How Much Does It Cost to Live in Singapore? A Guide of Housing, Food, and Transport Expenses
Singapore, a bustling economic hub and home to prestigious universities, has long been a magnet for expatriates, international students, and professionals. However, as of 2025, it holds the title of the most expensive city in Asia. For those planning to relocate or study in Singapore, understanding the cost of living and rent in Singapore is essential for creating a realistic financial plan and ensuring a seamless transition into the city’s high-quality lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll dive into the cost of living in Singapore, detailing monthly expenses, housing costs, and other essentials like food and transport. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive grasp of what it takes to live comfortably in the Lion City.
1. Overview of Singapore’s Cost of Living
1.1 Clothing: Affordable to High-End Options
Clothing costs in Singapore range widely depending on your preferences:
- Affordable fashion: Popular international brands like Uniqlo, H&M, and Zara offer stylish options at reasonable prices, typically between $20–$50 SGD per item.
- Luxury brands: For designer wear, head to high-end malls such as ION Orchard or The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, where clothing prices can soar into the thousands of dollars.
1.2 Food: Affordable to Fine Dining
Singapore’s food expenses cater to all budgets, thanks to its diverse culinary scene:
- Hawker centres: Local favourites like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, or fried kway teow cost $5–$8 SGD per meal. Visit spots like Maxwell Food Centre or Lau Pa Sat for authentic and affordable eats.
- Mid-range dining: Western restaurants and casual dining establishments charge around $30–$100 SGD per meal.
- Grocery shopping: Cooking at home can significantly lower food costs, with monthly groceries (including rice, meat, and vegetables) averaging $200–$400 SGD. Supermarkets like Cold Storage and FairPrice are popular choices.
1.3 Housing: Rent in Singapore Average
Housing costs in Singapore are the largest component of monthly expenses, with options ranging from shared flats to luxurious apartments:
- HDB flats (shared): Monthly rent is $600–$1,200 SGD, depending on room size and location.
- Private condos: Single rooms in condominiums cost $2,000–$4,000 SGD, featuring amenities like pools and gyms.
- University dormitories: Ideal for international students, dormitory costs range from $400–$800 SGD per month.
- Serviced apartments: For short-term residents, serviced apartments average $4,000–$7,000 SGD, with furniture and housekeeping included.
1.4 Transportation Costs
Singapore boasts an efficient public transport system, making commuting affordable:
- Public transport: MRT and bus rides cost $1–$2 SGD per trip, with monthly expenses averaging $100–$150 SGD. Use an EZ-link card or SimplyGo for discounted fares.
- Taxis and ride-hailing: A one-way ride costs $10–$30 SGD, depending on distance.
- Private cars: Due to high Certificate of Entitlement (COE) fees, most residents opt for public transport or car-sharing services instead of owning a car.
2. Miscellaneous Living Expenses in Singapore
Beyond housing, food, and transport, other monthly expenses in Singapore can impact your budget:
2.1 Mobile and Internet Costs
- Mobile plans: Prepaid cards cost $10–$30 SGD, while postpaid plans with more data cost between $30–$80 SGD.
- Home broadband: Fibre broadband costs $40–$60 SGD per month, depending on the provider (e.g., Singtel, StarHub, or M1).
2.2 Utilities and Air Conditioning
Singapore’s hot climate means air conditioning is a necessity. The monthly costs of utility bills range from $100–$200 SGD, with higher bills if air conditioning is used frequently. To save, invest in energy-efficient units and limit usage.
2.3 Healthcare and Insurance
Singapore’s healthcare system is world-class but costly.
- Private health insurance: Monthly premiums range from $50–$150 SGD, depending on coverage.
- Doctor visits: A consultation costs $50–$100 SGD, with costs rising for specialist treatment or hospital stays.
2.4 Entertainment and Leisure
Enjoying Singapore’s vibrant lifestyle requires a budget for activities:
- Movies: Tickets cost $10–$15 SGD.
- Gym memberships: Fees range from $80–$200 SGD per month.
- Tourist attractions: Entry fees for places like Gardens by the Bay or Sentosa Island are $10–$30 SGD.
2.5 Education and Children’s Expenses
For families, education is a significant consideration:
- Government schools: Tuition fees are relatively affordable, ranging from $150–$400 SGD per month.
- International schools: Annual fees can reach $20,000–$40,000 SGD, requiring careful financial planning.
3. Renting in Singapore: Process and Recommendations
When renting a house in Singapore, expats and international students should first clarify their needs and budget, including the location, unit size, facility requirements and monthly rent. Next, you will usually look for a property through a real estate agent, rental website or social media group. Some properties may require an agent fee (usually one to two months' rent). After confirming the property, it is recommended to visit the property physically to check the facilities and negotiate the rent and contract terms with the landlord or agent. When signing a lease, you usually need to pay a deposit (usually two months' rent) and the first month's rent. The lease term is generally one to two years, and the content must clearly indicate the terms such as rent, lease term, and maintenance responsibility. You can move in after signing the contract, and you need to pay the rental stamp duty (about 0.4% of the rent) to the Singapore Inland Revenue Authority (IRAS).
Rental Options in Singapore by Weave Living
If you want to avoid the cumbersome rental process and enjoy an all-inclusive living service, the apartments provided by Weave Living will be an excellent choice. Here are three popular properties:
Features: Located in Mount Sophia, the environment is quiet but convenient, close to Dhoby Ghaut and Little India MRT stations, suitable for singles, couples and students. Facilities include a viewing terrace, private theatre and gym.
Address: 8 Wilkie Road, Singapore 228095
Features: Located next to Bugis, in the cultural district of Kampong Glam, it blends traditional and modern styles. Property facilities include a workspace, gym and shared kitchen, which is perfect for residents who love urban vitality.
Address: 33 Jalan Sultan, Singapore 198965
✔ Weave Residences – East Coast
Features: Located in Katong, this family- and pet-friendly property offers luxurious apartments including penthouses with private pools.
Address: 5 Still Road, Singapore 424012
Benefits of Weave Living:
- Simplified rental process: Fully furnished and ready to move in.
- Flexible lease terms: Options for short- and long-term stays.
- All-inclusive amenities: Gym, recreation areas, meeting rooms, and on-site support.
Conclusion
Whether you’re an expatriate, international student, or professional planning to move to Singapore, understanding the cost of living, rent in Singapore average, and monthly expenses is crucial. Housing costs may be high, but with proper planning, you can enjoy the city’s world-class amenities and vibrant culture.
For a seamless experience, consider Weave Living’s apartments, which simplify the rental process and provide all-inclusive services, freeing you to focus on exploring the Lion City.