Manila vs. Chicago: Detailed 2026 Comparison

# Manila vs. Chicago: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

# Quality of Life

Climate Index

61.2 / 66.1

Cost of Living Index

35.3 / 76

Manila   Chicago

Manila scores significantly lower on most quality-of-life metrics compared to Chicago. The Safety Index in Manila (36.47) is considerably lower than Chicago's (75.99), reflecting higher crime rates. Manila's Health Care Index (64.87) is slightly lower than Chicago's (75.99), though both cities face challenges in healthcare accessibility. The Pollution Index in Manila (50.56) is higher than Chicago's (36.47), indicating worse air quality. While Manila has a higher Quality of Life Index (161.92) than some global standards, it still lags behind Chicago's (161.92) in key areas like safety and environmental health.

# Cost of Living

Health Care Index

62.5 / 64.9

Pollution Index

89.5 / 50.6

Manila   Chicago

Chicago is generally more expensive than Manila, except for groceries and transportation. Groceries: Manila is slightly cheaper. Transportation: Manila is much less expensive (e.g., a Manila public transport pass costs $1.00 vs. $2.50 in Chicago). Restaurants: A mid-range meal for two costs $50.00 in Manila vs. $100.00 in Chicago. Utilities: Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment cost $100.00/month in Manila vs. $166.32 in Chicago. Housing: While Chicago's rent is higher, property prices in desirable areas like Oak Park ($3803.88/m²) are still more affordable than comparable areas in Manila.

# Real Estate

Property Price to Income Ratio

37.3 / 3.2

Purchasing Power Index

37.4 / 155.2

Manila   Chicago

Property Prices: Chicago's property prices are higher than Manila's, but the Property Price to Income Ratio is lower in Chicago (3.2) than in Manila (3.2). Salaries: Average monthly net salaries in Chicago ($4,979.33) are significantly higher than in Manila ($2,479.33). However, the cost of living in Chicago is also much higher, requiring careful budgeting to maintain financial stability.

# Conclusion

Quality of Life Index

52.2 / 161.9

Safety Index

35.4 / 34.5

Manila   Chicago

Manila offers a lower cost of living and higher purchasing power, but at the expense of safety, healthcare, and environmental quality. Chicago provides a higher quality of life and better healthcare but comes with significantly higher costs. The choice between the two cities depends on individual priorities—whether one prioritizes financial stability and affordability or a higher quality of life and safety.

Traffic Commute Time Index

50.7 / 41.7

Manila   Chicago