How Expensive is Singapore? Cost of Living & Immigration (PR to Citizenship) Explained!

Singapore is one of the world’s most developed cities, but how much does it really cost to live here? Many expatriates, professionals, and business owners dream of making Singapore their home, but understanding the financial realities—from daily expenses to immigration costs—is essential. Whether you’re considering applying for Singapore PR or taking the next step with a citizenship application Singapore, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about expenses and the transition process.

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Cost of Living in Singapore: A Breakdown

Singapore is known for its high cost of living, but it all depends on your lifestyle. From housing and food to transportation and healthcare, let’s look at the core expenses:

Housing Costs: The Largest Expense

Accommodation is the biggest expense in Singapore, with rental prices varying based on location and property type. Your choice of housing—whether public (HDB) or private—significantly impacts your monthly budget.

HDB Flats (Public Housing): Renting a 3-room flat in residential areas costs around SGD 2,500–3,500 per month, while resale flats for purchase start from SGD 400,000–700,000.

Condominiums: Mid-range condo rentals in areas like Bukit Timah or East Coast range from SGD 4,000–7,000 per month, while luxury condos in Orchard or Marina Bay can exceed SGD 10,000 monthly.

Landed Properties: Exclusive landed homes start at SGD 8,000 per month for a basic unit and can reach SGD 30,000+ for high-end properties.

Transportation: Affordability vs. Convenience

Singapore’s efficient public transport system makes getting around easy, but costs vary depending on whether you use public transport, own a car, or rely on ride-hailing services.

MRT & Bus: A monthly transport pass costs around SGD 120–150.

Car Ownership: Due to high COE (Certificate of Entitlement) prices, a basic car like a Toyota Corolla costs around SGD 120,000+, while luxury brands start at SGD 250,000.

Ride-hailing (Grab, Gojek, etc.): Expect to spend SGD 10–30 per ride, depending on distance and peak hours.

As transport costs are manageable compared to housing, many expatriates and locals opt for public transport to minimize expenses.

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Food & Dining: A Range of Choices

Food expenses in Singapore vary depending on dining habits. While affordable options exist at hawker centres, mid-range and fine dining experiences come at a higher price.

Hawker Meals: SGD 4–8 per meal.

Mid-range Restaurants: SGD 20–50 per person.

Fine Dining: SGD 100–500 per person.

Groceries: A small family’s grocery bill is approximately SGD 400–800 per month.

Healthcare & Insurance: Quality at a Cost

Singapore’s healthcare system is world-class, but costs differ depending on your residency status. PRs and citizens enjoy subsidies, while foreigners rely on private insurance.

Public Clinic Consultation: SGD 30–50.

Private GP Visit: SGD 50–120.

Hospitalization (without insurance): SGD 3,000–10,000 for minor surgeries, and SGD 20,000+ for major procedures.

Education Costs: A Considerable Factor for Families

If you have children, education costs are an important consideration. PRs enjoy subsidized schooling, while expatriates often choose international schools with higher fees.

Local Schools: PRs pay SGD 200–500 per month, while foreigners pay higher fees.

International Schools: Annual fees range from SGD 25,000–50,000.

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Balancing Cost and Quality of Life

Despite high costs, Singapore offers a high quality of life, career opportunities, and economic stability. Compared to other ASEAN countries, salaries are higher, infrastructure is superior, and public services are more reliable. However, the trade-off is significantly higher living expenses.

How Singapore Compares with ASEAN Countries

Compared to Malaysia & Thailand: Higher salaries and better infrastructure, but significantly higher housing costs.

Compared to Indonesia & Vietnam: More job opportunities and safety, but a much higher cost of living.

Compared to the Philippines: Better public services and efficient transport, but living costs are substantially higher.

Given these factors, Many expatriates and professionals seek Singapore PR to reduce costs and secure long-term stability, benefiting from CPF contributions, housing eligibility, and healthcare subsidies while integrating into Singaporean society.

Why Consider Singapore PR & Citizenship?

For expatriates and professionals looking to settle in Singapore, gaining Permanent Residency (PR) is a key step toward long-term stability. PR status grants various benefits, such as CPF contributions, access to public housing, and healthcare subsidies. Over time, many PRs opt for Singapore citizenship, which provides full rights, including voting privileges and eligibility for additional government benefits. However, both statuses come with their own set of advantages and responsibilities.

Pros of PR & Citizenship

Cons of PR & Citizenship

With a clearer picture of Singapore’s cost of living and immigration pathways, let’s explore how you can transition from PR to full citizenship.

Transitioning from PR to Citizenship: The Process

If you’re planning to stay long-term, obtaining Singapore PR is the first step toward full citizenship. Here’s what you need to know.

Step 1: Singapore Permanent Residency (PR) Application

PR status provides long-term residency benefits, including access to public healthcare and CPF contributions. There are several pathways to obtain PR status:

Employment Pass (EP) Holders: 

Foreign professionals working in Singapore for at least 2–3 years have a higher approval chance, especially if they have a stable job, a strong income, and relevant industry experience. Having a track record of contributions to Singapore’s economy can further strengthen the application.

Spouse of a Singapore Citizen/PR: 

Those married to a Singapore citizen or PR are eligible to apply, but approval depends on the length of marriage, stability of the relationship, and integration into Singaporean society. Having children who are Singapore citizens can also improve the chances of approval.

Global Investor Program (GIP): 

High-net-worth individuals who invest at least SGD 10 – 25 million in Singapore businesses, startups, or funds may qualify for PR. This pathway is designed to attract entrepreneurs and investors who contribute significantly to the local economy.

Student to PR: 

Foreign students who have passed a Singapore National Examination, such as Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE), GCE ‘N’ / ‘O’ / ‘A’ Levels will be eligible to apply for Singapore PR on their own merits. 

Step 2: Applying for Singapore Citizenship

Once you hold PR status for at least 2 years, you can apply for citizenship if you meet the eligibility criteria.

Key Requirements:

• Strong employment history and economic contribution.
• Integration into Singaporean society (family ties, community involvement, cultural awareness).
• No major criminal record or security concerns.
• Proof of long-term commitment to Singapore, including stable employment and financial standing.

The Application Process:

• Submit an online application through the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website.
• Provide necessary documents, including proof of residency, employment, and tax records.
• Attend an interview or citizenship assessment if required.
• Await processing, which typically takes 6–12 months.

PR vs. Citizenship: What’s the Difference?

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Final Thoughts: Is Singapore Worth the Cost?

Singapore’s cost of living is undeniably high, but it offers excellent infrastructure, safety, career opportunities, and a strategic business environment. If you’re planning to move, securing Singapore PR is the first step, followed by a citizenship application in Singapore if you plan to settle permanently. While expenses can be steep, careful financial planning and leveraging government benefits can make living in Singapore a worthwhile investment.

Would you take the step towards PR or citizenship? Start your journey by assessing your eligibility and preparing your application today!