10 Reasons Why You Should Live In Singapore

So you wanna live in Singapore? Find out if it’s really the place for you!

Despite its size, this little country has so much to offer. Expats from all over the world flock to live in Singapore for an array of reasons. The weather, the food, the low-income tax… there are many perks to living and working in the Garden City. This blog is for anyone considering a move to Singapore- so let’s find out if it’s the perfect place for you!

It’s Alway Summer In Singapore

As a result of Singapore’s proximity to the equator, the weather is warm and humid all year round. And despite the rainy afternoons, temperatures rarely fall below 27 Degrees. So in conclusion, every day is a beach day! So if you’re someone who thrives in the sunshine- then Singapore is definitely the place for you.

Low-Income Tax

So, as a tax resident in Singapore, your income tax will be between 2%-22%. This is considerably lower than most countries in the world and is a big incentive for most ex-pats. So, if you’d like to pocket a little extra every month, then head to Singapore! Just a side note: This does not apply to “sin tax” you can expect to pay an arm and a leg for alcohol and cigarettes. You can read more about income tax here and if this fact excites you- well then you should live in Singapore for sure!

Safety

The low crime rate makes Singapore one of the safest countries in the world and as a South African, this is something you just cannot take for granted. Residents are free to walk without fear at any hour and this is why many choose to live in Singapore. You can also leave your valuables unattended on the beach or in a restaurant if you need to hop to the loo. If you lose something in a cab or on a train, you’ll most likely get it back as you left it. Having said that, the odd crime does still occur here and there and so you should still be sensible within your surroundings, of course!

Food Glorious Food!

If you’re a foodie, then you have to live in Singapore! In Singapore you are spoiled for choice, from the local Hawker food to international cuisine- you’ll never run out of things to try. The famous Hawker Centres are a unique aspect of Singaporean culture and they can be found everywhere. These stalls are usually in an open- air settings and the residents go there for their meals, for a Kopi (coffee) or a beer.

The food is to-die-for delicious and incredibly affordable. You’ll find popular dishes like Chicken Rice, Laksa and Prawn Noodles and if you’re very adventurous you could try the fish-eye soup! These Hawker Centres might seem daunting and unfamiliar at first, but rest assured the food is excellent and the hygiene is closely regulated by the government. If you fancy something different, you’ll find great restaurants on the island offering a variety of different cuisines.

Travel

Singapore is a travel hub surrounded by stunning Asian countries that are but a stone’s throw away. Of course, prior to the pandemic travelling to these countries used to be cheap and super easy. Although travel has changed quite a bit in the last two years, things have started opening up again and it’s only a matter of time before things go back to the way they were (well let’s hope!). Countries like Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia are a short flight away and perfect for a weekend getaway. So if you love to travel often and on a budget, then you should live in Singapore!

Singapore is a Garden City

Singapore’s landscape is lush and tropical. There are trees, plants and flowers in every corner of this little country. Despite being both a city and a country, you don’t feel caged in by a concrete jungle as you might do in a place like Dubai. There are many parks, gardens and scenic hikes you can visit to get your greenery fix on a daily basis. It’s a beautiful city and if you are someone who can’t live without greenery, then you should live in Singapore.

A Multicultural Country

Singapore is ethically diverse with a mix of cultures living together. According to a 2014 study, Singapore is also known to be the most religiously diverse country in the world. It’s quite a unique experience living in a place where so many cultures live, play and worship together in harmony. You’ll see cathedrals, churches and mosques all within the same vicinity and you’ll meet people from all over the world. You’ll experience celebrations like Deepawali, Chinese New Year and Christmas all within a few months. It’s fun, exciting and different! So if you are someone that likes to immerse yourself in different cultures – then you should definitely live in Singapore.

Convenient And Efficient

Living in Singapore is very easy. The public transport runs like clockwork, it’s spotless and it can get you anywhere on the island. If you’re running late or if you fancy a change, you can grab a cab at a very low cost (in comparison to most countries). There is an app for absolutely everything!

Selling something online is quick and easy and if you need to send a van to pick up an item, you can book one on the spot for as little as $8. Compared to places like South Africa and London, settling in as an expat is relatively easy and quick. Picking up your ID or registering at a GP will take just a few minutes. Fancy a day on the beach followed by a lovely hike in the afternoon? Done! If living a convenient lifestyle sounds good to you, then live in Singapore.

Everyone Speaks English, lah!

You do not have to feel lost in translation in Singapore as everyone speaks English. You won’t have to learn a new language to live in Singapore. Many Singaporeans speak a hybrid language called Singlish and you’ll get used to it really quickly. Soon you’ll find yourself using words like Can? and Cannot? or lah! as if it’s second nature. You can read more about the essential Singlish words you need to know here.

Professional Development

Working in one of the strongest economies in the world is great for your professional development. Many international companies establish their headquarters in Singapore and this provides exciting job opportunities. Singapore strives to be at the forefront of technology and so the facilities and equipment in most workplaces are state of the art. If you’re looking for valuable international work experience, then you should live in Singapore.

My Musings

Look, friends, every country has its pros and cons. There are many reasons why Singapore might just be the perfect place for you. Lucrative salaries combined with low-income tax is a great incentive to move to the tine city and the low crime creates a comfortable lifestyle you won’t find in many places. Before you move, it’s important to do your research in order to make sure that you can live, work and sustain yourself in Singapore. You can read more about life in Singapore here and here.