Singapore is the most expensive city in Asia for expats according to new research by NUS

Not that it comes as a surprise, seeing that it’s already known to be one of the most expensive countries in the world, but Singapore is once again in the list of culprits for the most expensive cities for expats this year.

This comes from a newly published research study by the National University of Singapore’s Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, which considers the cost of living in 45 cities around the world, based on factors including housing prices, transport, health, education and more.

Most of the list is dominated by Western cities, with the United States of America taking the lead with five cities in the top 10 – including New York (#1) and Los Angeles (#3). Zurich comes in second, with Singapore (#4) sitting right below the three. This is one spot higher than last year, where Singapore was listed fifth. This year, our island metropolis is one of only two Asian cities in the list, with the other being Hong Kong (#10).

On the flip side, the 10 most affordable cities for expats are all located within Asia, with the top three being Shenzhen, Bangkok, and Osaka/Kobe. So, expats, if you’re looking to give your wallet a break, perhaps these are some places worth considering over the sunny home of the Merlion.

That said, Singapore’s high cost of living is not without reward – we’re also APAC’s best city with one of the most green spaces in the world, and remain the most peaceful country in Asia with stellar levels of safety and security. Plus, there’s a never-ending slate of things to do here whether rain or shine. Life in Singapore may not be for everyone – fair enough – but those who do choose to stay often have praises to sing. 

10 most expensive cities in the world for expats in 2025

1. New York, USA
2. Zurich, Switzerland
3. Los Angeles, USA
4. Singapore
5. Geneva, Switzerland
6. London, UK
7. Seattle, USA
8. San Francisco, USA
9. Chicago, USA
10. Hong Kong

10 cheapest cities in Asia for expatriates in 2025

1. Shenzhen, China
2. Bangkok, Thailand
3. Osaka/Kobe, Japan
4. Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
5. Taipei, Taiwan
6. Hanoi, Vietnam
7. Manila, Philippines
8. Jakarta, Indonesia
9. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
10. Mumbai, India

READ MORE

I stayed at the new Mandai Rainforest Resort – here's what I thought

You can ballot for free tickets to the Singapore Formula 1 Pit Lane Experience – here's how

Singapore Airlines unveils new in-flight safety video after 8 years