Cost Comparison 2025

Buenos AiresvsSingapore

Argentina
Singapore

Overall

💰

+137.5%

Buenos Aires is 137.5%more expensive

Rent

🏠

+260.0%

Housing is 260.0% higher

Dining

🍽️

+128.6%

Restaurants 128.6% pricier

Groceries

🛒

+123.7%

Food shopping 123.7% more

Comparing the cost of living between Buenos Aires, Argentina and Singapore, Singapore reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Buenos Aires is more expensive than Singapore by approximately 137.5%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.

Key Cost Differences

Housing costs in Buenos Aires are lower than in Singapore by 72%. A one-bedroom apartment in Buenos Aires's city center costs around ARS 400,000, while the same in Singapore is approximately SGD 3,500.

Dining out in Buenos Aires offers significant savings compared to Singapore. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ARS 4,000 in Buenos Aires versus SGD 15 in Singapore.

Public transportation in Buenos Aires is more expensive, with monthly passes at ARS 2,500 compared to SGD 120 in Singapore.

Purchasing power in Singapore is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Buenos Aires.

Grocery shopping in Buenos Aires is more affordable by approximately 55%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Buenos Aires can expect to spend approximately ARS 101,900 per month (excluding rent), while in Singapore, the same lifestyle would cost around SGD 777. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ARS 356,650 monthly in Buenos Aires versus SGD 2,720 in Singapore. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.

Detailed Cost Comparison

Item
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Singapore, Singapore

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
ARS 400,000
SGD 3,500
1BR Outside Center
ARS 300,000
SGD 2,500
3BR City Center
ARS 800,000
SGD 7,000

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
ARS 4,000
SGD 15
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
ARS 20,000
SGD 100
Cappuccino
ARS 1,200
SGD 6
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
ARS 1,500
SGD 10

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
ARS 500
SGD 3
Bread (500g)
ARS 600
SGD 3
Eggs (12)
ARS 1,000
SGD 4
Cheese (1kg)
ARS 5,000
SGD 20

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
ARS 50
SGD 2
Monthly Pass
ARS 2,500
SGD 120
Taxi Start
ARS 600
SGD 4
Gasoline (1L)
ARS 400
SGD 3

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
ARS 15,000
SGD 200
Internet (60 Mbps)
ARS 6,000
SGD 50
Mobile Minute
ARS 10
SGD 0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Buenos Aires to Singapore, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Singapore to Buenos Aires requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.

Quality of Life Indices

Buenos Aires

Cost of Living Index40
Rent Index25
Purchasing Power Index30

Singapore

Cost of Living Index95
Rent Index90
Purchasing Power Index100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Buenos Aires more expensive than Singapore?

Yes, Buenos Aires is approximately 137.5% more expensive than Singapore overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

How much salary do I need in Buenos Aires compared to Singapore?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 2.4x of your Singapore salary when living in Buenos Aires. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Singapore, you'd need about $118,750 in Buenos Aires for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Buenos Aires and Singapore?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 72%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.

Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?

Singapore offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Singapore provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Buenos Aires if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Singapore for better value.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Buenos Aires vs Singapore?

In Buenos Aires, a single person needs approximately ARS 401,900 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ARS 956,650. In Singapore, these figures are SGD 3,277 for singles and SGD 7,220 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Buenos Aires and Singapore in 2025 shows significant differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.

Need to calculate salary equivalence?

Find out how much you need to earn in Singapore to maintain your lifestyle from Buenos Aires

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-15 • Data sourced from multiple providers