Cost of Living in Baguio for Students (2025 Guide)

Baguio City, known as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines,” is not only a tourist favorite but also one of the most popular study destinations in the country. Students from different parts of the Philippines—and even from abroad—come to Baguio for its high-quality universities, cool climate, and relatively affordable lifestyle. But how much does it actually cost to live here as a student in 2025? This guide provides a detailed breakdown of typical expenses, from housing and food to transportation and entertainment.

Overview of Student Life Costs in Baguio

Compared to Metro Manila or Cebu City, Baguio offers a more affordable lifestyle for students. Many find that their monthly budget stretches further thanks to lower rent, cheaper transportation, and accessible food options. However, costs can vary depending on your lifestyle, school location, and whether you live in a dormitory or private apartment.

On average, a student can live comfortably in Baguio on ₱15,000 to ₱25,000 per month, including rent, meals, utilities, and personal expenses. Let’s explore the details.

Accommodation Costs

Dormitories and Boarding Houses

Baguio is filled with boarding houses, dormitories, and apartment units catering specifically to students. The most common areas for student housing include:

• Legarda Road

• Bonifacio Street

• General Luna

• Magsaysay Avenue

• Aurora Hill

• Engineers Hill

• Bakakeng and Irisan (for cheaper options)

Here’s a general guide to accommodation costs per month:

Some dorms include free Wi-Fi, water, and electricity, while others charge separately. Always confirm what’s included in the rent before signing any agreement.

Food and Groceries

Eating Out

Baguio’s student-friendly food scene makes it easy to eat well on a budget. From small carinderias to trendy cafés, there’s something for every palate.

Students who cook their own meals often save more.

Grocery Costs

Monthly grocery expenses typically range between ₱3,000 to ₱6,000, depending on diet and habits. Common grocery spots include SM Baguio Supermarket, City Market, Maharlika Market, and smaller convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Mini Stop.

Transportation Costs

Transportation in Baguio is straightforward and inexpensive compared to other cities. Most students use jeepneys, which cover nearly all routes within the city.

Because many schools are located near central areas (Session Road, Bonifacio, or Legarda), some students even prefer walking to save money.

Utilities and Internet

If your accommodation doesn’t include utilities, you’ll need to budget separately for electricity, water, and Wi-Fi.

Some boarding houses provide free Wi-Fi, while others charge a small shared fee. Reliable internet is essential for online classes and study materials.

School-Related Expenses

Aside from tuition, students also need to prepare for various academic-related costs.

Public universities like UP Baguio and USeP (satellite campuses) charge lower tuition, while private institutions such as Saint Louis University (SLU) or University of Baguio (UB) have higher but still affordable rates.

Healthcare and Insurance

Baguio has many affordable healthcare options for students. Basic consultations in public clinics cost around ₱300–₱500, while private hospitals like SLU Hospital of the Sacred Heart or Baguio General Hospital charge higher but still reasonable rates.

Students should also consider:

• PhilHealth coverage – If your family contributes, you may already be covered.

• Student health insurance – Some universities include it in the tuition.

• Medicine and minor treatments – Around ₱500–₱1,000 per month for common needs.

Leisure and Lifestyle Costs

Living in Baguio isn’t just about studying—it’s also about enjoying its unique culture and cool weather. Students love exploring Session Road, Burnham Park, and Night Market during free time.

Entertainment in Baguio is relatively low-cost, and the city’s natural attractions make it easy to have fun without spending much.

Sample Monthly Budget (2025 Estimate)

This budget assumes a modest lifestyle in a shared dorm, cooking simple meals, and occasional leisure spending.

Tips to Save Money as a Student in Baguio

1. Live near your school – Walking distance saves money on transportation.

2. Cook at home – Groceries are cheaper than dining out.

3. Shop at Night Market – Affordable clothes, shoes, and accessories.

4. Use student discounts – For museums, cafes, and public transport.

5. Share utilities – Rent with classmates to split bills.

6. Use public Wi-Fi hotspots – Many are free in parks and malls.

7. Buy secondhand books – Available in university bookstores or Facebook groups.

Why Baguio is Ideal for Students on a Budget

Baguio offers the perfect balance between quality education and affordable living. The city’s universities—such as Saint Louis University (SLU), University of the Cordilleras (UC), University of Baguio (UB), and University of the Philippines Baguio (UPB)—provide excellent programs at a fraction of the cost compared to schools in Metro Manila. Add to that the cool weather, peaceful environment, and vibrant student community, and you have one of the most student-friendly cities in the Philippines.

Final Thoughts

In 2025, Baguio remains one of the best-value study destinations in the country. Whether you’re attending a top private university or a public institution, living here can be both enjoyable and affordable. With an average monthly budget of around ₱17,000–₱20,000, students can comfortably cover all basic needs while still having room for leisure and exploration.

If you’re planning to study in Baguio, start budgeting early, research accommodation options near your chosen school, and embrace the local lifestyle. You’ll find that the city’s charm, climate, and cost-efficiency make it an excellent choice for your student life in the Philippines.

FAQs

How much does a student need per month to live in Baguio in 2025?

Most students can live modestly on ₱15,000–₱25,000 per month, including rent, food, transport, utilities, and personal expenses. A frugal budget using a shared dorm, home-cooked meals, and jeepney commutes often lands around ₱17,000–₱20,000. Lifestyle, program requirements, and distance from campus can shift this range.

Is it cheaper to live in a dorm or rent an apartment?

Shared dorms and boarding houses are typically the most affordable, especially when utilities and Wi-Fi are included. Studio or one-bedroom apartments provide privacy and cooking space but cost more and usually require you to shoulder all utilities. First-year students often start in dorms, then move to apartments with classmates later.

Which areas are popular for student housing?

Legarda, Bonifacio, General Luna, and Magsaysay are favored for proximity to campuses and jeepney routes. Engineers Hill and Aurora Hill offer a balance of price and access. For lower rent, students sometimes look at Bakakeng and Irisan, factoring in commute time and nighttime safety.

What is a realistic food budget for one month?

Expect ₱3,000–₱6,000 depending on whether you cook or eat out. Carinderia meals keep daily costs low, while frequent café visits and delivery services increase spending. Buying produce at the city market and batch cooking helps keep costs predictable.

How much should I set aside for transportation?

Plan around ₱1,000–₱2,000 per month if you mostly ride jeepneys and occasionally take taxis during rain or late evenings. Living within walking distance of campus reduces costs substantially. Consider weather and topography—Baguio’s hills make some routes slower on foot.

What do utilities typically cost for students?

If not included in rent, budget ₱800–₱1,500 for electricity, ₱200–₱400 for water, and ₱1,000–₱1,500 for home internet. Power bills spike with cooking appliances and space heaters. Mobile data promos (₱300–₱600) can substitute for home internet if your dorm has reliable Wi-Fi.

Are there extra school-related costs beyond tuition?

Yes—books, photocopying, lab fees, uniforms, and ID replacement fees can add ₱1,500–₱3,000 per term. Many professors accept digital materials, which reduces printing costs. Joining organizations and competitions also has incidental expenses to consider.

How do I find safe, legitimate boarding houses?

Check listings posted by your university’s student affairs office, official Facebook groups, and trusted brokers. Always do an on-site visit, inspect locks and fire exits, ask about curfews, visitor rules, and CCTV, and request a written contract. Talk to current tenants about noise, internet reliability, and landlords’ responsiveness.

What should a student rental contract include?

Look for clear terms on monthly rent, deposits, inclusions (water, electricity, Wi-Fi), house rules, guest policy, quiet hours, and termination/extension clauses. Note penalties for late payments and any move-out cleaning or repainting fees. Keep copies of IDs, receipts, and a dated move-in photo inventory.

Is Baguio safe for students on a budget?

Baguio is generally student-friendly and walkable, but safety varies by street and time of day. Choose well-lit routes, avoid isolated shortcuts, and use registered taxis or ride-hailing late at night. Store valuables securely in shared spaces and know nearby police and barangay hotlines.

How can I lower my monthly expenses without sacrificing comfort?

Share rooms or split a larger apartment to reduce per-person rent. Meal prep on weekends, buy secondhand books, and use a refillable water jug instead of bottled water. Track recurring “small” expenses like milk tea and deliveries—they add up quickly.

What are practical grocery and market tips?

Shop at the public market for produce and bulk staples, then use supermarkets for pantry items that need brand consistency. Compare prices across stalls and buy in-season vegetables to cut costs. Bring reusable bags, and plan meals around what’s fresh and affordable that week.

How does the cool climate affect living costs?

The temperate weather reduces air-conditioning costs, but you may spend a bit on thicker bedding, jackets, and occasional space-heater use on cold nights. Drying laundry can take longer in rainy months; budget for laundromat services if your place lacks covered drying areas.

What entertainment and fitness options fit a student budget?

Parks, campus facilities, and scenic walks are free or low-cost. Gyms offer student rates, and many clubs provide access to sports without full memberships. For socializing, schedule café meetups during promos and explore the Night Market for affordable shopping.

Are there student discounts I should know about?

Carry your student ID to claim discounts at museums, some transit routes, and select cafés or bookstores. Watch campus bulletin boards and official pages for limited-time deals. Bundle internet and mobile promos where possible, and join group subscriptions responsibly.

What emergency and healthcare costs should I plan for?

Set aside a small monthly emergency fund for clinic visits, medicine, and unexpected travel. Check whether your tuition includes basic health insurance or if your family’s PhilHealth coverage applies. Save important contacts for nearby hospitals and 24/7 pharmacies.

How can I estimate a personal budget before moving?

Start with rent options near your campus, then add utilities (if not included), a realistic food plan, and your commute pattern. Include a cushion for school projects and occasional trips home. Track expenses during your first month and adjust categories to match actual habits.

What’s a sample monthly breakdown for 2025?

A common pattern for a shared dorm setup is: Rent ₱6,000; Food ₱5,000; Transport ₱1,500; Utilities/Wi-Fi ₱1,500; School supplies ₱1,000; Personal/contingency ₱2,000—totaling around ₱17,000–₱20,000. Tailor each line item to your specific location, course load, and lifestyle.

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