Cost Comparison 2025

SingaporevsAustin

Singapore
United States

Overall

💰

-20.0%

Singapore is 20.0%cheaper

Rent

🏠

-27.8%

Housing is 27.8% lower

Dining

🍽️

-6.3%

Restaurants 6.3% cheaper

Groceries

🛒

-5.9%

Food shopping 5.9% less

Comparing the cost of living between Singapore, Singapore and Austin, United States reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Singapore is more affordable than Austin by approximately 20.0%. 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 Singapore are higher than in Austin by 38%. A one-bedroom apartment in Singapore's city center costs around SGD 3,500, while the same in Austin is approximately $2,000.

Dining out in Singapore costs about the same compared to Austin. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs SGD 15 in Singapore versus $16 in Austin.

Public transportation in Singapore is more expensive, with monthly passes at SGD 120 compared to $41 in Austin.

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 Austin, the same lifestyle would cost around $531. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about SGD 2,720 monthly in Singapore versus $1,859 in Austin. 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

Item
Singapore, Singapore
Austin, United States

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
SGD 3,500
$2,000
1BR Outside Center
SGD 2,500
$1,600
3BR City Center
SGD 7,000
$3,800

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
SGD 15
$16
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
SGD 100
$85
Cappuccino
SGD 6
$5
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
SGD 10
$6

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
SGD 3
$1
Bread (500g)
SGD 3
$3
Eggs (12)
SGD 4
$4
Cheese (1kg)
SGD 20
$11

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
SGD 2
$1
Monthly Pass
SGD 120
$41
Taxi Start
SGD 4
$3
Gasoline (1L)
SGD 3
$1

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
SGD 200
$140
Internet (60 Mbps)
SGD 50
$60
Mobile Minute
SGD 0
$0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Austin 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 Austin 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

Cost of Living Index95
Rent Index90
Purchasing Power Index100

Austin

Cost of Living Index76
Rent Index65
Purchasing Power Index100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Singapore more expensive than Austin?

No, Singapore is approximately 20.0% cheaper than Austin. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.

How much salary do I need in Singapore compared to Austin?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 83% of your Austin salary when living in Singapore. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Austin, you'd need about $41,667 in Singapore for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Singapore and Austin?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 38%, 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?

Austin 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 cultural experiences, or Austin for affordability.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Singapore vs Austin?

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 Austin, these figures are $2,131 for singles and $4,659 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Singapore and Austin 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 Austin to maintain your lifestyle from Singapore

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-15 • Data sourced from multiple providers