My expenses in the Philippines revealed - you won't guess how much I'm spending!

[@CarefreeChris]

I posted this in the video description but this isn't an all encompassing list of my expenses. Just a list of most of the reoccurring expenses. This list doesn't include items like entertainment, clothing, electronics, technology licensing, travel... Rent & Parking = 25,000 pesos | $450 USD Internet = 1,600 | $30 Phone = 1,500 | $27 Electric = 3,000 | $54 Dining out = 30,000 | $540 Groceries = 4,000 | $72 Health Insurance = 12,000 | $200 Maid = 2,000 | $36 Visa = 1,300 | $24 Transportation = 3,000 | $54 USD Netflix = 1,000 | $18 Apple = 600 | $10 GYM = 2,000 | $36 Monthly reoccurring bills approximately… 85,000 pesos | $1,500 USD Thanks all:) Amping:)

[@FOCUSonASIA13]

$1500 a month right on point on minimum budget I recommend to have here as single person. I also say each person is different and each one needs to figure out what will work for them but don't expect to live well if you are bringing under that $1500

[@chasvonplatten1298]

I don't see any groceries? Do you dine out for all meals for the $540.00?

[@RaymondLacsaVlogs]

you can still save more or cut these expenses if you would live outside the city.... and find local medical and life insurance...

[@donjohnson5123]

Typical bum retiree average. I drop more in the casino here in a week (Vietnam…the only country worth living in out in Southeast Asia, no longer allowing you LTL Foreigners in here long term thank God).

[@rayray2076]

$1500 is way too much

[@MrJoemarV]

$1500 a month living comfortably, eating out 2-3x a day, in a big city. That’s really good! My rent in Houston for a studio loft is $1500

[@CarefreeChris]

Yeah. It’s not a bad amount and I feel like I’m not going without

[@t.e.burgos3263]

@@CarefreeChris Are you really eating out 2 to 3 times a day???

[@BeerBikes]

Wow! You're definitely not playing, you're living it up! Which i don't blame you, these are your best years, the go-go years. Thanks, super informative and now i know, personally can have a lower budget and still enjoy it. Rent, food and insurance for sure i can save on. Peace!

[@CarefreeChris]

You're right on in the areas I can save too and plan on it after this first year (year lease). Going to get better Insurance here soon. I'll do a video on that.

[@steve3416]

Not too bad on the monthly total, Chris. Thanks for the budget update. 8 weeks and counting down till my wife, daughter, and me move to Bacolod City, Philippines from South Carolina. Even though we are a family, I still like to get a perspective from a single man. Thanks again.

[@CarefreeChris]

Nice. I would love to hear how things are there in Bocolod City. I plan on visiting there in October. I bet you’re busy now wrapping things up. Take care there

[@scottramey4443]

Dude, from SC..wow.. me too..Charleston..

[@scottramey4443]

Been here almost 2 yrs

[@steve3416]

@@CarefreeChris Thanks for the reply. I'm guessing you are going to Bacolod City in October to see the Maskara festival. I hope to be there too, since I will be living in Bacolod City. And Yes, we are busy finalizing everything. Waiting on my daughter to finish the school season. And my wife taking care of Dual Citizen paperwork. We just sold our home and staying in AirBNB's till we leave. I'm still working all the way up till we leave to save up as much money as possible. I'm only 56, so I am not retirement age yet. Been trying to watch all the KZbin channels to learn as much, so keep up the videos. Oh! The downside. Some of my family are saying we are making a mistake moving to the Philippines. So negative and down putting, saying it is a 3rd world country. It would be great to hear how you are keeping up with any of your family back home and what they think also.

[@steve3416]

@@scottramey4443 Sounds like life in the Philippine is going great for you. Hope the same for me too. Bringing my Filipina wife and 8 year old daughter with me to Bacolod City. I'm only 56, but it's part early retirement and doing some missions work to help out in the Banago community. My other channel is called Journey2Philippines.

[@Matthew-gz4oh]

As a single guy moving to Cebu I am glad I found your channel.

[@CarefreeChris]

Yes. Welcome. Thanks for checking it out. Try to catch a live if you can. I’ll post in the Community tab

[@marvineduardo908]

same here. :)

[@fetaylor3155]

Wow you are the first foreigner that voluntarily numerated your expenditures living in Phil., but I think it will help a lot of others who are seriously thinking,you know. It’s an honor to have you living in Phil and loving it.

[@CarefreeChris]

Thank you. Really appreciate you watching.

[@tonykidd7441]

This is a great budget breakdown of re-occurring expenses, you can really get great value for your money. I tried out Solinea for a month in an airbnb, a studio in tower 3 cost me $750 without Wi-Fi so looks like you get to save a lot by signing a longer term lease. The building was great, the nicest staff I have experienced traveling in the PH.

[@CarefreeChris]

It's a great place and love it here. May even renew. It's expensive but it's also feel it's worth it.

[@dsrrellgriffith1161]

i lived there for a year, u can rent a nice studio for 20k or less a month. So around $340 a month, i used rentpad or lamudi to find a condo. Now i am in IT park in avida riala, but Solinea is better.

[@dsrrellgriffith1161]

yah. 1 way

[@jessicahayes9788]

Hi Chris Wow, I need to reconsider where I land when I come back home. Back when I had my business I lived in Mandaluyong which is right near Makati. Before I bought my condo, I was renting a two-story townhouse and that was $500 a month. But this was back in 2009-2016. My expenses was just a tad over $2k a month. Thanks for the recap. Ill definitely look into Cebu vicinity. Ingat.

[@CarefreeChris]

Thank you for watching and commenting. Really appreciate it

[@ChimpsAI]

Thanks for sharing this, Chris. I believe that the food you choose to eat there effects your budget the most. You can affordably go to the markets and then cook your own food or simply eat at carinderias. But if you regularly get western food from restaurants, you will likely be spending about the same as if you were in the states.

[@CarefreeChris]

It’s so true. My food budget is very high

[@carey8250]

More great info, Mahalo! Yeah as a younger man, the book 'The richest man in Babylon' was my start. Did the same, payed myself first, 20%. Then paid bills & enjoyed life. Was thinking & planning on 2500, so doing this new adventure at 2000, would be incredible. What a life....

[@CarefreeChris]

I'm really loving it here for sure

[@SuperchatSuperfan]

Enjoying your videos on budget travel! It's a refreshing change from my usual champagne brunches and yacht parties. Your perspective is valuable for those who haven't yet embraced the wild and opulent life that awaits in the East. Keep inspiring the masses!"

[@CarefreeChris]

Glad you like them and will do:)

[@stevefish4153]

Thx Chris, Very Informative. Reaching my FRA this Dec and looking into moving there very seriously.

[@CarefreeChris]

Lots of folks moving out here. Do a scouting trip and check it out for yourself

[@lzu2860]

Hi, Chris, I’m your new Sub, a 75 yr old, hard-working Filipina in NY, retirement is sooo long overdue. I need to move to the Phil. and enjoy “carefree budget” soon….Take care. Enjoy organic food and stay healthy.

[@CarefreeChris]

Yes. Take care there and hope you make it here soon.

[@ChrisHiltonSr]

Thanks for the info Chris. Love it that you just get right into the information and tell us how it is for you.

[@CarefreeChris]

I try to keep my videos around 8-12 minutes:) Thanks for watching

[@chrisj302]

Good mostly Western style budget in Cebu. You could probably cut your insurance in half with something like Pac Cross. Can’t do much better with rent in Cebu Biz park by Ayala. I also budget around $300 for travel as I usually take at least a weekend each month either up to Bantayan Island or south to Moalboal. I’m back in Cebu City in September and will reach out to grab a coffee.

[@CarefreeChris]

Yeah. Lots of folks are mentioning my Insurance. I'll look into Pac Cross. Really appreciate it.

[@todd7756]

@@CarefreeChris yes , you are paying too much. i am paying half that and am 60.

[@CB-jq7fe]

Cool vid... nice budgeting... the good thing is that you can even lower the expense at your discretion.

[@CarefreeChris]

Yes and plan on it. Right now is probably the most expensive time while i'm getting setup

[@johnclark1469]

Great on-screen break-down. Yes others post their budgets but yours add some differences to help get a broader cross-section of variables and confirm consistent costs across expat spending. On Screen list is very helpful! thanks for that effort. You end up on par w most ex-pats I follow tho in a more urban location. It really helps planning and weighing options. The higher view count show you did a good job here. Thanks!

[@CarefreeChris]

It'll move around some too i see. This is probably the most I'll be spending in my time here.

[@voxruiz7198]

In terms of food you might as well cook your own, buy it in a grocery and for the apartment look for a cheaper option, there's a lot. Your living expenses are expensive. You can have a budget of 20 thousand a month

[@CarefreeChris]

Yeah. Agree. I’m sure things will settle down here soon

[@todd7756]

@@CarefreeChris you do know your maid will shop and cook for you. save you a bunch right there.

[@rodelynpitcher7867]

Thank you, Chris! Like your budget video. I think it is reasonable. Always live your life to the fullest and be happy. Im looking forward to retirement in 5 years. I will be 52! My hubbu on the other hand will 48- he might not retired yet by then. I am tired of working for so long. I have built a house there to live a balance and happy life. God bless us all. :)

[@CarefreeChris]

Thank you. Appreciate you watching. Take care there and hope you get here soon:)

[@TeacherEric173]

I recommend taking a look at my home province of Siquijor Island if you want to live in the Philippines for less money. There are numerous expats there as well; it is in Central Visayas. Rent is beautifully affordable, and life there is simple, calm, and has an island-style languid pace.

[@CarefreeChris]

Yes. Would love to check out Siquijor and plan on it someday soon. Looks incredible there

[@step_freeskills101]

if you want high risk, great adventure and a dare devil, you can live in basilan

[@mllamido72]

​@@step_freeskills101 😂

[@reuven2010]

What's your budget there

[@dhaybhai8517]

The most beautiful things in life live simple. Thanks for sharing your video.

[@CarefreeChris]

Yes. Simple life

[@jazzyg863]

Just under $1500 USD a month is awesome! I would have plenty of money left over for savings and then some. Thanks for the break down.

[@CarefreeChris]

No worries!

[@usersubscriberSC]

I admire Americans for their financial literacy and being budget-conscious. That’s what we need the most. On your health insurance pls consult the Pacific Cross representative in North Luzon. Netflix is 150 pesos a month for 1 smartphone use only

[@usersubscriberSC]

In addition vlogger of That Philippines Life interviewed the Pacific Cross rep two times already. Also Paul in the Philippines Old Dog New Tricks

[@CarefreeChris]

I’m trying. Still pretty free with my $ but I should be good. Markets are pretty rough right now but oh well

[@CarefreeChris]

Yeah. I’m changing my insurance here soon

[@kevink1214]

Thanks Chris. Very helpful!

[@CarefreeChris]

Thank you:)

[@Paul-McB]

I'm a Veteran, but no vet care here. I self insure, so I keep a Pacific Cross peso ward plan on top of self insure fund. The basic peso-ward plan covers me for 500k ($10k) for each lifetime injury. Since I love cross country moto riding, I was looking for something to cover me in an accident like a broken leg or arm. With my peso plan access card, most hospitals will admit me. Anything more serious, I'd go back to the states and get treated under my VA insurance. The peso plan with pacific cross cost me 14,191 php ($262). I paid the full premium using Gcash.

[@CarefreeChris]

Yes. I'm moving to Pacific Cross here soon as a result of this video. Thanks man

[@greypiquero9056]

best of luck to you chris and stay healthy.

[@CarefreeChris]

Thank you:)

[@CarefreeChris]

Thank you:)

[@naidabrown677]

Looking forward to my retirement in 2 years yay. Keep it up Chris I’m taking some notes to where to go on my relaxation time.

[@CarefreeChris]

Yes. Hope the next two years fly by for you:)

[@naidabrown677]

@@CarefreeChris early retirement work for me . Work is definitely not the same . To much drama lol and stress.

[@CarefreeChris]

I totally understand. Take care there:)

[@mariagibson8571]

I am Philippine also I am watching you here from Australia. All I can say be very careful and pray to God always so therefore you’ll be safe

[@CarefreeChris]

Thank you so much. Take care there too:)

[@VikingNomad99]

I've been guesstimating my budget for the PH move and $1500 is also about what I need to live the life I want. That leaves me about a grand to put away and depending what I get for my car I should have a good cushion. Salamat.

[@CarefreeChris]

I would avoid driving. It’s a scam waiting to happen. If you do drive you’ll want cameras. The other thing too is depending on where you live you probably wont need a car

[@SherCas]

Dont rush on buying a car but it will be good if you decided to settle on provincial areas.. i seen alot of foreigners driving here in batangas area.. try to research on lipa city and batangas city area..

[@VikingNomad99]

@@CarefreeChris Yeah I meant selling my car here in the states. I was planning on buying a bike at some point but just taking taxis or bolt to start.

[@danavalon8876]

Pretty crazy how comfortable of a life one can have in Thailand or the Philippines, meanwhile you've got so many people in the US living paycheck to paycheck and barely covering their expenses.

[@CarefreeChris]

The cost of living in the US is ridiculous

[@danavalon8876]

@Ahno Nymuz same in Portland Oregon where I live, prices have gone up like crazy with all of the people fleeing here from Cali

[@Hemphempmind]

Yea brew US and Canada money multiplies alot in SEA. I worked 7 years abroad. Came back and ohhh boy... I enjoy months of good value pussy. 😅

[@John-ds6jz]

I spend $5k in US , Virginia, barely can get to the end of the month, got very expensive here, especially taxes.

[@John-ds6jz]

@ahnonymuz9921same in Richmond, Virginia, my neighbor pays $2800 + $320 for utilities.

[@imyourjowanow3590]

great content Chris.. planning to move there next year. Glad you showed the numbers also..

[@CarefreeChris]

Yes. Excellent. Thanks for watching and glad i was able to help. You guys coming to Cebu City?

[@imyourjowanow3590]

@@CarefreeChris I will be in Manila, Caloocan city

[@marvineduardo908]

Thank you so much this is really informative. My budget is about the same as a single guy retiring in the Philippines (with similar lifestyle, I think) :) Enjoy yourself out there and be safe.

[@CarefreeChris]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching

[@DifferentWalksOfLife]

Good content. I will be retiring soon and I am following your journey, you inspire me.

[@CarefreeChris]

Thank you so much. I really appreciate it

[@TRstretchingpesos]

My experience here has been that I cannot eat out on 1,000 a day here in Angeles City... I would say a minimum of 1,500 a day if I want to "eat out" like he does and tip 10% which i do encourage you to do given that the wait and bar staff here earns so little outside of tips... the other expenses seem reasonable ... but back to eating out...if you go for breakfast and drink a couple cups of coffee (coffee probably averages 80 pesos per cup) and eat a modest breakfast of 2 eggs, toast and bacon or sausage you add a minimum of 250 to the 160 for coffee and you are at 410 for a very modest breakfast with 2 cups of coffee and a 10% tip gets you to 450 just for breakfast...can you actually eat out another 2 meals on 550 ? I cannot... and particularly if I enjoy a glass of wine or a beer or 2 which most expats will do ... to me, eating out all meals here is closer to 1500 to 1750 pesos a day plus.and that is an additional 15,000 to 22500 a month by my math ... I use a spending app living here and I record every expense i incur even the 20 pesos I pay for fresh okra ... if you make your own coffee in the am, and cook your own eggs and bacon for breakfast and limit eating out to just 1 meal a day, then you CAN easily get by on 1,000 pesos a day for food and drink... and if you cook all your meals at home, you can drink excellent local coffee, eat fresh fruit and veggies and meat, and all for 500 to 600 pesos a day plus your beverage cost (fresh water is super cheap)

[@CarefreeChris]

Yes. Lot's of ways to save. I eat out most meals except breakfast. My daily food budget varies but it's around 1k.

[@erikcable1755]

I guess you feed your GF? so x2

[@KyleG0211]

Your budget was pretty close to mine when I lived in Cebu back in 2011/2013. Budgeted 2k per month and never fully consumed that amount, lacked for nothing as you said. Seems the lifestyle has remained some what stable over the years.

[@CarefreeChris]

It’s not too bad. I’m a little higher now with travel but still below 3k

[@liwaycamartin4484]

Hi Chris i hope you enjoy your staying here in Philippines

[@CarefreeChris]

Thank you. It’s been incredible so far

[@cristinaalfaromd6556]

If you explore more, you can find lots of restaurants with delicious food that are less than P200/meal.

[@CarefreeChris]

I'm down. I love finding new places to eat. Going to the place called the stockades today:)

[@darren8652]

Thanks for your videos. Having a monthly budget limit is important if planning to live in the Philippines.

[@CarefreeChris]

Yes and no. It's so inexpensive here you have a lot of freedom in the area of money.

[@KrayPurn]

Different strokes for different folks. The important thing is to find a system that works best for you. It is when you have no system that troubles will find you. I have had a running Finanancial spreadsheet for years. It is what works best for me in that I pay myself from my salary/pension...meaning to savings before I spend anything whatsoever. And that amount towards savings is never reduced for any reason whatsoever. Then I pay bills, and after which enjoy the balance.

[@CarefreeChris]

Nice man. Sounds like a good setup

[@higala.phbarcenas4912]

❤you are in now a good place like your view❤ so rounded by nice views

[@CarefreeChris]

Yes. I love it here

[@JordanShackelford]

I'm a saver too and I'm so glad I saved because I'm enjoying tons of freedom and happiness because of my hard work and frugality :')

[@CarefreeChris]

Yes. I’m so happy to have financial freedom

[@jshepard152]

6:44 Nice summary of expenses. Thank you.

[@CarefreeChris]

Glad you liked it!

[@titopj23]

You should try cooking the local cuisines, a great way to explore the culture and saves you a lot of money too! Subscribed to observe how youre settling in. Cheers!

[@CarefreeChris]

Thank you so much and a great idea. Maybe my gf and I can good together. Just need the GF:)

[@usersubscriberSC]

To save on daily food cost, you may buy all the ingredients at the wet/public market and hire a cook every other day to cook you food good for 4 meals. That’s one way to reduce your 1000/day food budget but you’ll have to buy kitchen utensils and induction cooker.

[@aidjunkie5335]

Thanks Chris really informative and a great planning help. Where abouts do you live over there?

[@CarefreeChris]

We’re in Cebu City now but looking to move to Dumaguete

[@Msgt97]

Good info Chris, long time no see, Hope all is well

[@CarefreeChris]

Yeah. This video should have been out a day before but had some technology issues and had to reshoot. I also have a little bit of a bug. Good though. I'm noticing my immune system is adjusting to things here. Anyway, all good. Take care there:)

[@Msgt97]

@@CarefreeChris Thanks Chris sure will and you do the same, How is the bike issue going

[@CarefreeChris]

Still waiting on the registration. It’s been just over a month now. Stopped by the bike shop the other day and was told hopefully by the beginning of June 🤪

[@Msgt97]

@@CarefreeChris Dang slow process there, What did you buy, bike wise

[@donaldkinsey5245]

Hello sir. I believe I saw you at “Anytime Fitness” when I was there for a month earlier this year. I stayed in Cebu IT Business Park. I didn’t like Cebu because it was too undeveloped for me. Only IT Park was modern. I spent some time in GBC and that’s where I will be staying when I come back for another visit. GBC is a modern Western city.

[@CarefreeChris]

Sounds like you may have. That’s my gym. As far as Cebu vs Manila I prefer the smaller cities really. I’m on Camotes Island now and love it here:).

[@John_Smith777]

$36 a month for a gym seems steep. that's more than i pay for a state of the art gym in the US lol, though i'll admit i have a ridiculously good rate because i've been a member so long. when i was in phnom penh i found a decent place that i paid a daily rate of 50 cents per day. 4x a week = $8 a month. can't find something similar there?

[@CarefreeChris]

Yeah. I was playing like $15 US for Planet Fitness. A little more expensive here and the gyms are small and not very modern. If you’re good with a couple of machines and some free weights you’ll be fine.

[@gkschick6804]

Just started watching your videos. Really enjoy your approach. You are well spoken and appear to be a decent, honest dude. Gotta think you'd be bit of a hit with the ladies there, too! Perhaps you've covered it in other videos but am curious why you picked Cebu? Seems modern with most amenities but also a bit of a concrete jungle, no? Why not something where you have easier access to nature and the outdoors and say a beach vibe? Apologies if you've covered it in another video. Cheers!

[@CarefreeChris]

I haven’t talked about that and it’s something I need to do a video on. Why Cebu. I think mostly though it’s just an easy city to transition to. Tons of amenities, easy to get around, centrally located… I’ll do a video on Cebu City and why. How about you? Have your eye on any city in particular? Oh and thanks so much for commenting and watching. Really appreciate it:)

[@gkschick6804]

@@CarefreeChris Thx for the thoughtful response. I look forward to the Cebu video when you get to it. As for me, don't believe I'll be making the move. Spent a month in Thailand in Nov and confirmed living away from North America for an extended period isn't for me. If I were single, perhaps what you are doing would be of interest, but for now living vicariously through gents like yourself is going to be the best I can do for now. Best of luck with the channel and wherever your stay in the Philippines takes you.

[@charlesstanfa3969]

Great video my friend thank you very much

[@CarefreeChris]

Thank you. Really appreciate you watching and commenting

[@brucepeterleinwand]

Hey Chris,,, is your rental agreement monthly , or six months, or a year ?

[@CarefreeChris]

I’m one year. Not sure what I’ll do at the end but have time.

[@Itsmejudy90]

If you want to extend there is no problem though you just sign a new contract again

[@RaymondLacsaVlogs]

you can still save more or cut these expenses if you would live outside the city.... and find local medical and life insurance...

[@CarefreeChris]

Yes. All true and plan on it for sure.

[@brianstarfire]

Hi Chris, I've really enjoyed your vlog and carefree laugh and attitude. Please share more info regarding power/electricity interruptions and how you cope. thanks and keep smiling!

[@CarefreeChris]

I don't have those problems here where i'm at. It's really key to pic an area where those types of problems are minimal. I talk about this in my lates live and feel free to join my next one. Those are great places to talk in more detail about this kind of stuff. To say this simply, if you choose two areas in Cebu City (IT Park, Business Park), BGC Manila or probably even Davao City you'll be fine. Join a live and we can talk about this. Thank you for watching at commenting. I really appreciate it

[@SherCas]

Or you can just buy a generator😊

[@CarefreeChris]

Not really an option in a condo

[@SherCas]

Oh i see..really? not even the ECOFLOW river /delta po?

[@rfbos]

I rent a 3 bedroom 2 bath 2 car garage home in a secure area which has virtually no dogs barking, no trikes/motorcycles, no karaoke or loud neighbors. Everyone is respectful of others and clean in front of their house each day and maintain the properties very well. All stores are very close and for the further ones, i drive my etrike Kuda. Yeah, i pay a higher rent but its worth the benefits of no noise. I also don't pay any monet transfer fees nor atm fees. Here is my monthly expenses Rent. 40,000 Int/Cable 2,669 180mbps Electric 5,300 Gas tank 300 Water/bottle 240 Water street 419 Medical 3,000 Visa 1,400 Dining out 15,000 Grocery 15,000 Total 83,358

[@CarefreeChris]

Sounds really nice. Are you in Cebu City or what part of the PH are you in?

[@rfbos]

@Carefree Chris Las Pinas City, Metro Manila. Prefer to live near St Luke's 40 min away for emergencies. I'm healthy now but as years go by, you never know what can happen.

[@moxeme]

Hi Chris i sell life insurance but you can only get a local one if you live in PH at least 2 yrs and you have your ARC ID already. Love watching your videos.

[@todd7756]

Just came across your video. I enjoyed it , you seem very down to earth. just subscribed. I am living in Ililo, for much less, but I don't eat out so often and live kinda frugally. I am comfortable and not really lacking , but have not traveled at all in my 4 months.

[@CarefreeChris]

That's for watching and subscribing. Really appreciate it. As far as my budget it's pretty over the top right now. I expect it to settle down over the next 6 months.

[@Robert8455]

Nice break down of your non budget budget. I think you did this before having the cutie. Surely there has been an increase and it looks like you stay pretty busy travelling and seeing the sights. This is really what I would like to do when I get there and scout out a place to call home after a year or two. I am guessing you will need to leave the country at some point for Visa reasons? so curious as to where you might go and if you have thought about those expenses, there are so many choices. Ride safe!

[@CarefreeChris]

It’s changed pretty dramatically with Jo. I’ll do an update on the budget soon

[@GoHabsGo-db7cb]

Hi Chris appreciate the video. I'm planning to come over there from Canada in July so I'm just wondering if you have any advice or links to local websites for finding a long term apartment rental other than Airbnb. Appreciate any help. Thanks.

[@BearInThePhillipines]

One idea is GO THERE FIRST find a temp place then LOOK AROUND once you get there. So many people make a lease contract and get stuck in a place they dont like. Factor in noise roosters traffic mean neighbor etc...go there first get a hotel (red planet safe and cheap) look around

[@GoHabsGo-db7cb]

@@BearInThePhillipines cheers

[@CarefreeChris]

Yes. Exactly what this guy is saying. Get here and check things out in person and there are some things you could probably do there. There's a site called RentPad. This was helpful and ultimately got me a broker who showed me several places. If you email me I can forward you his information. My email is under about. Feel free to join one of my lives to ask questions. When i was coming here those were so valuable. I have one coming up Tuesday evening 8 PM EST. Haven't posted yet but will

[@frankkluz9787]

WOW - - - not too shabby ! - - - Here I am in the US as a frugal old man just wondering if I could make it over there on my $1500 SS check. -- Some say oh hell yes while others say I need $2500 for a good life ? --- Must all depend on > where & how ??? --- Certainly is doable some places - so I guess it really depends on how extravagant or how frugal you live - and - the location ?

[@CarefreeChris]

Yeah. Budget questions are hard to answer fully as it just depends on so many other variables really. Some guys are good on less than 1k while others need 3.

[@jcmost9469]

In US you pay 800 $ bills electricity together with bills phone and water

[@CarefreeChris]

It's expensive for sure

[@garystevens5186]

Well done Chris 😊

[@CarefreeChris]

Thank you:)

[@mikejones5364]

Safety wing is horrible for travelers insurance, I got it in May to enter the Philippines, Broke my hip on motorbike accident and they paid nothing. I bought it in USA and made my claim with a US representive then I got a transfered to a doctor in Nigeria and couldn't understand them, they denied everything and wouldn't pay anything

[@CarefreeChris]

Wow. Thanks for the warning. I’ll jump on getting something local

[@mikejones5364]

@@CarefreeChris I would get some brand name, they did me dirty. I was out about 10K USD

[@muskhanmeowjaan91]

About the Internet ..yeah same .we paying same amount too.. Stay safe bro. Mabuhay ....

[@CarefreeChris]

Amping:)

[@rayray2076]

Cebu is more expensive than where I live in San Juan Batangas our expenses is only $500 a month. Before I built my house our rent for a 2 bedroom bungalow was 7000 pesos a month.

[@CarefreeChris]

That’s cheap. My lease is through the year here. I do like it here but will probably move to something a little more peso friendly :)

[@rayray2076]

@@CarefreeChris You should move to Batangas or Cavite or even Laguna. Much cheaper.

[@CarefreeChris]

Yes. Lot's of options here

[@jao5835]

Lots of cheap and decent pads in Cebu. It's just that Chris is staying at a condo unit across Ayala Center Cebu.

[@locker1325]

Would love to know more about how you came to be where you are?

[@CarefreeChris]

For sure. Join a live and can jump into that

[@user-gb1wk2fk7l]

Can u make a video showing your apartment and restaurants you eat at .. thanks

[@CarefreeChris]

Yes I will

[@victoriafediuk362]

HI..Carefree Chris, you total budget is 1,677/a month. not bad. For me that is a luxury life. if you budget it really it will be less, I think. just a suggestion. But that's your own choice. you have to enjoy your living here in the Phils. I live in canada and everything went up so, I might be coming home soon. very soon.

[@CarefreeChris]

Very true! Hope you make it to the Philippines soon

[@DeeCebu]

I stay in Cebu for a month to be with family. Though I rent a 2 bedroom furnished condo unit, I need my space and quiet sometimes ha ha, I and my son spend for everything and family, good thing they rarely ask we offer, and sometimes I hyperventilate and just think exchange rate exchange rate lol it works. I dont want to come back maxed out debit card (have no credit card) and with a loan to pay no way. I save without depriving myself, then thats what I spend. Relief and peace of mind

[@CarefreeChris]

Hope you make it back soon

[@DeeCebu]

​@CarefreeChris looking forward to next April have a year to save and work...then play! Cebu here I come! Will see Bohol for d 1st time. Thanks

[@LytLyf]

Hi Chris, They say its more cheaper here in the Philippines compared to western countries. I have some expat friends renting a house here it cost around 7k Up, you can find a decent house here, rather than renting in a condo or apartment coz it more expensive. Enjoy your stay New friend here.

[@CarefreeChris]

Thank you for watching and commenting. I really appreciate it. I’m so happy to be here. Its really incredible here

[@bernardcruz6934]

Find a local eatery safe and clean then make a monthly pay according to a weekly menu they can drop in your front door lunch and dinner

[@CarefreeChris]

That's a great idea

[@geneschulp8598]

I didn't catch what city you are in. Great video

[@CarefreeChris]

I'm in Cebu City. Probably the best starting point for foreigners

[@007thematrix007]

yea for westerners comin' to the phils. who want those amenities of city life w/o the congestion of the manila metro area cebu def. a good starting pt. as it is a less crowded vers. of the greater manila area [*then just ease ur way into the diff. provinces/cities there] ... from wat i heard that's where lots of koreans vaca./stay for destination/accomodations .....

[@solo741]

That’s a lot for safetywing, I’m paying $72 a month. I loaded my phone with 50G through smart 2 months ago for $12 and still have 17G remaining.

[@CarefreeChris]

Yeah. I looked and i'm around $100. As a result of this video i'm actually changing over here soon to Pacific Cross

[@RICH_E]

Wow... 1500 USD 😮 when you were calling it all out I was getting sticker shock... But then you hit the total .. and I was like omg that's my mark I would be comfortable in ...

[@CarefreeChris]

Yeah it’s not too bad really. It’s time for a new budget video though as things have changed some with Jo.

[@FilipinaAndTheForeigner]

My girlfriends family has a budget less than $500. Interesting to compare.

[@CarefreeChris]

Yes. Budgets are all over the place. I'm seeing your channel. Watched a little of your budget vid. Really like your intros. Have fun:)

[@kevinwelsh7490]

good report. is your rented condo a furnished studio? studio works for me. please show a video of your rented condo. is it motorcycle parking? how many cc? or do you have a car? thanks

[@CarefreeChris]

i probably wont show inside my condo but I do have a video of the property that I’ll link here. I have a scooter that i'm driving while i wait for my motorcycle to be registered. No car. Driving in the city is a little dicey and recommend just using taxis. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gJ6maH1jos-So7c

[@Itsmejudy90]

We live in a gated subdivision and paying 35k monthly for 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms here in cebu

[@CarefreeChris]

That sounds incredible

[@zzzzxxxx341]

I lived only for $200 a month in Mandaluyong and that was a luxury already. Let's go!

[@CarefreeChris]

Nice man. I can’t wait to get out of Cebu City

[@clizardojr]

Hey Chris, what kind of work do you do? or what other source of income do you have? (aside from blogging). Cheers!

[@CarefreeChris]

I’m actually semiretired.

[@shaneross64]

Thanks for the information.

[@CarefreeChris]

Thanks for watching

[@mrq8402]

Doesn't your condo have a gym? Do they charge as much? And do you pay to use the pool?

[@CarefreeChris]

There's a gym here. It's just small and hard to get into. Pool is free and i use the pool often.

[@iris089]

You can actually can cut those expenses by a lot. 👍

[@CarefreeChris]

Yeah and probably will. There’s also a lot I’m not listing like travel

[@SherCas]

You can try to look on a gated subdivision.. you can get a big house with a garage in your 20k rent and bring your kids here and stay with you sir

[@CarefreeChris]

That's a great idea. I'll have to look around. Thank you

[@Freedom2x462]

wow! thanks for the info!

[@CarefreeChris]

No worries!

[@amazonseller-yf8vv]

Sounds good, can you do an apartment tour and talk about the process of finding a good place to rent please?

[@CarefreeChris]

I probably wont shoot inside my apartment but i did shoot this video on what the common area are like. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gJ6maH1jos-So7c

[@CarefreeChris]

As far as the process, I used Facebook Marketplace as well as a site called Rentpad. Both helped in securing a place

[@amazonseller-yf8vv]

@@CarefreeChris Great, thanks for the information and keep up the good work.

[@jdtravels5140]

My biggest expense is $3,000 a month in alimony. Second largest expense is federal income tax. I plan to live on $2,400, but can afford much more.

[@CarefreeChris]

Sounds good. Should be good with that amount. Would still probably want to avoid the expensive areas to stretch it out but looking good.

[@happie88]

May Netflix is around 149 pesos a month for a single device. Just curious, are you working or just doing some stock trading?

[@CarefreeChris]

I'm semiretired. Living off of savings and investments until i get to 59.5.

[@royal-enfield1]

¿ is it better to get phillippine currency thru atm , or a exchange agency

[@CarefreeChris]

Either one really. Potentially some fees either ways. I like sending myself case and then picking it up and the bank. I do this every month or so

[@jpelegrio]

Is your Netflix upgraded? I only pay P540

[@CarefreeChris]

Yeah I need to cancel my account and open a new one with my PH number

[@user-hl9kz9ve6l]

If you're earning peso it's hard to budget, but if you're earning dollar u must considered Philippines or thai or neighboring countries as cheap.

[@CarefreeChris]

Yeah. Digital nomad is the way to go for sure

[@chrisdoyle-uc9hx]

thank you.good info

[@CarefreeChris]

You're welcome. Thanks for watching and commenting

[@NT4XT]

87° I'm ¼ and would hate it. Perhaps a misincarnated Inuit. Or maybe the Chinese of me came from closer to the Himalayas or along the Russian border. But if a cooler climate in the PI exists, I'll put it on my vision board 😂. Like, Hokkaido in Japan. That sort of cool.

[@CarefreeChris]

I moved from Colorado and the temperature isn’t that big of a deal really. It’s not as humid in Cebu City i feel as it is in Balamban. It’s also a mountainous terrain and you can find cooler areas throughout the Philippines

[@zackparker7756]

Chris...What condo complex is that?

[@CarefreeChris]

It's Solinea. Right across from Ayala Mall in the business park

[@rgasta7765]

I live I go chi minh city. Vietnam. My monthly expenses are $580 all included ( 1bed apt, food, internet, entertainment, gym, transport).

[@CarefreeChris]

I hear ya. Vietnam looks incredible. Two things kept me out... Visa and English

[@rgasta7765]

@@CarefreeChris yeah u should stay out of here, not a friendly place.

[@CarefreeChris]

Vietnam was on my radar. Looks incredible but the language barrier and the inconvenient visa took it off the table, for me

[@rgasta7765]

@@CarefreeChris I had the same doubts but then I found the best wife. English still an issue but I can live with that.

[@CarefreeChris]

I can see that. Especially if the relationship part is figured out which it would be with a wife. Nice.

[@dog-thebackwardgod]

Who's your health insurance company? Do you have a link?

[@CarefreeChris]

I’m using Safetywing currently but looking to move here soon

[@florencemislang5277]

Couĺd you also have the same budget if you were in the US? How much would be the difference?

[@CarefreeChris]

I was making 3 to 4 times what I’m living off of here. It’s so much more expensive in the US

[@florencemislang5277]

@@CarefreeChris Thanks! Atleast now I know that we made the right decision of settling here in the Philippines.

[@otisbarrett8077]

Hello Chris, what medical insurance company are you using at this time.

[@CarefreeChris]

I’m using safetywing but moving away from that here soon

[@otisbarrett8077]

@@CarefreeChris do you know what you changing to

[@lvtrader1]

Cancelled my USA Netflix account, now I pay $7.00 in Philippines.👍

[@CarefreeChris]

Yes. I’m doing this now

[@floren879]

Great vid

[@CarefreeChris]

Thanks for watching :)

[@DManGrand]

I didn't see dining out line item..

[@CarefreeChris]

It might have went away after one appearance. I pined my spending in the comments.

[@earthorigins3509]

If you don't mind having your shirt sticking to your back due to the high humidity, then fine.

[@CarefreeChris]

Coming from Colorado I'm really surprised how much the weather hasn't been more of a factor for me

[@aumarigan]

So close to $2,000 for monthly expenses. How far would $2,000 go for a month in the US mainland?

[@CarefreeChris]

Yeah. Around 2k USD. In the states, depending on where you live, you could hardly afford food. You would be considered poor and below the poverty line

[@aumarigan]

@@CarefreeChris Wow. It's now that bad stateside. Worse for those with less amount in monthly pension. Thanks.

[@CarefreeChris]

Yeah. It’s why a lot of folks come here and other places. Your quality of life is so much better