USA vs Singapore: Cost of Living Comparison | Homejourney
Singapore is approximately 25% more expensive than the United States overall, driven by higher housing and transportation costs, though dining out is cheaper in Singapore.[1]
This USA vs Singapore: Cost of Living Comparison helps expats, investors, and those considering property investment in Singapore make informed choices. As part of our broader USA vs Singapore: Investment & Lifestyle Guide | Homejourney ">USA vs Singapore: Investment & Lifestyle Guide, it focuses on financial realities for relocation or investment. Homejourney verifies data to ensure trust and safety in your decisions.
Quick Facts: USA vs Singapore Cost of Living Overview
Singapore's high costs stem from limited land and premium urban living, while the USA varies widely by city—New York or San Francisco rival Singapore, but averages favor affordability.[1][2]
Key metrics show Singapore leads in expenses except restaurants. Use Homejourney's tools for real-time America vs Singapore insights tailored to property buyers.
| Category | USA | Singapore (SGD/USD) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Cost | Baseline | 24.8% higher[1] | Singapore more expensive |
| Restaurants (Basic Meal) | $19.45 | $11.81 / S$9.28[1] | 40.9% less in SG |
| 1-Bed City Center Rent | $1,665 | $3,967 / S$3,117[1][2] | 19-44% higher in SG |
| Monthly Transit Pass | $66 | $118 / S$93[1] | 2.2x higher in SG |
| Avg Net Salary | $4,317 | $4,561 / S$5,932[2] | Similar, SG slightly higher |
Data from October 2025; city variations apply (e.g., San Francisco 8% higher than Singapore excluding rent).[3] Homejourney prioritizes verified sources for accurate expat guide info.
Property & Real Estate: Core of USA vs Singapore Costs
Housing drives Singapore's premium: 1-bedroom city center apartments cost S$4,019 (US$3,090) vs. US$1,729 average, with buying per sq ft at S$2,706 (US$2,081) in Singapore centers vs. US$300.[2]
USA offers space and lower entry (e.g., suburbs), but Singapore's stability attracts property investment. Rental yields in Singapore hover 3-4% for condos, competitive amid global uncertainty. Check Property Search ">Homejourney property search for verified listings.
- Investor Tip: Singapore's private residential prices rose 5.2% in 2025 per URA data; USA markets fluctuate regionally.
- Actionable Step: Use Bank Rates ">Homejourney bank rates for mortgage comparisons—Singapore rates at 2.91% vs. USA 6.47%.[2]
- Expat Note: HDB flats start at S$500K for citizens/PRs; private condos from S$1.5M in areas like Orchard.
For living USA vs Singapore, prioritize Homejourney's Projects Directory ">projects directory for investment analysis.
Daily Lifestyle Expenses: Food, Transport, Entertainment
Dining favors Singapore—McDonald's meal S$9.84 (US$7.73) vs. US$11.12; groceries 12% higher but hawker centers offer meals under S$5.[1]
Transport hurts: Singapore gasoline S$10.52/gallon vs. US$3.41; MRT pass S$118 monthly. Entertainment like gym memberships S$149 vs. US$51, but safety enhances value.[1]
Insider Tip: Expats save via EZ-Link cards (MRT from S$1.09/ride); wet markets in Tekka Centre beat US supermarkets for fresh produce.
| Item | USA | Singapore (SGD/USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Groceries (Milk/gallon) | $3.97 | S$14.68 / $11.53[1] |
| Utilities (700sqft) | $150 | S$148 / $116[1] |
| Cinema Ticket | $13.64 | S$14.76 / $11.60[1] |
Homejourney verifies these for safe budgeting in your USA vs Singapore move.
Business, Career & Expat Factors
Average salaries align (Singapore S$5,932 net vs. US$4,317), but Singapore's low 0-22% tax vs. USA's progressive system appeals to high-earners.[2]
Healthcare: Singapore's Medisave system efficient; USA employer-tied. Education: International schools S$30K/year vs. US public options.[1]
Safety tops: Singapore's low crime fosters trust, aligning with Homejourney's user safety focus. Expats settle via EP visas; USA H-1B lottery challenging.
- Step 1: Assess salary via Homejourney tools.
- Step 2: Factor maintenance—post-purchase, use Aircon Services ">Homejourney aircon services for Singapore humidity.
- Step 3: Explore communities in Novena or Holland Village.
Verdict: Who Wins USA vs Singapore Cost of Living?
Singapore suits high-income professionals valuing safety, efficiency, and investment stability; USA better for families seeking space, lower taxes in some states.[1][2]
For property investment, Singapore's appreciation edges out. Homejourney guides safe transitions—start with our verified search.
FAQ: USA vs Singapore Cost of Living
Q: Is Singapore more expensive than the USA?
A: Yes, 25% overall, especially housing/transport, but restaurants cheaper.[1]
Q: How much to rent a 1-bed in Singapore city center?
A: Around S$4,000 (US$3,090); use Property Search ">Homejourney for listings.[2]
Q: Better for expats: USA or Singapore?
A: Singapore for safety/career; USA for variety/space. Check our USA vs Singapore: Investment & Lifestyle Guide | Homejourney ">pillar guide.
Q: Property investment yields USA vs Singapore?
A: Singapore 3-4%; stable. View Projects Directory ">projects.
Q: Safe to relocate based on this data?
A: Homejourney verifies all info for trusted decisions.
Ready for USA vs Singapore: Cost of Living Comparison insights? Explore Homejourney's Property Search ">property search and Bank Rates ">mortgage rates for secure next steps. Your safety is our priority.
