Is ₱22k rent in BGC reasonable on a ₱64k/month income (with bonuses), or should I keep my cheap roommate setup?
Hi everyone, need some practical advice.
I work in BGC and currently share a room with a roommate.
Current setup (with roommate):
Rent share: ₱10,500
Electricity: ₱800
Water: ₱400
Internet: ₱1,000
Total housing: ₱12,700
Issue: I don’t like the living situation anymore. I don’t have much privacy and my roommate isn’t comfortable with my boyfriend visiting freely.
I found a solo unit in BGC for ₱22,000.
I’ve also checked other properties in
South Cembo and
Mandaluyong
where rent is much cheaper, but I’m really struggling to let go of the convenience of my current area since my condo is literally walking distance from my office (tatawid lang).
My income:
₱27,300 every 12th
₱36,700 every 28th
Total: ₱64,000/month
I also receive:
13th, 14th, 15th month pay
Performance bonus around 1–2 months salary
Monthly expenses:
School: ₱15,000
Family support: ₱3,000
Meds: ₱1,200
Therapy: ₱2,000
Gym: ₱1,800
Food: ~₱10,000
Utilities (solo estimate): ~₱4,000
Internet: ₱1,000
With the roommate, I can save ~₱20k/month.
If I go solo at ₱22k rent, savings drop to around ~₱4k/month.
I really value privacy, freedom, and peace of mind, but I’m worried if this is financially irresponsible given my current obligations.
Given my bonuses and extra months pay, is ₱22k rent in BGC a bad decision, or reasonable for quality of life?
Would appreciate honest thoughts. Thank you!