Your Expat Community in Singapore

Singapore is not for nothing a popular expat hotspot. The country consistently ranks highly for quality of life, career opportunities, admin topics, and digital life.

Expats benefit from high salaries, a world-class healthcare system, excellent public transportation, and a low crime rate. The city-state’s business-friendly environment and strong economy also attract professionals from around the world. However, the high cost of living, particularly for housing, and the work culture (with long hours) can be major drawbacks.

Of course, incomes can vary greatly depending on your industry, role, and level of experience. A salary of 5,000–8,000 SGD per month is often considered good for a single expat. This would cover most basic expenses and some leisure activities. For families, a higher salary is needed, particularly to afford rent in a desirable area.

• Entry-level salaries typically range from 3,000 to 4,500 SGD per month.

• Mid-career professionals earn between 6,000 to 10,000 SGD per month.

• Senior-level professionals can expect between 12,000 and 20,000 SGD (or more), especially in industries like finance, technology, and law.

Singapore is one of the most expensive countries to live in the world. It regularly ranks among the priciest destinations in our own Expat Insider survey — it placed last for this factor in 2024! — as well as other studies like the EIU’s Worldwide Cost of Living survey. Especially rental prices dramatically push up the cost of living.

The good news is that skilled workers earn a decent salary, which makes the cost of living more manageable.

Let’s break down the costs per month:

Expats in Singapore typically work in industries such as finance, technology, healthcare, education, and engineering. The city is a global hub for business and finance, so many expats come for roles in multinational companies. There is also a growing start-up ecosystem, particularly in tech and innovation sectors.

Of course, you don’t have to rely just on work to meet fellow internationals. With its expansive expat community, there are plenty of networking events and leisure activities you can join. Enjoy the vibrant food scene, visit cultural landmarks, and attend events like music festivals or sporting competitions to make new friends.

Or maybe we’ll see you at the next InterNations event?

Singapore offers a variety of neighborhoods catering to different preferences and lifestyles:

The Central Area is ideal for those who want to be at the heart of the action (shopping, dining, and entertainment). You’ll have to factor in higher rent prices, though.

For those looking for a laid-back vibe and a mix of expat and local communities, the East Coast is the perfect area.

Holland Village and Sentosa areas offer luxury living, with high-end apartments and international dining options.

Of course, these are just some examples. To find your perfect home, you can use websites like PropertyGuru, 99.co, or SRX.

Singapore has a very competitive tax system, with comparably low tax rates. Incomes are taxed at a progressive rate, which ranges from 0% to 22% for residents. The highest rate applies to annual incomes above 320,000 SGD.

If you’re working in certain professions or are a permanent resident, you can claim tax relief for contributions to the Central Provident Fund (CPF).

For more detailed information on taxes in Singapore, have a look at the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore’s website.

Before relocating to Singapore, there’s going to be some paperwork to take care of. Make sure you have the appropriate work pass or visa for your employment. The Employment Pass (EP) is typically issued to professionals with a job offer, while the S-Pass is for mid-skilled workers.

Although Singapore has a top-tier healthcare system, only citizens and permanent residents (PRs) are covered under the public health insurance scheme (MediShield Life). Check whether your employer is required to cover your health insurance instead — that’s usually the case if you’re in Singapore under a work permit or S-Pass. If not, you’ll need to opt for private coverage for yourself and/or your family.

When it comes to housing, rents can be very high! Budget accordingly and decide whether to live in a serviced apartment, shared flat, or private condo.

Once you’ve arrived, be mindful of local customs and rules. Singapore has a unique cultural blend and very strict laws, so make sure to read up on what you can and cannot do.

Also be prepared for the tropical climate: the weather is hot and humid year-round, with occasional rainfall.