Planning to move to Singapore? Discover this nifty and comprehensive expat guide to living in Singapore that we have prepared for you!Â
Singapore is a small island nation in Southeast Asia known for its modern cityscape and thriving economy.
Despite its size, Singapore has become a global financial hub, attracting businesses and professionals from around the world.Â
The city is a melting pot for business and tourism and is famous for its clean streets, efficient public transportation, and beautiful green spaces. It’s a place where tradition meets innovation, with historic temples and modern skyscrapers standing side by side.
The country offers excellent job opportunities, especially in finance, technology, and biotechnology.Â
Its education and healthcare systems are among the best in the world, ensuring a high quality of life for residents. As a result, more and more people are drawn to live in Singapore.Â
Singapore is also one of the safest places to live, thanks to its low crime rates and strict laws. Additionally, the city is known for its cultural diversity, making it a vibrant and exciting place to call home.
Living in Singapore as someone from another country can be exciting, but it’s important to think about a few things before you go.
Because Singapore can be crowded and expensive, it might be tough to find a place to stay Look at different neighbourhoods to find one that fits your needs and budget. Think about how close you want to be to places like stores, transportation, and fun things to do.
Decide if you want to live in the middle of everything, like Orchard Road or Marina Bay, where there's lots of action. Or maybe you prefer quieter places like Holland Village or Katong. If you have kids, think about being near good schools and parks.
Singapore has great schools, but it can be hard to get into the best ones. Start looking early and consider how close they are to your home. Think about what activities are offered and if they help families who are new to Singapore.
Many expats find work in fields like banking, tech, healthcare, and hotels. Look for job openings and make sure you understand the rules for working in Singapore. Meeting new people and going to events can help you find opportunities. Think about what's important to you in a job, like how much you'll work and if there's room to grow.
Singapore can be expensive, especially for things like housing and getting around. Make a plan for how much you'll spend on different things. Eating out can be pricey, but there are cheaper options at local markets. Try to use public transportation to save money.
Most people in Singapore speak English, but knowing other languages like Mandarin or Malay can be helpful. Consider taking classes to learn more and meet new people.
By thinking about these things, you can make moving to Singapore a little easier and enjoy all the cool stuff it has to offer.
Choosing the right neighbourhood is crucial when moving to Singapore. Some of the best areas for relocating to Singapore include:
Known for its shopping and dining options, it’s a vibrant area with many amenities.
Offers a resort-like lifestyle with beaches and recreational activities.
Tanjong Pagar is a bustling neighborhood with a rich cultural heritage. It offers a vibrant dining scene, trendy bars, and unique boutiques. Its central location makes it convenient for commuting to the central business district, making it popular among working professionals.
Popular with expats for its relaxed vibe, cafes, and bars.
Ideal for families, with parks, good schools, and a coastal atmosphere.
Finding accommodation as an expat in Singapore can be done through property websites, real estate agents, and expat forums. Here are the different types of accommodation options available:
Government-subsidized housing, more affordable but may have restrictions on foreign ownership.
Private residential complexes with amenities like pools, gyms, and security. Popular among expats for their facilities and community.
Houses with gardens, suitable for families who need more space and privacy.
Fully furnished apartments with housekeeping and other services, ideal for short-term stays.
Rent in Singapore can vary widely depending on the location and type of accommodation. Generally, expect to pay:
The cost of renting furniture in Singapore varies depending on factors such as the duration of the rental, the type of furniture, and any additional services or upgrades.Â
On average, monthly rental fees can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the size and style of the furniture package.
Deciding whether to buy or rent furniture depends on the length of your stay and personal preferences. Here are the pros and cons of each option:
Consider your budget, length of stay, and personal preferences when deciding whether to buy or rent furniture for your home in Singapore.
Transport in Singapore is convenient. Singapore has an excellent public transportation system. The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and buses are reliable, clean, and cover most areas of the city. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also available but can be more expensive.
If you plan to be an expat in Singapore, it’s good to think about how much money you’ll spend on food each month. Here’s a simple breakdown:
For one person, a reasonable food allowance in Singapore can be around $300 to $600 per month. This amount can cover groceries from local markets and occasional meals at hawker centers, where food is tasty and affordable.
Entertainment costs in Singapore vary depending on your interests and lifestyle. For movies and shows, expect to budget around $10 to $15 for a movie ticket and $30 to $100 or more for live performances.
Outdoor activities like visiting parks or beaches may have admission fees ranging from $5 to $20.
Shopping expenses depend on your preferences, from a few dollars at street markets to several hundred or more for luxury items. It’s important to budget according to your interests and prioritize experiences while staying within your means.
Singapore is a food paradise. You can find a wide range of cuisines, from local dishes like chicken rice and laksa to international fare. Eating out can be expensive in restaurants, but hawker centers offer tasty and affordable options.
In Singapore, the average salary for a professional is around SGD 120,000 to SGD 200,000 per year, but this can vary widely depending on the industry and role.Â
Some of the most popular jobs in 2023 and 2024 include positions in technology, finance, biotechnology, and healthcare. Roles such as software engineers, data analysts, financial analysts, and healthcare professionals are in high demand.
Employees can expect benefits such as healthcare, paid leave, and sometimes housing allowances.
Educational systems in Singapore is renowned for its high quality and rigorous standards. The system is well-regarded globally, with a strong emphasis on mathematics, science, and languages. If you’re planning to move and study in Singapore, or if you’re moving your family, here are some things to know:
Singapore has a mix of public schools, private schools, and international schools. Public schools are known for their excellence, but international schools might be preferable for expatriates due to their familiar curriculums and diverse student bodies.
Entry into schools can be competitive, especially for popular international schools. It’s advisable to start the application process early.
The curriculum in Singapore is demanding, with a strong focus on exams and academic performance. However, schools also offer a range of extracurricular activities.
While English is the primary language of instruction, students also learn a second language, typically Mandarin, Malay, or Tamil.
By understanding these aspects of education in Singapore, you can better prepare for your move and ensure a smooth transition for your family.
Singapore has a top-notch healthcare system that includes both public and private services. As a foreigner in Singapore, you can expect a positive experience with the healthcare system. Singapore’s healthcare is known for its high quality and efficiency.
Most expats rely on both public and private healthcare options. Public hospitals offer excellent medical services at affordable rates, while private hospitals provide more personalized care with shorter waiting times but at higher costs.
You may need health insurance to cover medical expenses, but overall, you can feel assured that you’ll receive prompt and reliable healthcare services in Singapore.
To help you on your journey, we’ve put together an the expats guide to Singapore checklist specifically for expats planning to make Singapore their new home. Let’s dive in and ensure your move to Singapore is as smooth and stress-free as possible!
Following this checklist will help ensure a smooth transition as you move to and settle into life in Singapore.
