Pros and Cons of Moving to Singapore

Living in Singapore: A Practical Pros & Cons Guide

Relocating anywhere is a leap. Focus on the upsides, plan for the trade-offs, and life in Singapore can be smooth, safe and surprisingly fun.

Housing in Singapore

High-Rise Living, Green Spaces & Budgets

Pros

  • Wide choice: HDB flats, private condos, landed homes.
  • Newer condos often include pool, gym, playground, function rooms.
  • Plenty of parks and connectors make up for smaller backyards.

Cons

  • Rents are high, especially near CBD, Orchard, Holland Village.
  • Landed homes command a premium; better deals are farther from the centre.
Transportation

Island-Wide Access · Choose MRT/Bus, Taxi or Car

Pros

  • MRT & buses are extensive, reliable and affordable.
  • Taxis & ride-hailing are easy to find and cost-effective.

Cons

  • Owning a car is very costly (COE, duties, insurance, ERP tolls, parking).
Regional Travel

Weekend Getaways Are Easy

Pros

  • Budget airlines to Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia etc.
  • Ferries to Bintan & Batam for quick beach escapes.

Cons

  • Long-haul flights to/from home can be time-consuming and pricey.
Safety

One of the Safest Cities

Pros

  • Very low crime; strict enforcement, drug laws.
  • Walking at night is generally comfortable and safe.

Cons

  • Pedestrians/cyclists should be cautious; limited bike lanes in some areas.
Social Scene

Easy to Meet People · Watch the Bar Tabs

Pros

  • Active expat & local communities; clubs, classes, meetups, volunteering.
  • Malls double as social hubs: dining, cinemas, events.

Cons

  • Alcohol is expensive; nightlife can add up—hunt for happy hours.
Healthcare

Top-Tier Care · Mind the Billing

Pros

  • World-class system; English-speaking staff; many public & private options.
  • Day-to-day private care often reasonably priced.

Cons

  • Non-PR expats don’t get public subsidies; some clinics require upfront payment if no direct billing.
  • Overseas prescriptions aren’t valid—see a local doctor to continue meds.
Education

Excellent Schools · Plan Early

Pros

  • Strong public schools; language learning and CCA (sports/arts).
  • Many international schools for continuity of curricula.

Cons

  • Foreigners pay higher public fees; international school fees are steep.
  • Popular schools have waiting lists—apply early.
Weather

Tropical Year-Round

Pros

  • Endless summer: pool days and light wardrobes all year.

Cons

  • High heat & humidity; frequent downpours—always pack an umbrella.
  • Heavy storms during monsoon; harder to hail taxis when it rains.

Culture here is “work hard, play hard.” With smart choices on housing, transport and schools, you can keep costs sensible and still enjoy a high quality of life.

Contact AsianPrime for a Relocation Game Plan

Compare listings

Compare