Iloilo vs. Wichita: 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 Wichita, USA, based on projected data for 2026. The analysis covers key factors such as housing, groceries, transportation, healthcare, safety, and income levels to help determine which city might better suit individual needs and priorities.

Housing in Iloilo is significantly more affordable compared to Wichita. The price per square meter for an apartment in Iloilo ranges from ₱150 (approximately $30 USD) in less central areas to ₱250 (approximately $50 USD) in more desirable locations. Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment averages ₱15,000–20,000 PHP (approximately $300–400 USD).

Wichita has notably higher housing costs. The average price per square meter for an apartment is $153.93 for central locations and $148.56 for areas outside the city center. Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment averages $1,264–1,609 USD, making housing one of the most expensive aspects of living in Wichita.

Iloilo offers significantly more affordable housing options, while Wichita’s housing market is among the more expensive in the region.

Groceries in Iloilo are inexpensive. A monthly budget for groceries can be as low as ₱8,000–10,000 PHP (approximately $160–200 USD). Basic items like rice, vegetables, and meat are readily available at low prices.

Daily groceries in Wichita are more costly. A family of four might spend $400–600 USD per month on groceries, depending on their lifestyle and dietary needs.

Iloilo provides a much lower cost for daily groceries and household essentials compared to Wichita.

Transportation costs in Iloilo are low. A monthly public transport pass costs approximately ₱200–300 PHP (approximately $4–6 USD). Utilities for an 85m² apartment (including electricity, heating, cooling, and garbage) average ₱1,500–2,000 PHP (approximately $30–40 USD).

Transportation and utility costs in Wichita are higher. A monthly public transport pass averages $55 USD, and utilities for an 85m² apartment can reach $273 USD. Fuel costs are also higher, with gasoline priced at $0.77 USD per liter.

While transportation and utilities are more expensive in Wichita, the difference is not as drastic as in housing and groceries.

Healthcare in Iloilo is affordable, with basic check-ups and treatments costing ₱500–1,000 PHP (approximately $10–20 USD). The safety index in Iloilo is 50.02, indicating moderate safety levels.

Healthcare costs in Wichita are higher, with basic services ranging from $50–100 USD. The safety index is 50.02, similar to Iloilo, but Wichita generally has better emergency services and healthcare infrastructure.

Wichita offers better healthcare infrastructure and services, but the cost is significantly higher. Safety levels are comparable between the two cities.

The average monthly net salary in Iloilo is ₱20,000–25,000 PHP (approximately $400–500 USD). Job opportunities are limited, particularly in high-income sectors.

The average monthly net salary in Wichita is $3,544 USD, nearly 10 times higher than in Iloilo. Wichita has a diverse economy with opportunities in manufacturing, healthcare, and technology.

Wichita offers significantly higher income potential, but this is offset by the city’s higher cost of living.

The choice between Iloilo and Wichita depends on individual priorities. Those prioritizing affordability and a lower cost of living may prefer Iloilo, while those seeking higher income and better infrastructure may find Wichita more suitable.