Cost of Living in Singapore 2025: Complete Expense Guide

Singapore is a top choice for Indian students, but it can be expensive. On average, you might need around SGD 1,200 to 2,000 (INR 73,000 to 1.22 L) every month for rent, food, travel, and other daily costs.

Rent is usually the biggest part of your budget. A shared room can cost SGD 500 (INR30,600), while a studio apartment might go up to SGD 1,500 (INR 91,800). Food, transport, mobile bills, and basic shopping also add up quickly if you’re not careful.

This blog explains how much money you’ll need in Singapore, how to save on daily expenses, cheap grocery options, useful apps, and what financial help is available, including scholarships and part-time jobs.

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What is the monthly cost of living in Singapore?

The average monthly cost of living in Singapore is around SGD 1,200 to SGD 3,000 (INR 74,000 to INR 1,85,000). Your actual expenses will depend on your lifestyle, location, and whether you're a student or a working professional. 

Most students spend less as they live in shared housing and cook meals at home. Professionals may spend more on private accommodation and eating out.

What is the average cost of living in Singapore for Indians?

The cost of living depends mainly on whether you are a student, a working professional or a family. 

Here is how the costs are different:

Profile	Monthly Cost (SGD)	Approx. Cost in INR
Student	1,200 – 1,800	(INR 74,000 – INR 1,11,000)
Working Professional	2,200 – 3,000	(INR 1,35,000 – INR 1,85,000)
Family of 4	4,500 – 6,000	(INR 2,77,000 – INR 3,70,000)

Note: Actual costs may vary depending on your lifestyle.

Can I live in Singapore with ₹1 lakh per month?

Yes, it is possible to live in Singapore with a budget of around SGD 1,600 (INR 1,00,000) per month, especially for students and budget-conscious individuals. 

Here is the estimated monthly budget:

• Shared Accommodation: SGD 400 – 800 (INR 24,000 – INR 49,000)
• Food & Groceries: SGD 250 – 400 (INR 15,000 – INR 25,000)
• Transport (MRT/Bus): SGD 80 – 120 (INR 5,000 – INR 7,400)
• Utilities & Internet: SGD 100 – 150 (INR 6,000 – INR 9,000)

Hence, you can manage within ₹1 lakh if you share housing, avoid eating out frequently, and stick to public transport.

Want to Study in Singapore for Free? Explore these Fully Funded scholarships in Singapore.

Is Singapore affordable for students and professionals in 2025?

While Singapore can be an affordable option for many international students, the exact amount may vary according to the lifestyle one may adopt.

Here is how:

• Students:
  Students can live comfortably on SGD 1,200 – 1,800 (INR 74,000 – INR 1,11,000) per month. Choosing hostel accommodation, cooking meals, and using public transport can help save money.
• Professionals:
  Working professionals may need a higher budget of SGD 2,200 – 3,000 (INR 1,35,000 – INR 1,85,000) monthly, depending on lifestyle. Living in the city center, dining out, or renting a studio can increase costs.

Also read about: PhD in Singapore

How much does housing cost in Singapore?

Housing is one of the biggest costs for students in Singapore. Rent depends on the area, the type of place, and whether you’re living alone or sharing. Staying near the city or campus usually costs more.

Most students choose between dorms, shared apartments, or renting privately. Dorms are cheaper but have limited spots. Shared flats are common and prices vary based on room type and location.

Here is the estimated amount you may spend: 

• University hostels or dorms: SGD 300 to 800 (INR ₹18,000–49,000)
• Shared apartments: SGD 700 to 1,500 (INR ₹43,000–91,000)
• Private 1BHK apartments: SGD 2,000 to 4,500 (INR ₹1,22,000–2,75,000)

Places in the city center, like Orchard, Tanjong Pagar, and Bugis are more expensive. If you stay in neighborhoods like Woodlands or Jurong West, you’ll pay less. 

The MRT (metro) makes it easy to get around, so staying slightly far from the city can help you save money.

Which are the cheapest places to rent in Singapore?

If you're looking to save money on rent, avoid central locations.

The following areas should be considered: 

• Woodlands
• Yishun
• Jurong West
• Tampines
• Bukit Panjang

In these places, shared rooms or common flats can start at around SGD 700 (INR ₹43,000) a month. 

What is the cost of food and groceries in Singapore?

Food costs in Singapore range from SGD 300 to 600/month (INR 18,000 to 36,000/month). Your expenses depend on whether you mostly cook or eat out.

Here is a look at the estimated food costs: 

• Weekly groceries: SGD 50–100 (₹3,000–₹6,000)
• Indian ingredients cost more than local ones
• Hawker meals are affordable for students
• Most students mix home-cooked and outside meals to save money

Here’s a rough monthly grocery budget if you cook regularly:

Item	SGD/Month	INR/Month
Fruits & vegetables	60 – 80	₹3,600 – ₹4,800
Rice, bread, pasta	40 – 60	₹2,400 – ₹3,600
Dairy & eggs	30 – 50	₹1,800 – ₹3,000
Indian spices & lentils	40 – 70	₹2,400 – ₹4,200
Snacks, beverages	30 – 40	₹1,800 – ₹2,400
Total	200–300	₹12,000–₹18,000

Did you know?  Mustafa Centre is the go-to for Indian groceries but it can be slightly pricier than supermarkets like FairPrice.

What is the cost of eating out in Singapore for Indians?

Eating out is manageable if you choose local stalls or food courts. 

Here's the usual spend:

• Hawker stalls: SGD 4–6 (₹240–₹360) per meal
• Indian food courts: SGD 6–8 (₹360–₹480)
• Indian restaurants: SGD 12–20 (₹720–₹1,200)
• Monthly if eating out daily: SGD 400–600 (₹24,000–₹36,000)

Hawker centers are popular with students for their affordability and variety, including Indian vegetarian options.

Is Indian food cheaper to cook or buy in Singapore?

The table below helps decide the cost-effective way of food and dining:

Parameter	Cost of Cooking at Home	Cost of Eating Out
Avg. Cost per day	SGD 7–10 (₹420–₹600)	SGD 15–25 (₹900–₹1,500)
Avg. Monthly Total	SGD 200–300 (₹12,000–₹18,000)	SGD 450–600 (₹27,000–₹36,000)
Convenience	Time & effort needed	Ready-to-eat but costlier
Food taste/preference	Full control over ingredients	Depends on the outlet

That said, we can conclude that cooking Indian food at home saves more money in the long run.

How Expensive is Transport in Singapore?

Public transport in Singapore is fast, clean, and well-connected. While transport costs are higher than in India, the city offers affordable concession options for students. 

The adult monthly pass costs SGD 128 (INR 7,880), but students can get a similar pass for under SGD 60 (INR 3,400). Ride-hailing apps and taxis are convenient but pricier.

What is the cost of a monthly MRT or bus pass in Singapore?

For regular commuters, a standard adult monthly MRT + bus pass costs SGD 128 (approx. INR 7,880). This can feel expensive if you're taking public transport daily without any subsidy.

But students in Singapore enjoy heavily discounted concession fares, making daily travel much more budget-friendly.

Pass Type	Cost (SGD)	Approx. in INR
Adult Monthly Hybrid Pass (Bus + MRT)	SGD 128.00	INR 7,880
Student Monthly Concession – Bus Only	SGD 45.50	INR 2,805
Student Monthly Concession – MRT Only	SGD 45.50	INR 2,805
Student Hybrid Monthly Pass (Bus + MRT)	SGD 55.00	INR 3,390

Students pay over 55% less for unlimited monthly rides compared to regular adult fares.

Can I manage daily travel in Singapore on a student budget?

Yes, if you stick to public transport.

Here's how daily commuting looks on a student budget:

• MRT or Bus single ride (student): SGD 0.42–0.63 (INR 26–39)
• Average daily travel cost (2 trips): SGD 1.20 (INR 74)
• Monthly spend with pay-per-ride: SGD 36–45 (INR 2,220–2,775)
• Monthly pass (unlimited rides): SGD 55 (INR 3,390)

Hence,

• For regular commuters, a monthly pass is better
• If your campus is close and you don’t travel daily, pay-per-ride may be cheaper
• Students get discounts via EZ-Link card or SimplyGo app

What are the Utility Expenses in Singapore?

Utility bills in Singapore include electricity, water, gas, mobile data, and home internet. While prices are reasonable due to government regulation, your monthly cost depends on how and where you live: hostel, shared flat, or private unit. Here's a detailed look.

How much is the average monthly electricity and water bill?

The average combined utility bill (electricity + water + gas) for a student household in Singapore ranges between SGD 80–150/month (₹5,000–₹9,400). 

Here’s a breakdown based on real SP tariff ranges and average student usage:

Utility Type	Monthly Cost (SGD)	Monthly Cost (INR approx.)
Electricity	SGD 60–90	₹3,750–₹5,625
Water + Sewage	SGD 10–20	₹625–₹1,250
Gas (if applicable)	SGD 10–20	₹625–₹1,250
Total Estimate	SGD 80–130	₹5,000–₹8,100

• Students living in air-conditioned units or using appliances like water heaters and microwaves frequently may pay on the higher end.
• In non-air-conditioned shared flats, careful usage can keep the bill as low as SGD 70/month per person.

How much does mobile data and internet cost monthly?

In Singapore, mobile and broadband plans are very competitive. Here’s what most students spend monthly:

Type	Monthly Cost (SGD)	INR Equivalent
Mobile Data	SGD 10–30	₹625–₹1,875
Broadband Internet	SGD 40–50	₹2,500–₹3,100

• Most student hostels offer free Wi-Fi, so broadband costs only apply if you're renting a private flat.
• Some mobile data plans come with added perks like international minutes or free SIM activation which is helpful if you're calling home often.

Do students pay high utilities in hostels vs. shared flats?

The cost of utilities depends a lot on where you're staying.

 Here's how it breaks down:

Accommodation Type	Utility Inclusions	Cost Impact (SGD)
University Hostel	Electricity, water, internet included	Included in rent
Private Student Hostel	Usually included	Included
Shared HDB/Flat Rental	Billed separately (split among tenants)	SGD 40–60/month
Private Studio Apartment	Billed fully by student	SGD 80–150/month

If you're in a shared flat with 3–4 people, your share of utilities will likely stay within SGD 50–60/month (₹3,000–₹3,700). But if you're renting a studio or 1BHK on your own, the full bill can go up to SGD 150+ depending on how much air conditioning and water you use.

How much does it cost to study in Singapore?

Studying in Singapore isn't cheap, but it’s still more affordable than places like the US or UK. The total academic cost depends on your university, course, and whether it's public or private. 

Public universities usually offer tuition grants for international students, which bring down the cost, but you’ll need to work in Singapore for a few years after graduation. Private universities don’t offer these grants, so fees tend to be higher.

What are the tuition fees for Indian students in Singapore?

Here’s a quick comparison of estimated annual tuition fees for Indian students:

Program Type	Average Tuition (SGD)	Average Tuition (INR)
Undergraduate (UG)Public	18,000 – 25,000	₹11 – ₹15 lakh
Undergraduate (UG) Private	25,000 – 40,000	₹15 – ₹24 lakh
Postgraduate (PG) Public	25,000 – 50,000	₹15 – ₹30 lakh
Postgraduate (PG) Private	30,000 – 45,000	₹18 – ₹27 lakh

Note: Fees vary depending on the course, university, and if tuition grants are applied.

How much do visa, insurance, and admin fees cost?

Here’s what you’ll likely pay beyond tuition:

• Student Visa:
  • Application fee – SGD 30
  • Issuance fee – SGD 60
  • Total: SGD 90 (Approx. ₹5,400)
• Health Insurance:
  • Typically SGD 200 – 500/year (₹12,000 – ₹30,000)
  • Some universities include this in tuition.
• Admin & Registration Fees:
  • Ranges from SGD 200 – 300/year (₹12,000 – ₹18,000)
  • Depends on the institution.

These are one-time or annual charges and don’t include living expenses like rent, food, or transport, which are covered separately in the next section.

How does Location Affect Cost of Living in Singapore?

Where you live in Singapore plays a big role in how much you’ll spend monthly. Central areas like Orchard, Tanjong Pagar, and Marina Bay are much more expensive than suburban locations like Jurong, Tampines, or Woodlands. From rent to food and transport, everything costs more downtown. For international students, especially those trying to stay within a budget, location can be the biggest factor in total living expenses.

Is housing more expensive in central Singapore?

Yes, housing in central Singapore is significantly more expensive. Expect to pay:

• SGD 1,200 – 2,500/month (INR 72,000 – INR 1,50,000) for a private room or shared apartment in the central business districts (CBD).
• Condominiums and studio apartments in the city can go above SGD 3,000/month (INR 1,80,000) depending on facilities and proximity to MRT stations.
• Utility bills and food in these areas also tend to cost more.

This is why many students choose to live farther out and commute, as housing prices drop steeply just 20–30 minutes outside the centre.

Which areas in Singapore are budget-friendly for students?

Here are some student-friendly localities known for affordability and easy access to universities:

• Jurong West – Close to NTU, offers HDB flats and low-cost eateries.
• Tampines – Good for students at Temasek Polytechnic; well-connected and cheaper rentals.
• Woodlands – One of the most affordable towns; further from the city but very student-popular.
• Clementi – Near NUS; relatively cheaper than the city centre with lots of student housing options.

In these areas, shared rooms or dormitories can cost as low as SGD 400 – 800/month (INR 24,000 – INR 48,000), especially in HDB flats or university accommodations.

What are the living costs in the suburbs vs the city centre?

Living in central Singapore costs more than staying in the suburbs. 

Here's a quick look at how the two compare.

Expense	Suburban Area (SGD/month)	City Centre (SGD/month)
Rent (shared room)	400 – 800 (INR 24,000 – INR 48,000)	1,200 – 2,000 (INR 72,000 – INR 1,20,000)
Food (basic meals)	300 – 450 (INR 18,000 – INR 27,000)	500 – 700 (INR 30,000 – INR 42,000)
Transport	100 – 120 (INR 6,000 – INR 7,200)	80 – 100 (INR 4,800 – INR 6,000)
Utilities + Wi-Fi	100 – 150 (INR 6,000 – INR 9,000)	150 – 200 (INR 9,000 – INR 12,000)
Monthly Total	900 – 1,500 (INR 54,000 – INR 90,000)	2,000 – 3,000+ (INR 1,20,000 – INR 1,80,000+)

Tip: Most universities offer free shuttle buses or are well-connected via MRT, making it practical to live in the suburbs without long commute times.

How does Singapore compare with other countries?

If you’re choosing between Singapore and other countries like Canada, Dubai, or Australia, the cost of living and tuition fees matter. Singapore is clean, safe, and modern, but not always cheap.

For Indian students, Singapore usually costs less than Australia or the US, but more than some parts of Europe or smaller cities in Canada. Daily expenses in Singapore are not as high as places like London or New York, but still higher than towns in Canada or Australia.

The good part? Courses in Singapore are often shorter, and jobs are easier to find after graduation. So even if it feels a bit expensive, you may spend less overall because you're studying for fewer years.

Is Singapore more expensive than Canada for students?

Both countries offer top education, but Singapore often has slightly lower tuition, while Canada can be cheaper for housing and food.

Category	Singapore (Monthly)	Canada (Monthly)
Tuition Fees	SGD 12,000–35,000/yr (INR 7.4L–21.5L)	CAD 15,000–40,000/yr (INR 9.1L–24.3L)
Rent (shared)	SGD 1,000 (INR 61,500)	CAD 700 (INR 42,500)
Food & Groceries	SGD 400–600 (INR 24,500–36,800)	CAD 250–400 (INR 15,200–24,300)
Public Transport	SGD 100 (INR 6,100)	CAD 90 (INR 5,500)

How does the cost of living in Singapore compare with Dubai?

These two cities are both modern and student-friendly, but Dubai tends to be more expensive for accommodation.

Cost comparison: Singapore vs Dubai

Category	Singapore (Monthly)	Dubai (Monthly)
Tuition Fees	SGD 12,000–35,000/yr (INR 7.4L–21.5L)	AED 35,000–70,000/yr (INR 7.9L–15.8L)
Rent (shared)	SGD 1,000 (INR 61,500)	AED 1,800–2,500 (INR 40,600–56,400)
Food & Groceries	SGD 400–600 (INR 24,500–36,800)	AED 800–1,200 (INR 18,000–27,100)
Public Transport	SGD 100 (INR 6,100)	AED 300 (INR 6,800)

Is Australia cheaper than Singapore for Indian families?

Australia has higher tuition, but rent and groceries may be cheaper depending on the city.

Cost comparison: Singapore vs Australia

Category	Singapore (Monthly)	Australia (Monthly)
Tuition Fees	SGD 12,000–35,000/yr (INR 7.4L–21.5L)	AUD 20,000–45,000/yr (INR 10.6L–24L)
Rent (shared)	SGD 1,000 (INR 61,500)	AUD 600–900 (INR 31,800–47,700)
Food & Groceries	SGD 400–600 (INR 24,500–36,800)	AUD 400–600 (INR 21,200–31,800)
Public Transport	SGD 100 (INR 6,100)	AUD 100 (INR 5,300)

How can Indians save money while living in Singapore?

Living in Singapore can be expensive, but smart choices can help you save a lot. From picking affordable supermarkets to using student discounts and budget apps, there are many ways Indian students and families can cut costs without giving up comfort.

What are some cheap grocery stores in Singapore?

Singapore has several affordable places where you can shop for groceries without breaking your budget.

 These stores offer good quality essentials at lower prices compared to premium supermarkets.

Here are some budget-friendly grocery options:

• FairPrice – Widely available, affordable, and reliable for daily needs
• Sheng Siong – One of the cheapest supermarket chains with fresh produce
• Giant – Offers large discounts on bulk items and daily essentials
• Value Dollar Store – Great for snacks, dry goods, toiletries, and home items
• Little India Wet Markets – Fresh veggies, Indian spices, and groceries at bargain prices

How can students save on food, rent, and transport?

Daily expenses can add up quickly, but a few changes in lifestyle can help students manage their budgets better.

Here’s how you can save money across key areas:

• Food
  • Eat at campus canteens or hawker centres
  • Cook at home instead of eating out
  • Buy veggies and spices in bulk from Little India markets
• Rent
  • Share flats with other students
  • Look for rooms in suburban areas like Jurong or Bukit Batok
  • Consider university-hosted accommodation for cheaper deals
• Transport
  • Get an EZ-Link or student concession card for discounted MRT/bus rides
  • Walk or cycle short distances to save money and stay fit
  • Use the free shuttle buses provided by some universities

What are some apps that help track and cut expenses?

Managing your budget becomes easier when you use apps that help track spending and find deals. These are student-friendly and available for free:

App Name	Purpose
Splitwise	Expense sharing
Expense Manager	Daily spending tracker
Grab	Transport & food delivery
Lazada & Shopee	Online shopping
NTUC App	Grocery shopping (FairPrice stores)

Are there any financial aids to manage living costs?

Yes, there are several ways Indian students and residents can get financial support in Singapore. From university scholarships to part-time jobs and government help, there are options to ease your monthly expenses if you plan wisely.

Do Singapore universities offer scholarships for living expenses?

Many universities in Singapore offer scholarships that cover not just tuition but also help with living costs. These are usually given based on academic performance, financial need, or both.

Popular scholarships that support living expenses:

• NUS ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship – Covers tuition + provides living allowance
• NTU Need-Based Financial Aid – Monthly allowance for food, transport, and rent
• SUTD Global Distinguished Scholarship – Covers full tuition, living, and other costs
• INSEAD Need-Based Scholarship (PG level) – Helps international students manage total costs

Most of these scholarships are competitive and need a strong academic record and/or income proof.

Can Indian students work part-time to cover their expenses?

Yes, international students with a valid Student Pass can work part-time in Singapore under certain conditions.

Here are the rules:

• Allowed to work up to 16 hours per week during term time
• Can work full-time during vacations
• No separate work permit is needed
• Jobs in cafes, admin work, research help, and tutoring are common

Always check your university's guidelines before starting a job, as they may have their own rules.

Is there any government support for low-income residents?

Yes, Singapore’s government runs several support schemes, but most are meant for citizens and permanent residents. However, if you’re planning to settle long-term or apply for PR later, these may apply to you.

Some useful schemes include:

• ComCare Assistance – For Singaporeans and PRs facing financial hardship
• Silver Support Scheme – For elderly low-income Singaporeans
• Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) – Encourages low-wage workers to stay employed

Remember: International students usually aren’t eligible for these, but understanding them can help if you plan to settle in Singapore after studies.

Conclusion

Singapore is a great option if you’re looking for quality education and a safe place to live. While living costs can be a bit high, many students manage well by planning their spending and making smart choices.

When you compare it with places like Canada or Australia, Singapore sits in the middle. It’s not the cheapest, but it’s not the most expensive either. Things like public transport, shared housing, and student discounts really help cut down costs.

If you need help figuring all this out, upGrad Study Abroad can guide you at every step,from picking the right university to finding scholarships and part-time work options. Book a free 1:1 session now to get personal advice for your study plans in Singapore.