Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Singapore Property Pack
Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Singapore Property Pack
Singapore remains one of the most attractive destinations for expats in 2026, offering world-class infrastructure, exceptional safety, and a strategic gateway to the rest of Asia.
However, the cost of living in Singapore, particularly housing and international school fees, continues to be a significant consideration for anyone planning to relocate.
We constantly update this blog post to ensure you have the most current and reliable information for your move to Singapore.
And if you're planning to buy a property in this place, you may want to download our pack covering the real estate market in Singapore.
Is Singapore a good place to live in 2026?
Is quality of life getting better or worse in Singapore in 2026?
As of early 2026, the overall quality of life in Singapore is improving, particularly on day-to-day affordability, as core inflation dropped to just 0.7% in 2025, giving residents relief on everyday expenses.
The most noticeable improvement in Singapore over the past two to three years has been the cooling of inflation pressure, which had previously spiked due to global supply chain disruptions, making groceries, dining, and utilities feel more manageable again.
That said, the persistent challenge in Singapore remains housing affordability, as even with slower price growth in late 2025, absolute rent levels and property prices stay high enough that newcomers still feel the squeeze from the moment they arrive.
Are hospitals good in Singapore in 2026?
As of early 2026, hospitals in Singapore are considered among the best in the world, with healthcare standards that meet or exceed those found in Western Europe and North America.
Expats most commonly recommend Singapore General Hospital and National University Hospital for excellent specialist care at public rates, while Mount Elizabeth Hospital is the top choice for those seeking private healthcare with faster appointments and premium facilities.
A standard doctor consultation in Singapore in 2026 typically costs between S$50 and S$150 (around US$37 to US$110, or EUR 35 to EUR 100), depending on whether you visit a public polyclinic, a public hospital outpatient clinic, or a private GP.
Private health insurance is strongly recommended for expats in Singapore because foreigners do not receive the same government subsidies as citizens and permanent residents, meaning out-of-pocket costs for hospital stays or specialist visits can escalate quickly without coverage.
Are there any good international schools in Singapore in 2026?
As of early 2026, Singapore has over 60 international schools offering curricula ranging from British and American to International Baccalaureate, making it one of the best-served cities in Asia for expat education.
The most reputable international schools among expat families in Singapore include UWCSEA (with campuses in Dover and Tampines), Tanglin Trust School in the Queenstown area, and Singapore American School in Woodlands, all known for strong academics and extensive extracurricular programs.
Annual tuition fees at international schools in Singapore in 2026 typically range from S$25,000 to S$50,000 or more (around US$18,500 to US$37,000, or EUR 17,000 to EUR 34,000), with fees generally increasing for secondary years and additional charges for enrollment and capital levies.
Waitlists at popular international schools in Singapore are common, especially for certain grade levels, so families should apply 6 to 12 months in advance; public schools in Singapore are academically excellent (ranked top globally in PISA assessments), but foreign students face limited places and must adapt to the local curriculum and mother tongue requirements.
Is Singapore a dangerous place in 2026?
As of early 2026, Singapore remains one of the safest cities in the world for both residents and expats, with very low rates of violent crime and a strong sense of personal security in daily life.
The main safety concern for expats in Singapore is not street crime but rather scams and cybercrime, which have increased significantly in recent years according to the Singapore Police Force, so staying vigilant about phishing calls, online fraud, and investment scams is more important than worrying about physical safety.
Virtually all neighborhoods in Singapore are considered safe for expats, but areas like Holland Village, Bukit Timah, East Coast, and River Valley are particularly popular because they combine low crime rates with convenient access to international schools, good transport, and expat-friendly amenities.
Women can generally live alone very safely in Singapore, with no specific neighborhoods to avoid; the standard precautions any city dweller would take (such as staying aware of surroundings at night and not sharing personal information with strangers online) are sufficient for a secure experience.
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How much does everyday life cost in Singapore in 2026?
What monthly budget do I need to live well in Singapore in 2026?
As of early 2026, a single expat renting alone in a central-fringe area of Singapore needs roughly S$6,000 to S$8,000 per month (around US$4,400 to US$5,900, or EUR 4,100 to EUR 5,400) to live comfortably, including rent, food, transport, and social activities.
For a modest but decent lifestyle in Singapore, a single person can manage on around S$4,000 to S$5,000 per month (US$3,000 to US$3,700, or EUR 2,700 to EUR 3,400) by renting a room instead of a full apartment, eating mostly at hawker centers, and using public transport exclusively.
A more comfortable or upscale lifestyle in Singapore, which includes renting a two-bedroom condo in a prime area, dining out regularly, and enjoying weekend activities, typically requires S$10,000 to S$15,000 per month (US$7,400 to US$11,000, or EUR 6,800 to EUR 10,200) for a couple, and S$18,000 to S$25,000 or more (US$13,300 to US$18,500, or EUR 12,200 to EUR 17,000) for a family with one child in international school.
Housing takes up the largest share of a monthly budget in Singapore, often accounting for 40% to 50% of total expenses, which is why rent is the single most important factor when planning your move and negotiating your salary package.
What is the average income tax rate in Singapore in 2026?
As of early 2026, the effective income tax rate for a typical middle-income expat earning around S$120,000 per year in Singapore is approximately 6%, which means you would pay roughly S$7,000 in annual taxes, leaving significantly more take-home pay compared to most Western countries.
Singapore's income tax brackets in 2026 range from 0% on the first S$20,000 of chargeable income up to a maximum marginal rate of 24% on income above S$1,000,000, with progressive rates in between that keep the overall tax burden low for most professionals.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Singapore versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you’re planning to invest there.
What kind of foreigners actually live in Singapore in 2026?
Where do most expats come from in Singapore in 2026?
As of early 2026, the largest groups of expats in Singapore come from across ASEAN countries (particularly Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines), India, China, Europe, and the United States, with the mix varying by industry sector.
Singapore's non-resident population stood at approximately 1.91 million people as of June 2025, representing nearly one-third of the total population of 6.04 million, which makes the city one of the most internationally diverse places in Asia.
Most expats are drawn to Singapore because of its strong job market in finance, technology, and regional headquarters roles, combined with its reputation for safety, efficient infrastructure, and strategic location as a gateway to Southeast Asia.
The expat population in Singapore is predominantly made up of working professionals and their families rather than retirees or digital nomads, as the visa system is primarily designed around employment sponsorship rather than passive income or remote work arrangements.
Where do most expats live in Singapore in 2026?
As of early 2026, the most popular neighborhoods for expats in Singapore include Holland Village, River Valley (including Robertson Quay), Tanglin, Bukit Timah, Orchard, and the East Coast (Katong and Joo Chiat), each offering a distinct lifestyle and proximity to different amenities.
These neighborhoods attract expats because they combine walkable access to international schools, restaurants, and social venues with relatively green surroundings and established expat communities, making the transition to life in Singapore much smoother.
Emerging areas that are starting to attract more expats in Singapore include Tiong Bahru (known for its art-deco architecture and indie cafe scene), One-North and Buona Vista (popular with tech professionals), and Serangoon Gardens (offering a more suburban feel with good international school access at lower rents than central areas).
Are expats moving in or leaving Singapore in 2026?
As of early 2026, Singapore continues to see a net inflow of expats, with the non-resident population remaining stable at around 1.91 million, indicating that the city remains an attractive destination despite higher living costs and stricter work pass requirements.
The main factors driving expats to move to Singapore right now include its strong job market in finance and technology, excellent safety and infrastructure, low personal income tax rates, and its position as a hub for accessing business opportunities across Asia.
Some expats are leaving Singapore due to the high cost of housing and international schooling, the stricter Employment Pass criteria introduced in recent years, and for some, a sense that the city can feel limiting in terms of spontaneity and weekend activities compared to larger global cities.
Compared to regional competitors like Hong Kong (which has faced political uncertainty), Bangkok (with lower costs but less developed infrastructure), and Kuala Lumpur (more affordable but with different quality-of-life trade-offs), Singapore continues to attract a larger share of senior professional and family relocations seeking stability and predictability.
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What paperwork do I need to move to Singapore in 2026?
What visa options are popular in Singapore in 2026?
As of early 2026, the three most popular visa types for expats moving to Singapore are the Employment Pass (EP) for professionals earning at least S$5,600 per month, the S Pass for mid-skilled workers earning at least S$3,300 per month, and the Dependant's Pass for family members of pass holders.
The Employment Pass, which is the most common visa for expat professionals in Singapore, requires a minimum monthly salary of S$5,600 (or S$6,200 for the financial services sector), a job offer from a Singapore-registered employer, acceptable qualifications from a recognized institution, and a passing score on the COMPASS points-based assessment framework.
Singapore does not currently offer a dedicated digital nomad visa, and remote workers cannot legally work in Singapore on a tourist visa; the closest options for entrepreneurs are the EntrePass (for those starting innovative businesses) or the newly introduced Overseas Networks and Expertise Pass (ONE Pass) for exceptionally high earners of at least S$30,000 per month.
The Employment Pass is typically valid for up to two years for first-time applicants and can be renewed for up to three years; renewals now require meeting the same updated salary thresholds and COMPASS criteria, with the new salary requirements for renewals taking effect from January 2026.
How long does it take to get residency in Singapore in 2026?
As of early 2026, the typical processing time to obtain Singapore Permanent Residence (PR) is approximately 6 months when all documents are complete, though some cases can take longer depending on application volume and individual circumstances.
Common factors that can delay PR applications in Singapore include incomplete documentation, inconsistent employment history, lower salary levels relative to age, and applying too soon after arriving in Singapore; having a Singaporean spouse or children, working in a shortage occupation, or holding a senior position with a multinational company can help speed up approval.
To become eligible for PR in Singapore, expats typically need to have held an Employment Pass or S Pass and worked in Singapore for at least two to three years, and eligibility for citizenship requires at least two years as a PR and demonstrating strong ties to Singapore through work, community involvement, and integration.
We created this infographic to give you a simple idea of how much it costs to buy property in different parts of Singapore. As you can see, it breaks down price ranges and property types for popular cities in the country. We hope this makes it easier to explore your options and understand the market.
How hard is it to find a job in Singapore in 2026?
Which industries are hiring the most in Singapore in 2026?
As of early 2026, the industries hiring the most in Singapore are financial services and fintech, information and communications technology (including software development, cybersecurity, and data science), and biomedical sciences and healthcare, all of which have consistent demand for skilled professionals.
It is realistic for expats to get hired in Singapore without speaking Mandarin or other local languages for many corporate, tech, and finance roles, as English is the primary working language; however, customer-facing positions, certain government-linked roles, and some SME environments may prefer or require Mandarin proficiency.
The types of roles most accessible to foreign job seekers in Singapore include senior specialist positions in technology (such as software architects, data engineers, and product managers), regional management roles at multinational companies, financial analysts and compliance professionals, and positions on the Ministry of Manpower's Shortage Occupation List, which includes semiconductor engineers and healthcare professionals.
What salary ranges are common for expats in Singapore in 2026?
As of early 2026, typical expat salaries in Singapore range from S$8,000 to S$18,000 per month (around US$5,900 to US$13,300, or EUR 5,400 to EUR 12,200) for professionals on Employment Passes, with significant variation depending on industry, seniority, and whether the role is locally hired or part of an international assignment.
Entry-level to mid-level expat positions in Singapore typically pay between S$5,600 and S$10,000 per month (US$4,100 to US$7,400, or EUR 3,800 to EUR 6,800), which meets the minimum Employment Pass salary threshold and provides a reasonable but not lavish lifestyle in the city.
Senior or specialized expat roles in Singapore, particularly in finance, technology leadership, or regional director positions, commonly pay S$15,000 to S$30,000 or more per month (US$11,000 to US$22,000, or EUR 10,200 to EUR 20,400), often with additional benefits such as housing allowances, school fee support, and annual flights home.
Large multinational companies and established Singapore firms commonly sponsor Employment Passes for foreign hires who bring specialized skills, though the process has become more selective under the COMPASS framework, and smaller companies may hesitate due to quota restrictions and compliance requirements.
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What's daily life really like for expats in Singapore right now?
What do expats love most about living in Singapore right now?
Expats in Singapore consistently praise the exceptional safety and security, the world-class public transport system, and the incredible food scene that ranges from S$5 hawker meals to Michelin-starred restaurants.
The lifestyle benefit most frequently praised by expats in Singapore is the ability to walk the streets at any hour without feeling unsafe, combined with the ease of weekend travel to destinations like Bali, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur, all just a short flight away.
The practical advantage expats appreciate most in Singapore is the efficiency of everyday life, from the punctual MRT trains and clean streets to the seamless digital government services and reliable infrastructure that simply works without hassle.
Socially and culturally, expats enjoy Singapore's multicultural environment where Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences blend together, creating a diverse food scene, varied festivals throughout the year, and an international community where making friends from around the world feels natural.
What do expats dislike most about life in Singapore right now?
The top complaints from expats in Singapore are the high cost of housing (with even modest apartments commanding S$3,500 or more per month), the eye-watering expense of international school fees, and the perception that weekend activities can feel repetitive after the initial excitement of exploring the city wears off.
The daily inconvenience that frustrates expats the most in Singapore is the relentless humidity and heat, which makes any outdoor activity between 11am and 4pm uncomfortable, and the lack of spontaneous social culture, as Singaporeans tend to plan meetups weeks in advance rather than making last-minute plans.
The bureaucratic issue that causes the most headaches for expats in Singapore is the Employment Pass renewal process, which has become stricter under the COMPASS framework, creating uncertainty for those approaching renewal dates and sometimes forcing sudden job changes to maintain legal status.
For most expats, these frustrations are manageable rather than deal-breakers, especially for those whose employers cover housing and schooling costs; the trade-off of safety, efficiency, and career opportunities generally outweighs the downsides for professionals willing to adapt to Singapore's structured way of life.
What are the biggest culture shocks in Singapore right now?
The biggest culture shocks for expats moving to Singapore include the intense "kiasu" (fear of losing out) mentality that drives competitive behavior in everything from queuing to children's education, the strict enforcement of rules with fines for behaviors like littering or jaywalking, and the realization that daily life revolves heavily around air-conditioned malls and hawker centers.
The social norm that surprises newcomers the most in Singapore is how quickly life becomes optimized and scheduled, with Singaporeans and long-term expats often booking social engagements weeks in advance, leaving little room for the spontaneous meetups that are common in Western cities.
The aspect of daily routines that takes the longest for expats to adjust to in Singapore is the extreme heat and humidity, which fundamentally changes how you dress, commute, and plan outdoor activities, as well as the relatively muted nightlife and drinking culture compared to cities like London, New York, or Hong Kong.
We made this infographic to show you how property prices in Singapore compare to other big cities across the region. It breaks down the average price per square meter in city centers, so you can see how cities stack up. It’s an easy way to spot where you might get the best value for your money. We hope you like it.
Can I buy a home as a foreigner in Singapore in 2026?
Can foreigners legally own property in Singapore in 2026?
As of early 2026, foreigners can legally purchase certain types of property in Singapore, but ownership is restricted by the Residential Property Act, which limits what non-citizens can buy without government approval.
The main restriction for foreigners buying property in Singapore is that they generally cannot purchase landed properties (such as bungalows, semi-detached houses, or terraced houses) or HDB flats without special approval from the Singapore Land Authority; additionally, foreigners must pay a hefty Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) of 60% on top of the purchase price.
Foreigners in Singapore can freely purchase most private condominiums and apartments without needing approval, which is the most common route for expats who want to own property; however, executive condominiums less than 10 years old and all landed residential properties remain off-limits or require approval that is rarely granted.
By the way, we've written a blog article detailing the whole property buying process for foreigners in Singapore.
What is the average price per m² in Singapore in 2026?
As of early 2026, the average price per square meter for private residential property in Singapore ranges from approximately S$18,000 to S$24,000 (US$13,300 to US$17,800, or EUR 12,200 to EUR 16,300) in suburban areas, S$22,000 to S$32,000 (US$16,300 to US$23,700, or EUR 14,900 to EUR 21,700) in city-fringe locations, and S$30,000 to S$45,000 or more (US$22,200 to US$33,300, or EUR 20,400 to EUR 30,500) in prime central districts.
Property prices in Singapore have trended upward over the past two to three years, with private home prices rising approximately 3.3% in 2024 and continuing with modest growth into 2025, though the pace of increase has slowed compared to the rapid gains seen in 2021 and 2022.
Want to know more? We give you all the details you need about the housing prices in Singapore here.
Also, you'll find our latest property market analysis about Singapore here.
Do banks give mortgages to foreigners in Singapore in 2026?
As of early 2026, mortgages are available to foreigners in Singapore from most major banks, though the terms are generally stricter and require larger down payments compared to what citizens and permanent residents receive.
The major banks in Singapore known to offer mortgages to foreigners include DBS Bank, OCBC Bank, and UOB, all of which have dedicated home loan teams experienced in working with non-resident buyers.
Typical mortgage conditions for foreigners in Singapore include a maximum loan-to-value (LTV) ratio of around 75% (meaning a minimum 25% down payment), interest rates currently ranging from approximately 2.5% to 3.5% depending on the package, and loan tenures of up to 25 to 30 years; the Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR) framework limits total debt repayments to 55% of gross monthly income.
To qualify for a mortgage in Singapore, foreigners typically need to provide proof of income (such as employment contracts and payslips), bank statements showing sufficient funds for the down payment and ABSD, valid identification documents, and in some cases proof of existing assets or investments; having a Singapore bank account and employment history in the country can strengthen the application.
You can also read our latest update about mortgage and interest rates in Singapore.
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What sources have we used to write this blog article?
Whether it's in our blog articles or the market analyses included in our property pack about Singapore, we always rely on the strongest methodology we can... and we don't throw out numbers at random.
We also aim to be fully transparent, so below we've listed the authoritative sources we used, and explained how we used them and the methods behind our estimates.
| Source | Why it's authoritative | How we used it |
|---|---|---|
| Singapore Department of Statistics (SingStat) CPI | Singapore's official statistics agency and primary source for inflation data. | We used it to anchor everyday cost trends through December 2025. We validated whether expenses are easing or accelerating into 2026. |
| Population in Brief 2025 | Government's annual snapshot of residents versus non-residents. | We used it to size the foreign population and understand expat demographics. We grounded "who lives here" claims with official counts. |
| Ministry of Manpower Work Passes | MOM is the regulator for foreign employment and work visas. | We used it to list actual visa pathways foreigners use. We kept requirements framed as official policy rather than blog advice. |
| IRAS Individual Income Tax Rates | IRAS is the tax authority and source of truth for tax brackets. | We used it to estimate effective tax rates from gross salaries. We explained tax residency rules relevant to newcomers. |
| URA Residential Time Series | URA is the planning authority publishing official market statistics. | We used it to anchor rent and price direction using official indices. We triangulated price-per-square-meter estimates with market data. |
| MOH Healthcare at a Glance | Ministry of Health publishes system capacity and workforce metrics. | We used it to assess hospital quality and infrastructure for 2026. We supported "are hospitals good" claims with system-level evidence. |
| Singapore Land Authority Foreign Ownership | SLA administers rules on what foreigners can legally purchase. | We used it to clarify property types foreigners can buy. We prevented common misconceptions about ownership restrictions. |
| Singapore Police Force Annual Crime Brief | Official police publication on crime statistics and trends. | We used it to assess safety using reported crime data. We highlighted actual risks like scams rather than perceived dangers. |
| UWCSEA Fees | Official fee schedule from one of Singapore's top international schools. | We used it to set credible annual tuition ranges. We showed realistic costs including enrollment and capital fees. |
| MOM Job Vacancy Statistics | Official vacancy data tracking labor market demand by sector. | We used it to identify which industries are actively hiring. We grounded job market claims in official employment data. |
We have made this infographic to give you a quick and clear snapshot of the property market in Singapore. It highlights key facts like rental prices, yields, and property costs both in city centers and outside, so you can easily compare opportunities. We’ve done some research and also included useful insights about the country’s economy, like GDP, population, and interest rates, to help you understand the bigger picture.