Best Place to Live in Singapore for Expats

Posted 2025-06-23 10:55:33

Singapore is one of the most expat-friendly cities in the world. Clean, efficient, and safe, this vibrant island nation offers a great quality of life, a strong job market, and top-notch amenities. But with so many great neighborhoods, choosing where to live can feel overwhelming.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to live in Singapore for expats, based on lifestyle, location, amenities, and accessibility. Whether you’re moving here for work, family, or simply to experience the culture, there’s a place that’s just right for you.

1. Holland Village – The Expat Favorite

Why Expats Love It:
Holland Village is a well-established expat neighborhood known for its laid-back vibe, eclectic mix of restaurants, cafes, bars, and international stores.

What’s Nearby:

MRT (Holland Village Station)
Cold Storage supermarket
Shopping malls and bakeries
International schools nearby (UWCSEA, Tanglin Trust School)

Lifestyle:
Ideal for singles and couples who want to enjoy a social lifestyle with easy access to the city center.

2. Tiong Bahru – Chic and Heritage-Filled

Why Expats Love It:
Tiong Bahru is one of the oldest housing estates in Singapore, but it has been transformed into a trendy enclave filled with indie cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries.

What’s Nearby:

Great World and Tiong Bahru MRT
Tiong Bahru Market
Minutes from Orchard Road

Lifestyle:
Best for young professionals or creatives looking for a blend of history and modernity.

3. East Coast – Relaxed and Family-Friendly

Why Expats Love It:
If you enjoy a seaside lifestyle, East Coast is perfect. The area is peaceful, spacious, and close to East Coast Park, making it great for outdoor activities.

What’s Nearby:

International schools (e.g., Canadian International School)
Parkway Parade Mall
Bedok and Marine Parade MRT (under development)

Lifestyle:
Perfect for families who prefer a slower pace and love nature. Great for cycling, jogging, and weekend picnics.

4. Orchard Road – Shopping and City Living

Why Expats Love It:
Orchard Road is Singapore’s iconic shopping belt and is home to luxury apartments and condominiums. If you want to live in the heart of the city, this is it.

What’s Nearby:

Orchard MRT
Premium malls and dining options
Prestigious schools and medical centers

Lifestyle:
Suited for professionals or couples who enjoy a high-end, cosmopolitan lifestyle.

5. Sentosa Cove – Luxury by the Sea

Why Expats Love It:
Sentosa Cove is a gated community offering luxury waterfront homes. This is where you’ll find yachts, ocean views, and golf courses.

What’s Nearby:

Private marina and beach clubs
Sentosa attractions like Universal Studios
Short drive to HarbourFront and CBD

Lifestyle:
Ideal for high-net-worth individuals or families who prioritize privacy and luxury.

6. Bukit Timah – Green, Quiet, and Exclusive

Why Expats Love It:
This affluent neighborhood is filled with landed houses, luxury condos, and is surrounded by greenery like the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.

What’s Nearby:

International schools (e.g., German European School)
Downtown Line MRT stations
Parks and nature reserves

Lifestyle:
Perfect for families and expats who love quiet surroundings and easy access to international education.

7. River Valley – Central and Connected

Why Expats Love It:
River Valley offers the perfect balance between the quiet of a residential district and the convenience of being close to Orchard and Clarke Quay.

What’s Nearby:

Great World and Fort Canning MRT
Robertson Quay dining scene
Proximity to CBD and international schools

Lifestyle:
Great for families, young professionals, and anyone looking for a central location with a chill vibe.

8. Novena – Medical and Residential Hub

Why Expats Love It:
Novena is clean, safe, and extremely well-connected. It’s known for its excellent medical facilities and family-friendly housing.

What’s Nearby:

Novena MRT
Tan Tock Seng Hospital
Shopping malls like Velocity and Square 2

Lifestyle:
Ideal for families and professionals in the healthcare industry.

9. Woodlands – Affordable and International

Why Expats Love It:
Woodlands is near the Singapore-Malaysia border and home to a large international community, including the Singapore American School.

What’s Nearby:

Woodlands MRT and Causeway Point
International schools
Parks and nature trails

Lifestyle:
Best for families who want spacious homes at more affordable rates. Great for nature lovers and cross-border commuters.

10. Marine Parade – Up-and-Coming Coastal Gem

Why Expats Love It:
Marine Parade is going through rapid development with the new Thomson-East Coast MRT line. It offers coastal charm without the Sentosa price tag.

What’s Nearby:

East Coast Park
Parkway Parade
Great hawker food and cafes

Lifestyle:
Great for young families and those who want access to the beach, food, and good schools.

Choosing the Right Place: What to Consider

When choosing the best place to live in Singapore as an expat, consider the following:

Proximity to work: Singapore’s MRT system is excellent, but some neighborhoods offer shorter commutes.
Family needs: Check for nearby international schools, parks, and kid-friendly activities.
Budget: Prices can vary drastically. Holland Village and Bukit Timah are more expensive, while Woodlands and Marine Parade offer better value.
Lifestyle preferences: Whether you’re a foodie, beach lover, or city dweller, each neighborhood has something unique to offer.

Final Thoughts

Singapore offers an exceptional lifestyle for expats, and the best place to live will depend on your personal and professional needs. Whether you’re after luxury, family life, or cultural charm, there’s a neighborhood here that feels like home.

No matter where you choose, you’ll enjoy a safe, clean, and vibrant city with one of the best standards of living in the world.