Cost Comparison 2025

SingaporevsBerlin

Singapore
Germany

Overall

💰

-26.3%

Singapore is 26.3%cheaper

Rent

🏠

-38.9%

Housing is 38.9% lower

Dining

🍽️

-18.8%

Restaurants 18.8% cheaper

Groceries

🛒

-23.5%

Food shopping 23.5% less

Comparing the cost of living between Singapore, Singapore and Berlin, Germany reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Singapore is more affordable than Berlin by approximately 26.3%. 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 Singapore are higher than in Berlin by 64%. A one-bedroom apartment in Singapore's city center costs around SGD 3,500, while the same in Berlin is approximately €1,400.

Dining out in Singapore is notably more expensive compared to Berlin. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs SGD 15 in Singapore versus €12 in Berlin.

Public transportation in Singapore is more expensive, with monthly passes at SGD 120 compared to €91 in Berlin.

Grocery shopping in Singapore is more expensive by approximately 31%. 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 Berlin, the same lifestyle would cost around €592. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about SGD 2,720 monthly in Singapore versus €2,073 in Berlin. 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
Berlin, Germany

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
SGD 3,500
€1,400
1BR Outside Center
SGD 2,500
€1,000
3BR City Center
SGD 7,000
€2,800

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
SGD 15
€12
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
SGD 100
€60
Cappuccino
SGD 6
€4
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
SGD 10
€4

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
SGD 3
€1
Bread (500g)
SGD 3
€2
Eggs (12)
SGD 4
€3
Cheese (1kg)
SGD 20
€12

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
SGD 2
€3
Monthly Pass
SGD 120
€91
Taxi Start
SGD 4
€5
Gasoline (1L)
SGD 3
€2

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
SGD 200
€250
Internet (60 Mbps)
SGD 50
€35
Mobile Minute
SGD 0
€0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Berlin 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 Berlin 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

Berlin

Cost of Living Index70
Rent Index55
Purchasing Power Index95

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Singapore more expensive than Berlin?

No, Singapore is approximately 26.3% cheaper than Berlin. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.

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

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 79% of your Berlin salary when living in Singapore. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Berlin, you'd need about $39,583 in Singapore for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Singapore and Berlin?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 64%, 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 Berlin for affordability.

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

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 Berlin, these figures are €1,592 for singles and €4,073 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

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

Calculate Salary Equivalence

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