A Future Resident’s Guide to Living in BGC
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- A Future Resident’s Guide to Living in BGC
Thinking of moving to Bonifacio Global City? BGC is an attractive location for many people with its modern amenities, upscale living, and business opportunities. However, the cost of living in BGC can be a significant factor in deciding whether this district is the right fit for you.
This guide aims to provide an overview of what to expect when living in BGC, helping you make an informed decision about your future home.
Photo by OJ Serrano on Unsplash
Key Takeaways
- Be clear why you are considering moving to BGC
- Understand the lifestyle and expenses associated with living in BGC
- Make an informed decision about your future home
Welcome to Bonifacio Global City: An Overview
Bonifacio Global City, commonly referred to as BGC, has transformed the landscape of Metro Manila with its modern infrastructure, high-rises, retail options, recreational parks, and vibrant community. It has come a long way from being a former military base and is now a shining example of what a modern, master-planned “Live-Work-Play” district could be. It inspires many to experience living and working here, turning BGC into one of Metro Manila’s most sought-after locations today.
Why move to BGC?
Its proximity to major business districts, entertainment centers, and educational institutions makes it an attractive location for both locals and expatriates. Yes, quality of life is better inside the BGC district. But why you or your family should move here is best decided after careful planning and goal setting.
If you work in or near BGC, that is an excellent reason to move. The time saved by not sitting in traffic gives you more time for family, recreation, education or personal pursuits.
Photo from Philippine Star website
Quality of Living. Shops, groceries, restaurants, and coffee places are all just a few blocks away. Small parks, outdoor seating and walking promenades invite you, your loved ones (and pets) to get out and explore. The surroundings are clean and well-maintained. There are art murals and commissioned sculptures all across the district. Check out our guide for Top 10 Things to Do in BGC for more ideas.
Security. Yes, BGC is a safe city. The streets are well-lighted, there is 24-hour CCTV monitoring, private security presence and many establishments are open all night. But crime is not zero so you still need to take common sense precautions especially in areas near the outskirts of the district or in busy areas. Generally, the closer you are to the center of the district, the safer it gets.
The Cost of Living in BGC: What to Expect
Is it ridiculously expensive to live in BGC? Espensive, yes. Ridiculous? Doesn’t have to be! Understanding the cost of living in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) is crucial for anyone considering a move.
Why BGC is Considered Expensive
BGC is considered expensive due to higher rental costs for housing, higher rental rates for businesses, premium pricing for dining and entertainment, and generally higher costs for daily items like groceries. The district is targeted towards a more affluent demographic and you will not run out of options what to spend money on here.
Suggested Monthly Budget (as % of Net Income)
First, let’s keep in mind what an ideal budget is so you can decide if the added expense is workable or not. The table below is a general financial planning recommendation on how much of your take-home pay is spent on major categories. This percentage distribution is mainly for singles or young couples with no kids. If with kids, you’ll need to take more expenses into account like school fees, doctor visits, higher grocery & entertainment costs, house helpers, etc.
| Category | Suggested % | Comments |
| Housing (Rent) | 25–30% | Aim for comfort and convenience, not luxury. If rent exceeds 30%, try to reduce elsewhere. |
| Groceries | 10–15% | Depends on cooking vs dining out. More home-cooked = more savings. |
| Utilities & Internet | 8–10% | Includes electricity, water, internet, and cellular plan. Note that water rates are higher in BGC. |
| Transportation | 5-8% | Should be lower if living and working in BGC. If you pay additional for monthly parking, that can be a significant expense |
| Savings & Investments | 15-20% | This includes emergency fund, retirement, and investing. If you have retirement plans at work, include those. Emergency funds are ideally 3-6 months worth of living expenses. |
| Dining Out & Entertainment | 5–10% | Social life is important too — just keep it mindful. |
| Health & Insurance | 5–8% | Includes health insurance, gym memberships, vitamins, etc. |
| Shopping & Personal Care | 3–6% | Clothes, grooming, skincare, salon visits — should stay reasonable. |
| Travel / Big Purchases Fund | 3–5% | Save monthly for vacations or gadgets rather than splurging. |
Minimum Recommended Net Salary
A monthly budget for living in BGC can vary significantly based on lifestyle choices. In general, you’ll need a minimum net salary (or take home pay) of Php80,000 – Php100,000/month to adequately cover your expenses. But our recommendation is to have over Php120,000/month available to have a more comfortable lifestyle and peace of mind to cover unexpected costs.
Again, be clear on why you are moving to BGC, what you are gaining by living here and what you are trading out for to make a more informed decision.
Rent and Utilities in BGC
How Much is Rent in BGC: Breakdown by Unit Type
Rental prices for condominiums vary widely based on factors such as unit size, parking slots and furnishings. While the cheapest rates are for bare units, it also means furnishings cost will come into play. And what to do with your furniture when you move out is a major consideration.
Rule of thumb for rental prices in BGC is Php1,000 per square meter but you can negotiate better rates for larger units and/or longer rental contracts. Typical rental ranges are:
| Unit Type | Average Rent (PHP) |
|---|---|
| Studio | 25,000 – 40,000 |
| 1-bedroom | 35,000 – 60,000 |
| 2-bedroom | 60,000 – 100,000 |
Ask the agent if monthly association dues are included in the rental fee or not. This is usually based on size of the unit, costing between Php80- Php100 per square meter.
In general, you will be hard-pressed to find any studios at or below Php25,000/month inside BGC. If you have no choice but to work in the district on a limited budget, look at areas just outside of BGC for cheaper condominiums or apartments. Stamford Executive Residences in Upper McKinley Hill, Ridgewood Towers across C-5 and McKinley Hill, the City Flats on 5th Avenue corner 34th street, and apartments near Kalayaan Ave. in Makati are popular options.
Another option is to share rent with a roommate. Just make sure the lease agreement allows for that before signing.
Utility Costs in BGC
Water rates in BGC are indeed more expensive and frequently surprise new residents. Bonifacio Water Corporation is the local water utility and claim they pre-filter the water so it is drinkable from the tap. Water pressure is also very strong in the units so any leaks and unnecessary use of water can add up quickly. Using a washing machine in the unit drives up water bills but this should be offset against laundry charges and the convenience of getting laundry done anytime.
Electricity is provided by the Manila Electric Company (or Meralco), so the rates are about the same as in the rest of Metro Manila. However, due to a big gas explosion in BGC a few years ago, most BGC properties now require electric ranges or induction cookers so electricity costs are higher. For a two-person household that uses air-conditioning, electricity bill could easily be over Php8,000 per month. Budget Php10,000 for summer months.
Check with your target property how they compute and bill for utilities to be sure. There are properties that charge higher than standard utility rates.
Average utility costs:
- Electricity: PHP 5,000 – PHP 10,000 per month for a typical 1-bedroom unit.
- Water: PHP 1,000 – PHP 3,000 per month.
- Internet and cable: PHP 2,000 – PHP 3,000 per month.
Daily Expenses: Food, Groceries, and Services
Understanding the cost of living in BGC involves more than just rent; it includes daily expenses like food and groceries. For residents and expats alike, navigating these costs is crucial for maintaining a comfortable lifestyle in this vibrant city.
Grocery Shopping: No Wet Markets
Grocery shopping is a significant part of daily expenses. In BGC, residents can choose from a variety of stores ranging from high-end supermarkets like Rustans Marketplace, Landmark and SM Aura to options like Market! Market!. Talk to staff to find out when they replenish stock so you can always get the freshest produce. Landers also has a surprisingly good selection of meats you can check out.
Some residents opt to go outside BGC for their groceries like along Kalayaan Ave. or in Guadalupe Market but you have to weigh the inconvenience of the trip versus the potential savings. There are no wet markets inside BGC.
Tip: Do a typical grocery run in BGC before deciding to move here, to have a better idea on prices. Look for all your favorites (or equivalents) for the most informed insight.
Dining Out Expenses: From Street Food to Fine Dining
Dining out is a popular activity in BGC, with options ranging from affordable street food to high-end fine dining restaurants. A meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around PHP 400-600 per person, while fine dining experiences can exceed PHP 1,000 per person.
For those who frequently dine out, budgeting an additional PHP 3,000 to PHP 6,000 per month is reasonable, depending on the frequency and choice of dining establishments. Be warned, this is the easiest category to exceed in your budget due to the convenience and proximity of great options in BGC so watch this carefully.
Personal and Home Maintenance Costs
Personal services, including salon services and household maintenance, also contribute to daily expenses. For example, a salon visit for a haircut can range from PHP 500 to PHP 2,000. Check out our guide for 9 Must Try Hair Salons in BGC for options.
Personal hygiene and maintenance supplies also fall here. Check out a nearby Watsons or similar store to estimate what you would need to budget per month.
Add laundry services costs, cleaning fees for clothes and shoes, etc.
If you need condo cleaning or ironing services, these can cost between Php 800 – Php 1,100 per visit by an outside provider like Ate Girl or Busy Bee. You can opt to do it every other week or however long in between, depending on your personal preferences.
Aircon cleaning is an important maintenance item to help keep you cool and your electricity bills lower. Budget Php1,000 for cleaning fee per aircon unit every 3-4 months by an aircon tech like JACEG Aircon Services.
Transportation Costs
Getting around Bonifacio Global City is convenient, thanks to its master-planned layout. Residents and visitors can choose from a variety of options, each with its own costs and benefits.
Public Transportation Within and Around BGC
Walking or short commute to work inside BGC is the best scenario. Public transportation inside BGC is limited to the BGC Bus; no jeepneys or tricycles are allowed here. See for more options how to Get Around in BGC.
Car Ownership and Parking Expenses
For those who prefer to drive, car ownership is a viable option. However, it’s essential to consider the costs of parking. Check with your target rental property if parking is included and if not, check with with the building administration if you can rent parking slots from them or other residents.
Tip: If parking is important, don’t sign any rental agreements until you are sure you can secure parking first. It can prove difficult to get and other buildings may not rent parking slots to non-residents.
| Parking Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Hourly Parking | ₱60-₱100 |
| Monthly Parking | ₱4,500 – P7,000 |
Ride-Sharing and Taxi Services
Ride-sharing services like Grab are widely available in BGC, offering a convenient way to get around. Taxis are also an option, although less prevalent. The cost of a ride-sharing service can vary depending on traffic, but a typical fare just going around BGC is around ₱100-₱200.
Walking and Cycling in BGC
BGC is designed to be pedestrian-friendly, with wide sidewalks and bike lanes. Walking and cycling are great ways to explore the area, with many rental services available for bicycles.
Personal mobility devices like an e-scooter or electric bike are also great options. Check out Moovr for locations, rules and rates.
Lifestyle and Amenities in BGC
Bonifacio Global City is a thriving community that offers a wide range of lifestyle and amenities.
Shopping Centers and Retail Options
BGC is home to some of the most upscale shopping centers in Metro Manila, including Bonifacio High Street and Uptown. These shopping districts offer a mix of local and international brands, dining options, and entertainment facilities, making them ideal for both shopping enthusiasts and families.
Include in this budget category your clothing costs and what you typically spend on a mall shopping trip on average.
Fitness and Recreation Facilities
For those who prioritize fitness and wellness, BGC offers numerous gyms, fitness studios, and sports facilities. Many of these are located within residential complexes or inside malls, providing convenient access to workout routines and recreational activities.
A gym membership can cost between PHP 2,000 to PHP 5,000 per month. If you have a small gym inside your condominium or at work, consider if you still need the added expense of an outside gym membership even if the amenities are better.
Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy the various parks and green spaces within BGC, such as the Track 30th and Greenway Park. This is a popular fitness option and there are many running clubs that actively welcome new joiners.Â
Healthcare Services and Wellness Centers
If you do not have access to health insurance at work, make sure you allot funds for health insurance in your monthly or annual budget. BGC is equipped with modern healthcare facilities, including hospitals, diagnostic labs, and specialized clinics. Aside from St. Luke’s Hospital, many of the top hospitals have satellite clinics operating inside BGC.Â
Kwik Insure is a great marketplace to find affordable health, vehicle and accident insurance products. They have a variety of package options and providers to suit your coverage needs and budgets.
In addition to traditional healthcare, BGC also features various wellness centers that offer services such as spa treatments, massage therapy, and holistic wellness programs, promoting overall well-being among residents. Walk around your target rental property and look around at the 1st and 2nd floor windows of nearby buildings to spot hidden gems like spas or salons.
Entertainment and Nightlife
BGC’s entertainment scene is vibrant, with a range of options for dining, nightlife, and leisure activities. From upscale restaurants and bars to cinemas and live music venues, there’s something for everyone in BGC. Many areas like in Bonifacio High Street, Burgos Circle and Uptown transform into lively hubs after 9:00pm. Budget based on how often you go out and a typical night-out spend.
Coworking Spaces and Business Centers
For those working mostly from home, it’s good to have a change of scenery once in a while. Coworking spaces and business centers in BGC support digital nomads, startups and established businesses alike. These facilities offer flexible working arrangements, networking opportunities, and necessary infrastructure. Costs range from Php600-Php1,200 per day on average.
Conclusion: Is BGC Right for You?
Living in BGC Taguig means being part of a vibrant community with access to top-notch amenities, services, and opportunities. But it does come at a cost and it’s essential to weigh these carefully with the benefits, to decide what matters most to you.
Ultimately, BGC is an excellent choice for those who value a modern, cosmopolitan lifestyle and are willing to invest in it. We hope this guide helps you make an informed decision about whether this district is the perfect spot for you to call home.