🇸🇬 Cost of Living in Singapore - Prices & Budget Guide
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameRepublic of Singapore
CapitalSingapore
Population6.1 million
Area710.0 km²
LanguagesEnglish, Chinese, Malay, Tamil
CurrencySingapore dollar ($)
TimezoneUTC+08:00
RegionAsia / South-Eastern Asia
Drives onLeft
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$150,689 (2024)
Inflation Rate2.4% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$3,922 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend25.4% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)2.2% (2024)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Quick Facts
Cost LevelVery Expensive
Daily Budget (Backpacker)$80-120 USD
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)$150-250 USD
Daily Budget (Comfort)$300-500 USD
CurrencySGD
Tipping Customnot expected
How Expensive Is Singapore?
Singapore is considered one of the most expensive cities in the world, with a high cost of living that surpasses many other major cities in Asia and beyond. Compared to its neighbors, Malaysia and Indonesia, Singapore is significantly more expensive, with prices for accommodation, food, and transportation being substantially higher. The city-state's strong economy, high standard of living, and limited land area all contribute to its expensive reputation. However, visitors and expats can still find ways to enjoy Singapore without breaking the bank, by taking advantage of affordable options for food, transportation, and entertainment.
Overall, Singapore's high cost of living is due to a combination of factors, including its desirable location, high demand for housing and services, and strict government regulations. Despite this, the city remains a popular destination for tourists and business travelers, who are drawn to its cleanliness, safety, and world-class amenities. With some planning and research, it is possible to experience the best of Singapore without overspending.
Accommodation Prices
Type
Price Range (USD/night)
Notes
Hostel/Budget
$20-40
basic dorms and guesthouses, often with shared facilities
Mid-Range Hotel
$100-250
3-4 star hotels, with comfortable rooms and amenities
Luxury/Resort
$300-600
5-star hotels, with high-end amenities and services
Apartment Rent (monthly)
$1,500-3,000
city center, 1-bedroom apartment, with amenities like pool and gym
Apartment Rent (monthly)
$800-1,500
outside city center, 1-bedroom apartment, with basic amenities
Food & Dining Prices
Meal Type
Price Range (USD)
Street Food / Local Eatery
$3-6
Casual Restaurant
$10-20
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)
$30-50
Fine Dining
$50-100
Beer (local)
$5-10
Coffee
$2-5
Water (1.5L bottle)
$1-2
Transport Costs
Transport
Cost (USD)
Local bus/metro ride
$1-2
Taxi (per km)
$0.50-1.00
Domestic flight
N/A, Singapore is a city-state
Fuel (per liter)
$1.50-2.50
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Category
Budget ($)
Mid-Range ($)
Comfortable ($)
Rent
800-1,200
1,500-2,500
3,000-5,000
Food
300-500
500-800
800-1,200
Transport
50-100
100-200
200-300
Utilities
100-200
200-300
300-500
Entertainment
200-300
300-500
500-1,000
Total
1,450-2,300
2,600-4,300
4,800-8,000
Money-Saving Tips
Consider staying in a hostel or budget hotel, or sharing an apartment with friends to reduce accommodation costs
Eat at hawker centers or food courts, which offer affordable and delicious local cuisine
Use public transportation, such as buses and trains, which are efficient and relatively cheap
Take advantage of free or low-cost attractions, such as parks, gardens, and museums
Avoid shopping at high-end malls or boutiques, and instead opt for local markets or thrift stores
Use cashback or rewards credit cards to earn points or discounts on everyday purchases