Is Singapore Expensive? A 2025 Comprehensive Cost Guide for Travelers

Singapore. The Lion City. A dazzling blend of cultures, futuristic architecture, and, let’s be honest, a reputation for being a bit pricey. So, is Singapore really expensive? The short answer: it can be, but it doesn’t have to be. This 2025 guide will give you the lowdown on costs, from hawker fare to high-end hotels, and share insider tips to experience Singapore without breaking the bank.

Why is Singapore So Expensive? (And Why It’s Still Worth It!)

Before we dive into the dollars and cents, let’s address the elephant in the room: why is Singapore so expensive? A few factors contribute:

• Land is Scarce: Being a small island nation, land is a premium, driving up property values and, consequently, the cost of living.
• High Standards of Living: Singapore boasts excellent infrastructure, healthcare, and education, all of which come at a cost.
• Strong Currency: The Singapore dollar is strong compared to many currencies, which can make things seem more expensive for tourists.
• Imported Goods: Many goods are imported, adding to their price.

But here’s the thing: Singapore offers incredible value. Think safety, efficiency, world-class attractions, and a food scene that’s worth every penny (or should I say, cent?).

Singapore Cost of Living: Breaking it Down

To answer the question, “Is it expensive to live in Singapore?” for tourists or those considering a move, let’s look at the main expense categories:

• Accommodation: This will likely be your biggest expense. Options range from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels.
• Food: The good news? You can eat incredibly well in Singapore without spending a fortune. Hawker centres are your best friend.
• Transportation: Singapore’s public transport is efficient and affordable.
• Activities: Many free and low-cost activities are available, alongside the pricier attractions.

Singapore Trip Cost: Budget vs. Luxury

Use this table to estimate your daily expenses in Singapore (2025 prices):

Expense Category	Budget Traveler (SGD/USD)	Mid-Range Traveler (SGD/USD)	Luxury Traveler (SGD/USD)
Accommodation	SGD 20–30 ($15–22)	SGD 80–150 ($60–112)	SGD 400+ ($298+)
Food	SGD 10–15 ($7–11)	SGD 25–50 ($19–37)	SGD 150+ ($112+)
Transport	SGD 5–8 ($4–6)	SGD 10–20 ($7–15)	SGD 50+ ($37+)
Activities	SGD 0–10 (Free attractions)	SGD 20–50 ($15–37)	SGD 100+ ($75+)
Miscellaneous (WiFi, tips)	SGD 5 ($4)	SGD 10–15 ($7–11)	SGD 30+ ($22+)
Total Daily Cost	SGD 40–68 ($30–51)	SGD 145–285 ($108–212)	SGD 730+ ($545+)

Notes:

• Budget: Hostels, hawker meals, public transport, free attractions.
• Mid-Range: 3-star hotels, mix of hawker + café dining, paid activities.
• Luxury: 5-star hotels, fine dining, private tours.

Hidden Costs Alert: Attractions like Universal Studios charge SGD 10–20 for lockers. Store bags affordably with Radical Storage at secure locations to avoid fees.

Is Singapore More Expensive Than the US? (Or Other Places?)

That’s a common question! Here’s a quick comparison:

• Overall: Singapore is generally considered more expensive than most cities in the US, especially when it comes to accommodation and rent. However, food can be cheaper if you stick to hawker centres.
• Compared to Europe: It’s on par with major European cities like London or Paris.
• Compared to Southeast Asia: Significantly more expensive than other Southeast Asian destinations like Thailand or Vietnam.

Is Singapore Expensive to Visit? A Deep Dive into Costs

Singapore’s cost of living ranks high globally¹, but tourists can manage expenses with strategic planning. Here’s what you’ll actually spend.

Accommodation: Where to Rest Your Head

• Hostels: Dorm beds from SGD 25-40. Great for meeting people.
• Budget Hotels: Expect to pay SGD 80-150 per night. Look for deals in areas like Geylang or Little India.
• Mid-Range Hotels: SGD 150-250 per night. You’ll find good options in areas like Novena or Clarke Quay.
• Luxury Hotels: Sky’s the limit! Expect to pay SGD 300+ for a world-class experience.

Pro Tip: Consider staying slightly outside the city centre. You’ll often find better deals, and Singapore’s public transport makes it easy to get around.

Food: A Culinary Adventure (Without the Huge Bill)

• Hawker Centres: This is where you’ll find the best value (and the most delicious!) food. Meals from SGD 5-10. Try chicken rice, laksa, char kway teow… the list goes on!
• Food Courts: Similar prices to hawker centres.
• Casual Restaurants: Expect to pay SGD 20-40 per person.
• Fine Dining: Be prepared to splurge! SGD 80+ per person.

Local Secret: Download a hawker centre app to find hidden gems and read reviews.

Transportation: Getting Around Like a Pro

• MRT (Subway) & Buses: The most affordable way to get around. Fares range from SGD 1-3 per trip. Consider purchasing a Singapore Tourist Pass if you plan to use public transport extensively.
• Taxis & Ride-Hailing (Grab): Convenient, but more expensive. Fares start around SGD 5, with surcharges during peak hours.

Budget Hack: Avoid taking taxis during peak hours. The surcharges can really add up!

Activities: Fun Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive

Paid Attractions: Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A Aquarium, ArtScience Museum. Look for discounts online or through travel agencies. real-time transport updates and fare discounts.

Free Activities: Gardens by the Bay (outdoor gardens), Botanic Gardens, hiking in MacRitchie Reservoir, exploring cultural enclaves like Chinatown and Little India.

How Much Does it Cost to Go to Singapore? Flights

Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) is one of the most well-connected hubs in Asia, with direct flights available from many major cities worldwide. Flight prices can vary significantly based on factors such as season, booking time, and airline, but here’s an overview of what you might expect for round-trip economy fares in 2025.

Sample Flight Costs (Economy Class)

Note: Prices are approximate and based on recent data from popular booking sites. Conversion is based on 1 SGD ≈ 0.74 USD.

Departure City	Airline	Approx. Fare (SGD)	Approx. Fare (USD)	Notes
San Francisco (SFO)	Singapore Airlines	900 – 1,000	666 – 740	Direct flights available
New York (JFK/EWR)	United Airlines / Singapore Airlines	950 – 1,100	703 – 814	Direct flights, longer travel time
Los Angeles (LAX)	Singapore Airlines	850 – 1,000	630 – 740	Direct flights
Chicago (ORD)	Singapore Airlines	1,000 – 1,150	740 – 851	Direct or one-stop flights
Washington, D.C. (IAD)	United Airlines	1,100 – 1,250	814 – 925	Direct flights available
London (LHR)	Singapore Airlines / British Airways	700 – 800	518 – 592	Direct flights, competitive pricing
Dubai (DXB)	Emirates / Singapore Airlines	650 – 750	481 – 555	Non-stop or one-stop options
Sydney (SYD)	Qantas / Singapore Airlines	800 – 900	592 – 666	Direct flights

Factors Affecting Flight Prices:

• Booking Window: Generally, booking 45–60 days in advance provides the best fares.
• Seasonality: High season (December–February, and during major events like the Singapore Grand Prix) sees higher prices. Off-peak months such as August or November typically offer cheaper fares.
• Airline Promotions: Keep an eye on deals from airlines like Singapore Airlines, United, and Emirates, which often offer special promotions and discounted fares.
• Departure Airports: Prices may vary even within a city, so consider nearby airports if you’re flexible.

For the most up-to-date prices, use flight comparison tools like Skyscanner, Kayak, or Google Flights. Setting up a price alert can also help you secure the best deal.

Luxury vs. Budget Travel: How to Tailor Your Trip

Singapore caters to all wallets. Here’s how to choose your style:

Backpacker-Friendly Singapore

• Free Attractions: Gardens by the Bay’s outdoor gardens, Marina Barrage sunset views, and Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.
• Affordable Thrills: Explore Kampong Glam’s street art or take a SGD 3 bumboat ride at Clarke Quay.
• Cheap Eats: Maxwell Food Centre, Tekka Centre, and Old Airport Road Food Centre for SGD 5 meals.

Luxury Singapore

• Iconic Experiences: SkyPark Infinity Pool at Marina Bay Sands (SGD 100/day access) or a private yacht charter.
• Splurge-Worthy Stays: Raffles Hotel’s suites or Sentosa’s beachfront villas.

Singapore Hidden Costs That Can Blow Your Budget

Singapore’s “small print” fees catch many travelers off-guard:

• Tourist Taxes: 10% service charge + 9% GST at hotels and restaurants².
• Peak-Hour Surcharges: Taxis add 25–50% fees from 6–9:30 AM/PM.
• Attraction Extras: Sentosa’s Adventure Cove locker rentals cost SGD 10–20/day.

7 Singapore Money-Saving Hacks Most Travelers Miss

1. Visit Off-Peak: Hotel rates drop 30% during monsoon season (Nov–Jan)³.
2. Use CityPASS: Save 40% on attractions like Universal Studios and S.E.A. Aquarium.
3. Avoid Weekend Markups: Museums and attractions are cheaper on weekdays.
4. Free Walking Tours: Join SG Free Tours for insider insights on Chinatown and Little India.
5. Tap Public Water Stations: Refill bottles at over 300 locations to save SGD 2–3/bottle.
6. Leverage Government Rebates: Use CDC vouchers (SGD 800/year for locals) at hawker stalls⁴.
7. Ditch Luggage Hassles: Attractions like Gardens by the Bay charge SGD 5–10/hour for bag storage. Store bags affordably at secure locations citywide to explore hands-free.

Luggage on your mind?

Don’t let your bags hold you back from exploring! Many attractions charge for luggage storage, and lugging your bags around in the Singapore heat is no fun.

Radical Storage offers convenient and affordable luggage storage options throughout the city. You can easily find a location near you and explore hands-free.

Is Singapore Cheap to Visit? Or to Live in?

Okay, let’s be real. Singapore isn’t “cheap.” But it doesn’t have to be outrageously expensive either. With careful planning and a few savvy choices, you can experience the best of Singapore without emptying your bank account. As for “Is Singapore cheap to visit?” No, but it is worth it.

Final Tip: Travel Smarter, Not Harder

Singapore rewards planners. Whether here for a layover or a week, skip the baggage stress and focus on the experience. Need to stash your luggage? Affordable, secure storage options across the city let you explore seamlessly—from hawker stalls to rooftop bars—without dragging your bags around.

Sources

1. https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/consistently-high-cost-living-singapore-ranked-worlds-most-expensive-city-8th-time-decade-survey-2061111
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2. https://www.factually.gov.sg/corrections-and-clarifications/singapore-is-it-really-the-most-expensive-place-to-live ↩︎
3. https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/is-singapore-expensive/ ↩︎
4. https://www.factually.gov.sg/corrections-and-clarifications/singapore-is-it-really-the-most-expensive-place-to-live ↩︎