife and I have property in the Mindanao area of course its a province where our place is. Once we build a house there I'm thinking 1500 will be plenty of money per monthly budget. We both reside in USA now will retire in 2 years I will retire at 59 1/2 sweet spot to take out my 401 k . I have retirement from my work and if I get social security if its still there then i will have that also. Not counting on social security right now. Not sure if i will sell the house here and keep that in the bank or cash it out we will see

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Yes if you own your home 1500 is a great budget..How many what to own or afford to build a house in the Philippines

[@timothybush9633]

Hi Mike & Janet♥I hope to join you two and many other Ex-Pats Mike😁I'm an American from Arizona but since I'm not wealthy, 64 years old and had a stroke 2 years ago😔so I feel it's a Pipe Dream but I will keep trying😁until I get there

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

see you soon

[@mikemasters4382]

What Mike is saying is he can't live on $800 a month that doesn't mean another can't. Also he says is that the kind of retirement you dreamed of ? That is a different story. If you don't have a choice to live the exact dream retirement Mike is saying why bother enjoying the Philippines? No logic to that Mike. There is so much to enjoy about the Philippines even if you aren't living the exact dream you wanted. When I vaca in Philippines I stay in 1000P hotels and eat at mom & pop Filipino places for $3, I can eat with my Filipina and her friend for less then $4. That may not be my dream vaca hotel stay and food choices but I promises you Mike nobody is having more fun then I am. I would never stay home because I can't live the dream vaca. I know I can live on less then a $1000 US per month if I needed to and again, nobody would be having more fun then I am. But thankfully I don't have to, but I am certain I'll live some months around the $800 a month. And I won't be scraping or roughing it.

[@mikemasters4382]

I came across a channel I've never seen, this fella in Boracay, he was eating a meal for $1.60 Mike. Then he ate for 60P. So yes you can do it on the very cheap if you need to and still have a blast. He gave his budget for the year and it was under $700 per month in which he traveled as well. Yes you can do it if you don't have a choice, you have a choice so why would you bother to cut corners to that degree ? That is why you find it hard to do. Most people don't know how to take $1 and turn it into $10 they do the opposite. I see this so much with very wasteful spending on silly things which they say is a requirement. But only because they have the money so then sure it could be a requirement.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

no way if your retired and you want to live like that a 60 php meal what was that rice and tiny fish..cooked in salt and sugar...why would you want to live like that...my God how about enjoying yourself

[@mikemasters4382]

That's the point Mike. You can't do it, doesn't mean someone else can't. You say you are comfortable on your budget, but I might find your comfort is to me a waste of money. One blogger said about like living on a low budget that you will want to go to a coffee shop so cost extra, to me that is not only a waste of money but also a waste of time. I don't and have rarely ever gone to coffee shops. My electric bill in US is only $30 a month, my friend pays $75 to a hundred this not in Aircon season. But I went into his house he wasn't home to do a couple of things, bedroom light was on, kitchen light was on, living room light was on, TV was on and he was out for 3 hours or so. To me complete waste of not only money but resources and putting out more greenhouse gases then necessary. I seen on expat forms some guys say if they are out they leave Aircon in so when they get back home instant cold, to me waste of 💰 ney, foolish spending of your money but you might find that kind of stuff comfort. I never have more then 1 like ght on at a time, unplug my microwave when not in use, turn off my internet when I go out with everything unplugged when not in use. I don't consider any of the things I do as sacrificing or roughing it, or scrapping to get by, I think I am being smart with my money, taking $1 and turning it into $10 while others turn $10 into $1 in the name of so-called comfort That's why maybe you can't do it but others can. I could go on & on with things others claim give them comfort but I find a foolish waste of money. Maybe you can tell us what is your definition of being comfortable ?

[@kenstar1862]

Minimum 1,500 usd monthly ,and if you have a gf a minimum of 2,000 usd per month,that's basic to get by comfortably

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

yes Ken like I said I have a 1700 budget and we are family of 3 with money going into Janets Savings

[@peterjacobus7578]

From my experience living here in Batangas. A Family of 4, 75k is a realistic amount needed to Live Monthly. Based on a rental cost of 20k monthly.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

so what do you do for health ins

[@peterjacobus7578]

I have Medicare in USA Presently . I pay for my medicines in Philippines. Cost average is 1k monthly. I am 69 yrs old. No idea what will happen if serious illness, etc

[@craigschillreff-9799]

Thanks

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Welcome

[@jdtravels5140]

Bigg World Cinema says he lives off $600. He doesn’t use AC and doesn’t appear to eat out very much. He also doesn’t live with a Filipina. Personally, I plan to live on $3,000 to $6,000 a month. Like you, I want to live a nice life and travel with my beautiful Filipina.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

enjiy your retirement you earned it

[@erikmichael3493]

Yes, I agree that $800 a month is not a realistic budget even in the Philippines. I'm always cautious that in the event of an emergency, that budget won't be enough. Then, you're in big trouble in a foreign country and no one turn for help.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for sharing

[@MyLifeThai371]

As long as you keep your emergency fund built up, you should be fine. In Thailand it is $13,000 for open heart surgery, if you have no insurance.

[@schuey999]

Hi Mike, I think the budget you are referring to has a $500 to $1000 savings each month, to build emergency funds higher and save for future insurance increases

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

could be i have saving in my 1700 usd budget

[@CaliforniaOscar]

Hey Mike with my pension and my social security it's about $4,011 and I still would not live in the Philippines it's too hot too many bugs lack of supplies the only thing over there that I can't get here is a woman have my age to make me feel young again so I go over there for 3 months see my girlfriend sander $150 a month and see her in another six months

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

the life you want..enjoy and be happy

[@jonathancoffman4311]

I think your right on

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

thanks

[@JohnSmith-oj9gw]

The reality is if you are middle class or above in the U.S. and want to live the same lifestyle in the PH it is roughly 25% cheaper. Most expats who claim the PH is cheap leave their home country where they live in a 2500 square foot 4 bedroom house on a 1/4 acre lot with two cars and move to a 400 square foot apartment in the PH and drive a scooter. Look at any medium size city in the PH and see what a average 2500 U.S. standard home on a quarter acre lot costs to rent. Now buy two newer cars and the same food and see how much you are saving.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thank you for sharing

[@phil-54]

Hi - 1500A$ or 65000peso is a minimum as you also need to renew visa every 2 months

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

yes

[@porkchop55ify]

I make 1658.00 per mo. I know by visiting Dumeguete or Cebu from what ive seen I could live pretty well. I don't drink or smoke, but I know you have to know where to go to live comfortable. Doesn't mean eat out everyday at the Y-not or Bo's but you could live nicely by eating out a few days a week, and have my wifi and cable. Im not sure about doing a motorcycle. Ive driven one, but it only takes one bad accident. For me it would close to town, where I can pick up a trike, or get a used car.

[@porkchop55ify]

Oh by the way going to the dentist, and getting a haircut is way cheaper then the US. I had 6 cavities and a deep cleaning for 200.00 In the US that would be more like 2000

[@michaelberger9948]

As a single guy i get 1600 a month us dollars. I was planning to spend 1000 a month and bank the rest. I may have to bump it up to 1200 a month.I dont think 800 is enough. But hey to each its own.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

at least you have room to adjust if needed

[@hansreynders6853]

10 years ago those 1000 a month would do. Today those 1200 are an absolute minimum.

[@thecrazyswede2597]

I do agree with all that you say. I will retire in the Philippines unless I will have severe health problems. Fortunately I’m already married to a Filipina and we both want too live a simple life in her hometown. By then we’ll also own a house. Grow veggies while having pigs and chickens. At the same time running a business. On that my pension will be about 50.000-60.000 pesos somewhere. It will most likely increase over the years. And also savings. We’re talking medical care, to repair the house if something happens during typhoon season. I’ve done some quick math and talked this through. We have both come too the conclusion that this is more then enough too live a really good life after retirement

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thannks for sharing

[@elvie174able]

Yeah 800 is not enough, I moved here to Bohol 6 months ago and already had land and house here so no renting for me and I'm still settling in and applied for my SS and rent my house out in US with 1k coming in now but that will increase soon. I live in the province here in Bohol where things are pretty cheap un like the city.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks for sharing

[@A-RHINO-IN-THE-PHILIPPINES]

How much do you pay for medical Insurance there and what company do you use?

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Pacific cross

[@billybio6840]

Hi Mike, I appreciate your information and honesty, I started my pension early, I had considered moving to the Philippines, but it’s only $754 (Canadian)..so I think I’m outta luck, lol I thought it was cheaper there than it is. It’s nice to hear an honest perspective from someone, I guess if it costs me $2000/mth I might as well stay where I am 😢

[@emconsolacion7950]

That 800.00 can be a rich kid outside of big metropolitan cities, Dumaguete, Tacloban, Roxas, Iloilo, Bacolod cities are spot that can give you comfortable living

[@billybio6840]

@@emconsolacion7950 oh so there is hope for retirement in the sun after all..lol that’s good, thank you for the information

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

How can you live in Canada with onlt 754 a month?

[@justicedemocrat9357]

You can definitely live in the Philippines for $754 go up north near Baguio where it's cooler so you don't need an airconditioner and food is a lot cheaper you can eat at a local carinderia for $2 a meal and buy local fruits at the local wet market for $2 a kilo and buy an electric scooter to get around and rent is only $150. The ppl who spend $1700 a month eat at expensive western restaurants 4 times a week and buy brand new cars and rent big condos in the middle of the city

[@billybio6840]

@@justicedemocrat9357 great, thank you for the info

[@leonardmarlin4330]

With inflation now at 8.7 percent a single guy can make it on $1,500.00 a guy with a Filipina and kids needs $2,000.00 an above. We live on $2,200.00 and don'ts pay rent. Our house is paid for. The sweet spot budget was coined by Steve the Philippine info channel and its $2,000.00 to $3,000.00 dollars a month.

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

Thanks fo the comment