BGC vs. Makati Rent: Which District Fits Your Budget & Lifestyle in 2025?

November 13,2025

Choosing where to live in Metro Manila often comes down to two heavyweight districts: Bonifacio Global City (BGC) and Makati. Both are central business hubs, both attract expats and young professionals, and both offer a wide range of rental options—from affordable studios to high-end luxury units with skyline views. Yet, each district has its distinct character, price range, and lifestyle pattern.

If you're planning to rent a condo in 2025, here's a detailed guide comparing BGC and Makati to help you decide which area matches your budget, priorities, and daily rhythm.

Rental Price Overview in 2025

Rental trends in Metro Manila continued to rise moderately in early 2025 due to increasing expat arrivals, flexible work arrangements, and ongoing demand in business districts. According to market data from leading property analytics, both BGC and Makati show upward but stable rental movements, with BGC generally commanding higher prices due to newer inventory and premium developments (Colliers Philippines, 2024).

BGC Rental Prices (2025)

• Studios: ₱28,000 – ₱40,000/month

• 1 Bedroom: ₱40,000 – ₱65,000/month

• 2 Bedroom: ₱70,000 – ₱120,000/month

• 3 Bedroom / Premium Units: ₱150,000 and above

  
  

BGC tends to be pricier because most of its buildings are newer, master-planned, and designed with modern amenities like smart lobbies, high-speed elevators, co-working lounges, and rooftop spaces.

Makati Rental Prices (2025)

• Studios: ₱20,000 – ₱30,000/month

• 1 Bedroom: ₱30,000 – ₱50,000/month

• 2 Bedroom: ₱55,000 – ₱90,000/month

• 3 Bedroom / Premium Units: ₱120,000 and above

  
  

Makati rents fluctuate depending on the area. Legazpi Village and Salcedo Village have higher prices because of walkability and green spaces, while Poblacion, San Antonio, and Buendia areas remain more affordable.

If budget is your priority, Makati offers more flexibility across price ranges.

Lifestyle Comparison: Which District Fits Your Rhythm?

Renting a condo isn't just about finding a unit—it's about choosing the lifestyle you want every day. BGC and Makati offer very different experiences.

BGC: Modern, Organized, International

BGC feels like a newer, carefully curated city. Roads are wide, sidewalks are well-maintained, and everything—from grocery stores to parks—seems designed for convenience. It's a favorite among expats, young families, and professionals who want a clean and structured environment.

What makes BGC stand out: 

• Master-planned urban design 

• Kid-friendly parks and open spaces 

• Clean and secure environment 

• High-end malls like High Street, Uptown Mall, and Market! Market! 

• Popular among Japanese, Korean, and Western expats

If you value walkability, modern amenities, and a community-centered environment, BGC might feel like home.

Makati: Vibrant, Historic, Fast-Paced

Makati combines business and nightlife like no other district. It has a lived-in charm—tree-lined streets in Legazpi and Salcedo, art-filled pockets in Poblacion, and the Philippines' oldest financial institutions in Ayala Avenue.

Makati's lifestyle strengths: 

• Strong blend of business and leisure 

• Walking distance to top malls like Greenbelt and Glorietta 

• More condo options at competitive rent 

• Vibrant nightlife in Poblacion 

• Home to some of the country's biggest corporations

If you want energy, culture, restaurants, and the feeling of being in the heart of Manila, Makati has unmatched character.

Walkability & Daily Convenience

Both districts are walkable, but the experience differs.

BGC Walkability

Sidewalks are wide, safe, and modern. Walking feels like you’re in a master-planned international city. Crosswalks are clear and cycling is safer compared to other districts.

Perfect for: 

✔ Joggers 

✔ Pet owners 

✔ Families with strollers 

✔ People who don't want chaotic traffic

Makati Walkability

Walkability depends on the neighborhood. Legazpi & Salcedo offer excellent walkability, tree-lined streets, and weekend markets. However, near Buendia or Poblacion, sidewalks can get cramped and traffic is busier.

Perfect for: 

✔ Food lovers 

✔ Nightlife enthusiasts 

✔ Weekend market shoppers 

✔ People who want to live near office buildings

Accessibility & Transport Options

BGC Transport & Traffic

BGC doesn't have an MRT station inside the district. However, buses, P2P routes, and new transport terminals are improving connectivity. Traffic entering and exiting BGC can be heavy during rush hours.

Best if you work within BGC or nearby (Taguig, Pasig, Makati border).

Makati Transport & Traffic

Makati is one of the most accessible districts in Metro Manila. It has MRT stations (Ayala & Buendia), plenty of buses, and multiple access points via EDSA, South Super Highway, and Makati Avenue.

Ideal for renters who rely on public transportation.

Safety & Cleanliness

Both districts are safe, but in different ways.

BGC

• Tighter security 

• Very clean 

• Planned public spaces 

• Excellent lighting at night

Makati

• Highly secure in CBD and village areas 

• Some streets outside the business district can get busier or more crowded 

• More mixed residential-commercial zones

If your priority is a consistently clean and structured environment, BGC leads slightly.

Condo Inventory & Building Age

BGC Inventory

Most buildings are newer (2013 onward). Expect modern amenities, advanced security, and better resale value for investors.

Good for renters who want: 

✔ Newer units 

✔ Modern gyms & pools 

✔ Stylish lobbies 

✔ Smart home features

Makati Inventory

Mixed — from classic towers in Legazpi Village to newer developments like The Rise, Air Residences, and Kroma.

Good for renters who want: 

✔ More options 

✔ Larger floor areas at lower prices 

✔ Buildings with character 

✔ Cheaper units with good locations

Which District Should You Choose in 2025?

Choose BGC if you want:

✔ A clean, master-planned environment 

✔ Modern condos with high-end amenities 

✔ A community-friendly setting 

✔ Parks, art installations, and pet-friendly spaces 

✔ A quieter, more organized pace

Best for: 

• Expats 

• Young families 

• Professionals who prefer modern living

Choose Makati if you want:

✔ A more dynamic lifestyle 

✔ Flexible rental price ranges 

✔ Proximity to major transport routes 

✔ Older buildings with larger unit cuts 

✔ Near malls, restaurants, and nightlife

Best for: 

• Young professionals 

• Budget-conscious renters 

• People who work in the CBD 

• Nightlife or culture enthusiasts

Final Thoughts: The Right District Depends on Your Priorities

There’s no “better” district—only the one that matches your lifestyle.

If you enjoy structure, modernity, and community-oriented living, BGC delivers a polished environment with excellent walkability. But if you thrive in a lively, culture-rich, and more budget-friendly setting, Makati remains unmatched for convenience and character.

As Manila continues evolving, both districts remain top choices for renters in 2025. Understanding your routine, work location, budget, and lifestyle goals will help you choose the district that feels like home.

Sources:

• Colliers Philippines. (2024). Metro Manila Property Market Report. https://www.colliers.com

• Santos, J. (2024). Urban Living Trends in Metro Manila. Rappler. https://www.rappler.com

• Philippine Statistics Authority. (2024). Housing and Real Estate Indicators. https://psa.gov.ph