🇵🇭 Why you need $3000 Month Minimum to Retire in the Philippines

[@VagabondAwake]

This link has the information discussed in the above video: vagabondbuddha.com/why-you-need-3000-usd-per-month-minimum-to-retire-in-the-philippines/ 𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝗘-𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞→ 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗕𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/ 𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗽 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱𝘄𝗶𝗱𝗲☆★☆ vagabondbuddha.com/ 𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲 $$$ 𝗢𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝗯𝗯𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀e vagabondbuddha.com/courses/the-hobby-income-course/ What kinds of risks are you taking if you move overseas? vagabondbuddha.com/our-liability-disclaimer-the-risk-is-on-you/

[@keepcreationprocess]

where have you been the 15 years ? how long in Vietnam _ where do you live the last 2 years ?This is not Vietnam - those pictures video -- I knew you from your Vietnam videos.

[@snapdragon9300]

If you're used to living in a first world economy, and I do in Nz, I'd expect efficient reliable electricity and clean water supply, close to shopping malls, modern housing, reliable, modern and frequent public transportation and good emergency services and Healthcare that is affordable. That's the minimum that is the standard here.I do fine on $2000 Nz a month, mind you my rent is heavily subsidized at 30% of my income, which is uncommon. I'd expect a fully furnished home and not having to go out to do my laundry. I'd want high speed internet.

[@rickypayne9192]

I have never spent more than a thousand dollars a month to live anywhere

[@barkeater9606]

My wife and I live on $1500 per month. We live in Cebu City. We go on 3 and 4 day trips every month. We have a nice apartment and cook our own meals. Once a week we go to IT Park and Ayala mail for dinner. We live a nice life.

[@BearInThePhillipines]

Thank you for your post. I'm coming was hoping to be ok with $2k anf this video title "YOU NEED 3K RETIRE IN PH " really bummed me out

[@pathkris2984]

Would you share how much apartment rent is, including utilities? And how big is the apartment?

[@barkeater9606]

@@pathkris2984 We have a one bedroom apartment and I pay $400 for everything. Rent, electricity, water, WIFI, gym, and pool. We could find a cheaper place but I wanted a gym and pool.

[@pathkris2984]

@@barkeater9606 Great. Thank you so much.

[@arnieljovero1008]

You are right. If you can live well with 1500 for two here then 3000 is much more fun.

[@ph5915]

That's so true, in all of your videos in various countries, the general theme rings the same. The biggest differences (generally) are rent and local foods. But if you choose to live in an upscale, ex-pat, gated community with all the amenities, and shop at upscale ex-pat-catered supermarkets, probably not going to be all that cheap. While westerners are spoiled by modern conveniences, the trick is finding a balance that is more tilted toward living like a local. The closer to that you can be, the less expensive it will be.

[@Western-3rdSt.]

Bingo

[@joylight9167]

WELL SAID! I WANT TO LIVE LIKE THE LOCALS...ISLAND HOPPING 'EVERY NOW AND THEN...😅

[@kennywoodyard5150]

hahahahaha Feel free to find balance in a Rooster, Chicken, Pigs, Street Dogs Barking, Tricycle, Bicycle, Street noise, Barangay Music, BOOM BOOM playing, broke ass street people life.. Then will see how you will ask for Western Style in the PI.. IM truly baffled by the BS KZbinrs post here for likes and thumbs up. Live like a King.... hahahaha weve been living her for 7 years, havent seen any Kings yet.... SMH

[@Koya_Sipanlog_Express]

I can live comfortably for $350/month in Dumaguete. I have my own home. The $350 will be for food, utilities, and gas.

[@dragonfly5895]

Is your own home a condo or house? Do you know the average price for a home currently?

[@Koya_Sipanlog_Express]

@@dragonfly5895 My house is a tiny 65 sq.m box type house near Valencia, which I built in 1990 and spent PhP100K. I plan to build a second floor when I retire in a few years. I'll build it myself. It sits in a 1500 sq. meter lot where I plan to build A-frame nipa huts to be turned into AirBnBs. It should cost me around PhP 120K ($2K) each. Work with a local carpenter/mason or "panday" if you want to go cheap and you know basic carpentry/masonry. If you dont want to pay rent, i suggest you lease a small land and build yourself a nice little airconditoned nipa hut for less than 5K. It can be done. You'll be happy seeing your retirement dollar savings go up each month :) Sunshine Shoulders had a contractor build his house for US20K. If I build it myself, I can probably build that same house for $10K having eliminated labor and contractor costs.

[@VagabondAwake]

What would it cost to rent your home if you didn't own it?

[@Koya_Sipanlog_Express]

@@VagabondAwake should be around $200/month considering its a bit out of the way.

[@Anomalyy666]

Are you happy?

[@LB-ty6ks]

You are so right in your description of what you'll need to live in the Philippines. Who's the wealthiest, the one who is happy and content living the $1000. a month life or the one needing the $10,000. life? I think the real measure of wealth is your contentment.

[@davehood1514]

Spot on 👏

[@robocop581]

Let me know who will be content when they get sick and need to go to the hospital. A person that spends $10K a month can easily adjust their lifestyle while the person at $1K has no options when an emergency occurs

[@markm4623]

I got sick with NO INSURANCE. I got dengue and was hospitalized for 3 days. The bull was only $800 for everything. Any way you slice it it’s way cheaper than the US 🤣 So I’m coming out ahead in PH if I get sick vs getting sick in the US 😏

[@nedimyra]

​@@robocop581 It is actually possible to be wealthy, and living on a 1K budget. It may comes as a surprice, but a minimalist lifestyle over time may enable wealth to draw from in case of an emergency. And a "larger than life" expat who burn their hole budget every month may not have wealth at all. I'm living close to the Artic Circle, and half of the year, there is no sun here. I would give an arm or a leg to just see the sun and feel the heat in the winter. A minimalist 1k budget, no problem.. But even then, if I only spend 1K a month to see the sun, that does not mean I'm not wealthy..

[@robocop581]

@@nedimyra You have too many assumptions to fit your argument. Try again. Case in point: I am a minimalist and a multi millionaire so there goes your logic

[@Marabella1]

Dan, Great video. Your are exactly right on your observations. Me and my Filipina partner shop at the open air markets, sometimes grocery stores and eat at home or mostly local restaurants. We drive a 2019 Navara (paid off) live in a gated secure 3 bed 2 bath house with Aircon and fully furnished for $300 a month, utilities around $100. My house note alone in U.S. was $1,400 add utilities average $400. None of these prices include high inflationary prices now. We live on around $1600 a month in the Philippines don't drink alcohol or smoke. Life is wonderful in the Philippines. God Bless & Take care.

[@dougison]

Where do you live there, wanting to relocate there as well. any info would be great.

[@DHarri9977]

This is one of your most insightful vlogs to date, a person's budget and lifestyle are naturally subjective wherever you live. Being retired in such a beautiful place would invite a person to get the most out of what is already present including immersing one's self to appreciate learning new cultures and other specific things related to the local land and seascape of your new home. With so many open markets filled with all the vegetables and other foods a person with just a pan and a little bit of cooking knowledge could easily eat very well and still be able to treat him/herself a few times a week. Anyway, a good vlog, a very mindful and broad topic in terms of adapting from a lifestyle perspective.

[@simcanta7385]

Just to give an idea of what is possible, I live with 1555€ per month in Vienna, Austria, working 3/7 days a week (my personal choice). I live more frugally then before, travel less, but still making an happy life. In general, my personal point is: adaptation is the key factor. So I underline the main point of this video: it is possible depending on how you want to live. The mindset is paramount

[@moonriver7730]

ur right👍👍👍👍its all about our life style….

[@moonriver7730]

@@joeawk yes ur right

[@doctorinvizible2077]

Croatia for 1000 Eur and most beautiful woman in EU

[@simcanta7385]

@@doctorinvizible2077 yes, but also drama queens ;-)

[@doctorinvizible2077]

@@simcanta7385 What are you want for 1000 Eur Lol ...Philipino woman also become hard on brain ....westernised especial younger good looking ones ...for 1500 in my country you nice life only winter not god for me ...Croat woman intelligent but brainwashed ...but in terms of look much more pretty than philipina especially older Philipina

[@Basta11]

$500 - simple life in the province $1000 - small city/town $1500 - medium 1st class size city $2000 - Cebu $2500 - Manila $3000 - Makati/BGC

[@joylight9167]

I WOULD JUST LIKE TO LAY BACK, ENJOY THE BEACH, PEOPLE AND THE FOOD...

[@arcuskhozar]

awesome summary Kuya! Thank you!

[@E-stylz-1967]

No lies detected👍🏾😎👍🏾

[@KevinVenturePhilippines]

1-4 could be easy on $600 if not an idiot and knows how to cook. 5-6, what idiot would move to paradise to live in a city??

[@peepinR]

That sounds pretty accurate. I'm planning to go to bicol specifically Iriga to retire but also do remote work for extra cash. I'm hoping for the 1000 per month will suffice

[@edmondpharez5028]

THANK YOU GUY'S I'M STILL DOING 510.00 USD A MONTH INCLUDING RENT AND UTILITIES FOR TWO OF US, SOMETIMES MAYBE $50.00 TO $100.00 EXTRA, BUT ONLY SOMETIMES.

[@VagabondAwake]

Hi EDMOND PHAREZ, Would you like to be a guest start on one of my videos? Here is an example guest star video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4SwkGWgdqhnrJY Your interview could be just your voice or we could do a zoom call showing your face. If you would like to be a guest star and share your story please leave a personal message here: vagabondbuddha.com/contact/ Thank you for your comment. The detail of your comment makes this real for people. If you have a business, service, or KZbin channel, you could share that on the interview. Best, Dan

[@gailmaplesden7380]

There's a difference between existing and actually living. Most people living on social security alone without another source of income in the west are considered poor . In the philippines a person from the west can actually live well on their social security of 15 hundred or more a month and be able to save for emergencies.

[@Imarriedaforeigner]

We are happy with our $500 a month and we own our home in the gated community in the City of Bacolod . 🇵🇭🇵🇭🇵🇭😍😍we are not retired we just living on our savings and investments abroad .🤩

[@BearInThePhillipines]

That's awesome. You inspire me. Do you have channel about PH life?

[@VagabondAwake]

Hi we are the BROWN'S in PH, Would you like to be a guest start on one of my videos? Here is an example guest star video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4SwkGWgdqhnrJY Your interview could be just your voice or we could do a zoom call showing your face. If you would like to be a guest star and share your story please leave a personal message here: vagabondbuddha.com/contact/ Thank you for your comment. The detail of your comment makes this real for people. If you have a business, service, or KZbin channel, you could share that on the interview. Best, Dan

[@dannyv2468va2]

Retried to Cebu next month. My budget is $2000. I will live fine so it depends on how and what you want in your life!

[@arnieljovero1008]

2k is more than enough to live well or in the Philippines.

[@tombkk1322]

How much is your insurance?

[@rabukan5842]

Very good analysis. I’ve been living in Asia for 15 years and the longer I live outside the US, the less money and fewer things I need to live on and with. I’ve become a minimalist in comparison to my family back home, and am much happier living with no debt and fewer material goods than I ever had as a western consumer with the mortgage, car loans, etc. But those who can’t change their mindsets will either fail miserably living abroad, or just continue to need to spend a lot, and it will go just as quickly.

[@pathkris2984]

Well said

[@frankmazzie4855]

So right.

[@VagabondAwake]

Would you like to share your story on my channel? vagabondbuddha.com/contact/

[@SLOBeachboy]

Well I’m happy that you are so happy with your new Thoreuesque lifestyle but what ever gave you the idea that you have to move to another country to learn to live within your means or to be more of a minimalist? Millions of Americans do it everyday right in their own country. And if they are financial savvy they know that buying car brand new is a bad investment and that sometimes renting a house or apartment can be smarter than buying. The fact of the matter is a person is either good at budgeting and financial planning or he is not and what country he is living in has little to no bearing on this. And if you are the kind of person who always lives beyond his means this can happen just as easily in the Philippines as in the USA. And actually I would argue that if you have a very low salary you need to be even better at budgeting while living in the USA than you would in the Philippines. The bottom line is if a person only has $1500 a month in retirement income he is going to have to figure out a way to live on this no matter what country he chooses to live in. Obviously of course this will be much easier to do in a poor country than in a rich country. Furthermore, since $1500 a month is well above the average monthly income for people in the Philippines you can feel like you are living a middle class life rather than feeling like you are living in abject poverty as you would be back in the USA. And lets face it, this psychological factor is a big part of why some people with a very small retirement income choose to retire in a poor country. They would rather be a big fish in a little financial pond, so to speak, than a tiny fish in a big pond. Nobody wants to feel like they are living in poverty. I currently live in Thailand myself but this is only because my retirement was far to small for me to live on the Southern California Coast where I am from. Of course I could probably live just as cheaply out in some small town in the Midwest but I am not willing to do that, so now I am here in Phuket instead.

[@rabukan5842]

@@SLOBeachboy What are you even talking about? Who said you can't live a minimalist lifestyle anywhere in the world? You must like to hear yourself blabber away, but all I was saying was that compared to my own family back home, I now live like a minimalist and enjoy it. Why? Because I don't have the same pressures to keep up with consumerism like they do in my own country. Period. Where am I from? You don't even know; but, you just want to tell us all how you ran away to Thailand because you can't afford to live in California. And why is that? Markets? Out of control consumerism, where over 90% live in strangling debt? Do you even know that the debt to income ratio in the US is over 150%? So instead of living in debt in the US, you ran away to Thailand, because you want to... not live like Thoreau?... who you would have to live like in California?... How does that cancel out anything I wrote? I'm happy to hear how you are happy with your non-Thoreauesque lifestyle, but go troll someone else.

[@jeffjordan3806]

Very good video! If there are people that think they need a minimum of $3,000USD per month to retire someplace, they shouldn't be watching your videos. Those types of people try to bring their old culture with them to their new place, rather than embrace and enjoy a new culture. This requires a lot of money. I could go to hundreds of places and enjoy myself on less than $800 per month. Your mindset will set you free.

[@WorldTravelerCA]

Me and my family living on 2100$ USD per month in Cebu but I know someone who is quite happy and living alone on 400$ It’s about your mind set and what’s comfortable for you. For example we love eating salmon, steak etc. when my friend is ok eating in local carenderia. To me I think it’s more about what kind of foods and drinks then what kind of house you rent because 3 bedroom with 2 bathroom in security gated subdivision with covered parking is still about 30% of what you spend on your foods, travel etc.

[@wernerschneider4460]

I am eating around 40 pounds of fresh small banana from the roadside a month when I am there (it may be even more) plus often cooking-banana. Rice (often even only cooked without anything else), fresh fish (but nothing of the top-class-stuff, just what the fish-vendors offer 100 yards from us). Grilled chicken and cooking ourselves with lots of vegetables and quite rarely we eat something somewhere. But only cheap places where average Pinoys are eating and you hardly see foreigners.

[@rolandmueller7218]

Thanks for posting this video explanation. I totally agree. I know a family can live in the Philippines on a $200 per month income in the province. But, as an American that tried living in the $200 per month lifestyle for a few weeks while visiting the Phillipines, I know my budget would be much higher per month than $200. And I consider myself a modest spender…

[@VagabondAwake]

Well said!

[@joylight9167]

REALLY? YOU ALREADY DID...WHAT I WAS CONSIDERING! CERTAINLY NOT A $200 PER MONTH ...INCOME! HOWEVER $200 FOR A LIVING SPACE' SOUNDS GOOD! TELL ME MORE....

[@joylight9167]

$200...FOR A PLACE TO STAY...WOULD BE GREAT! ...HAVE A GOOD TIME WITH THE BALANCE! LOCAL FOOD WOULD BE GREAT!

[@rolandmueller7218]

@@joylight9167 I lived with a filipino family that can live off of 200-300 in the province. I probably would not be able to do it myself for that. They have their home paid for. So, probably add $200 on top for a total of $400-500, in your case. Buy food at the local farmer’s market and cook yourself. Don’t travel or go out to eat. Don’t get air conditioning.

[@kennywoodyard5150]

You clowns are fooling yourself...Its literally Hilarious how you think this way. I cant wait to see how you live on 200 a month.. We live here, been here for 5 year with wife, it aint happening!

[@osros]

Thanks for video very appreciated, Been researching long enough to know where I stand and where my mind is at. I'm going to PH or similar for survival and better life than what I will have here in my home country later in retirement. It is a no brainer, I will make my budget work and if you have more to spend that's fine I learned to ignore people with larger budgets and try to tell others that's what you need. Do your own research and come up with your own needs and budget.

[@earlclep1]

A big part of the budget here in the PH is where you choose to live. In the big cities the cost can go almost anywhere you want it to go. In the smaller towns but big enough to have decent hospitals and supermarkets the cost comes way down. The farther away from downtown and the higher you go up the mountain the cheaper the rent or purchase unless it is very overlooking 😉. The best part of being high in the mountains is the free Aircon at 2300 ft elevation it's usually 16-17 c / 60 f at night

[@rudes440sb]

My brother's been living in the PH since 2017 on $4,000 mo military pension. Next month I'll be in the PH on $2,500 mo state pension. Thanks for your personal estimates.

[@billblunden1549]

Hey Dan, your observations are critical for expats that are considering to retire in the Philippines, what appears to be common sense to some, is not always sense to others, personal behaviour is paramount to outcome. I appreciate what you and Chiang explore and provide to likeminded people. Thank you both.

[@Hijoe-pq3go]

You are Right, It depends which Head you are thinking with. Myself , My G F, and her Sister live very Comfortably on approximately $1,500 per month. No we are not living like a King, But we live Very Comfortable. we live in a 2 bedroom House in a Gated Community, We have a Swimming Pool, Basketball courts a small park. My rent is under $200.00 USD per month Electric is about $100.00, Water and association fees is about $35.00, Groceries, $400.00. The rest of the Budget goes to Transportation, Meals out, and everything else that comes up during the month like Visa Fees Ect.The one thing that I have going for me is My G F is very Frugal

[@VivaRonnieJamesDio]

why are groceries so high? or is that a ton of food?

[@Steven-t9s]

A frugal girlfriend.Where did you find one of those,haha.

[@richardcaldwell5313]

I completely agree with you. i could live off of 1500 a month here fairly easy but being a younger man with a wife and 22 month old son i am starting new here. I am 46 and a 100% disabled vet US Army. currently my pay covers everything but its tight at the end of the month. of course i am remodeling my wifes parents home, making land payments on 250 meter lot and starting t build a house there too. So i do have alot going on other then just living as i plan on making a future for my wife and son (my wife is 21 years younger than me). Oh yeah i also am making payments on my multicab minivan but that's almost payed off.

[@GarrettSAlston]

Hua and Hooyah!! Thanks for your service fellow brother in arms! I am former Navy first and then got recruited to the Army! I am sorry for your service related disability and hopes a miracle happens and you get better! Take care and be blessed, safe, healthy, prosperous, and great!

[@RobbieBlue]

Your situation sounds like it would mirror mine I would love to talk I'm at 100 45 years and thinking of relocating there to the Philippines if I don't get scammed and have realistic expectations of cost

[@hedge313]

Great insight as usual. I know I would initially cling to my current lifestyle, but I think I would move towards the $1500 lifestyle fairly quickly, once I got my feet on the ground. I would want to have at least that much in order to enjoy and get to splurge from time to time. You guys always look so happy!

[@selbstsein967]

My onsite experience - country side - i lived with 600-750 Dollar per month with my Girlfriend together - rented bungalow for 200 Dollars - but no health insurance included in this = with 1000 Dollar you can live "normal, comfortable" in PH country side

[@pokeamaniwillnotbereplaced]

Hi, Dan & Quang, I enjoyed your video. Full of information and your intelligent insights. I have a $2000 PCM budget but I expect to live on $1300/$15,000mPCM so being able to top up my prudent reserve which is $20,000 is to cover any unexpected expenses like medical bills. I also have credit cards with a $10,000 credit. So I have peace of mind. I can walk into any airport and buy a ticket back to my home country. You live within your means no matter what budget you have. You can't spend what you don't have. I think it is great when an ex-pat has loads of money and is very happy to spend it. It helps the local economy. I also admire those people who can live on $1000 PCM. I'm Blessed as I don't drink and my partying days are over. I'm not looking for a partner a housekeeper will do and less hassle. Take care GOD Bless you and yours. M

[@pathkris2984]

What country are you planning to live?

[@OneJuanWon]

Excellent video - it really puts things into perspective for realistic expectations based on what you can comfortably afford. A point not mentioned that everyone MUST research is your health coverage options. Some choose to self insure, others get private insurance....there's no one-size-fits-all answer on this. If you qualify, VA benefits are accepted in some places but Medicare isn't, so have money, or insurance, or fly home for treatment. With exception to a few private hospitals in Cebu & Manila, most medical facilities are rudimentary which isn't good if you're faced with a real emergency. Take care of yourself now, don't relocate with various pre-existing conditions. The outcome won't be good unless you're in the right place and financially prepared.

[@kanointhephilippines8082]

Iv'e lived in the Philippines six years now and have expat friends who get by with as little as $800.00 per month but most spend between $1,500 to $2,500. If you are debt free, own your home, motor and car you can get by on a very reasonable amount monthly. As far as a long term visa the SRRV is best and renewal is not much every year. But, you are correct about lifestyles, we all have a different retirement plan. Simple and easy works for me. Thanks for the great content always and take care.

[@markj6565]

Great video and great perspective. It really comes down to how much you have coming in and much you can afford. Human nature for most people is the more money you have, the more you tend to spend. I am hoping to be able to get by on $2000 per month when I get there, but if my budget turns out to be $2500, I will still be ok with that. I live in New York City now and I have to get by on $4000 per month, which living in NY is the low end of what most people get by on. And that is the reason I am leaving here and heading to the Philippines. I have worked hard and long over the last 50 years, and now I want to enjoy my life and be able to travel to places I never thought I would be able to see. Especially throughout SE Asia.

[@ianlewis2813]

I live in Cebu city on 70k pesos ..(£1000).. Good Spanish style 2 bedroom apartment with a double large pools..security. gardeners maintenance crew.. 10 mins from the centre of town .. 2 of us ..non smoker /drinker ... this is all our bills ...rent , elec,water, food & visa ..trips out .. eat out 3 or 4 times a week local plus MacDonald breakfast & pizza etc.. shop in supermarkets once a week & local market once a week ...run a twist & go .. easy living

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you for your cost of living numbers ian lewis! We are all different. Each individual must do an exploratory visit before they will know their own numbers. Have a great day! Dan Have you seen our KZbin country playlists yet? kzbin.infoplaylists

[@firstuser4832]

Excellent analysis. I like the comparison & contrast between the various budgets. It does reflect your extensive experience and I recognize the depth of overseas living knowledge it would take to present this information. Kudos.

[@ragjamrock]

Great video Dan. Many people don't realize that lifestyle choices go hand in hand with your budget. The scenery in this video was breathtaking!!👣🏝️

[@brentp7122]

Well done. I have been going to the Philippines for many years and to really experience the Philippines you need to have 1500-2000 and that gives you safety net.

[@markm4623]

So if you need $1500-2000 a month to really experience the Philippines then I guess the Filipinos who barely make that in a year know nothing huh 🤣 yet ironically they are way happier 😏

[@brentp7122]

@@markm4623 You are right they are happy. I have been to the Philippines over 30 times over a 23 year span. Most filipinos have not traveled far from home. But I'm in the Philippines now and i know what the cost is to exist here.

[@fazbell]

I live on just over 2600 USD a month in Thailand. I am not sure how that would translate into living in the Philippines, but I have learned the art of belt-tightening since I retired in 2015. Healthcare is a big concern for those in my age group. ( I am 72). I obviously won't be living like a rock star, but I do want companionship and a modest entertainment budget. Three grand a month is a budget for those looking to duplicate their lifestyle in the United States.

[@VagabondAwake]

Fred Azbell, thank you for being part of our community :-) Dan Do you get my free eBook yet? vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/

[@richardwiediger7298]

I am seriously considering the P I and leaving Thailand after 5 years. I haven't been to the Philippines since my Navy days back in the late 60s, so obviously things will be much different than what I remember. Too many hoops to jump thru in Thailand, the P I is starting to look like a better option!

[@IaintTheHerb]

What new hoops in Thailand are there now?

[@lsmith6378]

At last someone with a little sense. When you arrive in the Philippines you'll need plenty of money. The Philippines is one of the last places you want to be without MONEY. Money is at the top of list then a roof over your head. Had to laugh at those wanting to live on thousand a week. Ha, ha. Try it.

[@celtosaxon]

@@IaintTheHerb you need healthcare insurance, cash rolling in and regularly check in with the government

[@richardwiediger7298]

@@IaintTheHerb not so many new hoops other than the financial requirements such as 800,000 Thai baht deposited in a Thai bank. Immigration is starting to get tough, I only expect it to get worse!

[@travelingman9763]

@@IaintTheHerb B.S such as even though Retired militaryTricare is contracted, the Thais want us to buy their insurance. Pure stupid greed!

[@iamjleeds2]

This is the most helpful intelligent and brief breakdown of expected expenses in the Philippines. Having been there several times now I will vouch for its accuracy.

[@britishdave2000]

The breakdown between the 3 groups is correct people come here unhappy when they have 1500 but want the 3000 life style - I have been here since 2006 - one point is goign out with the locals don't be suprised if you end up with the bill for the whole night - this is not antiforeigner its Filipino culture the highest ranking person normally pay the bill - ie ate, boss, kuyu or foreigner (u considered richest person) so make sure you know what u getting into in situations - don't get me wrong these are very generous people - if you go to their house they will fill your belly no matter how poor they are - it's just part of the culture

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for your thoughts David. :-)

[@arnieljovero1008]

Sorry David that is not true that the highest ranking person normally pays the bill. Maybe you gave them that impression or that was your impression?

[@wernerschneider4460]

Luckily that won't be me, because I am definitively not the one with most money in my family. Far more likely one of my sisters-in-law, who was the chief-nurse at Stanford University Hospital for many years and returned home with an enormous amount of savings (she lived very frugal in California and invested her money wisely). Her husband is an MD (an internist) in the Philippines and both their children are MDs too (one in Texas, one in Canada).

[@roccohagedorn3110]

Thank you ! This was a great evaluation and a fantastic explanation of various spending brackets. It certainly gives me a better understanding of which category will fit me personally best. Nicely done and much appreciated.

[@Will67267]

My budget for 2 people is $2500. I think it’s the sweet spot. We made sure we got a very good health insurance.

[@tombkk1322]

I agree with you about health insurance. So many people neglect this and roll the dice. Crazy in my opinion.

[@gabrielacruceanu9922]

very nicely put . You are really wise and open hearted. Thank you for showing us different ways of living to choose from

[@livingworkingoutsidebox]

Like you mentioned it's more about mindset. Great way to put things into perspective. Thanks for sharing 👍

[@algure7394]

We’re returning back to PI after 35 years of working in the USA. I survived in Manila as student and as a government employee 45 years ago. It’s so easy. I know the places .

[@paulwilson2968]

Spot on , I'm the 1000 month guy ,it comes easy to me, I live simply

[@pokeamaniwillnotbereplaced]

What do you mean by a "simple life" what does that entail?

[@dennishassler605]

Live like the natives do. The per capita income in the Philippines is about 3.5K per year, so poverty is common there. Still, some people want to eat out at expensive places, so they spend more and they have more. You CAN live on social security, but you'll still need to adjust, so learn to live like the neighbors do and conserve by living economically.

[@yorkpa3767]

Wow Dan great analysis as always. It's nice to get that perspective besides just low budget. For me personally it's nice to know that I have some aspects that are the $1500 range and others that are in the $3000 range. But I still have a budget that is substantially higher than all of those.I can't wait to begin my exploratory visits when I retire in 5 months.. The Philippines and Southeast Asia are high on my list. Thanks again to you both for all the information you provide it is greatly appreciated as always!!!!

[@keith4826]

Dan and Qiang , as always a great vid. It’s surreal to me still. I was back west in the rat race watching your channel and doing my research. Now here living a better life at half the price. I’m on a 2,500 USD budget and fit in right where you described…. Much closer to the 1500 expat than the 3k. For first time expats here 3k a month leaves room for mistakes. Then trim it to your liking. Going to Makati next 😎 While there I’ll bounce to El Nido and Palawan. This is way better than dealing with impossible deadlines, quotas and a back stabbing workforce. Thanks again….and to those just watching…. It can be done

[@jpsmusicandmore5457]

Really good video. I am retiring in November and would love to check out the Philippines

[@davidsiemer7578]

Good commentary Dan: I’m looking at approx 4K for my pensions so I’ll live on a 2K lifestyle and bless family with the extra

[@reedanderson1480]

Agreed, depends on the individuals wants, lifestyles, etc. etc. Ten years at $1850...is good for me and my small family with house and lot paid for.

[@hylander4434]

Hi m8 still here. Bought a house and small holding . Have a car and couple motorbikes and a couple of mountain bikes still support a family of 6 on a $1000 (855 pounds) m8 Great to see you back here

[@VagabondAwake]

Hi Hylander, Would you like to be a guest start on one of my videos? Here is an example guest star video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4SwkGWgdqhnrJY Your interview could be just your voice or we could do a zoom call showing your face. If you would like to be a guest star and share your story please leave a personal message here: vagabondbuddha.com/contact/ Thank you for your comment. The detail of your comment makes this real for people. If you have a business, service, or KZbin channel, you could share that on the interview. Best, Dan

[@jimmoran6684]

Good job Dan, and your backgrounds with Qiang and scenery are beautiful.

[@sdleasia]

I have watched you and your travel partner's videos. I love how you two completely experience nearly everything the country has to offer. I hope to enjoy the Philippines in my own adventurous way when I get there.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks so much! 😊

[@don476]

My wife and I and son live in Ormoc for $1,000 a month. We live a very frugal life but we do help my wife's family when we can.

[@wernerschneider4460]

Luckily it's not necessary for my wife and me to help any family-members, because her sisters and brothers all have more money than we have. At least in the moment, before I can sell my estate here one day, where my mother lives. Although my wife's family was quite poor in her childhood, but they all worked themselves up to respectable positions and are retired in the meantime with very good pensions.

[@waltertodd4479]

My wife and I live in one apartment in cavite and my two children live in another apartment in Manila for $1500 per month. My daughter just graduated from a private nursing college. While she was in college we were also buying a small two bedroom house that we rehabbed. During this time our living costs were $2500 per month. My daughter is paid $350 as a RN and my wife who is a math teacher earns $350 per month.

[@happycook6737]

Tell your daughter, if she is able, to work for a few years as a nurse in the USA, to consider it. Salary is around $50k per year. Our hospital just imported 9 Filipina nurses. She could then go back to the Philippines with a nice nest egg

[@waltertodd4479]

@@happycook6737 Thank You for your reply. What city and state please?

[@jesslocsin3542]

Very intelligent analysis. You hit the nail on the head.

[@sbkpilot1]

$3000/month is ridiculous for the Philippines, I don't even spend that here living in Dallas, Texas

[@pathkris2984]

If you have a place to live, $3000 is enough to live in many parts of the US. If you are very frugal, it might be even possible to live while renting an apartment for about $800 a month somewhere :) (and covered by medicare)

[@VagabondAwake]

Agreed.

[@Anomalyy666]

Lol if you need 3k then a european country is all you need. Dont need to move to a shithole country.

[@danpenner9424]

I like the way you explained it in how a person is thinking of their budget, basically we all spend what we can afford or what our monthly income is. I think you explained it best.

[@IaintTheHerb]

Not the perspective I expected - thank God, you had me worried I'd need more!

[@philippinesdreamorreality]

There you go again, great videos. You broke it down almost perfectly.

[@microtrader540]

Important video. Thanks so much.

[@happycook6737]

This is one of your very best videos because many expats have erroneous "magical" thinking about expat life. Your dose of reality is exactly what they need to hear

[@johnjohnston2439]

Well stated. That's the problem I think some Expats have in coming to the Philippines. They look at it as a "cheaper version" of where to live compared to where they came from versus the idea/thought of coming and accepting the new host country's culture and people.

[@AdamG20]

I’m not over there yet. I watched all the videos and did my own budget. Mine comes to $2100 a month That’s living in a condo in Mactan Newtown or Kandi palace, in Angeles If I wanted to go down to to Dumaguete it would be cheaper than that

[@myvmix]

So why put "Why You Need $3000 Month Minimum" when you don't????? If you're debunking $3000 then try stating that instead of giving people the wrong idea with a title like yours???

[@VagabondAwake]

Ok

[@UnicornMeat512]

Clickbait obviously

[@CumbiaDancer5678]

Dan, that's an amazing video! It really gives a balanced view of the retiree/expat world & what to expect. The same is true in Mexico, Panama, &, many other places around the world. In most countries, you can find a good fit to match any budget. I truly love your videos.

[@moonriver7730]

like us here family of 3 from metro manila..we have r own house..our budget for a month is 300us dollars only.. internet-300pesos water-500pesos Electricity-2000pesos Mom’s Maintenance-2600. left over is all for Food….its all about ur life style…

[@VagabondAwake]

Hi MoonRiver77, Would you like to be a guest start on one of my videos? Here is an example guest star video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4SwkGWgdqhnrJY Your interview could be just your voice or we could do a zoom call showing your face. If you would like to be a guest star and share your story please leave a personal message here: vagabondbuddha.com/contact/ Thank you for your comment. The detail of your comment makes this real for people. If you have a business, service, or KZbin channel, you could share that on the interview. Best, Dan

[@keepcreationprocess]

How much when I get ill and go to the hospital ? How much do I need to go for a root canal dental treatment - good specialist ?

[@moonriver7730]

@@keepcreationprocess For hospital fee its depends on a level of the hospital…there is hospital for check up cost for 500 to 1000 pesos….Small clinic cost for check is 450 to 300pesos….For root canal i don’t have idea…am sorry….

[@moonriver7730]

@@keepcreationprocess so i asked my neighbour,she is a dentist at one of the dental clinic at fairview terraces..she said its defends of the teeth,if from teeth with one vien it cost 2000pesos to 2500pesos,then if the teeth is the one inside and has 3 to 4 viens…so it will cost 2k to 2500 times the number of viens….she said its likes 20k per teeth….hope it’s gives u a little idea for the cost……

[@keepcreationprocess]

@@moonriver7730 Thank you very much : i am reading your respond.

[@johnkeogh42]

Depends on life style. Right now I'm renting a house in Lapu-Lapu with gf for 17k per month. Electric and water rates have gone up a little.. Fresh vegetables,d fish and fruit outside village gate. So my budget will provide home, health care and savings. Yes I have a $3,000 per month budget.

[@fayfleur55]

It all depends on how you want to live.I am a Filipino Australian . $3'000. a month minimum is a fair cost and is around middle class type of living in the Philippines. I cannot see myself living less than that.Good content and blog.👍

[@ariefraiser140]

Multiple publications classify $3000usd per month for a family of 5 as upper middle class just not rich.....for a single person or a couple that's classified as rich.

[@wernerschneider4460]

To be honest, I don't even know how to spend 3000 Dollars (even Aussie Dollars) a month when I am in the Philippines. But probably my lifestyle is very simple and modest to be easily able to live on far less than 1000 with my wife who is a retired university lecturer.

[@NoSenatorson]

The closing comments were loaded with timeless wisdom. Thank you.

[@natsumidesu8019]

I’m an OFW and 1,200 USD is enough to survive with a little pleasure in life in the Philippines and if you cook your food maybe around a 1000 USD only.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you for your cost of living numbers NATSUMI DESU! We are all different. Each individual must do an exploratory visit before they will know their own numbers. Have a great day! Dan

[@natsumidesu8019]

@@VagabondAwake I understand Dan 👍

[@gregorywhite4345]

Good thinking. I’m comfortable with my resources versus the local costs you delineated-so thanks!

[@VagabondAwake]

What are your expenses there?

[@globetrotting2628]

Wow, my partner and I live off less than 3k in the US and we dine out, see shows, and vacation quite a bit. The rest goes into tax shield investments. But we did buy our home several years ago in a buyer's market, and don't have debt so that might be why.

[@pokeamaniwillnotbereplaced]

Proud of you, debt-free retirement is the way to go.

[@pathkris2984]

Which part of the US is this? And I am assuming you are already in medicare :) As healthcare costs are significant in the US

[@malin5468]

I am surprised that you can live on $3000 a month in the US. I have been considering moving to Branson in Missouri and buying a small condo for about $200,000. But COA fees are $160, property tax is $100. Car insurance will be $160. Medicare will be $180 plus the cost of my medication. Gas about $100. Heating and air conditioning about $160. Food will be $120. Ok, that comes out to less than $3000, but I have probably underestimated. Even for a single person $3000 is tough. Of course living in the Philippines or Thailand will involve health insurance and costs and rent, so I don’t think $3000 is excessive. $500 for rent and maybe $500 for health insurance (which won’t cover preexisting conditions). On balance I think the quality of life will be better in Thailand or the Philippines on $3000, but one has to factor in future health costs. I would say to be really comfortable one needs $4000 per month, if one includes travel and dining out regularly. Not that I have that much, so I will need to be frugal.

[@TheGreatEscape9833]

Chances are you’re much closer to the end than the beginning. No one under 45 is living like that in the states.

[@glorgau]

@@malin5468 Car insurance $160 month -> $1920/year? I was just shopping yesterday and was seeing maybe $600/year or so.

[@raffybbc]

You are amazing putting it into perspective for everyone!!! Keep being awesome!!!

[@VagabondAwake]

I try

[@markjohansen6048]

This is the problem I have with all these discussions about how much it costs to live in the Philippines. Just ask yourself, How much does it cost to live in your home country? If someone said it costs, whatever, $4,327.82 per month to live in the US, surely you would say, To live ... how well? I've talked to people making over $300,000 per year who whine how they're just scraping by and it's just impossible to live on such a meager income. And I've talked to people who make a few hundred a month and think they're doing okay. It all depends on your expectations.

[@WhoWouldWantThisName]

Thanks so much for this video Dan. After seeing these differing budgets being thrown around by people this really helps put it into perspective. I figured they were all right but didn't know just how these different budgets related to what sort of lifestyle.

[@tedlasalvia9668]

Great video Dan - I think for me I would view retiring in the PI with $3,000 as having the ability to have more experiences in the PI. I understand the ranks of housing you mentioned and while a "very safe" community would cost more, it still ranks at the bottom of costs we have here in the US. So I think the mindset of a new expat would be more to ease into the island life while keeping some semblance of control over our lives. For me, I view retiring on more than your upper number as a way to deal with unforeseen circumstances initially. It allows us to make mistakes and recover from them fairly quickly. Of course, watching your channel will go a long way to helping us not make those mistakes in the first place! As an older person, I value experiences and memories more these days, and as you've shown us, this is easier to enjoy in the PI on a smaller budget than here in the US. Keep up the great work!

[@VagabondAwake]

Good point. More money solves more problems.

[@AlfordLau]

Thank you for breaking the numbers down so as a matter of factly.

[@Traveling-boomer]

You don’t need that much to live over here I’ve lived over here for almost 17 years you don’t need anything near $3000 the people that’s been that much money a month or generally individuals that have lived spoiled lives all their life and they have only known the best they don’t know what it’s like to live a normal life so they have to have that much money to have all the luxury in life that you’re so used to since birth but you could easily live on $1000 or less a month over here without any problem whatsoever

[@pathkris2984]

Makes sense

[@robocop581]

I'll be spending more than $3K a month in the Philippines in retirement but I'm far from being spoiled. It's all relative anyway. I bet my $3K budget is significantly less than most retirees' budgets based on the percentage of my retirement income.

[@VagabondAwake]

Hi Speedy Mcgreedy, Would you like to be a guest start on one of my videos? Here is an example guest star video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4SwkGWgdqhnrJY Your interview could be just your voice or we could do a zoom call showing your face. If you would like to be a guest star and share your story please leave a personal message here: vagabondbuddha.com/contact/ Thank you for your comment. The detail of your comment makes this real for people. If you have a business, service, or KZbin channel, you could share that on the interview. Best, Dan

[@alroberts193]

I spoke to my sister who happens to live in the Philippine Province of Cebu. I asked her if $2,000.00 ( or Php Peso of 114,000.00 * Exchange Rate of $1.00 is to Php P.57.00) is enough to live on. My sis claimed that it is more than enough to have 114,000.00/ month to live on. Of course, if you live in constant luxury, then perhaps this dollar amount will not be enough. Remember that we have to consider inflation which is around 6.5% in the Php. now. Here in the US, our current inflation rate is around 8.5% to 9.0%. Most likely our Social Security will increase at around 10.0% in January 2023.

[@michaelbulger9138]

As a single guy $2000 is enough to live fairly well. Big cities like Cebu will cost more for rent and food than smaller cities. I live near Dumaguete which is close to Cebu. Im married with 2 kids and we spend about $2000 a month but I dont pay rent. Inflation has hit here as well especially food and gas.

[@Serolfarim1]

Is Medicare going to cover medical expenses in the Philippines?

[@michaelbulger9138]

@@Serolfarim1 I dont believe Medicare transfers to PH. If you are a military vet, I think the VA will reimburse some of the costs but not Medicare.

[@rogergardner7740]

@@Serolfarim1 Sadly No it will not Reason so many of us senior guys just can't get up the nerve to leave the U.S and retire there in Philippines or any other non US country One big health problem can wipe out your savings never mind more So sad

[@VivaRonnieJamesDio]

@@Serolfarim1 why would another country's health coverage cover you when you are living abroad? I think what you are describing is a form of "international healthcare coverage" i would assume that is something that only exists in the military related fields?

[@stevegarant3813]

OMG you scared me with your 3000$ a month to live in the Philippines. After watching your video I calmed down!! thanks for your insights. Regards, Steve retiring to the Philippines soon!

[@dronestarmedia4341]

My god! What a beautiful ride on that boat. That water looks stunning in all of its ways.

[@inspector2568]

The only real reason your minimum would be at least 3,000 a month is, maybe health reasons or you just can't desire living a normal Filipino life. If that's the case stay where you originally came from.

[@g8way2k1]

Appreciate your work and this video. A certain other vlogger had very specific objection to your $3,000 a month minimum, but I doubt he hung around long enough to listen to the entire video. Clearly you gave us an idea for lower budgets as well. I'm like in between, I'm thinking I can still save an ample amount of money every month with a budget of between $2,000 - $2,500 each month to live on. So from what I gather, we'll be doing pretty good. Now I just have to convince the wife (almost an impossible task). Someone told me that you can live much less expensively in other parts of the world than the U.S. Might not be as cheaply as the Philippines, but they are just as nice. This advice is the reason for my subscribing. So thanks a bunch as I will be looking into your past videos while looking forward to current ones.

[@arnoldkim5135]

Also depends on whether you have kids or not. And whether you have people you are supporting. I had a friend who was getting close to $5000 on disability and pension. He was broke every month. I asked him how can that be possible. He told me on the day his money gets deposited to his bank, there are literally a dozen people line up in his house to get their share.

[@VagabondAwake]

What's his address?

[@RobbieBlue]

Lol

[@glstka5710]

I rent a place 15,000 pesos a month reinforced concrete construction metal roof with ceilings, 3 bedrooms (1 large, 2 rather small) CR upstairs small native style design so the shower is not separate from the room it IS the room. downstairs a bit smaller native style. Downstairs sala (kitchen, living room, dining room, all just one space) room laundry area inside, enough in the outside front area to store our motorcycles and hang our laundry in the shelter of the overhanging part of the house upstairs (kind of a carport) neighborhood local Filipinos. Electric bill just under 4,000 pesos each month. Food, my wife is a Filipina and knows how to buy groceries and cook, she always seems to make good food and we eat well.

[@VagabondAwake]

Send me an email if you want to be interviewed. vagabondbuddha.com/contact/

[@glstka5710]

@@VagabondAwake The link you gave seems to require signing up to something else. Do you have a plain gmail address?

[@michaelstewart399]

Sir with respect you're thinking is flawed the western style communities hotels and resorts are 100% bankrupt today my family and i a currently living on 1400 dollars per month nicely i came here with no savings nor means of income i've attained two furnished studio apartments to new vehicles a new wife and child before relocating to the philippines i was homeless in san diego california i'll be glad to give you an in-depth interview

[@pathkris2984]

So glad you are having a nice life. Good luck to you.

[@michaelstewart399]

@@pathkris2984 thank you come on over

[@VagabondAwake]

Hi Michael Stewart, Would you like to be a guest start on one of my videos? Here is an example guest star video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4SwkGWgdqhnrJY Your interview could be just your voice or we could do a zoom call showing your face. If you would like to be a guest star and share your story please leave a personal message here: vagabondbuddha.com/contact/ Thank you for your comment. The detail of your comment makes this real for people. If you have a business, service, or KZbin channel, you could share that on the interview. Best, Dan

[@freedomwillring6749]

Thanks for another informative video. I'm counting the time it's going to take for me to retire and travel the world, but in the meantime I will keep using my vacation time to visit places outside of the U.S.. I'm going to work another 5 to 7 yrs to build up my company pension and SS. I'm happy and jealous for you 2 bc who knows if tomorrow will ever come for me. Thanks again!

[@VagabondAwake]

We all have our own path. :-) Best of luck. It goes faster than you think.

[@morrishooks7536]

I lived here in the philippines for 7 years now. I did not want to live here like local. I wanted my life style to be close to the way it was in the USA. I worked for 43 years to ensure it would be. We live on a budget. We have to debt except utilities. we live smart here. Our monthly bills are about $1500.00. It pays to be smart with your money. We have an SUV and motor cycle. I do my best to save all the money I can. I take advantage of the low cost of living here. I live in the province which is way more cheaper than living in the city. go to the city when we get tired of province.

[@VagabondAwake]

Hi Morris Hooks, Would you like to be a guest start on one of my videos? Here is an example guest star video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4SwkGWgdqhnrJY Your interview could be just your voice or we could do a zoom call showing your face. If you would like to be a guest star and share your story please leave a personal message here: vagabondbuddha.com/contact/ Thank you for your comment. The detail of your comment makes this real for people. If you have a business, service, or KZbin channel, you could share that on the interview. Best, Dan

[@Reyajh]

As always, Thanks Dan! I did breathe a sigh of relief there :p

[@VagabondAwake]

You and me both!

[@MoMo-vl6ub]

Hi Dan! Great content! My husband and I and our 2 kids will be going to Baguio in November from the USA. We will be there for a month to test out if Baguio would be a right fit for our young family. Would love to meet you and Qiang in person and pick your brain regarding living abroad.

[@VagabondAwake]

We will be with Qiang's family in Malaysia in December. :-) Maybe next time?

[@MoMo-vl6ub]

@@VagabondAwake sounds good 👍

[@user-bz5io6ph8w]

Wow, that's a very insightful breakdown. I tend to agree the more you embrace living like a local the less you need to spend and the more you become integrated with the culture.

[@Spy359]

It DEPENDS. The locations of the grocery store, of the apartment, of the restaurant, of the coffee shop, of the hospital - how they are within each other's reach - and utilities use, are factors. Are you ok w/ just local TV? ... Or should you have Cable? Are you ok w/ a local grocery ... or do you only want the upscale supermarket? You want an apartment w/o the amenities of housing walls & guards ... or one inside a high - walled subdivision w/ guards at the gate? Are you one who'd rather cook at home? ... Or eat every single solitary meal outside at grand establishmens? Are you ok w/ the local hospital? ... Or must it be only at the hospitals in Metro Manila or Cebu? Are you okay to use the fan, and keep the lights off inside & outside? ... Or must you use the airconditioner every night, w/ all lights on outside for security? ... Are you a city boy? .... Or a country boy? Are you okay w/ coffee just at home? ... Or must it only be outside at - oh gawd - Starbucks? Are you the common man? ... Or are you an Elon Musk? Just DO WHATEVER YOU CAN AFFORD per month. (And don't forget emergency funds, too. You'll NEED that; promise.) Research. ..... Good Luck!

[@VagabondAwake]

Insightful.

[@Farsider3955]

🤔…..ok Dave Ramsey of the Philippines, nice job! I just re-worked my budget: 2 packs a day down to 1 cig per day…. Six-pack of Red Horse a day down to 1 San Mig Light per day…. Geez! I’m not only saving a lot of money now, I’m feeling great! 👀 🙂

[@onetalentedman2822]

I live on less than 700 dollers monthly and keep a wife two children and a Mother in-law. We all live well in a home I built on the a mountain side on a coconut plantation. We want for nothing in life.

[@VagabondAwake]

Hi One Talented Man, Would you like to be a guest start on one of my videos? Here is an example guest star video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4SwkGWgdqhnrJY Your interview could be just your voice or we could do a zoom call showing your face. If you would like to be a guest star and share your story please leave a personal message here: vagabondbuddha.com/contact/ Thank you for your comment. The detail of your comment makes this real for people. If you have a business, service, or KZbin channel, you could share that on the interview. Best, Dan

[@arnieljovero1008]

3000 for a couple yes. I can live well with my cdn pension in the Philippines. I am now living alone in my sister’s three bedroom house in a quiet gated community and i pay her roughly 500cdn for renr including augmenting the wages of the 2 house helpers and a driver. We go out often for lunch or dinner, sometimes cheap and sometimes fancy expensive places and still have leftover funds to save for futures. In Canada you need at least 3000Cdn a a montg to live a normal life. In the Philippines you need only half that. If you are retirees from US, Canada, Europe, UK and has no baggage live abroad, south of united states and asia. There are cheap places to live in Asia like Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Laos and maybe The Philippines. I am Filipino/Canadian so i prefer the Philippines as we i speak the local language and we are the largest English speaking country in SEA. Do not get me wrong i have been to Thailand and Vietnam and they are cheap beautiful countries too but i am cannot learn or want to learn more languages hence i will not retire there. I speak 4 languages already and do not need to learn more. Travel is good as Vagabond Awake and Hobo Venture stated.

[@triplebarnes3529]

Thank you for a very informative video. Curios to see a how a single Filipino-American retiree monthly expenses would be either in BGC/Makati or the provinces. That would be a insightful view on how a westerner could live and spend like a Filipino in the Phils. I know there are a lot of former Filipinos here in the US who are planning to go back & retire either in BGC or the provinces.

[@joserizal2868]

check AirBnB i was able to rent a condo in BGC long term for just $715 a month fully furnished and all utilities included....

[@wickman.r4662]

My Social Security Administration annual benefit paid was $5,846 for year 2022. That is$487.17 per month. Medicare Part B deducted $2,857 for the year. Leaves $2989 per year. 2989 / 12 = $249 per month for cost of living expenses.

[@tobin8354]

You can retire with less per month in Vietnam!…like 67% less

[@paulh7798]

Excellent video, great information. Thanks much 🙏🏻

[@jaime8318]

Interesting video. I'm Filipino American. I've been to the Phils exactly twice. Once as a kid in the mid 1970's and in 2019. I can't speak or understand any Filipino languages. The best I can say is I'm familiar with the culture, though Filipinos do often puzzle me. I will retire in a little over 1 year. I have a great pension that is much more than the budgets you are describing. BUT....I have zero need to live a lavish lifestyle. My gf lives in the province of Laguna. Last year I moved her and my adopted daughter to another more comfortable flat. It's in a secure compound - No strangers allowed in the compound. It's a comfortable size two bedroom flat. By comfortable, I mean it is a good size. The bedrooms are both large enough to comfortably fit queen size beds. I pay for it because I wanted them to have a decent place to live. When I'm there I will also stay there. Monthly rent for this two bedroom flat? 3,000 pesos or in today's exchange rate, $52 usd. Her family lives in Pangasinan. We get fresh seafood because she has relatives who are fishermen. They also get free food such as local fruit. I love fresh bamboo shoots. Yeah...that's free. Just spot a young bamboo and go get a machete. Voila! Free food. I have had my fill of material things. Nice cars, my own home theater (which I still have), frequent trips to Europe. When I move to the Phils, I will easily have enough money to pay cash for a decent used car, I will still be able to travel, and will have to so I don't have to file for permanent Philippine residency. I plan to put my adopted daughter through college. I already have the money set aside and invested so that by the time she starts college in 6 years, there will be more than enough money for her. Oh, and I'm proud to say that she will be the first one in her family that will be able to go to college, thanks to me, and I will STILL be living comfortably! What I DON'T have money for is partying it up in the Philippines like I'm a tourist. Waste of money. I'm from L.A. When I was younger, I partied in some of the best clubs you could imagine. Been there, Done that. I don't need to do that in my 60's. I don't need to go chasing girls, although I could if I wanted to. I'm 6o years old currently, and nobody believes I'm a day over 40. But like you said....everyone is different. Personally, I can't wrap my brain around being a party animal at my age.

[@arnieljovero1008]

As you stated you will have a great pension that is much more than the 3k bandied or mentioned by Dan. Then you will be more than ok. I mean you can go out in some fancy restaurant in Metro Manila at least once a week and have more fun. Enjoy your retirement.

[@GarrettSAlston]

I need to get in touch with you Jaime, I am with my Fiancee2wife Charlie there in Philippines, are shipping my property boxes to Pagasian as we speak anticipating my move there! She did armed security trained by the PNP in Angeles City and even though originally from Mindinao, she wants to be in that area! I was thinking of dumagette or in the province for that cheaper, stress free and simple life she wants for me after suffering some serious medical conditions and us writing a published book about it! Have a great day and great post! Take care, be blessed, safe, healthy, prosperous and great!!!

[@jaime8318]

@@arnieljovero1008 Thank you, Arniel. I just came back from the Phils in mid January. I discovered that I prefer the home made food cooked by my gf's family in Pangasinan to any restaurant we tried, and we tried a LOT of restaurants! I was a bit hesitant at first...Some of their favorites are dinaguan and pinapaitan. I only ever trusted my Mom's cooking with those dishes! hahaha. But, Grabe! They were really good at cooking, AND I had zero stomach issues after eating their food! Thank you, I do look forward to my retirement....The count down continues!

[@arnieljovero1008]

@@jaime8318 it is good that you liked their homecooked meal in Pangasinan. Are you moving there or maybe retire there in the future. What bugs me is where in Santa Rosa, Laguna can you rent a 2 bedroom flat for 3000 pesos? As per my understanding it is a gated comppound. Gated places in Santa Rosa are expensive especially in Nuvali area.

[@jaime8318]

@@arnieljovero1008 It's not gated community with a guard. There are like 5 units. The gates are locked at night, and everyone in there watches out for each other. It's in San Pablo. Not Santa Rosa

[@daviddarden1915]

I do not know about that amount. That is to large. You must be adding lots of dependents or something. To get by in America, you need that much. Now in the Philippines I estimate 1/3 is needed to live pretty good in Philippines. Having lived in Philippines before being station at Clark Air Base, Philippines. You would not have Australians,or Canadians living there. There pesos dollar exchange is less than us Americans which is pretty high. To me $1,000 American or about (57,000) Philippine Pesos per month will suffice, even near Manila area.