Cost of Living in Singapore 2026 Guide for Expats and Travelers

Singapore is one of the most developed, modern, and cosmopolitan cities in the world. Known for its high safety standards, excellent healthcare, top-tier education, and efficient public transport, Singapore consistently ranks as one of the best places to live. However, it is also known for being one of the most expensive cities globally. The cost of living in Singapore varies depending on lifestyle, but expenses such as rent, dining, and schooling can be considerable.

Learn more about the country on the Singapore country page.

Cost of Living in Singapore: Summary Table

Housing & Rent Prices in Singapore

Apartment Rent (Monthly)

• 1-bedroom in city center: $2,500 – $4,000 (3,300 – 5,400 SGD)
• 1-bedroom outside center: $1,200 – $2,500 (1,600 – 3,300 SGD)
• 3-bedroom in city center: $4,000 – $6,000 (5,400 – 8,000 SGD)
• 3-bedroom outside center: $2,000 – $4,000 (2,700 – 5,400 SGD)

Buying Property

• Price per sq meter (city center): $13,000 – $25,000 (18,000 – 33,000 SGD)
• Price per sq meter (outside center): $8,000 – $15,000 (11,000 – 20,000 SGD)

Food & Grocery Costs

• Milk (1 liter): $2 – $3 (3 – 4 SGD)
• Bread (loaf): $1.50 – $2.50 (2 – 3.50 SGD)
• Rice (1 kg): $1.50 – $3 (2 – 4 SGD)
• Eggs (12): $2 – $4 (3 – 5 SGD)
• Chicken (1 kg): $5 – $8 (7 – 11 SGD)
• Beef (1 kg): $10 – $18 (14 – 24 SGD)
• Apples (1 kg): $3 – $6 (4 – 8 SGD)
• Bananas (1 kg): $1.50 – $2.50 (2 – 3.50 SGD)
• Water (1.5L): $0.80 – $1.20 (1 – 1.60 SGD)
• Soft drink (can): $0.80 – $1.20 (1 – 1.60 SGD)

Restaurant & Dining Costs

• Hawker center meal: $3 – $6 (4 – 8 SGD)
• Mid-range meal for two: $40 – $80 (54 – 108 SGD)
• Fast-food combo: $6 – $8 (8 – 11 SGD)
• Coffee (café): $3 – $6 (4 – 8 SGD)
• Tea: $1 – $3 (1.40 – 4 SGD)

Transportation Costs

• MRT ticket (one-way): $1 – $2 (1.40 – 2.70 SGD)
• Monthly public transport pass: $100 – $150 (135 – 200 SGD)
• Taxi (per km): $0.80 – $1.20 (1 – 1.60 SGD)
• Gasoline (per liter): $1.60 – $2.20 (2.20 – 3 SGD)

Utility Costs

• Electricity (monthly): $80 – $150 (108 – 200 SGD)
• Water: $20 – $40 (27 – 54 SGD)
• Internet (unlimited): $35 – $50 (47 – 67 SGD)
• Mobile plan: $15 – $30 (20 – 40 SGD)

Healthcare Costs

• General doctor visit: $30 – $50 (40 – 67 SGD)
• Specialist visit: $50 – $80 (67 – 108 SGD)
• Health insurance (individual): $100 – $200 (135 – 270 SGD)
• Health insurance (family): $250 – $600 (340 – 800 SGD)

Education Costs

• Public schools: Low-cost for residents
• Private schools: $200 – $800 (270 – 1,080 SGD)
• International schools: $10,000 – $25,000 yearly

Entertainment & Lifestyle Expenses

• Gym membership: $60 – $120 (80 – 160 SGD)
• Movie ticket: $10 – $14 (14 – 19 SGD)
• Nightlife outing: $20 – $50 (27 – 67 SGD)
• Theme parks (Universal Studios): $50 – $80 (67 – 108 SGD)

Cost of Living for Different Groups

For Singles

Singles find Singapore manageable if they cook at home and use public transport. Rent is the biggest expense.

For Couples

Couples save significantly by sharing rent, groceries, and transportation.

For Families

Families should budget carefully due to higher costs of schooling and larger accommodation.

For Students

Students benefit from subsidized transport, but housing can be expensive unless sharing dorms or private rooms.

For Expats

Expats enjoy excellent quality of life, but must be prepared for high rent and dining costs.

Comparison With Other Countries

• Singapore vs Hong Kong – Both are expensive, but housing is slightly cheaper in Singapore.
• Singapore vs Dubai – Dubai is cheaper for housing but costlier for transportation.
• Singapore vs USA – Singapore has cheaper healthcare but higher rent.

Pros & Cons of Living in Singapore

Pros

• Excellent safety
• World-class healthcare
• Efficient transport system
• High salaries
• Clean, modern environment

Cons

• High rental prices
• Costly dining and entertainment
• Limited space and smaller homes
• Hot and humid weather year-round

Final Summary

Singapore offers world-class living standards, modern infrastructure, and unmatched safety, but comes with a high cost of living. It is ideal for expats, skilled professionals, and families seeking a clean, well-organized, and globally connected environment. Rent, dining, and schooling are the biggest factors affecting overall expenses.

FAQs

Is Singapore expensive to live in?

Yes, Singapore is one of the most expensive cities in the world, especially in terms of rent and dining.

How much salary is enough to live comfortably in Singapore?

Singles need $1,800–$3,000 monthly, while families need $4,500–$8,000 depending on lifestyle.

What is the average rent in Singapore?

Rent ranges from $1,200 to $6,000 depending on location and apartment size.

Is Singapore good for expats?

Yes, Singapore is one of the best expat destinations due to safety, healthcare, and job opportunities.

Is Singapore cheaper than Hong Kong?

Yes, Singapore is slightly cheaper than Hong Kong, mainly in housing.