Where are the best areas to live in Singapore?

Singapore is a small city state but the choices of areas for you to live in can be overwhelming. It all depends on your needs like distance to your workplace, cost of living, and your preferred size of living space. If you are a foreigner in Singapore, your choices are more limited but you can still buy your own residential property in Singapore.

Here are some of the most popular neighborhoods for living in Singapore:

Holland Village

Holland Village is a popular choice for expats and young families alike. It has a wide range of housing options which includes HBDs, condominiums, bungalows, and landed houses. It is within close proximity of reputable schools and is near the downtown and Orchard areas. It also has easy access to the Singapore Botanic Gardens and MacRitchie Reservoir. Holland Village is centrally located and has an eclectic mix of restaurants, cafes, and local shops. It is also accessible through the MRT Circle Line.

Tanjong Pagar

Tanjong Pagar is known for its beautiful shophouse storefronts which provide the area with a picturesque charm. It is located just outside the Central Business District and has both HBD and high-end condo living options. Restaurants, cafes, and bars are all within walking distance so you can save money on taxi or MRT fare if you are fond of dining out or unwinding with friends after work. Tanjong Pagar is a good area to live in for expats and young professionals.

Tiong Bahru

Tiong Bahru is one of Singapore’s oldest residential neighborhoods. It is located 15 minutes away from the city center and is a perfect choice for those who want a more quiet atmosphere. There are a lot of Art Deco public housing buildings from the 1930s that provide the area with its retro charm. Most apartments are walk-ups that are either well-kept or recently renovated. Artsy shops and hip cafes have sprouted in Tiong Bahru for the last 10 years, earning it the moniker, “Singapore’s Brooklyn.” 

East Coast

The East Coast is a popular choice for families due to its more affordable and bigger living spaces. It is also closer to nature and offers a quieter escape from the hustle and bustle of the city center. Most of the housing buildings are within walking distance from the East Coast Park, a popular palm-fringed beachfront getaway that is great for sports, dining, and recreational activities. Riding a bike to and from work or school is possible in the East Coast.