What is an Average salary of a caregiver living in Philippines? In Filipino homes, hospitals, or abroad via virtual care, caregivers do more than offer physical support, they carry emotional weight, provide comfort, and often become a part of the family. In the Philippines, caregivers are often the quiet heroes behind closed doors, rising early, attending to the needs of others, and pouring patience into every task they perform. From bathing the elderly to offering emotional comfort to a sick patient, their work is more than just physical labor, it’s an act of daily devotion.
But while their impact is undeniable, one question often lingers in the minds of those considering the profession or hiring one which is How much does a caregiver actually earn in the Philippines?
This article unwraps the real figures, beyond assumptions and guesses, and dives deep into what caregivers take home each month. Whether you’re planning a career in caregiving or simply curious about what keeps this essential workforce going, what follows will give you a clearer view plainspoken, practical, and purposefully written for you.
But what does this selfless role fetch in terms of pay in the Philippines? Let’s break it down clearly, and creatively.
Who Exactly is a Caregiver?
A caregiver, simply put, is someone trained to assist people who can’t fully care for themselves. This includes the elderly, people with disabilities, recovering patients, or even children with special needs. While some work in private homes, others find employment in clinics, retirement homes, or wellness centers.
So, What’s the Pay Like in Philippines?
Caregiving in the Philippines is a growing profession, and pay varies based on several factors. But let’s zoom into the average salary to give you a realistic picture:
1. Entry-level caregivers (with little or no experience): Typically earn around ₱8,000 to ₱12,000 per month.
2. Mid-level caregivers (with 1–3 years experience or basic training certifications): Can expect to earn between ₱13,000 and ₱18,000 monthly.
3. Experienced or certified caregivers (especially those trained in NCII Caregiving under TESDA): Usually command ₱20,000 to ₱30,000 per month, especially if they work with private clients or overseas employers based locally.
4. Live-in caregivers (those who stay in the patient’s home): May receive slightly lower cash pay, ranging from ₱10,000 to ₱18,000, but are often provided free accommodation, meals, and transportation, which reduces their living costs significantly.
READALSO: Remote Jobs in Philippines
What Affects a Caregiver’s Salary in Philippines?
Several factors shape how much a caregiver earns in the Philippines:
1. Location: Caregivers in Metro Manila or Cebu typically earn more than those in rural provinces due to higher living costs and demand.
2. Work hours: Those who work extended hours or overnight shifts usually receive added compensation.
3. Client needs: Caring for patients with dementia, paralysis, or chronic illness may attract higher pay due to the complexity of the care involved.
4. Skills and certification: Those with formal training (like TESDA’s NCII Caregiving Certificate) are more likely to be hired and paid better.
Is It Enough to Live Comfortably?
Truth be told, caregiving salaries in the Philippines aren’t always glamorous. Many caregivers take the job out of passion, patience, and purpose not purely for the paycheck. But when managed wisely especially for live-in caregivers with low expenses the income can support basic needs and even small savings.
Many also use it as a stepping stone to overseas caregiving jobs, where pay is significantly higher. In fact, some agencies require local experience before helping caregivers land roles in countries like Japan, Canada, or the UAE.
How to Increase Your Income as a Caregiver in the Philippines
Being a caregiver in the Philippines isn’t just a job, it’s heart work. Every day, you give your time, your strength, and your patience to those who need it most. But when the bills pile up and the paycheck feels a little too light, it’s only natural to ask is there a way to earn more while still doing what I love?
The answer is yes and not by overworking yourself, but by working smarter. Here’s a guide to help Filipino caregivers boost their income without losing their balance.
1. Get Certified because It Changes Everything: If you’re working without formal credentials, you’re leaving money on the table. Earning a TESDA NC II Caregiving Certificate is like putting a badge on your skills. It shows clients and employers that you’re trained, capable, and professional. This is important because certified caregivers are more likely to be hired, trusted, and paid better especially for private clients or jobs abroad.
2. Explore Private Client Opportunities: Government and hospital jobs are stable, yes, but private caregiving gigs often pay more. Many families prefer to hire caregivers directly and are willing to pay premium rates for personalized attention. Always, build a reputation through word of mouth. A good testimonial from one family can lead to three new clients.
3. Learn a Niche Skill: Not all caregiving is the same. If you can handle patients with Alzheimer’s, operate medical equipment, or manage special diets, you’re more than a caregiver, you’re a specialist. Specialized caregivers earn more because they offer what few others can. Consider learning:
- Basic physical therapy techniques
- Pediatric or geriatric care
- Post-surgery recovery care
You can find free or low-cost training online or through TESDA.
4. Offer Extra Services (And Charge for Them): Many caregivers naturally do more than their job description but forget to attach value to those extras. Do you:
- Cook specialized meals?
- Keep medication logs?
- Manage grocery runs?
If so, consider creating service packages or custom pricing tiers that reflect your full contribution.
5. Take Night Shifts or Live-In Roles: If your schedule allows, night shifts and live-in caregiving roles typically pay more than day-only work. While it can be more demanding, it also means fewer expenses (like food or transport) and a higher take-home pay. Make sure the trade-off is worth it for your energy and well-being.
6. Go Digital: Offer Virtual Caregiving Support. Yes, it’s possible. Some families hire caregivers for online reminders, video-based wellness checks, or care coordination for relatives abroad. If you’re tech-savvy and have internet access, this is a side income that doesn’t require physical presence. Think of it as remote caregiving which is a growing field in today’s digital health world.
7. Build a Personal Brand: You don’t need to be a celebrity just visible and trusted. Use platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn**, or Care.com.ph to create a profile that showcases:
- Your experience
- Certifications
- Testimonials
- Photos of your daily work (with permission)
People trust what they see. A well-presented caregiver is more likely to get higher-paying jobs and referrals.
8. Consider Overseas Work (If You’re Ready): Many Filipino caregivers eventually take their skills abroad to Japan, Canada, the UK, or the Middle East where salaries are significantly higher. This is not a quick fix, but a long-term income leap. Make sure to:
- Gain at least a year of experience locally
- Secure proper certification
- Apply only through licensed POEA-approved agencies
Conclusion
Being a caregiver in the Philippines is not just a means of earning a living, it’s a calling built on compassion. While the salary may vary and sometimes fall short of ideal, the profession continues to gain respect and recognition. With the right skills, patience, and heart, caregivers are finding not only jobs but purpose, security, and even pathways abroad.
As a caregiver, your value isn’t just in how many hours you work it’s in the quality of care you provide. By investing in your skills, making yourself visible, and thinking like a professional, you can increase your income without losing what makes caregiving meaningful. Always remember your compassion has worth, your time has worth and with the right steps, your paycheck can reflect that.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the current average monthly salary of a caregiver in the Philippines?
The average caregiver in the Philippines earns between ₱12,000 to ₱18,000 per month, depending on location, experience, and job responsibilities.
2. Do live-in caregivers in the Philippines earn more than live-out caregivers?
Live-in caregivers often receive slightly lower base salaries (₱10,000 to ₱16,000) because accommodation and meals are typically provided. However, their total compensation value can be higher.
3. How does a caregiver’s location in the Philippines affect their salary?
Urban areas like Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao offer higher pay (up to ₱20,000/month), while caregivers in rural regions may earn closer to ₱10,000 to ₱13,000.
4. Are caregivers in Metro Manila paid more than those in rural areas?
Yes, caregivers in Metro Manila generally earn 20% to 40% more due to the higher cost of living and increased demand.
5. What is the hourly wage for part-time caregivers in the Philippines?
Part-time caregivers typically earn between ₱80 to ₱150 per hour, depending on their skills, location, and the complexity of care required.
6. Do caregivers receive overtime pay in the Philippines?
If employed formally under labor contracts, caregivers are entitled to overtime pay, usually 25% more than their standard hourly rate, as mandated by labor laws.
7. How much can an experienced caregiver expect to earn monthly in the Philippines?
Experienced caregivers (5+ years) can earn ₱18,000 to ₱25,000 or more monthly, especially if they have special training or certifications.
8. Is caregiver pay in the Philippines determined by years of experience?
Yes, experience plays a major role in salary. Employers often offer higher pay to caregivers with a track record of reliability and skill.
9. Do certified caregivers earn more than uncertified ones in the Philippines?
Definitely. Certified caregivers especially TESDA-accredited can earn ₱3,000 to ₱5,000 more per month than their uncertified counterparts.
10. What qualifications can boost a caregiver’s salary in the Philippines?
TESDA certification, CPR and First Aid training, dementia care knowledge, and fluency in English or a foreign language (like Japanese) can significantly increase earning potential.
11. Does working for an agency impact a caregiver’s salary in the Philippines?
Agency-employed caregivers often receive standardized but lower salaries due to service fees, though they may enjoy better job security and benefits.
12. How much do private employers typically pay Filipino caregivers?
Private employers usually pay between ₱15,000 to ₱22,000 per month, especially for live-in roles or if the caregiver has specialized training.
13. Do foreign employers in the Philippines offer higher caregiver wages?
Yes, foreign nationals hiring caregivers locally may offer ₱20,000 to ₱30,000+ monthly, depending on expectations and level of care required.
14. What benefits are typically included in a caregiver’s compensation package in the Philippines?
Benefits may include free lodging and meals, 13th-month pay, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG contributions, and sometimes paid leave.
15. Are caregivers in the Philippines entitled to holiday pay?
Yes. If employed under formal contracts, caregivers are entitled to holiday pay and rest day premiums as mandated by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
Related Post
- Average salary of a caregiver living in Vietnam
- Average salary of a caregiver in Japan
- Average salary of a caregiver living in Egypt
- Average Salary of a Caregiver in Mexico
- Average Salary of a Caregiver in Russia
- Average Salary of a caregiver in China
- Average Salary of a caregiver in India
- Average Salary of a Caregiver in Pakistan
- Average Salary of a Caregiver in Indonesia
- Average Salary of a Caregiver in Brazil
