Singapore may be small, but don’t let its physical footprint fool you; every distinct neighborhood offers a unique charm. One key benefit of its size is that traveling end-to-end takes roughly 45 minutes by car, making choosing a neighborhood stress-free.
If you’re wondering where to live in Singapore as an expat, exploring your neighborhood options is essential. This guide covers Singapore’s top expat areas, estimated neighborhood rents, housing types, and key healthcare considerations.
Best Places to Live in Singapore
Singapore offers a balanced mix of city-center high-rises, quiet green suburbs, and waterfront retreats. Here is an overview of the top Singapore residential areas for expats:
- Holland Village: A prime expat hub featuring low-rise condos, lively cafes, and fast transit to major business parks.
- Tanglin: An upscale neighborhood surrounded by lush greenery, peaceful embassies, and historic colonial architecture.
- Tiong Bahru: A historic district known for its low-rise Art Deco apartments, trendy coffee spots, and local wet market.
- Tanjong Pagar: A vibrant central business location filled with high-rise luxury condos, restored shophouses, and night spots.
- Serangoon: A family-focused residential area with spacious housing, top international schools, and local food centers.
- Sentosa: A luxury resort-style island providing oceanfront living, private beach access, and golf courses.
- East Coast: A coastal district offering seafront views, bike trails, and spacious condos at accessible rental rates.
- Woodlands: A northern suburb known for large landed houses, backyards, and proximity to international schools.
How Much Does Rent Cost?
Rental costs in Singapore vary significantly depending on the area, property type (Condo vs. HBL/Landed), and proximity to the city center. Figures below reflect estimated monthly price ranges:
| Neighborhood | 1-2 Bedroom Condo Rent | 3+ Bedroom Family Home Rent |
| Holland Village | SGD 3,800-SGD 6,000 (USD $2,850-USD $4,500) | SGD 6,500-SGD 11,000 (USD $4,880-USD $8,250) |
| Tanglin | SGD 4,500-SGD 7,500 (USD $ 3,380-USD $5,630) | SGD 9,000-SGD 20,000+ (USD $6,750-USD $15,000+) |
| Tiong Bahru | SGD 3,200-SGD 5,200 (USD $2,400-USD $3,900) | SGD 5,500-SGD 8,500 (USD $4,130-USD $6,380) |
| Tanjong Pagar | SGD 4,000-SGD 6,500 (USD $3,000-USD $4,880) | SGD 7,500-SGD 12,500 (USD $5,630-USD $9,380) |
| Serangoon | SGD 2,800-SGD 4,200 (USD $2,100-USD $3,150) | SGD 4,500-SGD 7,500 (USD $3,380-USD $5,630) |
| Sentosa | SGD 5,000-SGD 8,500 (USD $3,750-USD $6,380) | SGD 10,000-SGD 25,000+ (USD $7,500-USD $18,750+) |
| East Coast | SGD 3,000-SGD 4,800 (USD $2,250-USD $3,600) | SGD 5,000-SGD 8,800 (USD $3,750-USD $6,600) |
| Woodlands | SGD 2,500-SGD3,800 (USD $1,880-USD $2,850) | SGD 4,000-SGD 6,500 (USD $3,000-USD $4,880) |
What Are the Main Housing Options in Singapore?
- Private Condominiums: The standard choice for foreign residents. Condos offer 24/7 security, swimming pools, gyms, and tennis courts.
- HDB Flats: Public housing units managed by the Housing & Development Board. Foreigners can rent entire flats or bedrooms under specific pass requirements.
- Landed Properties: Single-family structures including terrace homes, semi-detached houses, and detached bungalows. These homes provide outdoor spaces and private yards.
How to Budget for Living in Singapore
Rent is an expat’s primary expense, but managing lifestyle costs requires planning beyond housing and schooling. Foreigners lack access to subsidized public care, meaning out-of-pocket medical bills at local clinics and private hospitals quickly add up without proper coverage.
Why is International Health Insurance Essential for Expats?
Securing comprehensive international health insurance is the most reliable way to guard your financial plan against unexpected medical bills:
- Unsubsidized Rates: Without citizen or PR status, foreign residents pay full out-of-pocket rates across public and private hospitals.
- Employer Policy Gaps: Company-provided group insurance often carries low maximum limits or excludes family members entirely.
- Comprehensive Protection: A tailored expat policy covers outpatient consultations, specialist care, hospital admissions, and global evacuation.
Secure Your Health with Pacific Prime Singapore
Pacific Prime Singapore secures health coverage tailored to your budget and compliant with local regulations. We compare top plans from leading international insurers to deliver the exact protection you need, minus the complexity.
Contact us today for impartial expert advice or a free quote and plan comparison.
Local Contact Information
Pacific Prime Singapore
Address: 18 Cross #09-02, 18 Cross Street, Singapore 048423
Tel: +65 6536 6173
Frequently Asked Questions
The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) subway system and public bus routes link outer suburban regions directly to the Central Business District. Most residential areas sit within short walking distance of a station or bus stop.
Foreigners can buy private condominium units without restriction. Buying landed property or public HDB flats, however, requires government approval or Permanent Resident status alongside substantial buyer’s stamp duties.
Leases typically run for 1 or 2 years. Private condos require a legal minimum stay of 3 months, while HDB flats require 6 months.
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