Cost of Living in Singapore

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Singapore is one of the most expensive cities in the world, often ranking among the priciest places to live, particularly in terms of housing, transport, and daily expenses.

The good news is that taxes in Singapore are low, and professional salaries generally align with the high cost of living. Expat packages often include benefits such as transport, school fees, and accommodation allowances.

That said, with increasing competition for jobs, those looking to work in Singapore may need to accept salaries without as many additional benefits. It is always advisable to negotiate with prospective employers where possible. If no benefits are included in a contract, careful budgeting will be essential to manage the city’s high living costs.

Cost of accommodation in Singapore

Renting accommodation in Singapore is pricey. You can relieve some of this burden by opting for a private apartment or a government housing flat (HDB) rather than a lavish condominium. Although these homes frequently come with enticing recreational facilities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, and playgrounds for children, they usually have a matching price tag.

If you choose to live in houses and bungalows, you can also expect to pay hefty costs. Costs vary wildly depending on the age, condition, and location of the housing, and of course, you will get more bang for your buck the further you live from the city centre.

Accommodation in Singapore
Best Neighbourhoods in Singapore

Cost of transport in Singapore

Although not cheap, public transport in Singapore is cheaper than driving. Public transport in Singapore is efficient and affordable, with EZ-Link travel cards providing good value for money.

Owning a car is a luxury rather than a necessity in Singapore. Due to the high taxes cars are subject to, as well as parking costs, it can become a costly indulgence. When the weather allows, walking and cycling are a good option for getting around the city-state. Singapore is a pedestrian and cycle-friendly city and has beautiful lush green spaces that make walking and cycling a wonderful experience.

Getting Around in Singapore

Cost of groceries in Singapore

Depending on personal spending habits, shopping for groceries can be a modest or exorbitant expense. If you’re fond of purchasing imported products from back home, you may be startled by how quickly costs can stack up.

Supermarkets in Singapore offer a wide range of products, but imported goods, such as cheese, wine or specific brands of cereals and snacks, can be particularly pricey. For instance, the cost of everyday items like milk, bread, and eggs is higher compared to prices in the US, Australia, or Western Europe. To save on groceries, you can shop at local markets or consider switching to local brands and produce.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Singapore

Singapore offers a variety of entertainment options, from cinemas and theatres to bars and nightclubs. That said, the cost of entertainment is quite high. A night out at a mid-range restaurant can cost as much as a fancy dinner in Western Europe or the US. The cost of alcohol is also notably high due to heavy taxation, with prices at bars and restaurants being significantly pricier than in many other countries.

Although Singapore offers many tempting choices of delicious cuisine, eating out can be an expensive exercise. There are alternatives, though, and if you stick to hawker centres (open-air food courts found throughout Singapore), sampling the local fare will be much more affordable.

Shopping, Activities, Attractions, Dining and Nightlife in Singapore

Cost of education in Singapore

The cost of education in Singapore is a significant expense for expats with children. Public schools, while less expensive than international schools, often have long waiting lists for non-residents, and the process to get a spot can be competitive. On the other hand, international schools offer a high standard of education, but tuition fees are steep.

Some expats have international school fees covered by their employer as part of their relocation package. If your employer doesn't cover the cost of education, you should be prepared for high fees, which can vary widely from one school to another.

Schools and Education in Singapore
Best International Schools in Singapore

Cost of healthcare in Singapore

The standard of healthcare in Singapore is exceptionally high, and it is home to some of the world's best medical facilities. This comes with a correspondingly high price tag, though. Medical costs in Singapore are among the highest in Asia and can be comparable to or even exceed those in the US or Western Europe.

We recommend securing comprehensive health insurance to cover medical expenses, as even a simple consultation with a general practitioner can be costly. Prescription medication is also fairly pricey, and even over-the-counter medicines can be expensive.

Healthcare and Health Insurance in Singapore