Living in Singapore is known to be costly, with high rental rates and expensive goods. However, determining the salary needed for a comfortable life in the city-state varies among individuals. In a street interview conducted by Asian Boss and uploaded on June 23, passersby on Orchard Road shared their opinions on the cost of living in Singapore.
The interviewees began by disclosing their monthly salaries. A media executive stated earning around $3,000 per month, while a woman in human resources reported a salary above $5,000. A brand manager at a restaurant mentioned earning below $4,000, which he considered just enough for survival.
The cost of living in Singapore was a key topic in the interviews. Some participants mentioned that alcohol prices are double compared to other countries, and taking a cab can cost around $40. "Everything is expensive," one interviewee added with a laugh. Another woman shared that her monthly room rental is $1,800, significantly higher than neighboring countries. She explained that a small flat in Singapore could get you a bigger flat elsewhere.
So, how much is needed for a comfortable life in Singapore? One woman believed $7,500 was sufficient, although she didn't elaborate on the reasons behind her figure. On the other hand, another interviewee argued that a much higher salary was necessary to enjoy financial freedom, particularly for indulging in various expenses. She reasoned that $20,000 to $30,000 per month would be appropriate due to rising costs, especially for purchasing a car or a house.
Other factors such as having a family were also considered, with one woman suggesting a monthly income of $5,000 for individuals with dependents, while $3,000 would be adequate for those living alone like herself. She pointed out that there are people who manage to survive on $1,000.
Despite Singapore being one of the countries with the highest average salaries globally, as per 2021 data from the World Bank, the interviewees expressed that financial struggles are still prevalent. They countered the perception that all Singaporeans are financially well-off, emphasizing the existence of locals who face financial difficulties. Income inequality was also acknowledged, with the significant disparity between the highest and lowest earners making it challenging for lower-income individuals to meet their daily needs.
Singapore recently became the most expensive city for goods and services for wealthy individuals, surpassing Hong Kong, London, and New York, according to Julius Baer's Global Wealth and Lifestyle report released on June 20. The report highlighted that cars and essential health insurance in Singapore are significantly more expensive than the global average. Accommodation demand is high, school places are limited, and the general cost of living is high for everyone in Singapore.
Additionally, core inflation in the country rose by 4.7% year-on-year in May, although it is expected to moderate in the second half of 2023, according to the Monetary Authority of Singapore and the trade ministry, as imported costs decrease and the domestic labor market eases.
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