The Rising Cost of Living in Singapore: What People Are Saying

The cost of living in Singapore has always been a hot topic, but in recent years, the increases have become more noticeable. One Reddit user highlighted the sharp rise in prices—cakes from Four Leaves jumping from $3+ to $5+ in just a couple of years, hawker meals going from $3 to $4 or $5. Naturally, Singaporeans had a lot to say about it.

Is It Just Inflation?

"Cost of living going up is a major thing and I feel that a lot of it is pretty much inevitable. Having worked overseas for extended periods, many Singaporeans don’t realize how insane it is for a global city with our average wages to have food options at these prices." – ClaudeDebauchery

Inflation is a global issue, and Singapore is not spared. But some argue that it’s not just about inflation—it’s also about wages not keeping pace.

"Cost of living rising may be inevitable, but depressed wages are not. The reason we feel the rising costs is because wages are not rising fast enough to match." – Available-Log6733

Why Are Prices Jumping So Fast?

Some pointed to global factors affecting raw material prices.

"Everyone keeps saying kopi price increased because of GST, but they don’t know coffee bean prices have also increased like mad. Not only kopitiam robusta coffee, arabica too." – DreamIndependent9316

But others felt the government’s policies also played a role in the rising costs.

"I do understand inflation is global, but GST is not global leh! Really need to increase GST at this point of time??" – Confident_Bluejay857

Are Wages Keeping Up?

Many Singaporeans are worried that while costs are going up, salaries aren’t rising at the same rate. Some see an increasingly challenging future.

"I honestly fear for the future of our kids. Every time I see jobs being offshored to other countries, I cringe. These are the sort of functions that our fresh grads would be doing." – Key_Discount_1155

"Being born Singaporean today is turning out to be a disadvantage compared to those born earlier." – Available-Log6733

Some commenters suggested that moving overseas might be the solution for young Singaporeans looking for better wages and career progression.

"If a work opportunity presents itself overseas, take it. Your world and career aren’t limited to geographical boundaries. Singaporeans have had it good for a long time, but those good times are coming to an end." – ClaudeDebauchery

Surviving in the New Economy

With prices rising, many are finding ways to cut back on spending.

"I just don’t eat out unless there’s a good reason. Like a celebration. I skip breakfast too, so that saves a lot." – Effective-Lab-5659

"Food and transport are okay, but anything outside of this? Entertainment is ridiculous. Easily $100-$200 for a night out." – fakerealone

Others are focusing on investing and planning ahead.

"Got to cut back on unnecessary expenses, prioritize your spending, and start putting savings into investments that give yearly returns so your savings do not lose their spending power." – CN8YLW

The Future of Cost of Living in Singapore

The concern now is whether things will stabilize or get worse. Some fear that Singapore is on an unsustainable path.

"It’s going to hit a tipping point where things get very bad for everyone. Higher cost of living = need for higher salaries = companies needing to pay more = fewer jobs = more unemployment = fewer families started = lower birth rate = economic downturn... We’re on a train track to failure right now." – hecaton_atlas

Others believe that increasing productivity is the key to managing wage growth and cost pressures.

"That’s why the government keeps emphasizing labour productivity growth. If productivity rises, wages can increase without sacrificing competitiveness." – Such-Camera1406

Final Thoughts

The cost of living in Singapore is rising, and while some believe it's an unavoidable global trend, others point to local policies and wage stagnation as major factors. Whether it’s adjusting spending habits, looking for better job opportunities, or considering overseas prospects, Singaporeans are finding different ways to navigate these challenges. The big question remains—how much more can prices rise before it becomes unsustainable for the average person?