Moving to a new city can be daunting for many people. But for those looking to move to Alabang, it can be an attractive option because of its robust business center. Moreover, Alabang is a stone’s throw away from some of the best beaches in the country. The combination of those benefits can make the plan worthwhile, especially if you have a career waiting for you there anyway.
However, it would help if you stayed prepared because Alabang is not a cheap city to live in, especially for families. The average cost of living here is relatively high, and if you’re not used to it, you might find it challenging to adjust your budget. Of course, you’ll have to learn the pros and cons, but you can still manage your way financially. Here are some tips on how you can do just that.
Know Your Income and Expenses
Knowing how much you earn and estimating if it is possible to live in a business center cannot be overemphasized. It is essential for two reasons: first, you need to be aware of your limitations to make an informed decision about whether or not to move; second, it will help you create a realistic budget for your current situation.
Suppose you are moving to Alabang because of a job opportunity. In that case, it is vital to know your new salary and whether it is enough to cover your expenses. You last want to move and discover that you can’t afford to live there. So do your research in advance and get a good idea of your monthly expenses.
Here are a few expenses to consider for your tight budget:
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Rent:
The cost of living in Alabang is high, including rental prices. If you want to live close to the business center, be prepared to spend at least ₱20,000 on rent. But if you’re willing to live a bit further away, you can find cheaper options for around ₱10,000 per month.
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Utilities:
Alabang is a first-world city, meaning your utilities will be more expensive than other parts of the country. For instance, the average price of electricity is about ₱1 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), which is higher than the national average of ₱0.62 per kWh. Gas prices are also relatively high in Alabang, so it’s best to use natural gas sparingly.
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Water:
You will also need to factor in the cost of water. In Alabang, the average price of water is ₱50 per cubic meter (m3), which is higher than the national average of ₱33 per m3.
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Food:
Food is one of the most significant expenses you must consider when budgeting for your move to Alabang. If you’re used to eating out often, be prepared to cut back on that expense. A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant can cost around ₱700, which is quite expensive. Instead, opt for home-cooked meals or eat at cheaper restaurants.
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Transportation:
Another significant expense you will need to factor in is transportation. If you’re planning to use public transport, be aware that the prices can be pretty high. For instance, a one-way trip on the MRT costs ₱28, while a one-way trip on the LRT costs ₱20. If you’re using these services often, it’s best to budget for them in advance.
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Telecommunications:
Lastly, you will need to factor in the cost of telecommunications. The good news is that Alabang has some of the best coverage in the country, so you won’t have to worry about dropped calls or bad reception. However, data rates can be pretty high, so it’s best to use Wi-Fi whenever possible.
Prepare for Higher Costs
One of the best ways to prepare for the higher cost of living in Alabang is to start saving now. Suppose you can begin setting aside money each month to have a cushion when you move. Additionally, it would help if you looked for ways to reduce your current expenses. For instance, you can cook at home more often or carpool with friends to save on transportation costs.
Another way to prepare for the higher cost of living is to find a well-paying job. While this isn’t always possible, it’s worth looking into if you’re considering a move to Alabang. There are plenty of high-paying jobs in the city, so if you can land one of them, it will go a long way in helping you afford the cost of living.
Do your research and budget carefully before making a move to Alabang. Doing so can ensure you can afford the cost of living in this first-world city.
Find an Affordable Unit
If you’re planning to move to Alabang, finding an affordable condo close to your work is essential. The cost of living in Alabang is high, so you want to ensure you’re not spending too much on rent. Also, finding a condo close to your work is crucial, so you don’t have to spend a lot of time commuting.
There are plenty of affordable condos in Alabang that fit your budget. You need to do your research and find the right one for you. Your Alabang condo will dictate your budget and convenient life, making it essential to pick the right option. Additionally, talking to your boss about the possibility of working from home a few days a week is necessary. This step can help reduce your transportation costs and allow you to live in a more affordable area.
Conclusion
Moving to Alabang can be a great decision, but it’s essential to budget carefully for the move. The cost of living in Alabang is high, so you must ensure you can afford the long-term expense. Start by saving money each month and looking for ways to reduce your current expenses. Also, find an affordable condo close to your work to reduce transportation costs. Finally, talk to your boss about the possibility of working from home a few days a week. Doing all these things can help you budget for your move to Alabang and make the transition smoother.
