What You Need to Know About Singapore's Living Conditions

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Willow Stella
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2 min read

Singapore, a bustling city-state in Southeast Asia, is renowned for its impressive skyline, multicultural society, and high quality of life. Whether you're considering relocating to Singapore or simply curious about what life is like in this dynamic metropolis, this blog will provide an in-depth look at the living conditions in the Lion City.

Housing and Accommodation

Singapore offers a variety of housing options to cater to different preferences and budgets. These range from public Housing Development Board (HDB) flats to private condominiums and landed properties.

  1. HDB Flats: About 80% of Singapore's residents live in HDB flats. These government-subsidized apartments are affordable, well-maintained, and often come with amenities like playgrounds, parks, and hawker centers.

  2. Private Condominiums: For those seeking more luxurious living, private condos offer facilities such as swimming pools, gyms, and 24-hour security. They are pricier than HDB flats but provide a higher level of comfort and exclusivity.

  3. Landed Properties: Expats and wealthy locals often opt for landed properties, which include terraced houses, semi-detached homes, and bungalows. These are the most expensive housing options, offering ample space and privacy.

Cost of Living

Singapore is known for its high cost of living, especially in areas like housing, transportation, and education. However, the city-state also offers various ways to manage expenses.

  1. Housing Costs: Renting an HDB flat can cost between SGD 2,000 and SGD 3,500 per month, while private condos range from SGD 3,500 to SGD 7,000 or more.

  2. Food: Dining out can be affordable, especially at hawker centers where meals cost between SGD 3 and SGD 6. Restaurants and fine dining establishments are more expensive, with meals ranging from SGD 20 to SGD 100 or more.

  3. Transportation: Public transport is efficient and affordable. The monthly cost for unlimited travel on buses and trains is around SGD 120. Owning a car is significantly more expensive due to high taxes and Certificate of Entitlement (COE) fees.

  4. Education: International schools, favored by expats, can be quite costly, with annual fees ranging from SGD 20,000 to SGD 40,000. Public schools offer a more affordable alternative for residents.

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