How Much Is a Capsule House in the Philippines?

Capsule houses are gaining popularity in the Philippines as affordable housing solutions, backyard studios, or pandemic-era home offices. Prices vary based on size, materials, finish level, and whether the unit is prefabricated or custom-built.

Basic Capsule Pods (₱150,000 – ₱300,000)

• Size: 2m x 2m to 3m x 3m (≈4–9 sqm)
• Features: Steel or wood frame, galvanized iron or plywood walls, basic roof, single window, no plumbing or electrical pre-installed
• Use: Storage, guard house, small office, or minimalist sleeping pod
• Build time: 3–7 days

Mid-Range Capsule Homes (₱300,000 – ₱500,000)

• Size: 3m x 4m to 4m x 5m (≈12–20 sqm)
• Features: Insulated walls, finished interiors (plywood or laminate), pre-wired electrical, basic plumbing for sink/toilet, sliding glass door, roof insulation
• Use: Studio apartment, home office, guest room, or micro-living unit
• Often sold as prefab kits by local companies like Haven Pods, Podspace PH, or Cubo (though Cubo focuses on bamboo eco-homes)

Premium & Custom Capsule Houses (₱500,000 – ₱800,000+)

• Size: Up to 6m x 6m (≈36 sqm), sometimes with loft
• Features: High-end finishes (vinyl flooring, acrylic windows), full bathroom, kitchenette, solar-ready roof, smart ventilation, termite-resistant materials
• May include delivery, installation, and permits (depending on provider)
• Ideal for Airbnb micro-cabins, off-grid retreats, or permanent tiny homes in provinces like Batangas, Laguna, or Palawan

Additional Costs to Consider

• Delivery & installation: ₱10,000–₱30,000 (depending on location)
• Permits: ₱5,000–₱20,000 (Barangay clearance, building permit if over 20 sqm)
• Utilities: ₱15,000–₱50,000 (if connecting to water, septic, or grid power)
• Foundation: Concrete slab or post-and-beam base (₱10,000–₱40,000)

FAQs

Q: Are capsule houses legal to live in full-time in the Philippines?
A: Yes—especially on private land. Units under 20 sqm often don’t require a building permit (just Barangay clearance), but check with your LGU (Local Government Unit) for zoning rules.

Q: Can I build one on my parents’ lot in the city?
A: Usually yes, as a backyard structure—just ensure it complies with setback rules and doesn’t block fire exits or drainage.

Q: Do they withstand typhoons and heavy rain?
A: Reputable prefab capsule homes use galvalume roofing, reinforced frames, and proper anchoring, making them typhoon-resistant when installed correctly. Avoid ultra-cheap, non-engineered pods.