Moving to Singapore from Hong Kong: Budget Expat Guide by Homejourney
Moving to Singapore from Hong Kong on a budget requires smart planning around visas, costs, and property. Expats can save significantly by comparing living expenses, opting for affordable rentals, and using efficient moving services—expect local move costs from $250 for small apartments.
This cluster article supports our pillar on Moving to Singapore from Hong Kong Budget: for Saving Money: Expat Guide, focusing on tactical steps for budget-conscious relocations. Homejourney verifies all property data to ensure your safe transition in a trusted environment.
Life in Hong Kong on a Budget: Why Consider Singapore?
Hong Kong's high costs push expats toward budget strategies like budget Hong Kong living, cheap HK travel, and save money Hong Kong tips. Yet, Singapore offers similar financial hub vibes with lower long-term expenses for families.
Key differences include Singapore's cheaper public transport (single ticket SGD 1.48 vs. higher HK fares) and spacious HDB flats. Many Hong Kong expats move for better work-life balance and affordable suburbs. Read our related Hong Kong Budget Travel Guide for pre-move savings.
Relocating to Singapore: Visa and Employment Essentials
Hong Kong nationals can apply for Singapore's Employment Pass (EP) for professionals earning over SGD 5,000 monthly, processed via MOM (Ministry of Manpower). It takes 3-8 weeks; pair it with a Dependant's Pass for family.
Employment opportunities abound in finance and tech—Hong Kong skills transfer seamlessly. Cost of living comparison: Singapore rents average SGD 3,500 for a CBD one-bedroom, but suburbs like Tampines offer 2-3.5k for 2-bedroom HDB.[4][5] A single expat lives comfortably on SGD 5-6k monthly using MRT.[5]
Cost-Saving Relocation Steps
- Secure job first: Use LinkedIn for Singapore roles; many firms sponsor EPs.
- Budget flights: Direct HK-SG flights cost SGD 150-300 return; book off-peak.
- Visa prep: Gather payslips, qualifications—apply online via EP Online portal.
- Packing hacks: Sell non-essentials in HK to cut moving volume.
These steps minimize upfront costs while building your new life.
Property Options for Hong Kong Expats in Singapore
Foreigners face 60% ABSD on purchases (URA rules), so renting is budget-friendly: SGD 1,500-4,000 for one-bedroom apartments.[3] Popular spots for HK expats include Orchard (vibrant, MRT-linked) and Tanjong Pagar (finance hub, 10-min walk to Chinatown MRT Exit A).
Suburbs like Yishun or Jurong offer affordable Hong Kong-style value at SGD 2-3.5k for family flats.[5] Homejourney's property search verifies listings for safety—filter by price and location for trusted options.
- Condo rentals: Central areas, SGD 4-6k for 2-bed.
- HDB for longer stays: Sublets available post-PR approval.
- Insider tip: Check Homejourney's projects directory for expat-favored developments like The Sail @ Marina Bay.
Link to mortgage rates for financing if buying later.
Practical Settling-In: Budget Tips for Daily Life
Banking: Open a DBS or OCBC account on arrival (bring passport, EP); multi-currency options support HKD-SGD swaps. Homejourney integrates currency tools for seamless tracking.
Healthcare: MediShield covers basics; expat insurance costs SGD 200-400 monthly.[4] Visit polyclinics (SGD 10-20 consult) near MRTs like Bedok (5-min walk from Exit B).
Education: International schools like Canadian run SGD 2-3k/month per child; prioritize company sponsorship.[5]
Transportation: EZ-Link card for MRT/buses (SGD 1.48/trip)—country traversable in 1.5 hours.[5]
Moving Service Costs Breakdown
Local moves in Singapore: $250-350 one lorry, up to $950-1,500 for larger homes.[1] International from HK: $12,000-18,000 for 1-bedroom volume.[2] Get free quotes; fixed rates save 20-30% vs. hourly ($70-120/hr).[1]
| Property Type | Est. Moving Cost (SGD)[1] |
|---|---|
| Small Apartment | 250-350 |
| 4-Room Condo | 850 |
| 5-Room HDB w/ Piano | 1,200 |
Post-move: Budget SGD 500-2,000 for utilities and setup.[1] Schedule aircon services via Homejourney for maintenance savings.
Maintaining HK Connections While Saving in Singapore
Daily flights (SGD 150-300) keep family ties strong. Join HK-SG expat groups on Facebook or at Holland Village meetups (near Queenstown MRT, 7-min walk).
Currency exchange: Use Homejourney's tools for best HKD-SGD rates. For food nostalgia, hawker centers like Maxwell (Chinatown MRT Exit C, SGD 5-10 meals) echo HK dai pai dongs affordably.
Success Stories: HK Expats Thriving in Singapore
Hong Kong finance pros love Singapore's stability—salaries offset high rents (SGD 700-1,000 post-tax).[4] One expat shared: "Switched from HK's cramped flats to Yishun HDB—saved 20% on housing." Career growth in fintech draws many; bonuses often cover one month's salary.[4]
Homejourney verifies neighborhoods for safe choices, prioritizing your trust.
FAQ: Moving to Singapore from Hong Kong Budget
Q: What's the average moving cost from HK to Singapore?
A: International moves range $12,000-18,000 SGD for 1-bedroom; local setup $250-1,500.[1][2]
Q: Can HK expats buy property in Singapore?
A: Yes, but 60% ABSD applies; renting is cheaper at SGD 2-4k monthly.[3]
Q: How much to live comfortably as a single expat?
A: SGD 5-6k/month including rent, using public transport.[5]
Q: Best budget neighborhoods for HK expats?
A: Tampines, Yishun (SGD 2-3.5k HDB); central like Tanjong Pagar for work.
Q: How to save on initial relocation costs?
A: Fly budget, minimize shipment, use fixed-rate movers, search verified rentals on Homejourney.
Ready to move? Explore Homejourney property search for safe, budget options. Contact our verified agents for personalized advice—your trusted partner in Singapore relocations.
