SeattlevsSingapore
Overall
💰+2.3%
Seattle is 2.3%more expensive
Rent
🏠+31.9%
Housing is 31.9% higher
Dining
🍽️-12.2%
Restaurants 12.2% cheaper
Groceries
🛒+12.2%
Food shopping 12.2% more
Comparing the cost of living between Seattle, United States and Singapore, Singapore reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2026. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Seattle is more expensive than Singapore by approximately 2.3%. 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 Seattle are lower than in Singapore by 24%. A one-bedroom apartment in Seattle's city center costs around $2,518, while the same in Singapore is approximately SGD 3,618.
Dining out in Seattle is notably more expensive compared to Singapore. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $22 in Seattle versus SGD 13 in Singapore.
Public transportation in Seattle is more affordable, with monthly passes at $99 compared to SGD 128 in Singapore.
Grocery shopping in Seattle is more affordable by approximately 11%. 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 Seattle can expect to spend approximately $735 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 $2,572 monthly in Seattle 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 Seattle 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 Seattle 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
Seattle
Singapore
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seattle more expensive than Singapore?
The cost of living in Seattle 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 Seattle compared to Singapore?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.0x of your Singapore salary when living in Seattle. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Singapore, you'd need about $51,163 in Seattle for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Seattle and Singapore?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 24%, 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?
Seattle 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 Seattle if you prioritize earning potential, or Singapore for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Seattle vs Singapore?
In Seattle, a single person needs approximately $2,723 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $5,922. 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 Seattle 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 Seattle
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