Apartments For Rent in Makati: Your Local-Friendly Guide

Makati is the kind of city that makes renting feel smart. Offices close. Coffee even closer. Parks, gyms, weekend markets—right downstairs. If you’re hunting for apartments for rent and you want convenience without the drama, this is your turf. Let’s keep it real, keep it local, and help you land a place you’ll actually enjoy coming home to.

📍 Why renters choose Makati

Simple: time. Living in Makati cuts commute time and boosts life time. You can walk to the office, slide into a park for fresh air, or meet friends for dinner without planning a mini road trip. It’s safe, well-lit, and loaded with 24/7 options. That mix is why young professionals, families, and expats keep picking the city.

Want a quick primer on the area’s roots and vibe? The Wikipedia snapshot on the city’s history and business core is a solid reference, while the official Makati City website posts updates on community services, advisories, and local programs.

🏡 Neighborhood snapshots (so you can pick faster)

🌿 Legazpi Village: parks + calm

Two pocket parks, weekend markets, and a calm vibe even on weekdays. If you like morning jogs and late-night ramen, this little pocket inside Makati hits the sweet spot.

🥐 Salcedo Village: busy by day, comfy by night

Corporate by weekday, neighborly by weekend. The famous Saturday market lives here. Many units have balconies and great light—perfect if you work from home a couple days a week.

🎨 Poblacion: character and nightlife

Bars, galleries, indie cafés—this part of Makati has soul. Expect compact studios, lofts, and boutique condos. It’s lively. If you’re a light sleeper, check building orientation and window quality before signing.

🧘 San Antonio & Bel-Air: practical and homey

Residential streets, solid mid-rise buildings, and easier parking. If you want quick access to the CBD without paying peak rates, these villages are clutch.

🏙️ Century City & Modern Corridors

Newer towers, full amenities, and mall access. Good for renters who like everything under one roof—co-working, groceries, gyms, even clinics.

🚆 Getting around: walkable, ride-ready

The core of Makati is built for walking. Elevated walkways link key streets. You’ve also got MRT-3 access via Ayala Avenue and Buendia stations, P2P buses, e-jeeps, and plenty of ride-hail options.

💡 What your rent can get you (real ranges)

Rates move with season and building, but here’s the street-level view from active listings and recent deals we’ve seen around Makati:

• ₱18,000–₱30,000: Efficient studios or compact 1BR units in older or mid-rise buildings. Great for solo living near Legazpi or San Antonio.
• ₱30,000–₱50,000: Newer studios and 1BRs with amenities (pool, gym, concierge). Often found in Century City, Salcedo, or edges of Rockwell.
• ₱50,000–₱90,000: Larger 1BR/2BR with parking, balconies, and better views; some premium towers in the heart of Makati.
• ₱90,000+: High-floor, designer units or big 2–3BR family-sized apartments with full amenities and top-tier security.

Pro tip: higher floors with unobstructed views cost more. If you don’t mind a lower floor, you can save a good chunk each month.

🧾 Requirements & fees (what landlords actually ask for)

• IDs and proof of income or employment (COE, payslips, or business docs).
• Security deposit (usually 2 months) and advance rent (1 month is typical).
• Post-dated checks or an agreed digital payment setup.
• Association dues: sometimes included, sometimes separate—ask early.
• Utilities: clarify who transfers and pays (tenant vs. owner), especially internet and water.

Check building house rules too—some towers in Makati limit pets, short-term stays, or renovations. Each admin office runs its own policy, so get those PDFs before you lock in.

📊 Market pulse without the fluff

Rents in Makati generally track demand from offices and retail. Hybrid work eased peak prices in some areas, but prime, walkable spots still hold firm. For city background, start with CBD references on Wikipedia, then combine that with local reports from outlets like Philippine Daily Inquirer on transport and business activity.

🛠️ Furnished vs. unfurnished (pick your battles)

• Furnished: Move-in ready. Faster setup, fewer purchases. Check appliance brands, mattress condition, and AC energy rating.
• Semi-furnished: Usually major appliances are included (fridge, AC, sometimes washer). You bring furniture. Best for long stays in Makati where you want your own style.
• Unfurnished: Cheapest monthly rate, but initial setup costs can surprise you. Factor in curtains, lights, and basic storage.

🧠 Real talk: tips that save time and pesos

1. Check water pressure in the kitchen and shower. Some towers have weak flow on high floors.
2. Ask about internet options by unit. Not just the building. Fiber availability varies even within the same address.
3. Visit at night. Noise is different after 10 PM, especially around Poblacion and major roads in Makati.
4. Read the fine print on deposits and early move-out. Get penalties in writing.
5. Verify parking terms. Many buildings charge separately or have waitlists.
6. Inspect appliances during the viewing and again at turnover. Note serial numbers in the inventory form.
7. Track your move-in date around elevator maintenance and building holidays. Saves headaches.

🧑‍💼 A quick story from the field

One client, an architect transferring to a Makati firm, insisted on a balcony for plants and a five-minute walk to the office. We short-listed four units in Legazpi and Salcedo. She almost picked the newest tower—gorgeous lobby—but the afternoon sun turned the living room into a toaster. We measured light, checked AC tonnage, and found a similar unit one block away with morning light instead. Same rent. Better comfort. Moral of the story: orientation matters more than lobby marble.

🧳 Short stays vs. long leases

Many buildings in Makati prefer 12 months, but 6-month leases pop up. For corporate housing, some owners consider shorter terms at higher rates. Always clarify cleaning, linens, and utility caps if it feels “hotel-like.” It avoids surprises and awkward chats with admin.

🔍 Ready to see actual listings?

We keep a live feed of rentals and new releases. Start here:

• See current homes for rent across prime districts
• Browse fresh property drops right now
• Scan honest market notes and neighborhood guides
• Thinking long-term? Compare units for sale today

📑 Paperwork checklist (print this)

• Government ID and proof of income/business.
• 1 month advance + 2 months deposit (typical in Makati).
• Inventory sheet with photos during turnover.
• Move-in permit and elevator booking from admin.
• Utility transfer forms (if needed) and internet application.

🧭 Viewings that actually work

Block a two-hour window and see units back-to-back in one cluster—say, three towers along Ayala Avenue or three in Salcedo. Wear shoes you can slip off; security sometimes asks. Take quick phone videos—one pan per room—so you can compare later. If a unit looks perfect but feels overpriced, ask for a breakdown: base rent, dues, parking, and inclusions. In Makati, owners expect smart questions. Ask them.

❓ Quick FAQ for busy renters

Can I bring pets?

Depends on the building. Some in Makati allow small pets with additional rules. Get it on paper, including cleaning fees.

Is street parking realistic?

Short answer: rare. Most residents rent a slot or pick buildings with guest parking options. If you own a car, prioritize towers with available slots before you sign.

What about safety?

Central Makati is well-patrolled with active building security and CCTV. Still, do the basics: check fire exits, ask about power backup, and test intercoms.

Any hidden costs?

Association dues, parking, and appliance maintenance get missed the most. Ask if aircon cleaning is tenant-paid and how often it’s required.

📝 Final word from your local team

Renting in Makati should feel straightforward. Decide your non-negotiables—walk to work, balcony, quiet side street—then tour with purpose. We’ll help you shortlist units that match your daily routine, not just your budget. Ready to start? Ping us and we’ll set you up with viewings that make sense.