What ₱20,000, ₱30,000, ₱40,000 & ₱50,000 Rent Gets You in Manila (Complete 2025 Edition)

24 November 2025

Manila's rental market in 2025 continues to reshape itself as new developments emerge, remote work expands and more expatriates relocate to the Philippines. The demand for condominium living has increased significantly across key districts like Makati, BGC, Ortigas and the Manila Bay area, with renters prioritizing walkability, safety and amenities more than ever before. These urban preferences reflect broader global shifts, where younger professionals value convenience and mixed-use communities over large living spaces, a trend also noted across major Asian cities (Colliers Philippines, 2024).

The city's rental landscape has also been influenced by continued infrastructure expansion, particularly rail and road projects that increase connectivity between central business districts. Analysts note that improved mobility tends to raise nearby rental demand, further shaping price tiers and availability in 2025 (Oxford Economics, 2024).

What ₱20,000 Rent Gets You in Manila

A ₱20,000 monthly budget remains the most competitive bracket in Manila, commonly chosen by students and early-career professionals who need affordability without sacrificing accessibility. Units in this range typically include studios between 20 and 24 square meters in mid-range residential buildings across Mandaluyong, Pasay, Manila City and Quezon City. These properties usually come semi-furnished and include basic amenities such as small pools, function rooms and modest gyms. Rental values in these areas align with city-wide averages reported in recent residential market studies, which highlight continued demand for compact living options that fit budget-conscious segments (Lamudi Philippines, 2024).

While it is still possible to find units in Makati or BGC under ₱20,000, these tend to be older or smaller, often around or below 20 sqm. The increase in younger, transient professionals moving into these districts contributes to rising prices and limited availability at this tier, putting pressure on affordable housing stock (Asian Development Bank, 2024).

In this price range, renters can usually find compact studios in practical mid-range developments across Manila. Examples of buildings where ₱20,000 units often appear include Avida Towers Prime Taft, Vista Taft Residences and One Richville Place. These properties typically offer basic amenities and walkable locations, making them ideal for students and young professionals starting out in the city.

What ₱30,000 Rent Gets You in Manila

Renters with a ₱30,000 budget begin accessing more modern, design-oriented condominium units in highly walkable business districts. Studios and one-bedroom units in this price range, typically between 26 and 32 square meters, are often fully furnished and include access to upgraded amenities such as coworking lounges, landscaped pool areas, and larger fitness facilities. This price bracket has become extremely competitive due to the growing hybrid workforce and the rising number of expatriates who choose Manila as a regional base thanks to its comparatively lower cost of living (Numbeo, 2024).

Developments in Makati, BGC, Ortigas and Manila Bay actively promote lifestyle-centered residential living, appealing to renters who value proximity to cafés, gyms, transport terminals and malls. Market analyses show that rental values in these areas have stabilized at mid-to-upper price levels due to consistent occupancy and high rental absorption among professionals returning to onsite or hybrid work setups (Knight Frank, 2024).

At around ₱30,000 per month, renters gain access to more modern and better-furnished units in key business districts. Buildings such as SM Jazz Residences, The Linear Makati and Lerato Tower often have listings within this bracket. These developments usually offer improved amenities, attractive interiors, and convenient access to offices, malls, and transport hubs.

What ₱40,000 Rent Gets You in Manila

Renters entering the ₱40,000 tier begin experiencing a transition toward upscale urban living. Units in this range typically include larger one-bedroom properties ranging from 35 to 45 square meters in prime developments located in Rockwell, central Makati, BGC, Ortigas and the Manila Bay corridor. Buildings in this segment offer hotel-style amenities, dedicated concierge services, elegant lobbies and high-quality building management. These developments follow global trends where residential real estate integrates luxury features to attract long-term expatriates and upper-income professionals seeking an elevated living experience (JLL Philippines, 2024).

Families also begin considering this price level due to the added space and child-friendly amenities, such as larger pools, indoor play areas, and better security systems. Research on Metro Manila's residential trends shows that renters in this segment prioritize quiet environments, interior design and proximity to premium schools and workplaces (Santos Knight Frank, 2024).

This budget opens the door to larger and more stylish units in upscale residential towers. Properties like Proscenium Residences in Rockwell, Jazz Residences (for larger layouts) and Kroma Tower frequently have listings in the ₱40,000 range. These developments are known for their refined amenities, strong security and overall elevated living experience.

What ₱50,000 Rent Gets You in Manila

At ₱50,000 per month, renters enter Manila's premium residential market. Units within this bracket include spacious one-bedroom or two-bedroom options between 45 and 60+ square meters in high-end developments. Rockwell Center, top towers in BGC, luxury Makati residences and several upscale Manila Bay properties dominate this tier. These buildings offer refined amenities including large resort-style pools, full-service gyms, private lounges, wellness centers, business facilities and professional 24/7 concierge support. Reports show that Manila's luxury residential market continues to gain momentum due to rising investor interest and increased demand from multinational executives relocating to the Philippines (Colliers Philippines, 2024).

Many renters in this segment prioritize security, convenience, and an international standard of comfort. Analysts note that lifestyle-driven developments in Manila now mirror premium residential offerings in cities like Kuala Lumpur or Bangkok, contributing to sustained rental growth in this bracket (CBRE Asia Pacific, 2024).

At ₱50,000 and above, renters enter the premium segment of Manila real estate. Buildings such as Kroma Tower, The Milano Residences and select larger units in Jazz Residences commonly appear at this price level. These properties offer high-end amenities, spacious layouts and a lifestyle comparable to international urban living standards.

Comparing All Four Price Levels

While each tier caters to a different type of renter, the differences across price levels clearly reflect Manila's rapidly maturing real estate landscape. The ₱20,000 bracket focuses on functionality; ₱30,000 balances comfort and convenience; ₱40,000 elevates lifestyle and space; and ₱50,000 represents premium urban living for those seeking top-tier environments. Rising demand across Manila’s core business districts has contributed to stable rental increases, particularly in developments with strong amenities and mixed-use integration. These patterns align with broader trends across Asia where urban renters seek quality-of-life improvements that go beyond basic housing needs (Reuters, 2024).

The market outlook for 2025 shows sustained growth, driven by infrastructure expansion, increased expatriate relocation, and continued recovery of the Philippine office and services sectors. Economic projections anticipate stable demand for both mid-market and upscale rental units due to employment recovery and foreign business expansion.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Rental Tier

Understanding what each budget range offers helps renters make informed decisions based on lifestyle, work preferences and long-term goals. Manila's rental market offers remarkable flexibility, from affordable studios to luxury urban residences, reflecting the city's continued modernization and appeal as a global destination. Whether you are entering the rental market for the first time or seeking an upgrade in amenities and quality of life, recognizing the differences between ₱20,000, ₱30,000, ₱40,000 and ₱50,000 helps you confidently navigate your options in 2025.

As Manila pushes further into modern urban development, renters gain access to more diverse and innovative residential communities designed to support their evolving needs. Choosing the right rental tier is ultimately about aligning your lifestyle with the changing rhythms of one of Southeast Asia's most dynamic real estate environments.