Cost of Living in Singapore
Dive into our guide to explore daily routines, cultural insights, housing, transport, and more for expats.
Singapore offers a seamless blend of modern convenience and cultural richness. Here’s what life looks like for expatriates on the Little Red Dot.
Daily Life and Culture
Singapore is one of the most organized, efficient, and safe countries in the world. With a multicultural population made up of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and expatriate communities, it’s easy to feel at home—especially since English is one of the official languages and widely spoken.
The city-state is known for its cleanliness, strict regulations, and high quality of public services. Respect for rules, punctuality, and social harmony are key cultural values. From hawker centers to high-end restaurants, cultural festivals to shopping malls, life in Singapore is vibrant and full of options for all lifestyles.
Monthly Living Costs by Category
Most expats choose to live in condominiums, which offer facilities like pools, gyms, and security. Families might opt for larger units or landed homes, though these come at a premium. Popular neighborhoods include:
Holland Village & Bukit Timah: Family-friendly with access to international schools.
River Valley & Orchard: Central, upscale living close to business hubs.
East Coast & Katong: Residential and near the beach, popular with expat families.
Woodlands & Pasir Ris: More affordable, farther from the city center.
Housing leases typically range from 1 to 2 years, and prices vary significantly by location.
Getting Around and Essentials
Transport
Singapore’s public transportation system (MRT and buses) is clean, safe, and efficient. Ride-hailing apps like Grab are widely used, and car ownership is expensive due to high taxes and the Certificate of Entitlement (COE) system.
Banking & Mobile
Opening a local bank account is straightforward with a valid visa and address proof. Mobile providers like Singtel, StarHub, and M1 offer competitive plans, and high-speed internet is widely available.
Education
Singapore is home to top-tier international schools with British, American, and IB curriculums. Places can be limited, so early applications are advised.
Recreation
From lush parks and islands to cultural districts and nightlife, there’s plenty to explore. Families enjoy Singapore Zoo, Sentosa, and Gardens by the Bay, while professionals appreciate the café culture and fitness scene.
Healthcare and Insurance
Singapore has world-class healthcare facilities, but expats do not receive government subsidies. Private healthcare is high-quality but costly without insurance. That’s why international health insurance is essential.
At Interexpat, we offer tailored plans covering:
Outpatient visits and hospitalization
Specialist care and surgery
Emergency evacuation
Maternity, dental, and vision care
