Thinking of moving to Singapore? You're not alone. This vibrant, modern city-state continues to attract expatriates from all over the world thanks to its high quality of life, diverse culture, and world-class healthcare system. But before you pack your bags, one of your biggest questions is likely: Where should I live?
We’ve put together a friendly, practical guide to Singapore’s neighborhoods and accommodation options—whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or just getting started. And since moving abroad comes with its fair share of uncertainties, we’ll also touch on how health insurance fits into your relocation plan.
If you want to be in the thick of things, Orchard Road and Tanglin are excellent places to start. These upscale neighborhoods are known for their luxury condos, buzzing shopping scenes, and food courts (hawker centers) that serve everything from Michelin-starred meals to late-night satay.
Sentosa Cove, tucked away on the eastern side of Sentosa Island, is an exclusive haven for those who love waterfront living. Just be prepared—these areas come with premium price tags.
If you're after something more relaxed but still well-connected, Holland Village is a popular choice. Known for its quirky charm and laidback cafés, it’s ideal for expats who want a more local feel with good amenities.
Serangoon Gardens offers a peaceful, family-friendly vibe with lower rental prices, while Tiong Bahru is a hip, rapidly gentrifying area full of cafés and stylish boutiques—perfect for singles and young couples.
Other honorable mentions:
For families with school-age children, your housing choice will likely revolve around school locations:
Each area has its perks, and being closer to school means less time in traffic and more time as a family.
Whether you're staying short-term or putting down roots, there’s a wide range of housing options:
Platforms like Airbnb aren’t legal in Singapore for stays under 3 months, but serviced apartments offer a flexible (though more expensive) alternative. Expect to pay S$4,000 to S$10,000 per month, depending on location and amenities.
Renting a room in a shared apartment or condo is the most affordable long-term solution. While privacy is limited, this option allows you to significantly cut expenses.
Monthly rent ranges from S$650 in outer areas to around S$2,000 in central, amenity-rich locations.
Public housing, managed by the Housing & Development Board (HDB), is widely available to permanent residents, students, and long-term pass holders. These flats have improved significantly in quality over the years.
A three-bedroom HDB flat on the outskirts typically costs around S$3,500 per month.
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Private condominiums are a favorite among expats. These modern properties usually come with swimming pools, gyms, and high security.
Prices start from S$3,200 per month for a modest one-bedroom unit and can reach S$11,000 or more for luxury units.
These homes offer the space of a house with shared community facilities like pools or playgrounds. They can be detached or semi-detached.
Rental costs range from S$8,000 in suburban areas like Seletar to over S$11,000 in premium locations.
These colonial-era houses are a piece of Singapore’s architectural heritage. Managed by the government and available through auction, they are in limited supply but highly sought-after.
Rents are relatively low, but rising due to redevelopment plans.
Spacious and open, bungalows in Singapore offer tropical living at its best. Good-class bungalows also include extras like pools and large gardens.
Monthly rent can range from S$5,000 for a three-bedroom on the West Coast to S$25,000 or more in premium districts.
Colorful, historical shophouses combine cultural charm with modern interiors. However, they lack outdoor space and tend to be closely packed.
Rental prices generally fall between S$6,000 and S$8,000 per month.
Don’t expect “For Rent” signs around town—most listings are found online.
Popular rental websites include:
Other options include:
Agents in Singapore must be registered with the Council for Estate Agencies (CEA). When you hire one, you can be confident they represent your interests exclusively, as dual representation is illegal here.
It’s also worth asking friends, colleagues, or other expats for referrals—you never know who might have a connection.
Once you’ve found a suitable property:
Always negotiate terms before signing, and don’t hesitate to request added amenities or adjustments to the rent.
Relocating is a big adventure, but it comes with risks. Singapore has one of the best healthcare systems in the world—but it’s not cheap if you’re paying out-of-pocket. That’s why securing international health insurance is a smart move.
At Pacific Cross, we specialize in comprehensive, flexible health insurance plans designed for expats and their families. From general coverage to hospitalization and emergency evacuation, our policies give you the peace of mind to fully enjoy your life abroad.
