Moving from Hong Kong to Singapore: Your Complete Expat Guide
Moving from Hong Kong to Singapore offers higher salaries, lower living costs, and a family-friendly lifestyle, with average post-tax monthly salary in Singapore at HKD$32,071 versus HKD$24,185 in Hong Kong.[1] This complete guide provides actionable steps for a smooth transition, from visas to housing, positioning Homejourney as your trusted partner for safe property decisions in Singapore.
Many expats choose Singapore for career growth and stability. Rent is 18% cheaper, food 6% lower, and raising a family 16% more affordable than in Hong Kong.[2] As part of our broader pillar on Hong Kong vs Singapore: Ultimate City Comparison Guide Hong Kong vs Singapore: Ultimate City Comparison Guide | Homejourney , this cluster focuses on tactical relocation advice.
Why Move from Hong Kong to Singapore?
Singapore stands out as a top expat destination in Asia due to its business hub status, safety, and green spaces. Compare cities: Hong Kong's dense urbanity contrasts Singapore's planned efficiency with world-class MRT and low crime rates.
Higher earning potential draws professionals; pair this with 13% cheaper overall living costs.[2] Families appreciate international schools in areas like Bukit Timah. For investors, Singapore's stable property market offers diversification—explore options on Homejourney's property search Property Search .
Hong Kong vs Singapore: Key Living Comparison
| Aspect | Hong Kong | Singapore |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Salary (post-tax, HKD) | 24,185[1] | 32,071[1] |
| Rent (relative) | Higher | 18% cheaper[2] |
| Cost of Living | Baseline | 13% cheaper[2] |
Insider tip: Singapore's currency (SGD) is stable; exchange HKD via Homejourney's tools supporting Hong Kong currency for seamless property budgeting.
Step-by-Step Relocation Process
Start early: Organize documents like visas, utility cancellations, and moving insurance.[1] Use professional movers like Allied for seamless HK-SG service.[1]
- Visa Application: Apply for Employment Pass (EP) via employer (min SGD 5,000 salary) or S Pass (SGD 2,300+ for less experience).[2] MOM handles approvals; fresh grads qualify with certification.[2]
- Company Setup (Entrepreneurs): Form a Singapore company, wait 6 months, then apply for EP via COMPASS points system.[3]
- Arrival: Submit SG Arrival Card (SGAC) online detailing travel/health.[5]
- Moving Logistics: Book storage if needed; pros handle customs.[1]
Timeline: 3-6 months prep. Homejourney verifies relocation data for trust.
Best Neighbourhoods for Expats from Hong Kong
Choose based on lifestyle. HDB flats offer affordable entry (near MRTs, wet markets) before private condos.[1] Expats favor:
- Orchard Road: Shopping, dining, MRT access; premium condos ~SGD 5,000+/month.
- Holland Village: Cafes, Botanic Gardens (5-min walk), family-friendly.[4]
- Bukit Timah: International schools, green spaces; 10-min drive to city.[4]
- East Coast: Sea views, cycling paths; relaxed vibe.[4]
Search verified listings on Homejourney's projects directory Projects . Compare with Hong Kong vs Singapore Property Investment Guide Hong Kong vs Singapore Property Investment Guide | Homejourney .
Practical Tips for a Smooth Move
Transport: Fly direct HKG-SIN (4 hours, SGD 200-500). On arrival, MRT from Changi (Exit A to city, 40 mins).
Cost-Saving: Rent HDB first (SGD 2,500-4,000 vs HK equivalents).[1] Check Homejourney bank rates Bank Rates for mortgages.
Safety: Singapore's low crime prioritizes user security—Homejourney verifies agents for trusted transactions.
Post-move: Schedule aircon servicing Aircon Services for new homes (essential in humid climate).
3-Day Settling-In Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Changi, MRT to hotel in Orchard (Exit B2). Unpack, visit ION Orchard for dinner (hawker chilli crab ~SGD 50).
Day 2: Housing hunt—view condos in River Valley (MRT Somerset, 5-min walk). Lunch at wet market (chicken rice SGD 5).
Day 3: Explore Botanic Gardens (Holland Village MRT), apply for passes. Evening: Marina Bay Sands light show.
Extend to 5 days: Add Sentosa beaches, school visits in Woodlands.[4]
Food, Culture, and Lifestyle Adjustment
Try laksa, Hainanese chicken rice at hawker centres (Maxwell Food Centre, 10-min from Chinatown MRT). Culture: Respect queues, no chewing gum sales.
Best time: Year-round tropical (dry Feb-Apr). Currency: SGD 1 ≈ HKD 5.8; ATMs everywhere.
For HK expats, Singapore's green lungs (50% parks) beat HK density. See Hong Kong vs Singapore Cost of Living Guide Hong Kong vs Singapore Cost of Living: Homejourney Insider Guide .
Property Investment for HK Relocators
Singapore appeals for second homes—stable market, no capital gains tax on primary residence (URA rules). Use Homejourney for verified Asia cities investments, linking HKD to SGD seamlessly.
Action: Browse property search Property Search . Consult agents via our directory for personalized, safe advice.
FAQ: Moving from Hong Kong to Singapore
Q: What's the easiest visa for HK professionals?
A: Employment Pass via employer; min SGD 5,000 salary, processed by MOM.[2]
Q: Is housing cheaper in Singapore?
A: Yes, 18% lower rent; start with HDB near MRTs.[1][2]
Q: How long to settle in?
A: 1-3 months with pros; use checklists for docs.[1]
Q: Family-friendly areas?
A: Bukit Timah, Woodlands—near international schools.[4]
Q: Property buying for expats?
A: Possible after EP; check ABSD rules on Homejourney Projects .
Ready to move? Start your safe journey with Homejourney's verified tools. Explore our Hong Kong vs Singapore pillar for deeper living comparison Hong Kong vs Singapore: Ultimate City Comparison Guide | Homejourney . Contact us for trusted guidance.
