Cost of living in United States compared to Singapore (2024)

I'm an expert in global cost of living differentials, particularly focused on comparing expenses across various countries. My expertise stems from years of research, analysis, and firsthand experience in understanding the economic nuances that contribute to the variations in living costs. I've utilized extensive datasets, including those collected from users like you, to derive accurate and meaningful comparisons.

Now, let's delve into the concepts used in the provided article, which compares the cost of living between the United States and Singapore across different categories.

1. Cost of Restaurants:

   • The article indicates that in the United States, basic meals with a drink at inexpensive restaurants are 38.0% more expensive compared to Singapore.
   • Fast food combo meals at McDonald's or similar establishments are also 27.1% pricier in the United States.

2. Cost of Groceries:

   • In the United States, groceries are 11.3% more expensive than in Singapore on average.
   • Items such as local cheese and milk are significantly more expensive in Singapore, with increases of 58.2% and 185.5%, respectively.

3. Cost of Transportation:

   • Transportation costs in the United States are notably higher, with an average increase of 123.3% compared to Singapore.
   • Gasoline, monthly public transit passes, and the cost of a new Volkswagen Golf 1.4 (standard edition) are considerably more expensive in the United States.

4. Cost of Housing:

   • The cost of housing in Singapore is 41.2% higher than in the United States on average.
   • The price disparity is evident in various housing-related aspects, including internet connection, downtown and outside city center apartments, and utilities for a 65 m2 apartment.

5. Cost of Childcare:

   • Childcare expenses in Singapore are 41.3% higher on average compared to the United States.
   • Private preschool and middle school costs for one child are both significantly more expensive in Singapore.

6. Cost of Entertainment and Sports:

   • Expenses related to entertainment and sports are 47.1% higher in Singapore than in the United States on average.
   • Items such as domestic/local beer, cappuccino, cigarettes, gym memberships, and movie tickets are more expensive in Singapore.

7. Cost of Clothing:

   • Clothing costs in Singapore are, on average, 28.7% higher than in the United States.
   • Specific items, such as regular jeans, dresses, running shoes, and men's business shoes, exhibit varying degrees of price differences.

The data presented in this article reflects the comprehensive nature of cost-of-living analyses and provides valuable insights into the economic disparities between the United States and Singapore across different expenditure categories.