PhiladelphiavsSingapore
Overall
💰+21.8%
Philadelphia is 21.8%more expensive
Rent
🏠+63.6%
Housing is 63.6% higher
Dining
🍽️+6.7%
Restaurants 6.7% pricier
Groceries
🛒0.0%
Food shopping 0.0% same
Comparing the cost of living between Philadelphia, United States and Singapore, Singapore reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Philadelphia is more expensive than Singapore by approximately 21.8%. 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 Philadelphia are lower than in Singapore by 39%. A one-bedroom apartment in Philadelphia's city center costs around $1,800, while the same in Singapore is approximately SGD 3,500.
Dining out in Philadelphia costs about the same compared to Singapore. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $18 in Philadelphia versus SGD 15 in Singapore.
Public transportation in Philadelphia is more affordable, with monthly passes at $96 compared to SGD 120 in Singapore.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Philadelphia can expect to spend approximately $624 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 $2,183 monthly in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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
Philadelphia
Singapore
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Philadelphia more expensive than Singapore?
Yes, Philadelphia is approximately 21.8% more expensive than Singapore overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Philadelphia compared to Singapore?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Singapore salary when living in Philadelphia. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Singapore, you'd need about $60,897 in Philadelphia for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Philadelphia and Singapore?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 39%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. 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, Singapore provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Philadelphia if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Singapore for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Philadelphia vs Singapore?
In Philadelphia, a single person needs approximately $1,924 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $4,383. 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 Philadelphia 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.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Singapore to maintain your lifestyle from Philadelphia
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