Cost Comparison 2025

SingaporevsBangkok

Singapore
Thailand

Overall

💰

-47.4%

Singapore is 47.4%cheaper

Rent

🏠

-61.1%

Housing is 61.1% lower

Dining

🍽️

-56.3%

Restaurants 56.3% cheaper

Groceries

🛒

-35.3%

Food shopping 35.3% less

Comparing the cost of living between Singapore, Singapore and Bangkok, Thailand reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Singapore is more affordable than Bangkok by approximately 47.4%. 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 Singapore are higher than in Bangkok by 157%. A one-bedroom apartment in Singapore's city center costs around SGD 3,500, while the same in Bangkok is approximately THB 20,000.

Dining out in Singapore is notably more expensive compared to Bangkok. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs SGD 15 in Singapore versus THB 80 in Bangkok.

Public transportation in Singapore is more affordable, with monthly passes at SGD 120 compared to THB 1,200 in Bangkok.

Purchasing power in Singapore is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Bangkok.

Grocery shopping in Singapore is more expensive by approximately 55%. 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 Bangkok, the same lifestyle would cost around THB 8,710. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about SGD 2,720 monthly in Singapore versus THB 30,485 in Bangkok. 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
Bangkok, Thailand

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
SGD 3,500
THB 20,000
1BR Outside Center
SGD 2,500
THB 10,000
3BR City Center
SGD 7,000
THB 50,000

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
SGD 15
THB 80
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
SGD 100
THB 800
Cappuccino
SGD 6
THB 80
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
SGD 10
THB 80

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
SGD 3
THB 50
Bread (500g)
SGD 3
THB 40
Eggs (12)
SGD 4
THB 50
Cheese (1kg)
SGD 20
THB 350

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
SGD 2
THB 30
Monthly Pass
SGD 120
THB 1,200
Taxi Start
SGD 4
THB 35
Gasoline (1L)
SGD 3
THB 40

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
SGD 200
THB 2,500
Internet (60 Mbps)
SGD 50
THB 600
Mobile Minute
SGD 0
THB 2

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Bangkok 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 Bangkok 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

Bangkok

Cost of Living Index50
Rent Index35
Purchasing Power Index40

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Singapore more expensive than Bangkok?

No, Singapore is approximately 47.4% cheaper than Bangkok. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.

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

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 68% of your Bangkok salary when living in Singapore. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Bangkok, you'd need about $33,929 in Singapore for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Singapore and Bangkok?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 157%, 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?

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 Bangkok for affordability.

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

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 Bangkok, these figures are THB 18,710 for singles and THB 55,485 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Singapore and Bangkok 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.

Need to calculate salary equivalence?

Find out how much you need to earn in Bangkok to maintain your lifestyle from Singapore

Calculate Salary Equivalence

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