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Life in Singapore

Your Complete Living Guide

Coverage
9 Life Topics
Healthcare
#6 Globally

Navigate every major life decision in Singapore with confidence.

From buying your first home to planning for retirement, understand the financial implications of life's biggest moments. We break down complex policies into actionable guidance.

80%+ live in HDB $500K+ avg BTO price World-class healthcare

Life's Financial Journey

Key Milestones Every Singaporean Faces

$500K+

Average BTO Price

$15K+

Delivery + Hospital

$150K+

Car Ownership (10yr)

0-22%

Income Tax Range

Filter by your life stage

Where are you in your journey?

🏠 Housing & Property

Your Biggest Financial Decision

Whether you're eyeing a BTO, resale HDB, or private property, understand the true costs and CPF implications before you commit.

MOST POPULAR

Housing & Relocation

Complete guide to BTO, resale HDB, EC, and private property ownership in Singapore.

BTO vs Resale CPF Usage Grants TDSR/MSR
Explore Guide

Key Housing Numbers (2026)

Average BTO Price (4-room) $400K - $600K
Average Resale HDB (4-room) $500K - $700K
Enhanced CPF Housing Grant (Singles) Up to $40K
EHG (Families) Up to $80K
TDSR Limit 55% of income
🏥 Healthcare & Medical

Understanding Singapore's 3M Framework

MediSave, MediShield Life, and Medifund form the backbone of Singapore's healthcare financing. Learn how to maximize your coverage.

Healthcare & Medical

Navigate Singapore's healthcare system, from subsidized care to private hospitals.

MediSave MediShield Life IP Upgrade Public vs Private
Explore Guide

The 3M Framework Explained

1
MediSave

Personal healthcare savings (8-10.5% of salary). Use for hospitalization, approved outpatient treatments.

2
MediShield Life

Basic insurance for large hospital bills. Automatic coverage for all citizens/PRs.

3
Medifund

Safety net for needy Singaporeans who can't afford bills even after MediSave and MediShield.

👨‍👩‍👧 Family & Caregiving

Building & Protecting Your Family

From pregnancy support to caring for loved ones with special needs, explore all the schemes and grants available.

🚗 Lifestyle & Living Costs

The True Cost of Living Well

From car ownership to pet care, understand what lifestyle choices really cost in Singapore.

📋 Future Planning

Securing Your Financial Future

Tax optimization, estate planning, and preparing for life's eventual transitions.

Key Singapore Facts for 2026

Critical numbers every Singaporean should know for financial planning

80%+

Live in HDB Flats

#6

Global Healthcare Ranking

55%

TDSR Limit

0.97

Fertility Rate

$100K+

COE Premium (Cat A)

$11,000

Baby Bonus (Cash)

16 Weeks

Maternity Leave

$102,900

CPF Full Retirement Sum

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about life in Singapore

Should I buy BTO or resale HDB?

BTO offers lower prices (typically 20-30% below resale) and is subsidized, but requires 3-5 years wait time. Resale HDB provides immediate occupancy and location choice, but at higher prices. Consider your timeline, budget, and location preferences. First-timer grants are available for both, with Enhanced CPF Housing Grant up to $80K for resale.

Do I need Integrated Shield Plan (IP) if I have MediShield Life?

MediShield Life covers B2/C ward hospitalization with co-payment. An IP upgrade is recommended if you want: private hospital access, A/B1 ward, higher coverage limits, or to minimize out-of-pocket expenses. Consider your risk tolerance, health history, and budget when deciding on the level of upgrade.

Is it financially wise to own a car in Singapore?

Total 10-year car ownership costs around $150K-$200K+ for a basic car. With excellent public transport and ride-hailing options, car ownership is rarely a financial necessity. It makes sense if you: have young children/elderly to transport frequently, need it for work, or value the convenience highly. Otherwise, alternatives like car-sharing or grab/taxi may be more cost-effective.

What government support is available for new parents?

Singapore offers comprehensive support: Baby Bonus cash gift ($11,000 for 1st-2nd child), CDA government co-matching (up to $6,000), MediSave Grant for Newborns ($4,000), subsidized childcare, maternity leave (16 weeks), paternity leave (4 weeks), and various tax reliefs. Total government support can exceed $25,000+ per child.

How can I reduce my income tax in Singapore?

Key tax-saving strategies: CPF cash top-ups (up to $8,000 relief for self, $8,000 for family members), SRS contributions (up to $15,300 for Singaporeans), course fee claims, donation deductions (250% tax deduction), NSman relief, and various family-related reliefs. Planning ahead before year-end can maximize your tax savings.

What happens to my CPF when I pass away?

If you've made a CPF nomination, your savings go directly to your nominees according to specified proportions. Without a nomination, CPF is distributed according to intestacy laws (which may not align with your wishes) and takes longer to process. Making a CPF nomination is free and can be done online in minutes — it's one of the most important financial tasks to complete.

Need Help Planning Your Life in Singapore?

Whether you're buying a home, planning for a baby, or considering a major life decision, we can help you understand the financial implications.