Cost of Living in Bishan
Last updated on Jun 04, 2025
Summary: What is the cost of living in Bishan, Singapore? Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Bishan talk about the general living costs, the cost of housing and health insurance.
Is the cost of living in Bishan high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Bishan, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Bishan, is relatively high compared to other regions. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can be quite expensive. The cost of utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, and water is also significant. Groceries in Bishan can be pricey, with items such as bread, milk, and eggs costing more than in other countries. Eating out in restaurants, especially in the city center, can also be costly. Public transportation in Bishan is efficient and widely used, but the cost can add up if used daily. Owning a car in Singapore is considered a luxury due to the high cost of vehicles and related expenses like insurance, maintenance, and fuel. Healthcare in Singapore is of high quality, but it comes with a high price tag. Both public and private healthcare services can be expensive, even with insurance coverage. Leisure activities such as gym memberships, cinema tickets, and night outs can also be quite costly in Bishan. Despite the high cost of living, many residents find that the high quality of life, safety, cleanliness, and the range of available amenities in Bishan make it worth the expense," said one person in Bishan.

Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
Will I save money living in Bishan?
"The cost of living in Bishan, compared to the United States can vary greatly depending on your lifestyle and spending habits. Generally, the cost of living in Singapore is higher than in many parts of the United States. This is particularly true when it comes to housing and car ownership, which are significantly more expensive in Singapore. However, some aspects of living in Singapore can be cheaper, such as public transportation, healthcare, and certain types of food, particularly local cuisine. Therefore, whether you would save money by living in Bishan, Singapore, compared to the United States would depend on your personal circumstances and lifestyle choices," remarked one in Bishan.
What is the average cost of housing in Bishan?
If you are thinking about moving to Bishan, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The average cost of housing in Bishan can vary greatly depending on the type of property. For instance, a public housing flat (HDB) can cost around SGD 500,000 to SGD 800,000. On the other hand, private condominiums in Bishan can range from SGD 1 million to SGD 2 million on average. Landed properties such as terraced houses or bungalows can cost significantly more, with prices often exceeding SGD 3 million. Please note that these are average prices and actual costs can vary based on factors such as property size, location, and market conditions," explained one expat.
About the Author
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.