Cost of Living in Singapore

The cost of living in Singapore is extremely high, with the city-state often ranking among the priciest places to live in the world.

The good news is that taxes in Singapore are low, and professional salaries generally align with the high cost of living. Expat packages frequently include allowances for transport, school fees, and accommodation.

That said, with increasing competition for jobs, those looking to work in Singapore may need to accept lower salaries with fewer additional benefits. It is always advisable to negotiate with prospective employers where possible. If no benefits are included in a contract, careful budgeting will be essential to manage Singapore's high cost of living.

Cost of accommodation in Singapore

Renting accommodation in Singapore is expensive. You can relieve some of this burden by opting for a private apartment rather than a lavish condominium. If you choose to live in a house and bungalow, you can also expect to pay high costs. Rent can vary wildly depending on the age, condition, and location of the housing.

Renting Accommodation in Singapore 
Best Neighbourhoods in Singapore

Cost of transport in Singapore

Although not cheap, public transport in Singapore is cheaper than driving. High taxes and parking costs make driving a car an expensive inconvenience rather than a necessity. The public transport system can be accessed using EZ Link travel cards, which provide good value for money.

When the weather allows, walking and cycling are a good option for getting around the city-state. Singapore is a pedestrian- and cycle-friendly city and has beautiful, lush green spaces that make walking and cycling a wonderful experience.

Public Transport and Driving in Singapore

Cost of groceries in Singapore

Depending on personal spending habits, groceries can be a modest or exorbitant expense. If you’re fond of purchasing imported products from back home, you may be startled by how quickly costs can stack up.

Supermarkets in Singapore offer a wide range of products, but imported goods, such as cheese, wine or specific brands of cereals and snacks, can be particularly pricey. For instance, the cost of everyday items like milk, bread, and eggs is higher than in the US, Australia, or Western Europe. To save on groceries, you can shop at local markets or consider switching to local brands and produce.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Singapore

Singapore offers a variety of entertainment options, from cinemas and theatres to bars and nightclubs. That said, the cost of entertainment is quite high. A night out at a mid-range restaurant can cost as much as a fancy dinner in Western Europe or the US. The cost of alcohol is also notably high due to heavy taxation.

Although Singapore offers many tempting choices of delicious cuisine, eating out can be an expensive exercise. There are alternatives, though, and if you stick to hawker centres (open-air food courts found throughout Singapore), sampling the local fare will be much more affordable.

Shopping, Attractions, Dining and Nightlife in Singapore

Cost of education in Singapore

The cost of education in Singapore is a significant expense for expats with children. Public schools, while less expensive than international schools, often have long waiting lists for non-residents, and the process to get a spot can be competitive. On the other hand, international schools offer a high standard of education, but tuition fees are steep.

Some expats have international school fees covered by their employer as part of their relocation package. If this isn't initially included in your offer, it's well worth negotiating.

Schools and Education in Singapore 
Best International Schools in Singapore

Cost of healthcare in Singapore

The standard of healthcare in Singapore is exceptionally high, and it is home to some of the world’s best medical facilities. This comes with a correspondingly high price tag, though. Medical costs in Singapore are among the highest in Asia and can be comparable to or even exceed those in the US or Western Europe.

We recommend securing comprehensive health insurance to cover medical expenses, as even a simple consultation with a general practitioner can be costly. Prescription medication is also fairly pricey, and even over-the-counter medicines can be expensive.

Healthcare and Health Insurance in Singapore

Cost of living in Singapore chart

Prices are in Singapore dollars (SGD) and may vary depending on the product and service provider. The list below shows average prices in July 2026.