Singapore vs Boston: Cost of Living, Rent & Purchasing Power Comparison

Comparing Singapore (Singapore) and Boston (United States) reveals a cost-of-living index of 96.3 in Singapore versus 84 in Boston (NYC baseline = 100.0). Overall, Boston is 12.8% more affordable than Singapore.

Metrological Indicator Singapore (Singapore) Boston (United States)
Cost of Living Index (NYC = 100) 96.3 84
Rent Index 93.9 56.7
Groceries Index 80.6 79.5
Restaurant Price Index 69.6 75.7
Local Purchasing Power Index 114.9 113.3
1-Bed Apartment in City Center S$4,368 $2,122
Inexpensive Restaurant Meal S$15.60 $17.50
Monthly Public Transit Pass S$133.12 $98.70
Basic Monthly Utilities (85m²) S$187.20 $175
Safety & Healthcare Score Safety 76.5/100 · Health 85.9/100 Safety 59.2/100 · Health 78.1/100

Is Singapore more expensive than Boston?

Singapore has a higher overall cost-of-living index (96.3) compared to Boston (84), representing an index differential of 12.3 points (12.8% difference).

How do apartment rents compare between Singapore and Boston?

In Singapore, a 1-bedroom city-center apartment averages S$4,368/month (Rent Index: 93.9), whereas in Boston it averages $2,122/month (Rent Index: 56.7).

→ Singapore Full Cost Report → Boston Full Cost Report → Global City Index Directory

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Singapore

The cost of living in Singapore, Singapore is indexed at 96.3 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a premium-tier expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.

Housing and accommodation in Singapore are defined by a Rent Index of 93.9. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about S$4,368 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a very expensive portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.

Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In Singapore, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages S$15.60, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around S$6.76. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately S$133.12, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging S$187.20 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, Singapore secures a safety index rating of 76.5/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 60.2/100, healthcare standard scores 85.9/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 98.2 Mbps.

METROLOGY ID: SINGAPORE-EN-2026 | DYNAMIC DATA FEED

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Boston

The cost of living in Boston, United States is indexed at 84 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a premium-tier expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.

Housing and accommodation in Boston are defined by a Rent Index of 56.7. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about $2,122 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a very expensive portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.

Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In Boston, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages $17.50, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around $4.80. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately $98.70, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging $175 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, Boston secures a safety index rating of 59.2/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 70.4/100, healthcare standard scores 78.1/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 85.3 Mbps.

METROLOGY ID: BOSTON-EN-2026 | DYNAMIC DATA FEED