Can You Live on Less Than 1000 USD in Singapore?
Singapore is a city-state known for its high standard of living, multicultural society, and booming economy. It is also known for being an expensive city to live in.
In 2020, Singapore was ranked the most expensive city in the world for the seventh consecutive year by the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Worldwide Cost of Living survey. The report found that Singapore’s high costs were due to factors such as the strong Singapore dollar, high transportation costs, and expensive housing.
Despite its high costs, there are ways to live in Singapore on a budget. In this post, we will explore how to live on less than 1000 USD per month in Singapore.
The Cost of Housing
Housing is one of the biggest expenses in Singapore. According to the Singapore Department of Statistics, the median monthly household income from work, including employer CPF contributions, was 9,425 SGD (6,947 USD) in 2020. The median monthly household expenditure was 4,638 SGD (3,420 USD), with housing being the largest expenditure at 28%.
Renting a room in a shared flat is a budget-friendly option. In Singapore, a room in a shared flat can cost anywhere between 500 to 1000 SGD (370 to 740 USD) per month, depending on location and amenities. HDB flats, which are public housing flats, are also an affordable option. A 1-room flat can cost as low as 200 SGD (150 USD) per month.
The Cost of Food
Singapore has a thriving food culture, with a huge variety of hawker centres, food courts, and restaurants to choose from. Eating out can be cheap, with meals costing between 3 to 8 SGD (2 to 6 USD) at hawker centres and food courts. Eating at mid-range restaurants can cost between 15 to 30 SGD (11 to 22 USD) per meal.
To save money, you can also cook your meals at home. The cost of groceries in Singapore is comparable to other developed countries, with a loaf of bread, a litre of milk, and a kilogram of rice costing around 2 SGD (1.50 USD) each. However, imported goods can be more expensive.
The Cost of Transportation
Transportation is another major expense in Singapore. The cost of public transport is relatively affordable, with a single trip on the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) starting at 92 cents (70 cents USD) and a bus ride starting at 77 cents (57 cents USD).
To save money on transportation, you can consider cycling or walking. Singapore has an extensive network of cycling paths, and the government has implemented initiatives to encourage cycling, such as the provision of bike-sharing services and the creation of secured bicycle parking facilities.
The Cost of Entertainment
Singapore has a vibrant entertainment scene, with many free activities and events to enjoy. For example, you can visit the many parks, museums, and attractions that are free or have a minimal fee.
Going to the cinema can be expensive, with movie tickets costing between 8 to 13 SGD (6 to 9 USD). However, you can save money by going during off-peak hours or on weekdays.
Conclusion
Living on less than 1000 USD per month in Singapore is possible, but it requires careful budgeting and cost-saving measures. Renting a room in a shared flat, eating at hawker centres and food courts, using public transport, and taking part in free activities are just some of the ways to save money in Singapore.
While Singapore may be an expensive city to live in, it also offers a high quality of life and many opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Insider’s Guide to Singapore: Can You Live on Less Than 1000 USD?
If you’re planning a trip to Singapore but are concerned about your budget, it is completely possible to live on less than 1000 USD for a week as long as you budget carefully and keep unnecessary expenses in check. Singapore is a vibrant city-state that offers a mix of modernity and cultural heritage. Here’s a detailed insider’s guide to help you make the most of your trip while living on a tight budget:
Attractions to Visit:
1. Marina Bay Sands – This iconic hotel in Singapore offers incredible views of the city skyline. The Skypark Observation Deck is a must-visit.
2. Gardens by the Bay – Spanning over 100 hectares, the park offers incredible greenery with alien-like Supertree Grove.
3. Sentosa Island – Take a cable car or monorail to reach world-class attractions like Universal Studios Singapore and S.E.A. Aquarium.
4. Chinatown – Experience Chinese heritage, local food stalls, and temple visits.
5. Little India – A bustling neighborhood known for lively streets, colorful architecture, and some amazing spice markets.
Dining Spots:
1. Hawker Centers – A go-to dining destination where you can indulge in some of Singapore’s signature foods at a very affordable price.
2. Maxwell Food Center – A top Hawker Center in Singapore that is home to the famous Tian Tian Chicken Rice stall.
3. Satay by the Bay – Located near Gardens by the Bay, this popular dining spot offers the best skewers at reasonable prices.
4. Tim Ho Wan – A Michelin Starred restaurant that offers some of the city’s best dim sum within budget.
Cultural Experiences:
1. Singapore Botanic Gardens – A UNESCO World Heritage site that offers lush green beauty, lakes with swans, and a legacy of cultivation.
2. National Museum of Singapore – Explore Singapore’s history and culture artifacts.
3. Peranakan Museum – Experience the world’s largest exhibition of Peranakan culture and their traditions.
4. ArtScience Museum – Located in Marina Bay Sands this museum features several exhibitions that bring art and science together.
Local History:
1. Kampong Glam – An old district that is full of art retailers, cafes, and ageless architecture, showcasing Singapore’s diverse history.
2. Fort Canning Park – Walk around a place of generations of war stories and political history.
3. Bukit Brown Cemetery – A historic graveyard where prominent leaders from Singapore’s past are buried.
Off-the-beaten-path suggestions:
1. Southern Islands – A group of 10 islands that offer pristine beaches, rich marine life, and secret hideaways.
2. Punggol Waterway Park – A scenic, yet untapped site where you can enjoy a variety of activities including cycling and walking trails.
3. Kranji Marshes – A freshwater marsh that is home to thriving birdlife and a fantastic way to explore Singapore’s biodiversity.
Conclusion:
To sum up, Singapore may seem expensive at first sight, but there are plenty of ways to enjoy the vibrant city-state within a budget. Its mix of attractions, food, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path spots make it a fantastic destination. With our insider’s guide, we hope you can enjoy a trip to Singapore without breaking the bank. So, start planning and exploring!
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