Cost of Living and Comfortable Salaries in Singapore: A Street Survey
This article summarizes a survey conducted on the streets of Singapore to understand people's perceptions of the cost of living and what constitutes a comfortable salary. The responses highlight the diverse perspectives based on individual circumstances, lifestyle choices, and future aspirations.
Comfortable Salary Ranges
The survey participants offered a wide range of estimates for a comfortable monthly salary in Singapore:
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For singles: Estimates ranged from S$3,000 to S$7,000. Several individuals suggested a figure between S$4,000 and S$6,000 as a reasonable benchmark.
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For families: Individuals with families generally suggested higher figures, ranging from S$8,000 to S$25,000 per month. The higher end of this range was often associated with specific lifestyle choices, such as international schooling for children.
The perception of a "comfortable" salary is highly subjective and dependent on individual needs and expectations.
Factors Influencing Cost of Living
Several factors were repeatedly mentioned as contributors to the cost of living in Singapore:
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Accommodation: Rent and property prices were consistently cited as the most significant expenses.
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Food: While hawker centers offer affordable options, dining out and purchasing imported goods can be expensive.
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Transportation: While one interviewee pointed out that Singapore's public transport is cheaper than in places like Switzerland, recent increases in public transportation costs were noted as a concern by others.
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Lifestyle choices: Entertainment, shopping, and travel habits significantly impact the overall cost of living.
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Education: International school fees are a major expense for families who choose that path.
Perspectives on Singapore's Cost of Living
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Expensive but manageable: Many acknowledged Singapore's high cost of living but emphasized that it's manageable with a decent income and careful budgeting. Some suggested that instead of complaining, people should focus on earning more.
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Government Support: Some interviewees highlighted that government subsidies and policies, such as the availability of affordable hawker food and public housing, help mitigate the high cost of living. Also, the lack of homelessness compared to other countries like the USA was viewed positively.
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Comparison to Other Countries: Some felt that even with the high cost of living, Singapore offered a good quality of life and a stable economy, making it a desirable place to live. Others compared Singapore to other locations, with one respondent having lived in Australia and considered Singapore more expensive.
Desire to Stay in Singapore
Despite the perceived high cost of living, many expressed a strong desire to remain in Singapore long-term. The reasons cited included:
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Safety and Security: Singapore's reputation for safety and low crime rates was a major draw.
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Vibrant Nightlife: For some, the nightlife and entertainment options were appealing.
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Multicultural Environment: The diverse cultural mix was seen as a positive aspect of living in Singapore.
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Economic Opportunities: The robust economy and career prospects were important factors for many.
However, some individuals, particularly younger people, expressed an interest in potentially moving abroad for retirement or other life stages.
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