Los AngelesvsSingapore
Overall
💰+3.5%
Los Angeles is 3.5%more expensive
Rent
🏠+21.8%
Housing is 21.8% higher
Dining
🍽️-12.2%
Restaurants 12.2% cheaper
Groceries
🛒+8.2%
Food shopping 8.2% more
Comparing the cost of living between Los Angeles, United States and Singapore, Singapore reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2026. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Los Angeles is more expensive than Singapore by approximately 3.5%. 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 Los Angeles are lower than in Singapore by 18%. A one-bedroom apartment in Los Angeles's city center costs around $2,886, while the same in Singapore is approximately SGD 3,618.
Dining out in Los Angeles is notably more expensive compared to Singapore. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $22 in Los Angeles versus SGD 13 in Singapore.
Public transportation in Los Angeles is more affordable, with monthly passes at $100 compared to SGD 128 in Singapore.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Los Angeles can expect to spend approximately $736 per month (excluding rent), while in Singapore, the same lifestyle would cost around SGD 766. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about $2,577 monthly in Los Angeles versus SGD 2,681 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
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles 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
Los Angeles
Singapore
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Los Angeles more expensive than Singapore?
The cost of living in Los Angeles and Singapore is relatively similar, with only minor differences in specific categories. Your actual expenses will depend on your lifestyle choices.
How much salary do I need in Los Angeles compared to Singapore?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.0x of your Singapore salary when living in Los Angeles. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Singapore, you'd need about $51,765 in Los Angeles for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Los Angeles and Singapore?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 18%, 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 Los Angeles if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Singapore for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Los Angeles vs Singapore?
In Los Angeles, a single person needs approximately $2,992 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $6,677. In Singapore, these figures are SGD 3,534 for singles and SGD 7,568 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Los Angeles and Singapore in 2026 shows moderate 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 Los Angeles
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