Sure we might be one of the world\u2019s richest countries. And yes, Singapore can be pretty pricey. But in a country of $26,000 cocktails, $3 meals, and a ridiculous amount of government subsidies (not that we\u2019re complaining), it\u2019s hard to judge how much it really takes to live here. So we asked former Melburnian, Lucy Cleeve, who moved to Singapore a year ago, about the real cost of living in Singapore. Here\u2019s her take.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Salaries\/Taxes OK. You probably know by now that in Singapore some people own multiple Ferraris, and probably have diamonds on their diamonds. Some people certainly do not. Some things cost a bomb, some are dirt cheap. Singapore is a city of contrasts.<\/p>\n Transport Where else but in a Singapore taxi can you enjoy crazy cheap prices (knock about 75% off Australia\u2019s cab fares), refreshing subzero conditions, and unforgettable 80s soft rock. Well, hello Phil Collins! It\u2019s been a while.<\/p>\n The MRT is fantastic. It\u2019s clean, safe, on time, air-conditioned, amazing value and your phone works underground! (The cheapest ticket in Melbourne is about S$4.20; cheapest in Singapore S$0.80). Driverless trains are also a little bit magic, or so the kids think. Sit up the front and \u2018drive\u2019 the train.<\/p>\n Multi award-winning Changi airport needs no introduction. Well deserved, Changi. I love your efficiency; I love your children\u2019s playground; I love your free trollies and your budget carriers. I\u2019m not crazy about your coffee, but hey, I am from Melbourne.<\/p>\n Housing\/Rents Groceries If you embrace the deliciousness of local food you can<\/i> eat cheaply. Buying a succulent pork fillet and some baby gai lan \u2013 cheap. A steak sandwich made with bread that isn\u2019t masquerading as cake \u2013 not. Get your wok on.<\/p>\n Entertainment Eating out Best advice for good, cheap food? Ask a cabbie. They always know the best places. Just don\u2019t ask them for music advice, or do, if you love Air Supply.<\/p>\n Image: Marina Bay Sands<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Sure we might be one of the world\u2019s richest countries. And yes, Singapore can be pretty pricey. But in a country of $26,000 cocktails, $3 meals, and a ridiculous amount of government subsidies (not that we\u2019re complaining), it\u2019s hard to judge how much it really takes to live here. So we asked former Melburnian, Lucy […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":20,"featured_media":10566,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n
\n<\/strong>One of the first things you learn about Singapore is its low tax rates. Australia\u2019s individual taxes can reach 45% but in Singapore 20% is the maximum. Welcome to Singapore, the land of the free (increase in take home pay). But while your salary may go up, so do a few costs.<\/p>\n
\n<\/strong>Having a car here is wildly expensive. Luckily, there are other great ways to get around.<\/p>\n
\n<\/strong>Listen up, flats are the new heels. Yes, even if you have children. There are a lot of people living in this little country, so the only way is up. Rents in Singapore do not come cheap. Negotiating down a little from the asking price seems to work though, so try your luck. Maximise your spend and find a condo with a pool, tennis court, gym. Hey, you\u2019ll save money on that gym membership you never used at home! Embrace the condo and enjoy living in a holiday resort.<\/p>\n
\n<\/strong>Like any city, your bill depends on where you shop. I\u2019m sure a Londoner could<\/i> do their big shop at Harrods Food Hall, but might be broke in a week. I like to get down with the locals at the wet markets (and wholesalers) where bargains await. The produce is always fresh, interesting, and at least half the price of Cold Storage and its Australian cousins. The fantastic fishmonger at my local market now knows I like my fish \u2013 he calls me \u2018no bones lady\u2019, then insists I take the bones home\u2026 thanks, Uncle.<\/p>\n
\n<\/strong>Singapore\u2019s prices are on par with Australia\u2019s for big concerts and festivals. There are fantastic free exhibitions and performances to catch though. Movie tickets here are half the price of Australia\u2019s. Take a holiday in your own city (hi, Little India) and think of how much you\u2019ve saved on those new winter boots!<\/p>\n
\n<\/strong>You could spend thousands in one night, feasting on imported oysters, vintage French champagne, and taking in million dollar views. Good news is, you can also find amazing meals for under ten bucks, with the views. Told you, city of contrasts<\/i>. Plus if you\u2019re a lady, like most cool people are, hear this – Singapore loooves a ladies\u2019 night. So do we, especially when the drinks come free.<\/p>\n