Living in Singapore

Singapore is a sunny, tropical island in Southeast Asia, off the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula.

Singapore is a city, a nation and a state. It is about 275 square miles, and has a population of about 5.6 million people from four major communities; Chinese (majority), Malay, Indian and Eurasian. Since its independence in 9 August 1965, the country has adopted a parliamentary democracy system. Singapore is known as a City in a Garden and nearly 50 percent of the island is green space. It is a thriving metropolis offering a world-class infrastructure, a fully integrated island-wide transport network, dynamic business environment, vibrant living spaces, and a rich culture largely influenced by the multicultural communities in Singapore with each offering different perspective of life in Singapore in terms of culture, religion, food, language and history.

Cost of Living

Singapore, a cosmopolitan city state without natural resources, imports many goods and services. Singapore's high cost of living is due to its small land area, which raises property prices, and excessive imports of essential goods. The city-state's commitment to high-quality public services, strong currency values, higher labour costs, and government policies to control traffic congestion all contribute to the costs. Due to its security, efficiency, and multiculturalism, Singapore remains a desirable destination despite these costs.
Note: International students without work passes or exemptions cannot work in Singapore to pay for their living expenses.

For an estimated breakdown on living expenses in Singapore, please see the pdf file here. These are estimates and may vary depending on personal preferences and circumstances.

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