New York vs Singapore: Cost of Living Comparison 2025
United States
Singapore
Comparing the cost of living between New York, United States and Singapore, Singapore reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that New York is more affordable than Singapore by approximately 5.0%. 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 New York are higher than in Singapore by 11%. A one-bedroom apartment in New York's city center costs around $3,500, while the same in Singapore is approximately SGD 3,500.
Dining out in New York is notably more expensive compared to Singapore. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $20 in New York versus SGD 15 in Singapore.
Public transportation in New York is more expensive, with monthly passes at $127 compared to SGD 120 in Singapore.
Grocery shopping in New York is more expensive by approximately 18%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Overall Cost of Living
-5.0%
cheaper
Rent
-10.0%
cheaper
Restaurant Prices
-20.0%
cheaper
Groceries
-15.0%
cheaper
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in New York can expect to spend approximately $779 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 $2,727 monthly in New York 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
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Singapore to New York, 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 New York to Singapore 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
New York
Singapore
Frequently Asked Questions
Is New York more expensive than Singapore?
The cost of living in New York 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 New York compared to Singapore?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 95% of your Singapore salary when living in New York. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Singapore, you'd need about $47,619 in New York for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between New York and Singapore?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 25%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show smaller 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, New York provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider New York if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Singapore for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for New York vs Singapore?
In New York, a single person needs approximately $3,279 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $7,227. 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 New York and Singapore in 2025 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 New York
Calculate Salary Equivalence