The cost of living in Singapore for international students in 2026 ranges from SGD 1,200 to SGD 2,500 per month, depending on lifestyle and housing type. Accommodation (SGD 500–1,500), food (SGD 300–600), transport (SGD 100–200) and utilities (SGD 100–150) form the major expenses. Students can reduce costs through shared housing, cooking at home and part-time jobs. Scholarships, student passes and university discounts also help international students live comfortably and affordably in Singapore.
Singapore has become one of Asia’s most popular study abroad destinations for international students. It’s safe, multicultural and globally connected, offering some of the world’s best universities like National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and Singapore Management University (SMU).
However, before you pack your bags, it’s crucial to understand what it really costs to live here. This guide breaks down the cost of living in Singapore for students in 2026, covering housing, food, transport and more along with smart budgeting tips to help you save.
Why Choose Singapore for Higher Education?
Singapore offers the perfect mix of global exposure, safety, and academic quality. Ranked among the top 10 study destinations worldwide, it attracts students from India, Europe, and Southeast Asia who want an affordable yet world-class degree.
The education system is research-driven and industry-focused, preparing students for real-world challenges. The country’s small size also means universities are well-connected to industries, giving students internship and work experience while studying.
Top Universities in Singapore 2026:
- National University of Singapore (NUS)
- Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
- Singapore Management University (SMU)
- James Cook University (Singapore campus)
- Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS)
Average Monthly Cost of Living in Singapore (2026)
Living costs in Singapore depend on lifestyle, accommodation type and spending habits. Students who live near universities and cook at home usually spend less, while those in private apartments or city areas spend more.
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost (SGD) | Details |
| Accommodation | 500 – 1,500 | Varies by housing type |
| Food & Groceries | 300 – 600 | Eating out or cooking |
| Transport | 100 – 200 | MRT, bus, or Grab rides |
| Utilities & Internet | 100 – 150 | Electricity, Wi-Fi, mobile |
| Study Materials | 50 – 100 | Books, printing, stationery |
| Personal & Miscellaneous | 150 – 300 | Shopping, leisure |
| Total Estimate | 1,200 – 2,500/month | Based on lifestyle |
Most international students spend around SGD 1,500–1,800 monthly, which includes rent, meals, and transport.
Accommodation Costs for Students in Singapore
Finding affordable housing in Singapore can be competitive especially near major universities. On-campus dorms are limited but cheaper, while private apartments offer more independence but at higher prices.
| Type | Monthly Rent (SGD) | Details |
| On-Campus Housing | 400 – 700 | University-managed dorms |
| Shared Apartments (HDB Flats) | 800 – 1,200 | Popular among international students |
| Private Studios / Condos | 1,200 – 2,500 | Premium living near city areas |
| Homestays | 900 – 1,300 | Meals and utilities included |
Apply early for on-campus hostels through your university portal, rooms often fill up months before the semester starts. If you miss a slot, opt for shared flats to save on rent.
Food & Grocery Costs in Singapore
Food in Singapore is delicious, diverse and relatively affordable if you eat like a local. From hawker centers to supermarket groceries, you can easily control your monthly expenses based on your habits.
| Meal Type | Average Cost (SGD) |
| Hawker Centre Meal | 5 – 8 |
| Fast Food | 8 – 12 |
| Restaurant Dining | 15 – 25 |
| Monthly Groceries | 200 – 350 |
Smart Tip: Cooking at home 3–4 times a week can reduce food expenses by 40%. Visit supermarkets like NTUC FairPrice or Sheng Siong for discounts, and try hawker meals for authentic local dishes without breaking your budget.
Transportation Costs for Students
Singapore’s public transport system is one of the best in Asia — clean, reliable and student-friendly. The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and buses connect the entire island efficiently, so there’s no need for a private vehicle.
| Mode | Average Cost (SGD/month) | Details |
| MRT/Bus (Student Pass) | 85 – 120 | Unlimited monthly travel |
| Pay-as-you-go (EZ-Link Card) | 1.50 – 2.50 per trip | Distance-based fare |
| Grab/Taxi | 10 – 25 per ride | Occasional use |
Apply for an EZ-Link Student Card, it offers discounted fares for full-time students and can be topped up online.
Utilities & Internet Expenses
Utilities depend on how many people share your accommodation and how often you use air conditioning (which can raise your bill quickly).
| Utility Type | Average Monthly Cost (SGD) |
| Electricity & Water | 60 – 100 |
| Internet (Broadband) | 30 – 50 |
| Mobile Plan | 20 – 40 |
Energy Tip: Switch off lights and appliances when not in use. Sharing Wi-Fi or data plans with roommates can save up to 25% monthly.
Study Materials and University Expenses
Education-related costs in Singapore are manageable, especially since most resources are available digitally. However, some specialized courses may require paid lab materials or software.
| Expense | Average Cost (SGD) |
| Books & Materials | 50 – 100/month |
| Laptop & Software | 1,200 – 2,000 (one-time) |
| Printing/Stationery | 10 – 20/month |
Check if your university library has used book exchanges or e-resources — this can reduce textbook expenses by 60%.
Personal & Lifestyle Costs
Personal expenses vary widely among students, depending on how social or minimalist your lifestyle is.
| Category | Average Monthly Cost (SGD) | Examples |
| Gym/Fitness | 50 – 120 | Student memberships available |
| Entertainment | 50 – 150 | Movies, events, hangouts |
| Clothing & Shopping | 80 – 200 | Seasonal sales and discounts |
Student Tip: Always carry your student ID — it offers discounts on cinema tickets, cafes, museums, and fitness centers.
Part-Time Work Options for Students
International students in Singapore can work up to 16 hours/week during term and full-time during vacations, helping cover daily expenses.
Popular Jobs:
- Barista or café assistant
- Research or teaching assistant
- Retail staff or cashier
- Delivery executive
Average Pay: SGD 12–18/hour
Work Tip: Focus on jobs near your university to save travel time and cost. Part-time income can easily cover food and transport expenses.
Scholarships to Manage Cost of Living
Several universities and government-funded programs offer scholarships to help students reduce tuition and living costs.
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Coverage |
| ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship | ASEAN nationals | Full tuition + allowance |
| NUS Global Merit Scholarship | High academic achievers | Tuition + living stipend |
| NTU ASEAN Scholarship | UG students | Tuition + SGD 6,000 yearly |
| SMU International Student Grant | Non-Singaporeans | Partial tuition waiver |
Apply early, most scholarship deadlines close by February or March 2026.
Sample Monthly Budget (2026)
| Category | Estimated Cost (SGD) |
| Accommodation | 900 |
| Food | 450 |
| Transport | 120 |
| Utilities & Internet | 120 |
| Study Materials | 80 |
| Personal Expenses | 200 |
| Total | SGD 1,870/month |
Realistic Range: Most international students comfortably live between SGD 1,500–2,000/month, depending on housing and lifestyle choices.
Smart Budgeting Tips for Students in Singapore
- Cook at home: Save 30–40% of food expenses.
- Share accommodation: Cut rent and utility bills by half.
- Use student discounts: Available on transport, entertainment, and restaurants.
- Buy second-hand: Use Facebook groups for used books and furniture.
- Plan expenses monthly: Track spending using apps like Money Lover or Splitwise.
Conclusion
The cost of living in Singapore for students in 2026 may seem high at first glance, but with the right planning, it’s very manageable.
A student can live comfortably within SGD 1,500–2,000 per month, balancing quality education and an exciting lifestyle.With scholarships, part-time work, and mindful spending, Singapore remains one of the best and safest countries for international students looking to study abroad.
Related Blogs
- Top 10 Universities in Singapore 2025: Courses & Fees
- Top Scholarships for International Students in Singapore 2025
- Top MBA Colleges in Singapore: A Comprehensive Guide
- Public vs. Private Universities in Singapore
- On-Campus vs. Off-Campus Housing in Singapore: Pros and Cons
- Best Part-Time Jobs for International Students in Singapore
- Post-Study Work Visa in Singapore: Everything You Need to Know
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does it cost to live in Singapore for students in 2026?
The average cost of living for international students in Singapore in 2026 ranges between SGD 1,200 and SGD 2,500 per month, depending on lifestyle, accommodation, and food preferences. Students who live on-campus and cook at home can manage on a smaller budget.
2. Is Singapore expensive for international students?
Yes, Singapore is relatively expensive compared to other Asian destinations, but it’s more affordable than the UK, USA, or Australia. Scholarships, part-time jobs, and student discounts make it manageable for international students.
3. How much does student accommodation cost in Singapore?
Accommodation costs range from SGD 400–700/month for university hostels to SGD 1,200–2,500/month for private condos. Shared apartments (HDB flats) are a popular mid-range option at SGD 800–1,200/month.
4. Which are the cheapest areas for students to live in Singapore?
The most budget-friendly student areas are Clementi, Jurong East, Boon Lay, Bukit Timah, and Tiong Bahru. These areas are close to universities like NUS and NTU and have good MRT connectivity.
5. How much does food cost for students in Singapore?
Students spend around SGD 300–600/month on food, depending on whether they cook or eat out. Meals at hawker centers cost SGD 5–8, while restaurant dining can go up to SGD 25 per meal.
6. What is the average monthly transport cost for students in Singapore?
Public transport is very affordable. A monthly MRT or bus pass for students costs around SGD 85–120, depending on travel distance and routes.
7. Can students cook their own food in Singapore?
Yes, most student accommodations and HDB flats have kitchen facilities. Cooking at home can reduce food expenses by up to 40% compared to eating out daily.
8. What are the utility and internet costs for international students?
Students typically spend SGD 100–150/month on utilities like electricity, water, Wi-Fi, and mobile plans. Sharing accommodation helps lower these costs.
9. How much should I budget for study materials and stationery?
On average, students spend SGD 50–100/month on study materials such as books, printing, and stationery. Many universities also offer free digital resources and library access.
10. What is the total annual cost of living for students in Singapore?
The annual cost of living for students ranges from SGD 15,000 to 30,000, depending on accommodation type, lifestyle, and personal spending habits.
11. Can international students work part-time in Singapore?
Yes, students with a valid Student Pass can work part-time up to 16 hours per week during semesters and full-time during vacations. Average pay ranges between SGD 12–18/hour.
12. What are the best scholarships to cover living expenses in Singapore?
Top scholarships include the NUS Global Merit Scholarship, ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship, and NTU ASEAN Scholarship. These cover tuition fees and provide stipends for living costs.
13. How can students reduce their living costs in Singapore?
To save money, students can share accommodation, cook meals, use EZ-Link student transport cards, and buy used books or furniture. Taking advantage of student discounts also helps lower expenses.
14. Is Singapore safe for international students?
Yes, Singapore is among the safest countries in the world, with a very low crime rate and strict laws. Most universities have 24/7 campus security, making it ideal for students living alone.
15. What is the ideal monthly budget for a student in Singapore in 2026?
A comfortable student budget in 2026 would be around SGD 1,500–2,000 per month, covering accommodation, meals, transport, and personal expenses. Careful planning can help you live well within this range.