Cost of living in Singapore
Singapore, a bustling metropolis known for its vibrant culture and economic prowess, is a city that attracts people from all over the world. Understanding the cost of living in Singapore is crucial for anyone considering moving to or living in this dynamic city.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the various expenses you can expect, from dining and groceries to housing and transportation, helping you plan your budget effectively.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $10.43 on average, with a range between $5.21 and $18.62.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $67.04, with prices ranging from $37.24 to $134.08.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $7.45, with a range between $5.96 and $8.57.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $3.72 to $11.92, imported beer $5.21 to $12.51, cappuccino $2.83 to $5.96, and Coke/Pepsi $1.12 to $2.98.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $1.68 and $4.47 per liter, averaging $2.66.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $1.45 and $3.72, with an average price of $2.11.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $2.38 to $4.47, averaging $3.26.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $2.23 to $7.45 per kg, while oranges range from $1.86 to $7.45 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $1.12 and $3.13 per kg, and lettuce costs $1.15 to $2.98 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs between $1.12 and $2.23, with a monthly pass priced between $67.04 and $95.34.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $1.86 and $2.61 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $2.9, with a cost of $0.48 to $1.49 per km and $11.17 to $22.35 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $1564.23 to $3724.35, averaging $2700.76.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $1340.77 to $2681.53, averaging $1975.07.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $3575.37 to $8193.56, averaging $5480.75.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $2607.04 to $5214.09, averaging $3776.49.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre ranges from $16835.54 to $28061.98, averaging $21204.78.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, the price per square meter ranges from $11173.04 to $17638.96, averaging $14262.87.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $89.38 and $253.26, averaging $157.98.
- Internet - Internet services range from $22.35 to $48.41, with an average cost of $34.69.
Cost of Living Rankings
Singapore ranks 1st on the Cost of Living rankings in Singapore. The cost of living indices for Singapore are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in Singapore, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
Restaurants
Restaurants
Markets
Markets
Transportation
Transportation
Rent Per Month
Rent Per Month
Utilities (Monthly)
Utilities (Monthly)
Sports And Leisure
Sports And Leisure
Clothing And Shoes
Clothing And Shoes
Buy Apartment Price
Buy Apartment Price
Salaries And Financing
Salaries And Financing
Childcare
Childcare
"Key Takeaways"
Singapore offers a diverse range of dining options, with prices varying significantly between casual and upscale restaurants.
Grocery prices in Singapore are relatively high, particularly for imported goods and fresh produce.
Public transportation is affordable and efficient, making it a popular choice for residents.
Housing costs are a significant expense, with city centre locations commanding higher rents and purchase prices.
Utilities and internet services are reasonably priced, contributing to the overall cost of living.
Conclusion
The cost of living in Singapore is influenced by its status as a global financial hub, with high housing and grocery prices.
While dining and transportation offer more affordable options, potential residents should budget carefully for housing and utilities.
Overall, Singapore provides a high standard of living, but it comes with a corresponding cost, making financial planning essential for those considering a move.