How much money do you need to live? – a comparative overview between Austria and the Philippines

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Global Overview

World Bank Poverty Line:
- Extreme poverty is living on less than $2.15/day (2023).
- Many developing nations use thresholds like $3.65/day or $6.85/day, depending on the country’s income level.

The cost of living varies significantly between Austria and the Philippines, influenced by housing, food, transportation, and lifestyle choices. Here’s a comparative overview for a single adult in both countries: (Austria – Cost of Living – Expat Focus)

Austria (as of early 2025)

Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Adult:

Total Estimated Cost: Approximately €1,709 to €1,900 (Your guide to the cost of living in Austria (2025))

Breakdown:

Rent (1-bedroom apartment in city center): €850 to €1,250
Utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage): €326 to €347
Internet: €33
Public Transport Pass: €50
Groceries: €250 to €300
Leisure Activities: €200 to €220 (Your guide to the cost of living in Austria (2025), Cost of living in Austria: Is Austria expensive?)

City-Specific Costs:

Vienna: Total monthly cost around €2,218
Salzburg: Approximately €2,028
Innsbruck: Approximately €2,058 (Cost of living in Austria: Is Austria expensive? , Your guide to the cost of living in Austria (2025))

Average Net Salary: €2,996/month (Cost of living in Austria: Is Austria expensive?)

Philippines (as of 2024)

Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Adult:

Total Estimated Cost: PHP 25,000 to PHP 35,000 (approximately €400 to €600) (Understanding the Cost of Living in the Philippines in 2024)

Breakdown:

Rent (1-bedroom apartment in city center): PHP 20,000 to PHP 30,000
Utilities (electricity, water, garbage): PHP 5,000 to PHP 8,000
Internet: PHP 1,500
Public Transport Pass: PHP 1,200
Groceries: PHP 8,000 to PHP 12,000
Leisure Activities: PHP 2,500 to PHP 3,000 (The Cost of Living in The Philippines – AFS Programs, Philippines – Cost of Living – Expat Focus)

City-Specific Costs:

Manila: Total monthly cost around PHP 35,000 to PHP 45,000
Cebu: Approximately PHP 30,000 to PHP 40,000 (Philippines – Cost of Living – Expat Focus)

Note: Costs can be lower in rural areas or smaller cities.

???? Summary Comparison

Category	Austria (EUR)	Philippines (PHP)
Total Monthly Cost	€1,709–€1,900	PHP 25,000–35,000
Rent (1BR City Center)	€850–€1,250	PHP 20,000–30,000
Utilities	€326–€347	PHP 5,000–8,000
Groceries	€250–€300	PHP 8,000–12,000
Public Transport	€50	PHP 1,200
Internet	€33	PHP 1,500
Leisure Activities	€200–€220	PHP 2,500–3,000

Conclusion:

Austria: Offers a high standard of living with corresponding costs. The average net salary of €2,996/month generally covers living expenses comfortably. (Your guide to the cost of living in Austria (2025))
Philippines: Provides a more affordable cost of living, especially outside major urban centers. However, salaries are typically lower, so budgeting is essential.