San FranciscovsSingapore
Overall
💰-7.4%
San Francisco is 7.4%cheaper
Rent
🏠-5.0%
Housing is 5.0% lower
Dining
🍽️-26.5%
Restaurants 26.5% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-3.2%
Food shopping 3.2% less
Comparing the cost of living between San Francisco, United States and Singapore, Singapore reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2026. Our comprehensive analysis shows that San Francisco is more affordable than Singapore by approximately 7.4%. 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 San Francisco are higher than in Singapore by 5%. A one-bedroom apartment in San Francisco's city center costs around $3,376, while the same in Singapore is approximately SGD 3,618.
Dining out in San Francisco is notably more expensive compared to Singapore. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $25 in San Francisco versus SGD 13 in Singapore.
Public transportation in San Francisco is more affordable, with monthly passes at $98 compared to SGD 128 in Singapore.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in San Francisco can expect to spend approximately $817 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 $2,861 monthly in San Francisco 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 Singapore to San Francisco, 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 San Francisco 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
San Francisco
Singapore
Frequently Asked Questions
Is San Francisco more expensive than Singapore?
No, San Francisco is approximately 7.4% cheaper than Singapore. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in San Francisco compared to Singapore?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 93% of your Singapore salary when living in San Francisco. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Singapore, you'd need about $46,569 in San Francisco for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between San Francisco and Singapore?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 36%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
San Francisco offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, San Francisco provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider San Francisco if you prioritize earning potential, or Singapore for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for San Francisco vs Singapore?
In San Francisco, a single person needs approximately $3,549 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $7,361. 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 San Francisco 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 San Francisco
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