As the cost of living in Singapore continues to soar, more residents are seriously considering relocating to nearby Johor Bahru (JB) to ease financial pressures.
A recent poll on answers.sg found that 55 per cent of respondents would move to JB to escape high costs, while 45 per cent would remain in Singapore despite the financial strain, reported The Independent SG.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how living expenses compare between the two cities, revealing why JB is becoming a popular choice for Singaporeans seeking a more affordable lifestyle.
Housing & rent
- Cost of living (excluding rent):
JB is 66.1% cheaper than Singapore. This means that day-to-day expenses like food, utilities, and transport are significantly lower. - Cost of living (including rent):
JB is 74.6% cheaper overall when factoring in rent, a substantial savings for those who choose to live across the border. - Rent prices:
Rent in Singapore is 87.3% higher than in JB. This stark contrast makes JB an attractive option for families or individuals looking to save on housing costs.
Food & dining
- Groceries:
Groceries in JB are 52.3% cheaper than in Singapore. Basic food items and everyday necessities come at a much lower price in JB. - Restaurant prices:
Dining out in JB is almost 60% cheaper than in Singapore. Eating at restaurants and cafes in JB provides significant savings without compromising on quality.
Here’s a closer look at how food and drink prices compare:
- McDonald’s meal:
- Singapore:Â S$10 (RM33)
- Johor Bahru:Â S$5.12 (RM17)
That’s almost half the price in JB compared to Singapore.
- Cappuccino:
- Singapore:Â S$6.35 (RM21)
- Johor Bahru:Â S$3.94 (RM13)
Coffee lovers can enjoy their favorite drink for 40% less in JB.
- Bottle of water (333 mL):
- Singapore:Â S$1.54 (RM5)
- Johor Bahru:Â S$0.56 (RM2)
A simple bottle of water costs almost three times more in Singapore.
- Loaf of bread:
- Singapore:Â S$2.86 (RM9.40)
- Johor Bahru:Â S$1.13 (RM3.70)
Bread in JB is less than half the price compared to Singapore.
Overall monthly living costs
According to data from Numbeo, a person living in JB would need approximately S$3,047.70 (RM9,988) per month to maintain the same standard of living that costs S$12,000 (RM39,325) per month in Singapore, including rent. This means that Singaporeans moving to JB could save nearly 75% on their overall monthly expenses.
The appeal of moving to Johor Bahru
For many Singaporeans, the decision to move to JB goes beyond just cheaper rent and groceries.
JB offers a chance to stretch their dollars further while enjoying a similar lifestyle to Singapore. The close proximity to Singapore allows many to continue working in the city-state while benefiting from JB’s lower living costs.
High-profile figures, such as actor and Singapore permanent resident Shaun Chen, have made the move. Chen, who relocated to JB with his family, shared in an interview with CNA that their living expenses have dropped significantly since leaving Singapore, highlighting the financial relief that comes with the move.
With significantly lower prices for housing, food, and daily essentials, more Singaporeans are looking at Johor Bahru as a viable option to escape the financial strain of living in one of the world’s most expensive cities.
