SingaporevsAmsterdam
Overall
💰-15.8%
Singapore is 15.8%cheaper
Rent
🏠-16.7%
Housing is 16.7% lower
Dining
🍽️0.0%
Restaurants 0.0% same
Groceries
🛒-17.6%
Food shopping 17.6% less
Comparing the cost of living between Singapore, Singapore and Amsterdam, Netherlands reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Singapore is more affordable than Amsterdam by approximately 15.8%. 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 Singapore are higher than in Amsterdam by 20%. A one-bedroom apartment in Singapore's city center costs around SGD 3,500, while the same in Amsterdam is approximately €1,900.
Dining out in Singapore costs about the same compared to Amsterdam. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs SGD 15 in Singapore versus €15 in Amsterdam.
Public transportation in Singapore is more expensive, with monthly passes at SGD 120 compared to €100 in Amsterdam.
Grocery shopping in Singapore is more expensive by approximately 21%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Singapore can expect to spend approximately SGD 777 per month (excluding rent), while in Amsterdam, the same lifestyle would cost around €586. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about SGD 2,720 monthly in Singapore versus €2,050 in Amsterdam. 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 Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam 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
Singapore
Amsterdam
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Singapore more expensive than Amsterdam?
No, Singapore is approximately 15.8% cheaper than Amsterdam. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Singapore compared to Amsterdam?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 86% of your Amsterdam salary when living in Singapore. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Amsterdam, you'd need about $43,182 in Singapore for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Singapore and Amsterdam?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 21%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. 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 Singapore if you prioritize earning potential, or Amsterdam for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Singapore vs Amsterdam?
In Singapore, a single person needs approximately SGD 3,277 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about SGD 7,220. In Amsterdam, these figures are €2,086 for singles and €4,550 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Singapore and Amsterdam in 2025 shows notable 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 Amsterdam to maintain your lifestyle from Singapore
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