Moving to Singapore
Last updated on Oct 21, 2023
Summary: Many expats and digital nomads move to Singapore due to its excellent quality of life, low taxes, and strong economy. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Singapore are Singapore City, Sentosa, and Orchard Road. People looking for a place to live in Singapore can search online for rental listings, contact a real estate agent, or look for housing through expat networks.
What do I need to know before moving to Singapore?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Singapore, they said:
"Singapore is a vibrant and diverse city with a unique culture and lifestyle. Expats should be aware that English is the main language spoken in Singapore, but there are also four official languages: Malay, Mandarin, Tamil, and English. Expats should also be aware that Singapore is a very safe city with low crime rates, but it is important to be aware of the laws and regulations in place. Additionally, Singapore has a tropical climate with high humidity and temperatures, so expats should be prepared for hot and humid weather. Finally, Singapore is an expensive city to live in, so expats should plan their budget accordingly," explained one expat living in Singapore.
"Choose a place that's reasonably close to both your work and your kids' school. Depending on whether you drive a car or take the MRT, adjust accordingly. Either way, the objective is to keep travel time to a minimum, especially for the kids. Second, try to find a place that's not too noisy or too hot. Facing away from both the sun and traffic is ideal. Find a reliable agent, preferably through a reference, because a good agent can save you lots of time and plenty of frustration," said one expat in Singapore.
How do I find a place to live in Singapore?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"I selected my house on its proximity by the sea. I called a property agent; he turned out to be a great help in getting me the unit I'd set my eyes on," explained one expat living in Singapore, Singapore.
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Singapore is to use online resources such as property portals, classifieds websites, and real estate agents. Property portals such as PropertyGuru, 99.co, and SRX Property provide comprehensive listings of available properties in Singapore. Classifieds websites such as Gumtree and Craigslist also offer listings of available properties. Additionally, real estate agents can provide assistance in finding a suitable property. They can provide advice on the best areas to live in, the types of properties available, and the rental rates," said one expat in Singapore.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Singapore?
"I stay in a condo. Yes, most expats prefer a condo, although some live in landed properties. It should be said that nowadays more and more expats stay in HDB flats too," explained one expat living in Singapore, Singapore.
"Expat homes and apartments in Singapore tend to be modern and luxurious, with high-end appliances and furnishings. Many expats choose to live in condominiums, which offer amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and playgrounds. Expat apartments often come with balconies, allowing residents to enjoy the city's skyline and tropical climate. Expats also have access to a wide range of international restaurants, shopping malls, and entertainment venues," said one expat in Singapore.
What is the average cost of housing in Singapore?
If you are thinking about moving to Singapore, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"Housing costs tend to be higher here than in Holland. Average cost of housing in Singapore is hard to say, but generally you won't find anything decent below S$1500,-," commented one expat who made the move to Singapore.
"The cost of housing in Singapore is generally quite high, with the average cost of a home in the city-state being significantly higher than in many other countries. The cost of renting a home in Singapore is also quite expensive, with the average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment in the city-state being among the highest in the world," remarked one expat in Singapore.
Should I buy or rent a home in Singapore?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Singapore, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"Buying a home in Singapore can be a great investment, as property prices have been steadily increasing over the years. However, it is important to consider your financial situation and lifestyle before making a decision. Renting a home in Singapore can be a more affordable option, as it allows you to save money for other investments or expenses. It also gives you the flexibility to move to a different location if needed. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Singapore should be based on your individual needs and preferences," said one expat who made the move to Singapore.
What should I pack when moving to Singapore?
We asked people living in Singapore to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:
"When moving to Singapore, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Bring lightweight, breathable clothing that is suitable for the hot and humid weather. Pack a few items of formal clothing for business meetings and other formal occasions. Bring a few items of casual clothing for everyday wear. Bring a few items of swimwear for the many beaches and pools in Singapore. Pack a few items of rainwear, as Singapore experiences frequent rain showers. Bring a few items of comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city. Pack a few items of sun protection, such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Bring a few items of insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes. Finally, bring a few items of electrical adapters to use with Singapore's electrical outlets," commented one expat who made the move to Singapore.
"1. Licorice
2. Nutricia Chocolate milk
3. Flake bars
A. Denim jeans
B. Long-sleeved shirts
C. Shoes,"
remarked one expat in Singapore, Singapore.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Singapore?
We asked people in Singapore if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:
"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Singapore. It is considered rude to point with your index finger, so it is best to use your thumb or an open hand when gesturing. It is also important to dress modestly, as Singapore is a conservative society. Avoid public displays of affection, as this is considered inappropriate. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of religious beliefs and practices, as Singapore is a multi-religious society. Finally, it is important to be mindful of the local language, as English is not the primary language in Singapore," remarked one expat in Singapore.
"I tried to say words in Chinese at times which came out as different words due to the tonal aspects of the language," said one expat in Singapore.
Why do people move to Singapore?
When we asked people why foreigners move to Singapore, they responded:
"Singapore is an attractive destination for expats due to its excellent quality of life, low crime rate, and vibrant culture. The city-state offers a wide range of job opportunities, excellent healthcare, and a world-class education system. Singapore is also a great place to live due to its tropical climate, modern infrastructure, and efficient public transportation system. Additionally, the country is known for its low taxes, making it an attractive option for expats looking to save money. Finally, Singapore is a great place to meet people from all over the world, making it a great place to make new friends and build a network," wrote one expat living in Singapore.
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How are healthcare services Singapore?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Singapore, they replied:
"Singapore offers a comprehensive range of healthcare services, ranging from primary care to specialist services. The public healthcare system in Singapore is highly regarded for its quality and affordability. It is funded by the government and provides a wide range of services, including preventive care, primary care, specialist care, and hospital services. Foreign residents in Singapore have access to the public healthcare system, and can use it for both inpatient and outpatient services. Expats in Singapore can use the public healthcare system by registering with a public healthcare provider and paying the relevant fees. They can also purchase private health insurance to cover any additional costs," wrote one expat living in Singapore.
What are medical services in Singapore like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Singapore, they replied:
"Singapore has a world-class healthcare system, offering a wide range of medical services. The country has a network of public and private hospitals and clinics, staffed by highly trained and experienced medical professionals. Singapore also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as the National University Hospital and the Singapore General Hospital, which provide advanced medical care. Singapore also has a number of medical research centers, such as the National University of Singapore and the Singapore Institute of Technology, which are dedicated to developing new treatments and technologies. In addition, Singapore has a number of medical tourism centers, which offer a range of treatments and services to international patients," offered one expat living in Singapore.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Singapore Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Singapore
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Singapore
- Best Places to Live in Singapore
- Guide to Real Estate in Singapore
- Pros & Cons of Living in Singapore
- Cost of Living in Singapore
- How to Rent a Home in Singapore
- Enrolling in the Public Healthcare System in Singapore
- How to Get a Driver's License in Singapore
- 15 Best Places to Live in Singapore
- 2024 Guide to Living in Singapore
- Pros and Cons of Living in Singapore 2024