Best Neighborhoods for Families in Singapore

Singapore is a vibrant city-state that offers a high quality of life and a plethora of amenities for expats and digital nomads with families. Known for its safety, cleanliness, and multicultural environment, Singapore has several neighborhoods that are particularly well-suited for family living. These areas boast excellent schools, recreational facilities, and community vibes that make them ideal for settling down. Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Singapore for families looking for a place to call home.

Holland Village

Holland Village, often referred to as "Holland V," is a favorite among expat families due to its bohemian atmosphere and convenient amenities. The neighborhood is known for its blend of modern and traditional elements, with a range of dining options, shopping centers, and cultural spots. Families enjoy the Holland Village Park for outdoor activities and the close proximity to reputable international schools. The area is also known for its vibrant market and food court, Holland Village Market & Food Centre, which offers a taste of local and international cuisines.

Location: Central region of Singapore, near the Queenstown and Bukit Timah districts.
Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom apartment average around SGD 3,500, while a 3-bedroom can go for SGD 4,500 and above. Purchase prices vary widely depending on the property type and exact location.
International Schools: Holland Village is close to several international schools, including the United World College of South East Asia (Dover Campus) and the Tanglin Trust School, both offering education from early years to high school with British and international curriculums.
Where to Eat: The neighborhood is dotted with a variety of eateries, from casual cafes like Sunday Folks to upscale dining at The Fine Line.
Interesting History: Holland Village was named after an early Dutch community in Singapore and has evolved from a plantation estate to a lively expat hub.
Parks: The nearby Singapore Botanic Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular spot for families to explore nature.

Woodlands

Woodlands is a family-friendly neighborhood located in the northern part of Singapore, offering a suburban feel with plenty of green spaces. It is home to numerous parks, such as Woodlands Waterfront Park, which features a long coastal promenade and a large playground for children. The area also has several reputable local and international schools, making it a practical choice for families with school-going children. Woodlands is known for its community spirit and regular family-oriented events.

Location: Northernmost part of Singapore, bordering Malaysia.
Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom HDB flat start from SGD 2,000, while a 3-bedroom unit can range from SGD 2,200 to SGD 2,800. Private condominiums and landed properties will have higher rental and purchase prices.
International Schools: Singapore American School, one of the largest international schools in Singapore, offers an American-based curriculum for students from preschool to high school.
Where to Eat: Families can enjoy a variety of dining options at Causeway Point, one of the largest shopping malls in the neighborhood.
Interesting History: Woodlands started as a rural area with rubber plantations and has transformed into a bustling residential town.
Parks: Admiralty Park, with its large nature area and exciting children's playground, is a popular destination for family outings.

Tampines

Tampines is one of the largest residential areas in Singapore, offering a well-rounded living experience for families. It is self-sufficient with numerous malls, such as Tampines 1 and Tampines Mall, and a range of recreational facilities including the Tampines Regional Library and Tampines Eco Green, a park with eco-friendly features and open spaces for children to play. The neighborhood is also known for its excellent public transport connectivity and cycling network.

Location: Eastern region of Singapore.
Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom HDB flat start from SGD 2,000, while a 3-bedroom unit can range from SGD 2,300 to SGD 2,700. Condominiums and executive apartments may cost more.
International Schools: The United World College of South East Asia (East Campus) and the Overseas Family School cater to the expat community with international curriculums.
Where to Eat: Tampines is known for its hawker centers and casual dining spots, such as the popular Round Market & Food Centre.
Interesting History: Tampines was named after the Tempinis tree, which was commonly found in the area during the early days.
Parks: Tampines Central Park is a family favorite, featuring themed playgrounds and open spaces for picnics and sports.

Bukit Timah

Bukit Timah is an upscale residential area known for its high concentration of prestigious schools and its proximity to the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, offering families an escape into nature. The neighborhood has a serene and lush environment, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. Bukit Timah is also home to a number of expat clubs and associations, providing a sense of community for international residents.

Location: Central-western region of Singapore.
Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom condominium start from SGD 3,000, while a 3-bedroom can range from SGD 4,000 to SGD 7,000 and above. Landed properties in this area are among the most expensive in Singapore.
International Schools: The neighborhood is close to the Hwa Chong International School and the German European School Singapore, offering a range of international educational programs.
Where to Eat: The Bukit Timah area boasts a variety of dining options, from local delights at Bukit Timah Market & Food Centre to international cuisine at The Grandstand.
Interesting History: Bukit Timah played a significant role during World War II as one of the last stands of the British forces before the fall of Singapore.
Parks: The Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is a popular spot for nature lovers and families looking to explore Singapore's rich biodiversity.

East Coast / Marine Parade

The East Coast and Marine Parade area is a coastal neighborhood that offers a relaxed seaside lifestyle, making it a hit with families who enjoy the outdoors. With the East Coast Park providing a vast space for cycling, skating, and beach activities, it's a perfect spot for family weekends. The area also has a good mix of local and international schools, as well as shopping centers like Parkway Parade, which cater to all family needs.

Location: Southeastern coast of Singapore.
Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom condominium start from SGD 2,500, while a 3-bedroom can range from SGD 3,500 to SGD 5,000 and above.
International Schools: Nearby international schools include Chatsworth International School (East Campus) and Canadian International School (Tanjong Katong Campus), both offering diverse international curriculums.
Where to Eat: The area is known for its seafood restaurants along East Coast Park and a variety of local and international eateries at Katong.
Interesting History: Katong is known for its rich Peranakan culture, with traditional shophouses and the famous Katong Laksa.
Parks: East Coast Park is the main attraction, with its beachfront and numerous family-friendly facilities and activities.

Ang Mo Kio

Ang Mo Kio is a heartland neighborhood that is popular with local and expat families alike. It offers a more local experience with a strong community feel. The town is well-equipped with amenities such as Ang Mo Kio Hub, a large shopping mall, and Ang Mo Kio Town Garden West, which provides a green respite with playgrounds and walking trails. The area is also known for its accessibility and excellent public transportation options.

Location: North-central region of Singapore.
Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom HDB flat start from SGD 1,800, while a 3-bedroom unit can range from SGD 2,100 to SGD 2,600. Private condominiums will have higher rental and purchase prices.
International Schools: While there are no international schools directly within Ang Mo Kio, the nearby Australian International School and Lycee Francais de Singapour offer international education within a short drive.
Where to Eat: Ang Mo Kio is home to many hawker centers and food courts offering a wide array of local dishes at affordable prices.
Interesting History: The name "Ang Mo Kio" is Hokkien for "red-haired man's bridge," reflecting the area's history as a former agricultural land.
Parks: Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park is one of the largest urban parks in Singapore, featuring riverside greenery, playgrounds, and water play areas.

Sentosa Cove

Sentosa Cove is an exclusive residential enclave located on the tranquil eastern end of Sentosa Island. It's a luxurious retreat for families who value privacy and a resort-like lifestyle. With its own marina, international schools, and a selection of fine dining and leisure activities, Sentosa Cove offers a unique living experience. Families can enjoy the beaches, the Sentosa Golf Club, and attractions like Universal Studios Singapore just a short drive away.

Location: Sentosa Island, off the southern coast of Singapore.
Real Estate: Rental and purchase prices in Sentosa Cove are among the highest in Singapore, with a 2-bedroom condominium starting from SGD 4,500 for rent and significantly more for purchase.
International Schools: Sentosa is close to the Capella Singapore, which houses the Early Learning Village, offering an international early childhood program.
Where to Eat: Quayside Isle at Sentosa Cove provides a range of waterfront dining options, from casual cafes to gourmet restaurants.
Interesting History: Sentosa Cove is a relatively new development, transforming from a military base into a luxury residential area.
Parks: The neighborhood is surrounded by lush greenery and waterfront parks, providing ample space for family leisure and activities.

Serangoon Gardens

Serangoon Gardens is a charming and established residential area that is popular with both locals and expats. Known for its laid-back vibe and iconic food and beverage outlets, the neighborhood is centered around the Serangoon Garden Circus, providing a focal point for community activities. The area is also home to several international schools and the famous Chomp Chomp Food Centre, a must-visit for local street food enthusiasts.

Location: Northeastern region of Singapore.
Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom landed property start from SGD 3,000, while a 3-bedroom can range from SGD 3,500 to SGD 4,500. Prices for condominiums may vary.
International Schools: The French School of Singapore (Lycée Français de Singapour) and the Australian International School are both accessible from Serangoon Gardens, offering international education options.
Where to Eat: MyVillage at Serangoon Gardens offers a mix of dining options, while the nearby Chomp Chomp Food Centre is famous for its local hawker fare.
Interesting History: Serangoon Gardens was originally developed in the 1950s as a residential estate for the British Air Force personnel.
Parks: Serangoon Gardens Country Club and the nearby Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park provide recreational facilities and green spaces for families.