×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Cost of Living in Singapore | Expat Exchange
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In
Marina Bay, Singapore

Cost of Living in Singapore

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Aug 06, 2023

Summary: The cost of living in Singapore is generally high, especially for expats. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in Singapore can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $3,500 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost from $3,000 to $5,000 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Singapore is usually around $20 to $30 per person.

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

Is the cost of living in Singapore high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Singapore, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Singapore is generally considered to be high, with prices for basic necessities such as food, housing, and transportation being significantly higher than in many other countries. Singapore is known for its high quality of life, but this comes at a cost, with the cost of living being one of the highest in the world. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre can cost upwards of $2,000 per month, while basic groceries can be quite expensive. Transportation is also costly, with public transport fares being among the highest in the world. Despite the high cost of living, Singapore remains an attractive destination for many due to its excellent infrastructure, safety, and quality of life," explained one expat living in Singapore.

GeoBlueGeoBlue
Get Quote

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!

GeoBlueGeoBlue

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
Get Quote

Will I save money living in Singapore?

"Living in Singapore can be more cost-effective than living in the United States in some areas. Singapore has a lower cost of living than the United States, with lower prices for basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing. Additionally, Singapore has no income tax, which can help to reduce overall living costs. However, Singapore does have higher costs for luxury items such as cars, electronics, and entertainment," explained one expat.

What is the average cost of housing in Singapore?

If you are thinking about moving to Singapore, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"Housing costs tend to be higher here than in Holland. Average cost of housing in Singapore is hard to say, but generally you won't find anything decent below S$1500,-," explained one expat living in Singapore.

"The cost of housing in Singapore is generally quite high, with the average cost of a home in the city-state being significantly higher than in many other countries. The cost of renting a home in Singapore is also quite expensive, with the average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment in the city-state being among the highest in the world," said one expat in Singapore.

GeoBlue

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!

Learn MoreGet Quote

GeoBlue

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!

Learn MoreGet Quote

What are typical rental prices for expats in Singapore?

"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Singapore can range from around $2,000 to $3,500 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from around $3,500 to $5,500 per month," said one expat living in Singapore.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Singapore what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"Rental properties in Singapore typically include a refrigerator, washing machine, oven, and stove. Depending on the property, air conditioning units may also be included. Additionally, some properties may include a dishwasher and/or a microwave," remarked one expat living in Singapore.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Marina Bay, Singapore

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlueGeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

Contribute to Singapore Network Contribute
Help others in Singapore by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Singapore.

William Russell
William Russell

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides