Thinking of heading to Singapore for your studies? Great choice, it’s safe, globally connected, and packed with opportunity. But before you start dreaming about skyline views and late-night laksa, it’s time to talk money. From affordable hawker meals to world-class public transport, Singapore offers a balanced lifestyle, but living costs can vary based on your choices.
This blog will cover the cost of living in Singapore for students, breaking down what you will need to spend. Topics will cover groceries, transport, rent, entertainment, and more, so you can budget smart and make the most of your time in this dynamic city.
Cost Of Living In Singapore For International Students: An Overview
| Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (SGD) |
| Accommodation | 700 – 2,000 |
| Groceries | 250 – 400 |
| Transport | 48 – 81 (Student Pass) |
| Utilities + Internet | 170 – 350 |
| Entertainment | 50 – 150 |
Cost of Education In Singapore
Singapore has quickly become one of Asia’s top education hubs, offering world-class universities, a vibrant multicultural environment, and strong post-study work prospects. With globally recognised degrees and a strategic location in Southeast Asia, studying in Singapore gives international students a unique mix of academic excellence and career opportunities all in one city-state.
| Top Universities | National University of Singapore (NUS): #8Nanyang Technological University (NTU): #15Singapore Management University (SMU): #585 |
| Annual Tuition Fees | UG: S$ 20,000 – 40,000 PG: S$ 30,000 – 50,000 |
| Scholarship Options | NUS Global Merit Scholarship, NTU Undergraduate Scholarship and SMU International Scholarships |
| Popular Study Areas | Engineering and TechnologyBusiness and ManagementComputer Science and IT |
Read More: Why Study In Singapore? Everything To Know About The Place
Student Life In Singapore
Student life in Singapore is a unique blend of safety, culture, and modern city living. The city offers an exciting and balanced lifestyle beyond academics, from lush green spaces and iconic gardens to buzzing nightlife and cultural festivals. With year-round warm weather and a reputation for being one of the safest countries in the world, Singapore ensures students can study, explore, and unwind with ease.
| Aspect | Key Highlights |
| Safety | Among the safest globally; low fatality and injury rates |
| Green Spaces | Known as the “City in a Garden” with parks like Gardens by the Bay & Botanic Gardens. |
| Nightlife | Buzzing nightlife at Clarke Quay, Marina Bay; festivals & cultural events year-round. |
| Climate | Tropical: hot, humid year-round (25°C–32°C); rainy from Nov–Jan. |
Cost of Student Accommodation In Singapore
Accommodation is one of the biggest monthly expenses for students in Singapore. From on-campus dorms to private hostels and shared apartments, there are various housing options to suit different preferences, with rent depending on the location, setup, and included amenities.
| Accommodation Type | Average Monthly Rent (SGD) | Details / Notes |
| University Halls/On-campus Dorms | 325 – 1,000 | Affordable, shared rooms; typically 4–6 students per room; utilities often included. |
| Private Student Hostels | 600 – 1,500 | More amenities than campus halls; utilities may be included or minimal. |
| Shared Apartments (HDB/Private) | 700 – 2,000 (per room) | HDB flats: 700–1,200 per room; entire flat: |
Cost Of Groceries And Essentials
Groceries form a significant part of a student’s monthly budget in Singapore. On average, a single person spends around S$250–S$400 per month on groceries, depending on their lifestyle and dietary preferences.
Essentials like milk cost between S$3–S$5 per litre, while fresh produce such as apples and tomatoes typically range from S$3–S$6 per kg. With a wide range of supermarkets and wet markets across the city, Singapore offers both affordability and variety when it comes to everyday essentials. Here’s a look at the typical price range of everyday grocery items.
| Particulars | Cost S$ |
| Milk (regular), (1 liter) | 3 – 5 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | 2 – 4 |
| Rice (white), (1kg) | 3 – 4 |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | 4 – 5 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | 20 – 25 |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) | 14 – 15 |
| Apples (1kg) | 3 – 6 |
| Banana (1kg) | 3 – 4 |
| Tomato (1kg) | 3 – 4 |
| Potato (1kg) | 3 – 4 |
| Onion (1kg) | 2 – 4 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | 2 – 3 |
| Water (1.5 liter bottle) | 1 – 3 |
Tips to Save on Groceries in Singapore
- Shop at Wet Markets: They often offer fresher produce at lower prices than supermarkets.
- Buy in Bulk: Items like rice, eggs, and canned goods are cheaper when bought in larger quantities.
- Look for Store Brands: Supermarket house brands (like FairPrice or Giant) offer good quality at lower prices.
- Use Cashback Apps: Platforms like ShopBack or Fave can help you save on grocery bills.
- Plan Ahead: Make a weekly grocery list to avoid impulse buys and stick to your budget.
Cost of Transport in Singapore
Singapore offers a world-class public transport system that’s efficient, safe, and cost-effective, especially important for students managing a monthly budget.
Student Concession Passes
Full-time undergraduate international students enrolled at approved institutions are eligible for discounted Monthly Concession Passes that offer unlimited travel:
- Bus Concession Pass – S$55.50/month
- Train Concession Pass – S$48.00/month
- Hybrid Concession Pass (Bus + Train) – S$81.00/month
General Transport Costs (Adult Fares)
For those not eligible for student concessions, including most postgraduate students, here are the standard public transport rates:
- One-way Ticket (Local Transport): S$1.19 – 2.17
- Monthly Travel Pass: S$128
Both EZ-Link and SimplyGo cards are widely used for cashless travel and can be topped up at MRT stations and convenience stores across the island.
Cost Of Utilities
As an international student in Singapore, understanding and budgeting for monthly utility expenses is crucial for a comfortable living experience. While the city offers a high standard of living, being aware of typical costs can help you manage your finances effectively.
| Utilities (Monthly) | Rent S$ |
| Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85m2 Apartment | 131 – 354 |
| Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data | 10 – 60 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | 30 – 78 |
Tips to Save on Utilities in Singapore
- Choose Shared Accommodation: Splitting utility bills with flatmates can significantly reduce your monthly expenses.
- Opt for SIM-Only Mobile Plans: Providers like Giga!, Circles.Life, and SIMBA offer affordable, no-contract options with generous data.
- Use Energy-Efficient Appliances: Switch off lights, fans, and air-conditioners when not in use to cut down on electricity bills.
- Bundle Internet and Mobile: Some providers offer bundle discounts when you combine services, which is worth exploring for added savings.
- Track Your Usage: Monitor your utility consumption monthly to stay within budget and avoid unexpected spikes.
Cost Of Entertainment In Singapore
Studying abroad isn’t just about academics — your downtime matters too! Whether it’s hitting the gym, catching a movie, or playing a round of tennis with friends, Singapore offers plenty of options to unwind.
| Particulars | Cost |
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | 98 – 250 |
| Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend) | 10 – 20 |
| Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat | 13 – 20 |
Cost Of Eating Out In Singapore
Food is a big part of Singapore’s identity, and eating out can be both delicious and budget-friendly! From affordable hawker centres to stylish mid-range restaurants, there’s something for every craving and wallet.
| Particulars | Prices |
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | 6 – 25 |
| Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course | 55 – 175 |
| McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal) | 8 – 12 |
A Few Points To Keep In Mind As A Student
- Budget-Friendly Tips: Eat at hawker centres like Lau Pa Sat, Maxwell, or Newton — meals here start at just S$4–S$6. Use food delivery apps like GrabFood and Deliveroo during promo hours to save more.
- Student Discounts: Many restaurants near universities offer student set meals or discounts. Always carry your student ID!
- Dining Apps & Loyalty Programs: Apps like Chope, Eatigo, and Fave offer up to 50% off at selected restaurants if you book or pay via the app.
Cost of Healthcare in Singapore for International Students
Singapore is globally recognised for its high-quality healthcare system, ranking among the best in Asia. As an international student, you won’t have access to government subsidies, but private health insurance is widely available and often necessary to cover unexpected medical costs.
Most universities in Singapore either require or recommend health insurance. While minor doctor visits may be affordable, larger treatments or hospitalisations can become expensive without proper coverage.
| Category | Details |
| Is Health Insurance Mandatory? | Usually recommended or required by universities |
| Annual Cost Range | SGD 920 – SGD 5,015 |
| Coverage Offered | SGD 900,000 – SGD 2.5 million |
| What’s Covered | Hospitalisation, outpatient care, surgery, etc. |
| Where to Buy | Through universities or private providers like AIA, AXA, NTUC Income |
Tip: Compare different insurance plans and check if your university offers a group insurance scheme — it’s often cheaper and covers essential student services.
Looking to explore top study-abroad destinations beyond Singapore? UniScholars helps you navigate your global education journey with expert counselling, scholarship guidance, and complete end-to-end support.
FAQs
Q. What is the cost of living in Singapore for Indian students?
The average cost of living in Singapore for Indian students ranges from SGD 1,200 to SGD 2,000 per month (₹74,000 to ₹1.23 lakh), depending on lifestyle and housing choices.
Q. Is Singapore an expensive country to live in?
Yes, Singapore can be expensive, especially for rent and utilities. But with shared housing, home-cooked meals, and student discounts, living affordably is possible.
Q. Is 3,000 SGD a good salary in Singapore?
What’s considered a good salary in Singapore largely depends on your role, experience, and industry. That said, with average monthly living expenses (excluding rent) around SGD 1,480 (₹95,129), a starting salary between SGD 3,000 to SGD 5,000 is typically enough for entry-level professionals to live comfortably and manage basic costs.
Q. Which part of Singapore has the cheapest rent?
The cheapest rent in Singapore is usually found in outlying residential areas like Woodlands, Yishun, Jurong West, and Sengkang. These neighbourhoods are farther from the city centre but well-connected by MRT, making them popular choices for students and budget-conscious renters.
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