Hong Kong Vs. Singapore

[Yankee]

For cost reasons, my company plans to move me to Singapore from Hong Kong. Anyone there who's lived in both who can provide me a thumbnail comparison in terms of costs? Housing is the big issue, because I'll be asked to reduce my HK allowance of 28k HKD  monthly. I'd like to know what a similar quality flat would rent for in Singapore. Other than car ownership, is there any other area in which Sing is more expensive?

[livedboth]

Hi Yankee, We've lived in both HK and now Sing.  In terms of expenses, the car should be the ONLY thing that would be more expensive.  Housing is much cheaper. What type of allowance (in Sing. $) are you being offered? and what type of a flat are you in right now?  Where will your office be and do you mind a commute? If you can let us know that, you will probably receive more useful feedback.  In general, though, we have found that Sing. is a much cheaper place to live. Also, look at other threads on this board (and check out the F.A.Q board). This is a pretty common question from people in your situation.  Good Luck.

[livedboth]

...oh, I just realized.  Liquor is quite expensive here, too!  (That slipped my mind because it doesn't affect us much).  Just thought you should know, though  

[Yankee]

My employer hasn't made an offer, and is saying that they want to ensure "similar" living standards. My housing is a lump sum payment which I can do with as I see fit (I consider it part of my annual salary/savings package- so live below my means).  I currently live in a 1600 square foot older flat 10 minutes from Central w/tennis and pool w/a nice view of the Lamma Channel...
  Work in Singapore is on Anson Road... Thanks.

[Blue Angel]

We have lived both also, moving to Singapore from HK just over a month ago.  Singapore is definetly cheaper (and a lot more relaxing than HK). For example, we were paying HK$20k in rent (roughly $4500SGD) a month for a 650sqft apartment. In Singapore we pay $3000SGD for a place twice the size (still small in comparison) but with great facilities and a good central location.  Can't offer any advice on utility price differences, but things like groceries, eating out etc. is much, much cheaper. Although there is not as big a variety of things to do in Singapore, there are still lots of things to do, we find the people are friendlier, everything is cleaner and the pace is a little slower compared to HK. Although we miss HK, Singapore was definetly a wise move financially and a nice change of pace.

[YW]

Yankee,

We have lived in both and concur with everyone else that housing is cheaper in Singapore.  We live on Holland Road in a 2100 sqf flat (3 beds and 3 baths) and we pay S$3200 pm.  Holland Road is also very central and has lots of buses going to and from Orchard/CBD.  If you don't mind going for older blocks, you generally get more for your money.  Agree that Singapore much more relaxing and better quality of life than HK.  Good luck.