The choice of a residential area will depend upon factors such as your budget, the size of accommodation that you are seeking and your lifestyle.
The popular living areas for expats in Singapore include the following:
Orchard (City center): If you have a handsome budget and like being amidst all the action then you can consider the Orchard area - Singapore's shopping belt. Most condos in the Orchard area are located along Cairnhill Road, Grange Road, and Killeney Road, all within a stone's throw away from the city's major glitzy shopping malls. You will find yourself within close proximity to the CBD, international schools, shopping and entertainment hubs. You can expect to pay around S$6,000-S$9,000 for a 3 bedroom condo in this area.
River Valley (South of Orchard): As the name suggests, the River Valley constitutes the neighborhood that runs along either sides of the Singapore River. It's a popular location with expats who have a hefty budget in mind, as rents mirror those of the Orchard area. Some of Singapore's most expensive condos can be found in this prestigious location. River Valley is close to the CBD and most international schools.
Newton, Novena and Thomson (North of Orchard): Newton is sandwiched between the hip Orchard Road and the posh Bukit Timah. It's a fairly old residential estate with plenty of greenery sans noise and crowds. There is plenty of private property in Newton and owing to close proximity to the city and international schools, rents can be quite high. Novena houses condominiums and private apartments and only few public housing units. One of Singapore largest hospitals, Tan Tock Seng Hospital is located here. Located on the outskirts of the city center, Thomson is hustling and bustling with life. You can find hotels, residential apartments and shopping centers in Thomson. Rents can be quite high, but definitely cheaper than Orchard.
Tanglin, Holland, and Bukit Timah (NorthWest of Orchard): Tanglin is a lush green area that houses a number of embassies, consulates and ministries. A number of shopping centers, hospitals and condos can be found here. Nestled in Holland Village, popularly called as Holland V, are restaurants, cafes and pubs which are frequented by expats. Holland is a trendy suburb with condos that are within close proximity to the CBD and international schools. Bukit Timah houses some of Singapore's wealthiest expats and comprises of many condominiums and landed property. Some of Singapore's top ranked schools can be found here. There aren't many shopping centers in Bukit Timah. Houses in Bukit Timah tend to be large and expensive.
East Coast: East Coast is by far the most popular expat haven owing to its proximity to the CBD, beach, airport and sea facing apartments with panoramic views. What's more, rents are affordable. For instance, a 3-bedroom condo can be rented from S$3500 onwards. East Coast Park is a top recreational spot in Singapore for cycling, roller blading, picnicking, and water sports. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes and pubs. International schools are close by as is the central business district.
Woodlands (North): Woodlands is a popular locale for American expats as it houses the American School. Note however that Woodlands is at the northern tip of Singapore and is quite far from the city center/CBD. You can expect a train ride to the city area to last for at least 45 minutes. So unless you are keen on sending your kids to the American International school, this area is not highly recommended.
West Coast (West): Singapore's Western region houses a number of educational institutions such as the National University of Singapore, INSEAD, Singapore Polytechnic etc. It is also close to the Jurong industrial center. Expats who don't mind a 30 minute train ride to the city often rent an apartment in the West Coast area. There are some interesting water front residential options to explore in this area.
Marina Bay (South): Marina bay is an exciting and hip location in Singapore, offering panoramic views of the bay. It will soon house a number of prestigious commercial, residential and entertainment outlets. The Sail @ Marina Bay is a much awaited residential project and is rumored to become one of the most expensive and sought after residential choices in Singapore.
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