Cost of Living in Singapore
Here's what you can expect to spend monthly as an expat in Singapore, based on real advisory data from 2026.
| Expense | MONTHLY |
|---|---|
| Rent (1BR, City Center) | $2200 |
| Groceries & Food | $400 |
| Public Transport | $120 |
| Utilities & Internet | $280 |
| Entertainment | $420 |
| Total Estimate | $3500/mo |
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Try Wise Free →Best Neighborhoods
Tiong Bahru
Hipster, art deco, best cafes. Singapore's coolest neighborhood.
Expat score: 8/10
Holland Village
Classic expat hub — restaurants, pubs, international feel. Long-established community.
Expat score: 9/10
Tanjong Pagar
CBD adjacent — modern, excellent food, up-and-coming nightlife.
Expat score: 7/10
Coworking Spaces
| Space | Price | Area |
|---|---|---|
| WeWork | S$600/mo | Multiple |
| The Great Room | S$550/mo | CBD |
| JustCo | S$400/mo | Multiple |
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- World's safest country — virtually zero violent crime, safe at any hour
- World-class infrastructure — everything works perfectly, always
- Food paradise — hawker centers (Michelin-starred for $3), incredible diversity
- Gateway to Asia — 3-4hr flights to Bangkok, Bali, Tokyo, everywhere
- English-speaking — one of four official languages, business language
- Efficient government — visas, banking, everything runs smoothly
❌ Cons
- Extremely expensive — one of world's costliest cities for housing and cars
- Tiny island — 50km x 27km, can feel claustrophobic after time
- Very strict laws — chewing gum banned, drug penalties severe, jaywalking fines
- Hot and humid year-round — 30-33°C with high humidity, AC essential
- Competitive, high-pressure culture — work-hard mentality dominates
- Limited nature and outdoor activities — parks exist but small scale
Visa info: Employment Pass (EP) requires $5,000+/month salary and employer sponsorship — processed through the COMPASS framework points system. EntrePass targets startup founders with innovative business plans. S Pass is for mid-level skilled workers (minimum $3,150/month). Dependent Pass allows spouses/childr... Read full visa guide →
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