Cost of Living in Singapore for Students
Cost of Living in Singapore for Students
How much does it cost to live in Singapore?
Most students budget US$1,025–2,280 per month (S$1,300–S$2,900). Singapore is pricier than Korea, Taiwan, or China, but cheaper than most major US or UK cities — and the safety and convenience mean the lower end is genuinely comfortable.
Housing: US$500–1,200 / month
- University dorms: S$400–900
- HDB room (shared flat): S$600–1,200
- Private studio: S$1,200–1,800
Public universities guarantee housing for most first-year international students. After that, renting a room in an HDB (public housing) flat is the most common and affordable option.
Food: US$300–600 / month
Singapore's secret weapon is the hawker center — open-air food courts with world-class meals for S$3–6 (US$2.50–4.50). A plate of Hainanese chicken rice or laksa costs less than a US coffee. Even eating out every day, food stays cheap.
Transport: US$60–100 / month
The MRT and bus network is one of the world's best. A monthly travel pass runs S$90–128, and a single ride costs S$0.90–2.20. Buses cover the entire island, so you rarely need a taxi.
Everything else
- Activities: US$100–250 (museums, Sentosa day trips, rooftop bars, weekend trips to Johor or Batam)
- Health insurance: US$40–80 (international student insurance ~S$60–100/mo; STP holders can access public healthcare)
- Phone & internet: US$25–50 (SIM plans S$10–25, home broadband S$30–50, free public Wi-Fi via Wireless@SG)
A realistic monthly budget
| Category | US$ range |
|---|---|
| Housing | 500–1,200 |
| Food | 300–600 |
| Transport | 60–100 |
| Activities | 100–250 |
| Health insurance | 40–80 |
| Phone & internet | 25–50 |
| Total | 1,025–2,280 |