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

Iloilo presents a significantly more affordable lifestyle compared to Teresina, primarily due to lower basic expenses. Groceries, eating out, transport, utilities, and childcare costs are all substantially cheaper in Iloilo. For instance, daily bread is $0.53 less expensive, a mid-range restaurant meal for two is $3.34 cheaper, and childcare expenses are a hefty $496.93 lower on average monthly. This lower cost of living is reflected in the much lower average monthly net salary in Iloilo ($203.00) compared to Teresina ($417.20). Furthermore, Iloilo's GDP per capita is only $8,000, considerably lower than Teresina's $19,000, and its population growth rate is higher (1.96%) than Teresina's (0.61%), suggesting a less established economic environment.

The economic disparity translates directly into housing costs and affordability. While the price per square meter for an apartment in Iloilo's city center is $1,000.00, slightly lower than Teresina's $1,334.84, the financial burden of housing is actually higher in Iloilo. This is evident in the property price-to-income ratio, which stands at 20.00 in Iloilo versus 12.47 in Teresina. Although Teresina boasts a much higher mortgage interest rate (12.0%) compared to Iloilo's 6.0%, its higher income combined with lower absolute housing costs results in a less severe relative burden.

When considering quality of life, the cities show stark differences, particularly in safety and healthcare. Teresina scores considerably higher on the Safety Index (24.68 vs. 61.00) and the Health Care Index (62.78 vs. 76.00), suggesting advantages in these crucial areas. Conversely, Iloilo excels in commute times, with a much lower Traffic Commute Time Index (18.00 vs. 43.0). Iloilo also has significantly lower pollution levels, reflected in its higher Pollution Index (86.00 vs. 39.66). However, Teresina's overall Quality of Life Index (109.91) is vastly higher than Iloilo's (61.00), indicating a superior perceived standard of living despite the lower cost of living in Iloilo.

Teresina appears more favorable for investment and career prospects based on economic fundamentals. It has a higher GDP per capita ($19,000 vs. $8,000), a higher GDP growth rate (2.91% vs. 0.95%), and a lower population growth rate (0.61% vs. 1.96%), suggesting a more robust and stable economy. The higher average salary ($417.20 vs. $203.00) further supports potentially better career opportunities and earning potential. However, these advantages must be weighed against the significantly higher cost of living, particularly housing, and the much higher mortgage interest rate in Teresina.

In essence, the choice between Iloilo and Teresina boils down to prioritizing cost versus economic opportunity and quality of life. Iloilo offers substantially lower living expenses, but comes with a lower salary, potentially fewer high-paying jobs, and a less robust economic base. Teresina provides a higher income, stronger economic indicators, and better safety/healthcare metrics, contributing to a higher Quality of Life Index. However, this comes with significantly higher living costs, especially housing, and a much higher mortgage rate. The decision hinges on whether the benefits of Teresina's economic and perceived quality advantages justify the substantial increase in living expenses.