Comparing Manila Property Prices Across It's Top 5 Business Districts
- bedandgoinc
- 6月10日
- 読了時間: 5分
June 10, 2025
Metro Manila is not just the capital of the Philippines — it's also the epicenter of real estate activity in the country. As urban development continues to surge and foreign interest increases, the value of property in its key business districts has become a focal point for investors, end - users, and developers alike. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a seasoned real estate investor, or a tenant scouting for premium locations, understanding the price landscape across major central business districts (CBDs) is crucial to making informed decisions.

In this comprehensive comparison, we explore and break down property prices across Manila's most prominent business districts—Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Makati CBD, Ortigas Center, and the Bay Area — alongside emerging hubs like Arca South and Bridgetowne. Each of these locations offers unique opportunities and challenges, shaped by accessibility, infrastructure, lifestyle offerings, and investment returns.
1. Bonifacio Global City (BGC): The Pinnacle of Urban Living
Current Property Prices: ₱320,000 to ₱450,000 per sqm Rental Yield: 5%–7% annually (premium on short - term, fully furnished units)
BGC has rapidly evolved from a military base into Manila's most prestigious mixed - use district. Built from the ground up, it boasts modern architecture, wide roads, underground utilities, and high - end commercial and residential developments. The appeal of BGC lies in its order, cleanliness, and walkability, a rare find in many parts of Metro Manila.
BGC is also home to global tech firms, international schools (like the British School Manila and International School Manila), embassies, luxury malls (Uptown Mall, SM Aura), and top-tier hospitals. Condo prices are among the highest in the country, but many see this as a reflection of its world-class planning and vibrant ecosystem.
Buyers pay a premium, but in exchange, they enjoy high demand from foreign tenants, professionals, and affluent locals. Projects like One Serendra, The Suites, and Uptown Ritz command top-tier pricing and attract high-end leasing clientele.
Key Drivers of Price Growth:
Master-planned development by Ayala and Megaworld
Strong demand from expats and international companies
Proximity to BGC-Ortigas Center Link, Metro Manila Subway (under construction)
2. Makati CBD: The Financial Core with Timeless Prestige
Current Property Prices: ₱250,000 to ₱400,000 per sqm Rental Yield: 4%–6% annually (higher in premium buildings)
Makati CBD has long held the title of Manila's financial and corporate capital. With over 500 multinational companies, banks, and embassies headquartered here, Makati remains a magnet for local and foreign professionals. Landmarks like Ayala Triangle Gardens, RCBC Plaza, and Greenbelt Mall define its landscape.
Residential options range from iconic towers like The Residences at Greenbelt and Raffles Residences to newer entries like Alveo's Parkford Suites. Prices vary depending on proximity to Ayala Avenue, building age, and developer prestige.
While newer buildings fetch higher prices, older units in Legazpi, Salcedo, and San Antonio Villages present rare opportunities for value buys—ideal for investors looking to renovate and flip or rent.
Makati's Edge:
Premier access to business and legal services
Established expat community

3. Ortigas Center: Manila's Central Value Proposition
Current Property Prices: ₱180,000 to ₱280,000 per sqm Rental Yield: 4.5%–6% annually
Strategically located between Pasig, Mandaluyong, and Quezon City, Ortigas Center presents a balanced mix of affordability, accessibility, and convenience. It serves as the headquarters of large corporations like San Miguel Corporation, Asian Development Bank, and BDO, which sustains a steady demand for housing.
Notable residential buildings include The Sapphire Bloc, The Royalton at Capitol Commons, and The Currency. The area's appeal is growing thanks to mixed-use developments like Ortigas East and the Capitol Commons lifestyle hub.
For investors, Ortigas offers a lower price entry point compared to Makati or BGC, while still being centrally located. It's also gaining value as public transport infrastructure improves, including the BRT line and the Ortigas Greenway Project.
Strengths of Ortigas:
More affordable per sqm, yet high tenant demand
Surrounded by key shopping centers (SM Megamall, Shangri-La Plaza, Estancia Mall)
Ideal for first-time buyers and mid-tier investors
4. Bay Area (Pasay-Parañaque): Manila's Tourism and Gaming Magnet
Current Property Prices: ₱200,000 to ₱300,000 per sqm Rental Yield: 6%–8% (especially for short-term and Airbnb rentals)
The Bay Area has emerged as Manila's fastest-growing entertainment and tourism corridor. With massive investments from SMDC, Federal Land, and Megaworld, this zone—spanning Mall of Asia (MOA) to Entertainment City—is positioned as a hospitality and gaming hotspot.
Aside from hosting luxury resorts and casinos like Okada Manila, Solaire, and City of Dreams, the area also draws business travelers and expats working in airline, maritime, and hotel industries. Condos with unobstructed views of Manila Bay fetch the highest prices, especially those near SMX Convention Center and MOA Arena.
Its proximity to NAIA and rapid transport connectivity (LRT-1 extension, NLEX Harbor Link) make it a favorite among short-term rental hosts. Investors aiming for Airbnb or serviced apartment models will find strong returns here.
Bay Area Strengths:
High foot traffic from tourists and business travelers
Strong foreign investor presence (Chinese, Korean markets)
Resilient demand for short- to medium-term rentals

5. Emerging CBDs: Arca South, Bridgetowne, and North Triangle
Current Property Prices: ₱130,000 to ₱200,000 per sqm Rental Yield (Projected): 4%–6% with strong upside potential
As Metro Manila becomes more saturated, developers are looking to the next frontier. Arca South (Taguig), Bridgetowne (Pasig-Quezon City border), and Vertis North (Quezon City) are being primed as the next central nodes.
Arca South: Dubbed the “BGC of the South,” it's Ayala Land's 74-hectare estate near the FTI complex. With Skyway access and the Taguig Integrated Terminal Exchange (ITX) under development, it promises seamless connectivity.
Bridgetowne: Robinsons Land’s integrated township aims to connect C-5 and Ortigas. It features offices, hotels, and residential condos alongside a growing tech hub.
North Triangle/Vertis North: Positioned as Quezon City's answer to Makati, backed by Ayala Land and SMDC. Proximity to MRT-7 and the new QC Central Business District drives long-term value.
Early Investment Advantage:
Lower acquisition cost
Massive future infrastructure (Metro Manila Subway, MRT-7, Skyway extensions)
Ideal for pre-selling buyers and long-term investors
Which Manila Business District Should You Invest In?
Manila's real estate landscape is diverse, dynamic, and highly localized. The right business district for you depends on your financial capacity, lifestyle goals, and investment horizon.

Navigating Metro Manila's diverse business districts can feel overwhelming—but with the right insight and support, your next property decision can be both strategic and rewarding. Whether you're aiming for long-term capital growth, passive rental income, or a premium residence in the heart of the city, each district offers unique strengths aligned with different goals and budgets.
Choose BGC for a cutting-edge lifestyle and high-end rental potential.
Invest in Makati if you value location prestige and long-term leasing stability.
Go for Ortigas if you're looking for balance between affordability and accessibility.
Consider the Bay Area for tourism-driven rentals and strong foreign demand.
Explore emerging hubs like Arca South and Bridgetowne for lower entry costs and future value appreciation.
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