Singapore Rental Costs 2025: A Detailed Guide for Singles and Expats Living Alone
Insights from a Survey Responses
Finding affordable and suitable accommodation is one of the biggest challenges for expats in Singapore. Whether you’re an Employment Pass (EP) holder or on an S Pass, understanding rental costs is crucial for budgeting and planning your lifestyle. To provide insights, I surveyed 68 singles living alone in Singapore, including 42 EP holders (or DP of an EP) or PR and 26 S Pass holders, to analyze their rental expenses. This article breaks down the average rental costs based on room types and preferences, helping singles and those living alone make informed decisions in 2025.
The Audience of the Survey
Pass Type
The survey received 68 responses from singles living alone in Singapore. Among them:
- 42 are EP (or DP of an EP) holders or Singapore PR holders
- 26 are S Pass holders
Nationality
The survey link was shared in a community WhatsApp group primarily consisting of Sri Lankans living in Singapore. A few respondents from other nationalities, including Indian and Indonesian expats, also participated.
Rental cost for a single person
- All the amounts are in SGD. As of 19th Jan 2025, 1 USD = 1.37 SGD
Accommodation options for people living alone in Singapore
- Some live in a common room without sharing the room with anyone.
- Some live in a master bedroom without sharing it with anyone.
- Some prefer to stay in a whole unit without sharing it with anyone.
- Some share the room with another individual.
Location Matters
Rental costs in Singapore can vary significantly depending on the location. Rooms in central areas or near MRT stations are typically more expensive compared to those in suburban neighbourhoods. Proximity to amenities like malls, schools, and workplaces also impacts the price.
Common Room Rental Costs
Renting a common room is the most popular choice among singles living alone in Singapore. Prices range from S$650 to S$1650, depending on location and amenities.
- Average Cost: S$1094
- Median Range: S$1000 – S$1300
The bathroom is located outside the bedroom and is often shared with others in the unit.
Master Room Rental Costs
Renting a master room provides more privacy and convenience, as it typically includes an attached bathroom. Prices range from S$1000 to S$2200, depending on location and amenities.
- Average Cost: S$1503
- Median Range: S$1500 – S$1800
This option is ideal for those who prioritize comfort and are willing to spend more for a private space.
Whole Unit Rental Costs
Renting an entire unit without sharing offers maximum privacy and independence but comes at a higher cost. Prices range from S$2300 to Over S$3000, depending on location, size, and amenities.
- Average Cost: S$2766
- Median Range: S$2800 – S$3000
This option is ideal for those who value complete privacy and are willing to pay a premium for it.
Shared Room Rental Costs
Sharing a room is the most affordable accommodation option for singles in Singapore. Prices typically range from S$300 to S$750, depending on location and setup.
- Average Cost: Approximately S$625
- Median Range: S$500 – S$750
This option is ideal for those prioritizing cost savings over privacy.
Summary
Common Room
Range: S$650 to S$1650
Average Cost: S$1094
Median Range: S$1000 - S$1300
Master Room
Range: S$1000 to S$2200
Average Cost: S$1503
Median Range: S$1500 - S$1800
Whole Unit
Range: S$2300 to Over S$3000
Average Cost: S$2766
Median Range: S$2800 - S$3000
Shared Room
Range: S$300 to S$750
Average Cost: S$625
Median Range: S$500 - S$750
Key Points to Highlight
- Shared Rooms:
- 16 total: 15 S Pass holders, 1 EP holder.
- Note: Room sharing is highly popular among S Pass holders.
- Common Rooms:
- 27 total: 19 EP holders, 5 S Pass holders, 1 Singapore PR.
- Note: Common rooms are the most preferred option for EP holders.
- Master Rooms:
- 19 total: 16 EP holders, 3 S Pass holders.
- Note: Master rooms are a popular choice among EP holders.
- Whole Units:
- 6 total: All EP holders.
For a detailed breakdown of the overall cost of living for singles in Singapore in 2025, read my previous article:
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