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The Best Places to Live in Singapore as an Expat

The Best Places to L...

The Best Places to Live in Singapore as an Expat

The Best Places to Live in Singapore as an Expat

Blog Asia11 Jun 2024

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Did you know, as of 2020, about 30% of people in Singapore were expatriates? This lively city has many areas for you to choose from. Each area offers something different, giving you plenty of choice.

If you're thinking of moving to Singapore as an expat, finding the best area is key. But no matter what, there's a spot for everyone in this city of diverse cultures.

Key Takeaways

  • Singapore's expat population makes up nearly 30% of the city-state's inhabitants.
  • Popular neighbourhoods include Orchard, Holland Village, Tanglin, and East Coast.
  • New expat hotspots are emerging in Serangoon Gardens and Woodlands thanks to improved infrastructure.
  • Sentosa offers luxurious oceanfront living for those seeking the pinnacle of luxury.
  • Relocation services like Deliver1 simplify the process of moving to Singapore.

Orchard Road

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Orchard Road is known for its bustling and lively scene, making it a top choice for those living abroad. It's perfect for those who love convenience and fun.

Prime Location and Amenities

Living near Orchard lets you enjoy lots of amenities and a great shopping experience. It's why expats love it. There are many shops, restaurants from around the world, clubs, and cinemas.

Even with all the activity, you can find quiet spots with greenery. This makes it a peaceful place to live in the middle of the city.

It's also close to social clubs like the American Club and the Tanglin Club, which is great for expats. Families will like how close it is to top international schools and medical care, too.

Cost of Living

Living in Orchard Road can be expensive. It costs more than other places in Singapore. But this is because it's a prime area, very central and full of life.

Renting a place here can be pricey. But the location, services, and social life around you make it worth it. Prices of homes in Orchard Road also show its top spot. You get to enjoy a life full of convenience and luxury.

Even with the high costs, expats see the value of living in such a well-known area. They get to enjoy fancy shopping, entertainments, and social clubs like the Tanglin Club. This makes living in Orchard Road quite special.

Holland Village

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Holland Village is famous for its bohemian vibe. It's a top pick for those living outside their home country in Singapore. This area reflects different cultures in its lifestyle, which is both exciting and calm. You can enjoy a mix of buzzing restaurants, unique coffee shops, and fun bars that welcome people from around the world.

Cultural Diversity and Lifestyle

This place is all about its diverse culture. You can try everything from local dishes to global flavours in the numerous restaurants and cafes. It's a big hit with expats mainly because of the great food choices. The neighbourhood is also filled with street performers, weekend markets, and art spots. All this adds to its lively charm, loved by both visitors and locals.

Educational Institutions

Families love it here because of the top schools nearby. The Canadian International School and other leading schools attract many expat families. These schools offer excellent education based on international standards. This makes moving in from another country much smoother for families.

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Transport Connections

Getting around from Holland Village is really easy. It has good links to the MRT, via the Circle and Downtown lines. This means going to the city or any other part of Singapore is a breeze. The reliable public transport makes life in this area even better. That's why many expats find Holland Village a smart choice to live in.

Need a reliable international removals team to make your Singapore relocation go smoothly? We’re here to help. Get a quick, free quote using the form here or get in touch on 0333 090 7053 or at hello@deliver1.co.uk and speak to one of the team who’ll be happy to help!

Tanglin

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Tanglin is popular among expats for its mix of old and green. It's known for colonial houses that stand tall. These homes give the area a special vibe. You'll also see modern condos, blending the past and present.

Colonial Charm and Greenery

The black-and-white colonial houses are a unique feature of Tanglin, reflecting Singapore's past. They're set in lush gardens. This makes Tanglin a peaceful place to live.

It's close to the Botanic Gardens, loved for its beauty. This is a UNESCO site, perfect for outdoor fun and calm.

Food and Drink Options

Dempsey Hill is the place for food in Tanglin. It has everything from fancy restaurants to cosy cafes. You'll always find something tasty to eat here.

Tanglin Mall also has great food and shops. It makes everyday living nice for everyone.

Sentosa

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Sentosa is known for its luxury living in Singapore. It has some of the most exclusive homes. A global community lives here, enjoying top amenities and the calm sea.

Luxury Living

The island has many luxury homes, perfect for the rich. These houses have great ocean views and private yatch berths. They are in a very secure area, great for people who want luxury and privacy.

Recreational Activities

Sentosa offers a lot of fun things to do. There are amazing golf courses, beautiful beaches, and special marinas. Tourists love places like Universal Studios, the S.E.A. Aquarium, and the Nature Discovery. So, you'll always have something exciting to do.

Accessibility

Getting to Sentosa can be tricky because it's an island. But, it's near VivoCity and has good bus and tram services. This makes it easy to get around. So, you can enjoy the quiet life of the island and still be close to the city.

Feature

Details

Exclusive ResidencesLuxury homes in Sentosa Cove with private berths, ocean views
Recreational FacilitiesGolf courses, marinas, beaches, attractions like Universal Studios Singapore
AccessibilityProximity to VivoCity, bus services, internal tramline, well-planned routes to mainland

Woodlands

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Thinking of moving to Singapore? Woodlands is a great choice for those who like peace with easy connections. The Woodlands expatriate community is full of people from America. This is because of the nearby Singapore American School. Families who value education find this area really attractive.

Woodlands is loved for its many green neighbourhoods in Singapore. It has a lot of open areas and parks for fun. Admiralty Park is a must-see, with its rolling hills and many plants and animals. It makes Woodlands even more lovely to live in.

Families also like Woodlands because it's affordable and has a lot of space. You can find good family homes at fair prices. This makes it a top pick for those who want a good life without high costs. The community often comes together for things like Halloween. This builds a strong sense of friendship among the neighbours.

Woodlands' transport is getting better all the time. This means quicker trips to nearby central Singapore. Living in a peaceful place like Woodlands and being able to travel easily is a big plus for many.

Highlights

Details

Expatriate CommunitySignificant American presence due to the Singapore American School
Green NeighbourhoodsScenic Admiralty Park and other open spaces
Family HomesAffordable and spacious housing options
Community ActivitiesEngaging events, especially during festive periods
Transport ConnectivityImproved connections reducing travel time to the city

East Coast

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East Coast is loved for mixing home comfort with beach fun. It's a top pick for families from abroad. You can find different homes and apartments to suit your budget. This area is usually cheaper than living in the city. Let's see what's so good about it.

Family-Friendly Environment

Living near East Coast Park means enjoying family time. The park is huge and offers many fun things to do. You can cycle, have picnics, or enjoy water sports, making weekends a blast.

Recreational and Dining Options

There's no shortage of food at East Coast. You can try local dishes at hawker stalls or go for a fancy meal in Katong. The park is also close by, so there's always something fun to do.

Schools and Education

East Coast is also great for education. It has top international schools like the Canadian International School. They offer great education, making it attractive for families from abroad.

Aspect

Features

Residential OptionsCondos, houses, and more affordable selections compared to the city centre
Recreational FacilitiesEast Coast Park, water sports, cycling paths, picnic spots
Dining OptionsLocal hawker stalls, fine dining at Katong, diverse culinary experiences
EducationLeading international schools, including the Canadian International School

Tiong Bahru

Tiong Bahru.webp

Discover the mix of old and new in Tiong Bahru, a choice spot for expats in Singapore. The area is peaceful yet lively, making it a top pick. This heritage zone is where modern life meets past traditions.

Heritage and Modernity

In Tiong Bahru, you'll find stunning Art Deco buildings. These structures tell a story of the past with their unique style. Mixing history with today, you get both traditional shophouses and modern comforts.

It's a perfect place for expats, offering a quiet lifestyle away from the city's noise. But it's just a quick trip to the city centre. This makes life both peaceful and convenient.

Community Atmosphere

Tiong Bahru is full of life, attracting both locals and newcomers. It buzzes with cool stores, coffee shops, and markets. Moving here means joining a friendly community in Singapore.

For families, it's especially great. There are plenty of parks and playgrounds for the kids. They offer a chance to meet and have fun with others living nearby.

Attractions

Description

Art Deco BuildingsHistorical architecture reflecting the 1930s design.
Local MarketsVibrant markets offering fresh produce and local delicacies.
Cafes & BoutiquesTrendy spots that showcase the area’s eclectic charm.
Parks & PlaygroundsAmple space for children's activities and family outings.

Jurong

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Jurong has quickly become a top pick for many moving to Singapore. Especially for those with families. The recent improvements around Jurong Lake have made it very attractive. It's now a sought-after spot for both families and singles.

In Jurong, residents enjoy a wide range of exciting places. With lots of shopping malls, there's plenty of choices for eating out, shopping, and fun. This makes life easier for everyone, from meeting daily needs to having a great time.

Jurong is prized for its access to many top international schools. Families moving here find great educational opportunities. It's a key reason why they choose to live in this area.

Getting around from Jurong is easy thanks to its great transport links. With many MRT stations and expressways, travelling to work or for fun is smooth.

Feature

Details

Shopping MallsWestgate, JEM, IMM, JCube
International Schools Near JurongCanadian International School (Lakeside Campus), Yuvabharathi International School
Transport LinksJurong East MRT, Jurong West MRT, Ayer Rajah Expressway (AYE), Pan Island Expressway (PIE)

Jurong is highly rated for its great mix of suburban peace and modern benefits. Plus, with its growing facilities and close international schools, it's a very practical choice for anyone moving to Singapore.

Ready to Move to Singapore?

Singapore's neighbourhoods offer something special for expats. You might like the luxury feel at Sentosa or the cultural buzz in Holland Village. There is also Tanglin's historic charm or the East Coast's welcoming vibe.

Various factors can make a neighbourhood the right choice. Think about things such as school location, lifestyle features, and the community feel.

It's key to find what fits your needs and your family's. Singapore has areas full of life and others that are peaceful. The city's layout ensures a place for everyone.

Getting around in Singapore is easy thanks to its great transport. This makes living in different areas simple and convenient.

Exploring Singapore's expat districts is easier when you know what to look for. Each area has its own unique benefits.

Whether you're after great housing or just starting to look around, Singapore's neighbourhoods offer a great living experience. Dive into the local culture and take in all the city has to offer.

Need a reliable international removals team to make your Singapore relocation go smoothly? We’re here to help. Get a quick, free quote using the form here or get in touch on 0333 090 7053 or at hello@deliver1.co.uk and speak to one of the team who’ll be happy to help!

 

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