Iloilo vs. Georgetown: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

This report provides a detailed comparison of the cost of living and quality of life between Iloilo, Philippines, and Georgetown, Guyana. Iloilo has a population of approximately 574,000, while Georgetown has a population of about 235,000. Key factors analyzed include economic conditions, housing affordability, healthcare access, safety, commute times, pollution levels, and investment potential. The analysis is based on available data and aims to offer insights for individuals or entities considering relocation, investment, or business opportunities in these two distinct locations.

Economically, Georgetown demonstrates a higher average monthly net salary compared to Iloilo, with residents earning approximately $572.97 versus $2,400.00. However, the cost of living in Georgetown is significantly higher, particularly in housing and utilities. A 1-bedroom apartment in Georgetown's city center costs around $960.01 per month, while in Iloilo, the cost is approximately $150.00. This disparity makes housing in Georgetown considerably more expensive relative to income.

Transportation costs also differ significantly. A mid-size car in Georgetown costs around $24,749.32, compared to $1,200.00 in Iloilo. Public transportation is cheaper in Iloilo, with a one-way ticket costing $0.50 versus $0.57 in Georgetown. Utilities for an 85m² apartment are higher in Georgetown ($102.66) than in Iloilo ($75.00). These economic factors suggest that while Georgetown offers higher earning potential, the cost of living, particularly housing, may pose challenges for some residents.

Quality of life in Georgetown is rated higher overall, with a Quality of Life Index of 75.18 compared to Iloilo's 60. This difference may be attributed to factors such as climate, healthcare access, and infrastructure. Georgetown has a lower Property Price to Income Ratio (23.33) than Iloilo (120.00), indicating more affordable housing relative to income. However, safety is a concern in Georgetown, with a Safety Index of 28.52, significantly lower than Iloilo's 92. Healthcare access is also limited in Georgetown, with a Health Care Index of 39.46 versus Iloilo's 70.

Pollution levels are similar in both cities, with indices of 68.1 and 60, respectively. Commute times are shorter in Georgetown (27.67) compared to Iloilo (40). These factors combined suggest that Georgetown offers a higher quality of life in certain areas but faces challenges in safety and healthcare accessibility.

Georgetown shows stronger economic growth potential, with a GDP Growth Rate of 33.8% compared to Iloilo's 5.8%. The GDP per capita in Georgetown is $49,300, higher than Iloilo's $8,000. However, Iloilo has a lower unemployment rate (2.5%) than Georgetown (8.0%). Property prices in Georgetown are higher, with city-center prices at $3,570 per square meter versus $3,000 in Iloilo. These factors indicate that Georgetown may offer greater investment opportunities, particularly in real estate and business development, but with higher risks due to economic volatility.

Iloilo and Georgetown present distinct profiles for relocation and investment. Iloilo offers lower living costs and a higher Property Price to Income Ratio, making it more affordable for some residents. However, Georgetown boasts a higher quality of life index, stronger economic growth potential, and higher GDP per capita. The choice between the two depends on individual priorities, such as budget, career opportunities, and lifestyle preferences. For those seeking affordability and lower living costs, Iloilo may be preferable. For those prioritizing economic growth and a higher quality of life index, Georgetown presents a more attractive option despite its higher cost of living.