Singapore
About Singapore▾
Singapore, officially the Republic of Singapore, is an island country and city-state in Southeast Asia. Its territory comprises a main island, over 60 satellite islands and islets, and one outlying islet.
Wikipedia excerpt
Out of 100 on default weights.
Data Sources
4/6 live · 1 estimated · Last checked: Feb 2026 · Source data: 2025Quick Decision Summary
Verdict
Strong candidate
Score 71/100 · #1 globally
Biggest Strength
education
Score: 89/100
Key Risk
Affordability
Score: 68/100
Why Singapore Matches You
Based on your default priorities, Singapore emerges as a highly competitive option. It is pushed to the top of your list primarily by its highly favorable Safety, Education, and Affordability.
What you might give up:You should be aware of significant tradeoffs in Lifestyle, Healthcare, and Infrastructure. This assumes a standard global baseline, but personal tolerance may vary.
Personalize Priorities
Adjust weights to see real-time impact on Match Score.
Baseline Score
71
Rank
#1
Your Match Score
79
Key Statistics
$90,674
GDP per Capita
PPP: $150,689
6.0M
Population
82.9 years
Life Expectancy
2.8%
Unemployment
0.1/100K
Homicide Rate
Stable
Political Stability
Index: 1.42
94%
Internet Access
Broadband: 27.4/100
Strong
Purchasing Power
PPP ratio: 1.66x
Score Overview
Strengths
89 education
89 safety
Watch Out
No major concerns — all dimensions score above 60
The Verdict
Data vintage: 2025Affordability
Derived from normalized relative GDP, PPP ratio, and real-estate proxy anchors.
Safety
Derived from homicide rate, political stability, and life expectancy.
Healthcare
UHC coverage, physician density, and life expectancy.
Career Opportunity
Driven by economic velocity and local workforce participation rates.
Why Singapore Excels
- • Virtually zero crime
- • Incredibly low taxes
- • World's best airport and travel hub
- • Mouth-watering hawker food culture
The Trade-offs
- • Extremely high cost of living (rent/cars)
- • Oppressive year-round heat and humidity
- • Stiff lack of work-life balance
Quick Compare
Relocation Readiness Score
ExclusiveComplete your profile to get a personalized readiness assessment for Singapore.
Take the QuizLiving costs in Singapore are comparable to the United States.
Monthly Reality
Est. monthly costs based on your lifestyle in Singapore.
Cost Breakdown
Avg: 21/100 — Very ExpensiveHigher values = more affordable. Indices normalized 0-100 for Singapore. Source: Numbeo cost-of-living surveys, 2026.
Cost Breakdown
Sub-index affordability scores for Singapore — higher = more affordable
16% more expensive than US average
20% more expensive than US average
24% more expensive than US average
26% more expensive than US average
Similar to US average
Source: Numbeo cost-of-living surveys, 2026. Higher values indicate greater affordability.
Monthly Budget Calculator
Estimates are approximations based on cost indices and PPP data. Actual costs vary by city, lifestyle, and personal choices.
Lifestyle Cost Planner
InteractiveHow much would your lifestyle cost in Singapore?
Remote worker, shared or studio apartment, eating out often
- Coworking membership included
- Mix of eating out & cooking
- Basic health insurance
Purchasing Power Calculator
InteractiveWhat does your money actually buy in Singapore?
Life Simulator
ExclusiveProject your finances 5 years into the future — stay home vs. relocate to Singapore
Assumptions: 3% annual salary growth, 3% home inflation, 2.5% destination inflation, 6% annual investment returns. Tax rates from OECD/KPMG. Expenses scaled from Numbeo cost-of-living data. For informational purposes only — consult a tax professional for personalized advice.
Note: Singapore offers special tax regimes that may reduce your rate further: No capital gains tax, No estate tax
FIRE Calculator
When can you retire if you move to Singapore? Compare your FIRE timeline at home vs. abroad.
Assumptions: 7% nominal return, 3% home inflation, 2.5% destination inflation, 4% safe withdrawal rate. Cost of living scaled using Numbeo cost index (US = 100, Singapore = 86). For informational purposes only — consult a financial advisor.
Dual-Life Optimizer
ExclusiveFind your optimal split between home and Singapore — balancing cost, tax residency, and lifestyle
12 months in Singapore + 0 months at home minimizes your annual total to $44,160, saving $19,680/year vs staying home full-time.
Tax Comparison
Compare your tax burden: United States vs Singapore
Tax calculations use simplified progressive bracket models for informational purposes only. Actual obligations depend on residency status, tax treaties, deductions, and individual circumstances. US citizens owe US taxes worldwide but can use FEIE ($126K exclusion) and Foreign Tax Credits. Consult a qualified international tax advisor before making relocation decisions.
Seasonal Strategy
ExclusiveWhen to visit Singapore for the best balance of weather, cost, and crowds
spring in Singapore
Mar – May
Thawing — improving, bargains still
summer (Jun – Aug) offers the best value in Singapore — 90/100 comfort at $3600/mo. Timing your stay seasonally could save $3,300/yr vs. flat-rate pricing.
Financial Arbitrage
Compare your true net savings moving to Singapore
Current Home City
Singapore Estimate
Home Net Savings
$2,000/mo
Taxes: -$2,000
Living: -$4,000
Singapore Net Savings
$-1,458/mo
Taxes: -$1,600
Living: -$7,858
-3,458
Monthly deficit vs current home
Purchasing Power Simulator
See how far your money goes in Singapore compared to the US, adjusted for purchasing power parity (PPP).
Equivalent Buying Power in Singapore
Based on World Bank PPP conversion factor (GDP PPP / GDP nominal ratio: 1.66x). Individual costs may vary.
Currency Converter
Your USD 5,000/mo salary converts to approximately SGD —/mo in Singapore. Exchange rates from Open Exchange Rates API; actual bank rates may differ.
Tax Overview
Maximum marginal rate on highest income bracket
Standard rate on goods and services
Standard corporate income tax rate
One of the lowest effective tax rates in developed world.
Estimates are simplified and for informational purposes only. Consult a qualified tax advisor for your specific situation.
Job Market Insights
Show 7 more professions
Salary estimates are approximate medians for mid-level professionals. Actual compensation varies by company, experience, and negotiation.
Housing Market Overview
- Standard leases are 2 years with a diplomatic clause for early termination
- Agents are essential; tenants typically do not pay agent fees
- Condos with facilities (pool, gym) are standard for expats; factor in condo fees
Foreigners face 60% Additional Buyer Stamp Duty (ABSD). Renting is the only realistic option unless you obtain Permanent Residency, which reduces ABSD significantly.
🇸🇬 Real Estate Investment
Foreigners can buy private condos; landed property and HDB restricted
Short-term stays under 3 months are illegal in private residential properties
- 60% ABSD for foreigners makes Singapore extremely expensive to enter as an investor
- Short-term rentals (under 3 months) are illegal — Airbnb is not a viable strategy
- PR status reduces ABSD to 5% for first property — significant incentive
- En-bloc (collective sale) potential can provide windfall gains in older condos
Banking & Fintech
PayNow enables instant transfers via phone number or NRIC. GrabPay and Apple Pay widely used.
DBS is the largest and most digital-friendly bank -- their app is among the best in the world.
PayNow is essential for instant P2P transfers and is linked to your phone number.
Singapore is very cashless -- even hawker centres increasingly accept QR code payments.
Banking information for Singapore is approximate and subject to change. Verify current requirements with your chosen institution.
Entrepreneurship Guide
For foreign entrepreneurs starting innovative businesses. Requires funding, IP ownership, or incubator support.
Register online via BizFile+ with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).
Very high cost of living and office space
Small domestic market of 5.9 million people -- must target Southeast Asia from day one
EntrePass requirements have become more stringent in recent years
Singapore is the gateway to Southeast Asia's 700M+ consumer market -- ideal regional HQ location.
Startup SG Founder provides SGD 50K in matching grants -- one of the most accessible government programs.
Block71 (NUS Enterprise) is the heart of Singapore's startup ecosystem with global satellite locations.
The Startup Tax Exemption scheme makes effective CIT as low as 4.25% on early profits.
Entrepreneurship data for Singapore is approximate and subject to change. Verify current requirements with official authorities.
Financial Disclaimer
Tax rates, cost-of-living figures, and financial data shown are estimates based on public institutional sources. They do not constitute financial, tax, or investment advice. Consult a qualified tax professional or financial advisor familiar with cross-border regulations before making financial decisions.
Taxation & Fiscal Anchors
Income Tax Band
0% - 22%
Corporate Rate
17%
Sales Tax / VAT
9% (GST)
Wealth & Crypto
No wealth or capital gains tax. Crypto capital gains are generally tax-free unless deemed as trading income.
Cultural & Structural Nuances
LGBTQ+ Rights & Safety
Safe from violence, but legally and socially conservative. Section 377A (criminalizing gay sex) was recently repealed, but same-sex marriage remains unrecognized.
Walkability & Transit
The MRT system is arguably the best in the world. Walking is extremely safe but can be uncomfortably hot/humid year-round.
Healthcare Structure
Heavily privatized for expats. Employers usually provide insurance, but deductibles and out-of-pocket limits must be scrutinized closely.
Driving & Licensing
Drives on the left. Extremely expensive to own a car due to the COE system. Foreign licenses can be converted within 1 year by passing a Basic Theory Test.
Health, Safety & Education
Healthcare System
Data from WHO Global Health Observatory. Quality varies by city and facility.
Health Insurance Estimator
InteractiveWhat will healthcare actually cost you in Singapore?
- World-class medical facilities
- Expats need private insurance
- Integrated Shield Plans popular
Health Insurance services for Singapore
SafetyWing
Popular with nomadsTravel medical insurance for nomads
Monthly subscription health insurance designed for remote workers and digital nomads. Covers 180+ countries with no commitment.
Cigna Global
International health insurance plans
Comprehensive global health plans covering inpatient, outpatient, dental, and vision. Accepted by hospitals worldwide.
These are curated tools — we may earn a referral fee at no extra cost to you.
Safety Breakdown
Safety scores are approximations based on available crime statistics and institutional data. Conditions vary significantly by city and neighborhood.
Education System
LGBTQ+ Safety & Rights— Singapore
- •Section 377A (criminalizing male homosexuality) was repealed in 2022
- •The constitution was simultaneously amended to define marriage as between a man and a woman
- •Pink Dot SG is an annual LGBTQ+ rally held in Hong Lim Park
- •Social attitudes are evolving, especially among younger Singaporeans
- •Public displays of affection are uncommon for all couples in Singapore
This information is for general guidance only. Laws and social attitudes change. Always research current conditions before traveling.
Daily Life & Culture
Cultural Compatibility
Based on Hofstede cultural dimensions model. Individual experiences vary significantly.
Language & Communication
English is primary business language. Singlish (local English creole) is common.
Lifestyle Guide
Food & Dining
No tipping culture. A 10% service charge is usually added to restaurant bills.
Singapore is a food-obsessed nation where hawker centers serve world-class dishes for under $5. The blend of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Peranakan flavors is unmatched.
Prices are approximate USD averages for Singapore. Actual costs vary by city and establishment.
Social & Community Life — Singapore
Singapore's multicultural fabric offers diverse social entry points. Hawker centers serve as community gathering spots. Condo communities, religious organizations, and professional networking groups are primary socializing avenues. The government actively supports community building.
- •Use 'lah', 'lor', and 'leh' once you understand Singlish — it shows you are adapting
- •Reserving seats with tissue packets at hawker centers is a respected local custom
- •Avoid discussing race and religion casually — Singapore takes racial harmony very seriously
- •Eat at hawker centers regularly — food is Singapore's social language
- •Join condo community groups or parent associations for natural integration
- •Attend cultural festivals (Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, Deepavali) across all communities
Ratings based on expat surveys and community reports. Individual experiences vary by city and personal circumstances.
Work Culture
Punctuality is highly valued in Singapore business
Multicultural etiquette -- be mindful of Chinese, Malay, and Indian customs
Kiasu (fear of missing out) drives competitive work culture
Long hours are common and somewhat expected, especially in finance and consulting. Singapore consistently ranks among the most overworked cities globally.
Work culture data reflects general trends in Singapore. Individual company cultures may vary significantly.
Environment & Climate
12-Month Climate Projection
Annual Average Baseline
Historically robust mean base temperature.
Total Precipitation
Sum volume over trailing 12 months.
Weather & Lifestyle Activities
Environment & Sustainability
13 µg/m³
PM2.5 annual mean (WHO guideline: 5)
Tap water in Singapore is generally safe to drink
52%
AdvancedRecycling rate
5%
Environmental Policies
- Singapore Green Plan 2030
- Carbon tax from 2019 (increasing progressively)
- Zero Waste Masterplan
- 30 by 30 food security goal
- Tap water meets WHO standards and is safe to drink directly
- Haze from regional burning can affect air quality in Sep–Oct
- Use the MRT and bus network — car ownership is deliberately expensive
Practical Living
Transportation Guide
MRT is clean, efficient, and expanding. EZ-Link card covers MRT and buses. Air-conditioned throughout.
Park connector network expanding. Hot climate makes cycling challenging. E-scooters regulated.
Tiny city-state — no intercity travel needed. Cross-border buses to Malaysia (JB). Flights to regional destinations cheap.
Digital Nomad Readiness
Singapore works for digital nomads with some adjustments needed.
Readiness score combines connectivity, cost, visa access, community, timezone, and livability. Data reflects typical conditions for remote workers.
Remote Work Timezone Compatibility
Can you work remotely from Singapore? See overlap with major business hubs.
Singapore has excellent timezone coverage. You can work standard hours (9-5) and still overlap with Dubai and most other hubs. No schedule adjustments needed.
Internet & Connectivity
Among fastest in the world. Near-universal fiber coverage.
Practical Facts
- •Chewing gum banned (mostly)
- •Cars extremely expensive (COE system)
- •Hawker centres are UNESCO-listed
Family & Childcare Guide
Parental Leave
Shared leave available100% for 16 weeks maternity (government-funded for 3rd+); 100% for 2 weeks paternity
Childcare Costs
After-school care: Student care centres widely available in primary schools
Family Benefits
Family Friendliness
Tips for Families in Singapore
- •The Baby Bonus scheme includes cash gift and matched CDA (Child Development Account) savings
- •Anchor and Partner operator childcare centres are significantly subsidized
- •Singapore is extremely safe for children to grow up in
- •PSLE (Primary School Leaving Exam) at age 12 is a major milestone — understand the system early
Policies and costs are approximate and subject to change. Verify current rules with local authorities.
Pet Relocation Guide
Import Requirements
Quarantine Required
Singapore requires a 30-day quarantine period for imported pets. Estimated cost: $500-1500.
Pet Friendliness
Limited; some off-leash areas in parks like Bishan-Ang Mo Kio
Restricted - HDB flats only allow dogs under 40cm; condos vary
Excellent, world-class veterinary care
Available from several providers
Pets not allowed on MRT or public buses (except guide dogs)
Practical Tips
- •Singapore has strict rules: HDB flats (public housing, 80% of residences) only allow dogs from an approved list of small breeds under 40cm height.
- •Cats are officially not allowed in HDB flats, though enforcement varies.
- •Apply for an AVS import license at least 2 weeks before your pet's arrival.
- •Singapore's tropical climate is hot year-round - avoid outdoor exercise during midday hours.
- •Quarantine duration depends on country of origin - some approved countries have shorter or no quarantine.
Pet import regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the destination country's official veterinary authority before travel.
Daily Integration
Wellbeing Strategy
World-leading healthcare infrastructure, but expensive as expats do not receive the heavy subsidies locals do.
School Networks
Local schools are notoriously rigorous. Expats universally use extremely expensive international schools.
Signature Tradeoffs
Mapping Singapore's Value Frontier (Cost vs. Safety)
Demographics & Stability
"A growing hub balancing local authenticity with emerging remote-work infrastructure."
Standard rental laws apply. Direct landlord negotiations are common, with 1-2 months deposit standard.
Ridesharing apps (Uber/Bolt/Local equivalent) are highly recommended outside the walkable core.
"A growing hub balancing local authenticity with emerging remote-work infrastructure."
Standard rental laws apply. Direct landlord negotiations are common, with 1-2 months deposit standard.
Ridesharing apps (Uber/Bolt/Local equivalent) are highly recommended outside the walkable core.
"A growing hub balancing local authenticity with emerging remote-work infrastructure."
Standard rental laws apply. Direct landlord negotiations are common, with 1-2 months deposit standard.
Ridesharing apps (Uber/Bolt/Local equivalent) are highly recommended outside the walkable core.
"A growing hub balancing local authenticity with emerging remote-work infrastructure."
Standard rental laws apply. Direct landlord negotiations are common, with 1-2 months deposit standard.
Ridesharing apps (Uber/Bolt/Local equivalent) are highly recommended outside the walkable core.
City-Level Drilldown
Compare major hubs because national averages can obscure local realities.
City | Cost Index | Safety |
|---|---|---|
Orchard | 92 | 84 |
Jurong East | 88 | 88 |
Woodlands | 83 | 89 |
Tampines | 80 | 90 |
How Singapore Compares in Southeast Asia
| Country | Afford | Safety | Health | Edu | Career | Life | Infra |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇸🇬 Singapore | 32 | 89 | 82 | 89 | 82 | 73 | 84 |
| 🇲🇾 Malaysia | 48 | 85 | 75 | 74 | 71 | 71 | 80 |
| 🇹🇭 Thailand | 46 | 58 | 73 | 68 | 68 | 65 | 70 |
| 🇻🇳 Vietnam | 41 | 63 | 63 | 65 | 64 | 61 | 66 |
Scores out of 100. Higher is better for all dimensions. Green (70+), amber (45-69), red (<45).
Countries Like Singapore
AI MatchSimilar destinations based on scoring DNA across 7 dimensions
Immigration Disclaimer
Visa requirements and immigration rules change frequently. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Always verify current requirements with official government sources or a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.
Can I Move Here?
Visa and residency pathways for Singapore
Employment Pass (EP)
For foreign professionals, managers and executives earning a minimum threshold.
ONE Pass
Personalized pass for top talent in business, arts, sports.
Immigration Pathways — Singapore
Competitive merit-based system. High salary thresholds but efficient processing.
Immigration requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official immigration authority or a licensed immigration attorney.
Visa Application Timeline
Employment Pass (EP)Secure a job offer meeting EP salary requirements ($5,000+/month for younger candidates, scaling up with age) and COMPASS framework points.
- Employment offer letter
- Salary details meeting threshold
- Job description
- Company UEN registration
Your employer submits the EP application via the Ministry of Manpower's EP Online system.
- Completed EP application form
- Passport scan
- Educational certificates
- Past employment references
- Passport-sized photo (white background)
MOM reviews the application under the COMPASS framework. Additional documents may be requested.
Once approved, an In-Principle Approval letter is issued. Use this to enter Singapore if not already there.
- IPA letter
- Passport
After arriving, attend the EP card issuance appointment at the Employment Pass Services Centre to receive your physical EP card.
- IPA letter
- Passport
- Completed card issuance form
- Medical examination results (if required)
- Photo for EP card
- •Salary not meeting the age-adjusted threshold (it scales significantly with experience/age).
- •COMPASS framework score insufficient due to company diversity or local employment metrics.
- •Educational qualifications not recognized by MOM, leading to rejection.
- •Employer not advertising on MyCareersFuture for the required 14-day period.
Visa requirements and timelines change frequently. This is a general guide for Singapore — always verify current requirements with the official immigration authority or a licensed immigration attorney before starting your application.
Visa & Immigration services for Singapore
VisaGuide.World
Check visa requirements for 200+ countries
Free visa eligibility checker and application guides. Find which visas you qualify for based on your nationality and purpose.
Relocate.me
For tech workersTech relocation with visa sponsorship
Job board for international tech jobs that include visa sponsorship and relocation packages. Covers EU, UK, Canada, and more.
These are curated tools — we may earn a referral fee at no extra cost to you.
Actionable Move Plan
A generalized blueprint for executing a successful relocation to Singapore.
- Valid Passport (6+ months remaining before expiration)
- Birth Certificate (Apostilled/Translated if required)
- Marriage Certificate (if applying with spouse)
- Proof of Income / Remote Employment Contract
- Comprehensive Health Insurance Policy covering repatriation
- Local Tax Identification Number application formulation
Expat Essentials Checklist — Singapore
Information is for general guidance only. Requirements vary based on nationality, visa type, and personal circumstances. Always verify with official sources.
International Banking services for Singapore
Wise (TransferWise)
Editor's pickMulti-currency account with real exchange rates
Hold and convert 40+ currencies at the mid-market rate. Get local bank details in USD, EUR, GBP, and more. Low-fee international transfers.
Revolut
Global banking app for expats
Multi-currency spending, no-fee ATM withdrawals (limits apply), budgeting tools, and crypto. Available in 35+ countries.
These are curated tools — we may earn a referral fee at no extra cost to you.
Relocation Roadmap — Singapore
0/16 tasksMoving to Singapore?
0/8 completeRelocation Checklist — Singapore
Checklist is for guidance only. Requirements may vary based on nationality, visa type, and personal circumstances. Consult an immigration professional.
Expat Communities — Singapore
- •SingaporeExpats.com is the primary expat resource
- •Telegram groups popular for housing searches
- •National service communities support new families
Compare Singapore
Run Singapore against other top destinations in our multidimensional radar analysis engine.
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Singapore
WhereNext Relocation Score
Match Score
of 95
QoL
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Singapore a good country to move to?
What is the cost of living in Singapore?
Is Singapore safe to live in?
How is healthcare in Singapore?
Do I need a visa to move to Singapore?
Data & Methodology
Live Sourcing: Data is actively fetched and cached daily from official institutional APIs. This ensures metrics like Cost of Living and Climate reflect objective trends, not outdated anecdotes.
Normalization (0-100): Disparate metrics (like GDP, Temperature, and PM2.5 levels) are harmonized to a standard 0 to 100 benchmark. We normalize directionally so that a score closer to 100 always indicates a "better" outcome according to standard quality-of-life frameworks.
User-Weighted Determinism: The final ranking dynamically shifts using the math of weighted averages based on the priorities you assign via the Find page.
Limitations: Local variations within Singapore can be severe. This report serves as a macro-level prioritization indicator, not financial or immigration advice.