The Best Places to Live in Singapore for Expats
Singapore is a vibrant place to live, a country where modernity meets rich history. It offers a diverse range of neighbourhoods for you to choose from, and there is something that suits various lifestyles and budgets.
Whether you are a young professional seeking the hustle and bustle of a career abroad, or you are a family looking for green spaces and excellent schools, Singapore has a neighbourhood for you.
The Best Neighbourhoods in Singapore for Expats
There are a wide range of neighbours to choose from in Singapore, each of which offers something slightly different. Below, we have taken a look at some of the city’s key neighbours and what you can expect from living there.
Orchard Road
If you are looking for luxury, consider a move to Orchard Road. Often referred to as Singapore’s shopping street, Orchard Road is a paradise for luxury enthusiasts. It’s where you will find an array of high end shopping centres, world class restaurants and luxurious hotels. In Orchard Road, you will have a variety of accommodation options to choose from, including upscale condominiums and serviced apartments, which offer a lifestyle of opulence and convenience.
Holland Village
For young professionals and those looking for bustling nightlife, consider Holland Village. It’s an area of Singapore that is renowned for its lively atmosphere, making it a hotspot for both locals and expats. This area is brimming with bars, restaurants and cafes, all of which offer something slightly different. Holland Village boasts a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to those who love to socialise and unwind, whether that’s mingling after work or letting your hair down at the weekend.
Tanjong Pagar
Tanjong Pagar has a lot to offer expats, as it seamlessly blends modern skyscrapers with historic shops and houses. As Tanjong Pagar is a bustling urban environment, with a touch of Singaporean heritage, it attracts both young professionals and culture seekers. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a dynamic urban lifestyle, with a hint of nostalgia and history.
Tiong Bahru
If you are looking for culture – or if you consider yourself to be a bit of a ‘hipster’ – you might want to consider a move to Tiong Bahru. Though it was once one of Singapore’s oldest neighbourhoods, Tiong Bahru has transformed into a trendy area, whilst still managing to preserve its Art Deco architecture. You will find vintage shops, bakeries and cafes throughout the neighbourhood, making it an enjoyable place to stroll and soak up the culture.
Woodlands
There is no denying that moving to Singapore can be expensive, so you might find yourself wanting a budget friendly place to live. This is where Woodlands comes in. Located in the northern part of Singapore, Woodlands offers more affordable housing options compared to a lot of the more central areas. It’s an excellent choice for budget conscious expats while providing proximity to the border with Malaysia.
Bukit Timah
Known for its lush green spaces, Bukit Timah is a popular place for families and nature lovers. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy a greener, more relaxed way of life. It also includes the highest natural point in Singapore and a nature reserve, so there really are a lot of opportunities to spend time outside. Bukit Timah offers a mix of condominiums and homes, making it a perfect choice for families seeking a harmonious blend of nature and urban living.
Sentosa Cove
Sentosa Cove is an exclusive waterfront residential area, and it really is the epitome of luxury. It’s where you will find luxurious villas and condominiums, stunning sea views and an upscale living experience. It’s known for being a safe area for families, serene, high end and luxurious.
East Coast/Marine Parade
Along the southeastern coast of Singapore, you will find the East Coast and Marine Parade areas. They are popular spots for families and beach lovers, and it offers a variety of accommodation options with sea views. If you choose to live in the East Coast or Marine Parade, you can enjoy scenic parks and a laid back atmosphere. They are the ideal neighbourhood for those who relish beachside living and a serene coastal lifestyle.
Ang Mo Kio
If you are moving to Singapore as a family or you are on a bit of a budget, consider Ang Mo Kio as your area of choice. As a mature residential town, Ang Mo Kio offers a mix of housing options and excellent amenities. It provides a more local experience while catering to expats looking for budget-friendly living.
Serangoon
Serangoon is a thriving residential area with a blend of local and international schools, making it an excellent choice for expat families with children. Its welcoming community and educational facilities are highly appealing, and it’s considered to be a safe, quiet and welcoming area.
Clarke Quay/Robertson Quay
A lot of young professionals move to Singapore, and many choose to base themselves in Clarke Quay or Robertson Quay. They are renowned for their vibrant nightlife scenes, and they draw in a lot of expats who are looking for a lively and bustling lifestyle. Located along the Singapore River, they feature numerous bars, restaurants and clubs, ensuring that you are never far from the action of Singapore.
Bishan
Bishan boasts a sizable park and exceptional connectivity due to its central location, making it a popular place for families to live. It offers a mix of condominiums and Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats, making it an attractive choice for those who are seeking both greenery and convenience.
Chinatown
Chinatown is a bustling neighbourhood steeped in history and culture, but it’s also a relatively affordable place to live. It offers affordable accommodation options within a culturally rich environment, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a unique living experience without breaking the bank. Chinatown also boasts a lot of culture, so you won’t struggle to get your culture fix during your time there.
Jurong
Situated in the west of Singapore, Jurong is a rapidly developing area with a wide range of amenities, shopping malls and more affordable housing options. Its continued growth makes it an attractive choice for those seeking value and convenience, including families.
Punggol
Punggol is a newer neighbourhood in the northeast of Singapore, and it offers waterfront living with modern HDB flats, and a wide range of amenities. It’s an emerging area that provides affordability and a peaceful environment, and it’s quickly growing in popularity. Punggol is commonly chosen as a place to live by families, simply because it’s a quieter part of the city.
Choosing Your Ideal Place to Live in Singapore
While these neighbourhoods in Singapore cater to an array of needs and preferences, it’s important to carefully consider what you need from where you live, as this will help you to find your perfect fit. Each area has its unique charm, and what might be an ideal choice for one person may not resonate with another. To make an informed decision, consider factors such as proximity to your workplace, access to schools if you have children, lifestyle amenities and your preferred pace of life.
Navigating Singapore’s diverse neighbourhoods can be a rewarding, yet complex, task. This is where local property agents come into play. By seeking the help of an expert, you will get a better understanding of the local property landscape, and they can provide invaluable insights tailored to your needs. Whether you are seeking a bustling urban environment, a tranquil green oasis, or even a mix of both, a local property agent will be able to guide you towards the area that aligns perfectly with your lifestyle and requirements.
You can check out our article on finding housing and rental accommodation in Singapore for more useful tips.
By conducting thorough research and tapping into local expertise, you can ensure that your chosen neighbourhood caters to your unique preferences and enhances your overall quality of life. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant energy of city life, the tranquillity of nature, or the rich cultural heritage of specific areas, Singapore’s diverse neighbourhoods offer a wealth of options to make your move a worthwhile one.
Make Your Move to Singapore a Seamless One
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We help lots of people make the move to Singapore and we are ready to help you too. Contact us to find out more.