1. Housing

Housing is typically the largest expense in Singapore, and costs vary significantly depending on the type of accommodation, location, and whether you are renting or buying.

For Immigrants:

• Public Housing (HDB Flats):

  • Managed by the Housing Development Board (HDB), these are government-subsidized flats.
  • Monthly rental for non-citizens (e.g., Permanent Residents or Employment Pass holders): SGD 2,000–4,000 for a 3-bedroom flat in non-central areas.
  • Purchase prices for resale HDB flats: SGD 400,000–800,000 depending on size and location. Foreigners cannot buy new HDB flats but can purchase resale flats under certain conditions.

• Private Condominiums:

  • Monthly rental: SGD 3,500–8,000 for a 2-3 bedroom unit.
  • Purchase prices: SGD 1.5–3 million for a mid-range condo.

• Landed Properties:

  • Rare and expensive, typically for high-income earners.
  • Monthly rental: SGD 10,000+.
  • Purchase prices: SGD 3–10 million or more.

For Visitors:

• Hotels: SGD 150–500 per night for mid-range to luxury hotels.
• Serviced Apartments: SGD 4,000–8,000 per month for short-term stays.
• Hostels/Budget Accommodation: SGD 30–80 per night.

Regulations:

• Foreigners cannot purchase landed properties unless they obtain special approval.
• A security deposit (1-2 months’ rent) is typically required when renting.

---

2. Transportation

Singapore has an efficient and affordable public transportation system, but private car ownership is expensive due to government regulations.

Public Transport:

• MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and Buses:
  • Single trip: SGD 1–2.50.
  • Monthly public transport pass: SGD 128 (adults).
• Taxis and Ride-Hailing (e.g., Grab, Gojek):
  • Base fare: SGD 3–5.
  • Average ride within the city: SGD 10–20.

Private Car Ownership:

• Certificate of Entitlement (COE):
  • Required to own a car, costing SGD 80,000–120,000 (valid for 10 years).
• Car Prices:
  • SGD 100,000–200,000 for a standard sedan.
• Monthly Costs:
  • Fuel, insurance, and maintenance: SGD 1,000–2,000.

For Visitors:

• Public transport is the most cost-effective option.
• Taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available but more expensive during peak hours.

---

3. Food

Singapore offers a wide range of dining options, from affordable hawker centers to high-end restaurants.

Hawker Centers and Food Courts:

• Meals: SGD 3–8 per dish.
• Drinks: SGD 1–3.

Mid-Range Restaurants:

• Meals: SGD 20–50 per person.

Fine Dining:

• Meals: SGD 100+ per person.

Groceries:

• Monthly grocery bill for a family of four: SGD 500–800.
• Imported goods and specialty items are more expensive.

---

4. Healthcare

Singapore has a world-class healthcare system, but costs vary depending on residency status and whether you use public or private services.

Public Healthcare (Subsidized for Citizens and PRs):

• Consultation at polyclinics: SGD 15–50.
• Hospitalization (subsidized ward): SGD 50–250 per day.

Private Healthcare:

• GP consultation: SGD 50–100.
• Specialist consultation: SGD 150–300.
• Hospitalization: SGD 1,000+ per day.

Health Insurance:

• Foreigners are required to have private health insurance.
• Monthly premiums: SGD 100–500 depending on coverage.

---

5. Education

Education costs depend on the type of school and residency status.

Public Schools (For PRs and Citizens):

• Monthly fees: SGD 25–400 depending on level (primary, secondary, or pre-university).

International Schools (For Foreigners):

• Annual fees: SGD 20,000–50,000.

Tertiary Education:

• Local universities: SGD 8,000–12,000 per year (subsidized for citizens and PRs).
• Private universities: SGD 20,000–50,000 per year.

---

6. Utilities

Utilities include electricity, water, and gas. Costs depend on household size and usage.

• Monthly Utility Bills:

  • 1-2 bedroom apartment: SGD 100–150.
  • 3-4 bedroom apartment: SGD 200–400.

• Internet and Mobile Plans:

  • Internet: SGD 30–60 per month.
  • Mobile plans: SGD 20–50 per month.

---

7. Entertainment and Leisure

Singapore offers a variety of entertainment options, from free parks to high-end attractions.

Free or Low-Cost Activities:

• Parks and nature reserves (e.g., East Coast Park, MacRitchie Reservoir): Free.
• Museums: SGD 10–20 (free for citizens and PRs on certain days).

Paid Attractions:

• Universal Studios Singapore: SGD 79 per adult.
• Singapore Zoo: SGD 48 per adult.
• Marina Bay Sands SkyPark: SGD 26 per adult.

Fitness and Gyms:

• Gym memberships: SGD 100–200 per month.
• Yoga/Pilates classes: SGD 20–50 per session.

Movies:

• Tickets: SGD 10–15.

---

8. Additional Considerations

Taxes:

• Singapore has a progressive income tax system.
  • Non-residents: Flat rate of 15–22%.
  • Residents: 0–22% depending on income.
• Goods and Services Tax (GST): 8% (rising to 9% in 2024).

Savings Tips:

• Use public transport and hawker centers for affordable options.
• Shop at local wet markets for fresh produce at lower prices.
• Take advantage of free community events and public spaces.

Cultural Considerations:

• Tipping is not customary in Singapore, as service charges are included in bills.
• Singapore is strict about cleanliness and order, so avoid fines for littering, jaywalking, or eating on public transport.

---

Summary Table of Monthly Costs (for a Single Expat):

| Category | Estimated Cost (SGD) | |-----------------------|--------------------------| | Housing (rental) | 2,000–4,000 | | Transportation | 150–300 | | Food | 600–1,200 | | Utilities | 100–150 | | Healthcare (insurance)| 100–500 | | Entertainment | 200–500 | | Total | 3,150–6,650 |

---

Singapore’s cost of living is high, but its safety, efficiency, and quality of life make it a desirable place to live or visit. By planning carefully and understanding local regulations, you can manage expenses effectively.