As a new couple starting a life together, you’ll find everything from compact studio apartment units and bedroom apartment layouts to spacious condominiums and houses in Metro Manila. In choosing the right new home, priorities often include proximity to work or university, access to amenities like a swimming pool or gym, and a budget that lets you save money.
Whether you lean toward renting a fully furnished apartment for a short stay or buying a condo in a secure residential area, Metro Manila’s neighborhoods cater to young professionals and small families alike.
Different Types of Housing to Consider: Home Buying vs. Renting
To rent or to buy? This is often the first question when it comes to housing options.
Renting
Renting can be budget-friendly upfront – you pay a security deposit and monthly rent, but avoid large down payments or long-term loans. This helps you save money on maintenance and stay flexible if work or studies may take you abroad.
Buying
On the other hand, home buying builds equity and means no surprise rent hikes. Recent data show residential property prices in Metro Manila are fairly stable, which means locking in a purchase now could save money in the long run.
In any case, couples should take into account all costs (mortgage, association dues, utilities) when budgeting and weigh them against the freedom of renting.
Exploring City and Housing Options in Metro Manila for New Couple Living in the City
Makati City and Taft: Vibrant Urban Living
Mid-Range and Premium Condos in Makati
Makati City is one of the country's premier business and lifestyle district, making it a popular choice for young couples. Its leafy streets (like Legazpi and Salcedo Villages) offer many mid-range and premium condo projects with top-notch amenities: swimming pools, gyms, function rooms, and 24/7 security. Imagine winding down on your balcony with a city view after a busy day.
Budget Rentals in Poblacion and Santa Cruz
Makati also has older apartment buildings and studio apartment rentals in quieter areas like Poblacion and Santa Cruz – often fully furnished to suit a couple moving in together.
These smaller units are an excellent choice for those who want to save money, as you can start with a cozy 1-bedroom or bedroom apartment on a higher or lower floor, and later upgrade to a larger unit if you need more space (for example, when planning for a child).
Two-Bedroom Apartments Below ₱100K
For example, even in Makati there are rental houses and apartments below ₱100,000/month. While many of these are semi-furnished or unfurnished, they often include two bedrooms for extra room.
Walking distance from hip cafes and restaurants, such places allow young professionals to enjoy city life – jogging around the Ayala Triangle or dining at Greenbelt – without straining the budget. On the upside, buying a condo here can be wise long-term: Makati’s high-rise condos often hold their value, and banks have been lowering home loan rates to help buyers in late 2024.
Townhouse and House Options in Makati
By contrast, if you prefer the feel of a house or townhouse (with a little yard space and garage parking), Makati’s surroundings have options too.
Estates like Forbes Park and San Lorenzo Village have multi-bedroom houses, though these tend to be premium-priced. In Makati itself, smaller townhouse clusters can be found in Pio del Pilar or Dasmariñas, often affordable relative to bigger houses.
Vista Residences’ Taft Condo Example
These are set in quiet neighborhoods yet still close to city centers. For a glimpse of condo living in nearby Manila, one example is Vista Residences’ Vista Taft in Malate – a downtown Manila condo with swimming pool, gym, and function hall. It shows how Metro Manila developments aim to offer hotel-like facilities and security even in walkable urban districts.
Bonifacio Global City: Modern Urban Oasis
Lifestyle and Amenities in BGC
Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig is another prime location for newlyweds seeking modern comfort. BGC is known for sleek condominiums, wide sidewalks, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Almost every new condo here features amenities such as a rooftop swimming pool, fitness gyms, and parking.
Residents often enjoy a walking distance lifestyle: from most BGC condos, you can walk to shops, dining, and entertainment. For example, a rooftop pool with city views is a hallmark feature in many BGC buildings.
Outdoor Community Spaces for Couples
A rooftop pool in a modern condo, with city skyline view – an example of the amenities (swimming pool, lounge chairs, urban backdrop) that make BGC living appealing. The relaxed outdoor space offers new couples a place to unwind within their own community.
High-End Condos with Short Stay Lease Options
Housing in BGC tends to be mid- to high-end. A typical 1- or 2-bedroom condo here comes with high monthly rent or purchase price, but you get sturdy security systems and convenience, plus proximity to major offices (Globe, Google, fintech firms) and the upscale shops of The Fort Strip or SM Aura.
Many buildings offer fully furnished units on short-term lease, so couples and expatriates can do a short stay without moving furniture.
Studio Apartment: Lower-Priced Alternatives Nearby
If budget is a concern, some older BGC condos or nearby Taguig villages offer smaller studio apartments or one-bedroom units at slightly lower rates. Still, BGC is generally considered premium, known for luxury living.
Its residents (often young professionals and small families) enjoy safe streets and a vibrant lifestyle, and even if BGC rents climbed by about 8% recently, many new couples choose it for the convenience and prestige.
Quezon City: Spacious and Convenient
Affordable Condos and Townhouses in QC
Quezon City is Metro Manila’s largest city and offers a wide spectrum of options. It’s a top choice for affordable condos and townhouses, especially for those who need more space or family-friendly environments. Neighborhoods like New Manila, Cubao, or Diliman have condominium projects at moderate prices.
2- to 3-Bedroom Units with Facilities
Many units here come with balconies and multiple bedrooms (sometimes two or three), appealing to couples who want room to grow. For example, young families in QC can find 2-bedroom apartments that include perks like underground parking and clubhouse facilities for a fraction of Makati’s cost.
Purchasing in QC can also be economical: despite a national uptick in home prices, NCR prices were nearly flat in late 2024, meaning deals can still be found.
Katipunan Area: Condo Living Near Universities
Metro Manila’s university belt is largely in QC. Areas like Katipunan (near Ateneo and Miriam College) are popular for condo living, with modern mid-rise developments offering full facilities (swimming pool, function halls, basketball courts) aimed at students and staff.
For example, Vista Pointe Katipunan by Vista Residences is a pre-selling condo near Loyola Heights that shows how developers are targeting the academic crowd. Its one- and two-bedroom units come fully outfitted for young people in school or starting jobs.
Even if you aren’t a student, living near Katipunan means easy access to malls like UP Town Center and a lively dining scene.
Budget-Friendly Options in Commonwealth and Fairview
Other QC areas like Commonwealth and Fairview have numerous condo projects, often with ready and pre-selling units. These are typically more budget-friendly and located a short drive from transportation hubs on EDSA or Commonwealth Avenue. Homes here often include community features – playgrounds, mini-theaters, and sometimes a swimming pool – making them attractive for small families.
QC Subdivisions with Townhouses and Detached Homes
If you’re interested in a house rather than a condo, QC also has subdivisions (e.g. in Barangays Mariana, Blue Ridge) with townhouses or detached homes. These tend to be more spacious and often come with garden space and multiple bathrooms, giving couples looking ahead a feeling of future stability.
Plus, QC’s central location means easy travel to other parts of Metro Manila: a short drive or commute can bring you to shopping centers like Trinoma or Commonwealth, or cultural spots like Quezon Memorial Circle.
What Every Couple Should Check Before Moving In
1. Prioritise Walkability and Nearby Conveniences
When touring potential homes, consider location details: Is it within walking distance of public transit (MRT, LRT, or buses) and major thoroughfares? Are there grocery shops, cafés, or restaurants nearby? Access to retail, dining and even "stay-cation" hotels like Kingsford Hotel Manila is often a big plus.
2. Balance Vibe with Access
Other couples might prefer a quieter suburban vibe; in that case, look for units in quieter residential areas or adjacent towns like Mandaluyong’s Ortigas-Pioneer area or Pasig’s Ortigas Center, which still have plenty of restaurants and quick highway access.
Safety and security are paramount, so gated communities or condos with strict guard patrols offer peace of mind.
3. Consider Fully Furnished Options for Flexibility
Many renters prefer fully furnished units for convenience. This means furniture, appliances, and even linens are provided, so you can move in quickly without extra costs. Fully furnished places often allow short-term stays, which is helpful if you haven’t decided where to buy yet.
4. A Manila Serviced Apartment for Short-Term Comfort
Likewise, serviced residences (essentially “hotel-apartments”) in Manila offer a blend of hotel facility and condo living; these are popular for temporary housing. In a Manila serviced apartment or condo-hotel in Ermita or Pasay, enjoying housekeeping and utilities included, until they choose a new home of their own.
5. Look Into Financing Deals and Government Programs
Search and inquire about financing options: in 2024 some banks in the Philippines lowered their interest rates for home loans, aiming to attract buyers. Government housing programs (like Pag-IBIG) also make buying more accessible for qualified couples.
6. Visit the Property at Different Times
Before signing that contract for your new home—whether buying or renting—make it a point to visit the site more than once, at different times of the day and week. A midday visit might show a quiet, peaceful street, but come rush hour, the traffic or noise levels could be a dealbreaker.
Morning visits reveal natural lighting, while evening ones expose security issues or poor lighting. Weekends and weekdays can feel like two different worlds in some neighborhoods.
A Closer Look: Interior Features That Matter for Couples
While location and pricing often get top billing, what’s inside your chosen unit can make or break the living experience for a new couple. Open-plan layouts are ideal for couples just learning to share space, as they make even modest apartment units feel more breathable and inclusive.
Look for living areas that flow into compact kitchens and dining spaces. A built-in balcony or corner window can enhance natural lighting, which improves overall mood and energy.
Flooring is another underappreciated factor. Vinyl or laminate floor materials are easier to clean and maintain—a practical win for busy professionals. For couples planning to host friends or family, dual bathrooms and ample seating areas are helpful, especially in two bedroom apartments or corner units.
Storage solutions also make a difference. Built-in wardrobes, overhead kitchen cabinets, and modular furniture can maximise limited space while keeping the home uncluttered. Properties that come fully furnished often integrate these smart solutions already, which means one less thing to worry about when setting up a new home.
If you’re planning to start a family, consider how your chosen unit can evolve with your needs. Is there more space to add a crib or convert a bedroom into a nursery or home office?
The right unit should feel adaptable, not just appealing for the moment. These practical touches ensure that your first home in the city not only fits your lifestyle today but grows with you over time.
The Role of Community in Long-Term Living
Beyond floor plans and finishes, the community surrounding your home plays a big role in shaping daily experiences. For newlyweds, living near people in similar life stages can offer emotional and practical support. Neighborhoods that host regular events or maintain active homeowner associations foster a sense of connection—a quality often overlooked when choosing a property.
Look for developments that offer shared recreational facilities or communal gardens, where interactions happen organically. Whether it's chatting with neighbors while walking the dog or attending monthly meet-ups in the function rooms, these shared moments enrich the sense of belonging. For couples starting fresh in a big city, this type of environment can make your new place feel like home faster.
In newer developments, especially in high-density residential areas, social infrastructure is often part of the master plan. Some communities now feature co-working lounges, daycare facilities, or even art spaces integrated within the complex.
For couples working remotely or planning for children, these extras can add real value and convenience without additional pay. It’s not just about the unit you choose—it’s about the life that unit makes possible.
Conclusion
Whether you choose a studio apartment for now or step into a two-bedroom condo with a bay view, Metro Manila’s options ensure there’s something for every new couple. By leveraging Metro Manila’s rich mix of housing types – from cozier two-bedroom apartments to luxury condos – you can find an excellent choice that fits your lifestyle.
The journey from wedding to settling in may have many steps (and finances to account for), but with the right choice of location and type of dwelling, the city becomes your ally in building a future together. Metro Manila offers these different types of living spaces, ensuring that, as residents, you will find a place where family life can thrive.
