‘Rent ranges between Rs 2-3.5 lakh’: Indian woman shares reality behind ‘glamorous’ Singapore life

Indian expat warns of Singapore’s high costs, loneliness and career pressure. (AI-generated representative image)

Singapore is often viewed as a city of opportunity, offering modern infrastructure, career growth, and a high standard of living. Its clean streets, punctual public transport, and organised systems give the impression of a city that has life perfectly in order. Many see it as an ideal destination to build a career, experience a new culture, and live abroad.

Yet, the reality can be far more demanding than the glossy images suggest. An Indian expat, Neha Rawat, has gone viral on Instagram with a video showing the practical and emotional challenges of living in Singapore.

Rawat said the transition to life in Singapore is not straightforward and requires discipline to navigate one of the world’s most expensive cities.

“Singapore makes life look sorted at first glance. Clean roads, no traffic drama, and everything runs on a strict system. Here, being late almost feels like a crime. If the MRT is delayed by even two minutes, people are shocked,” she said.

Housing costs in Singapore are a major consideration for anyone moving there. Rawat noted that apartments, even small ones, are expensive and add significant financial pressure. “Rent easily ranges between 3,000 and 5,000 SGD (Rs 2-3.5 lakh), and groceries can be surprisingly expensive. Forget about owning a car, the moment you hear about the COE costs, you might give up on the idea,” Rawat said. Along with rent, daily living expenses and transportation can also stretch budgets.

Life in a new country also brings personal challenges. Rawat reflected on the emotional side of moving abroad, especially for dependents who are not working. “Dependent life may look glamorous on Instagram, but the reality is very different. It often means dealing with a lot of alone time, adjusting to a new country, putting your career on pause, and rebuilding your social circle from scratch. That takes real strength,” she added.

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A post shared by Neha Rawat (@sglinks)

The city’s reputation for efficiency extends into the workplace. Rawat explained that success requires careful time management, focus, and the ability to handle high expectations. “Living in Singapore as an expat is not just Marina Bay selfies and fancy brunches. It's discipline, high rent, and career pressure. personal growth, safe and structured life. Dependent or a working professional, Singapore will test your patience, budget and mindset. But once you adapt? You level up differently,” she explained.

Despite the challenges, Rawat also stressed the positive aspects of living in Singapore. The city offers safety, structure, and exposure that few other places can match. “That said, the safety here is unmatched, the opportunities for growth are incredible, and the exposure you gain is on another level. If you are willing to hustle, Singapore will reward you. Singapore is tough, but it is fair. This city will not pamper you, it will polish you,” she concluded.

Disclaimer: This report is based on user-generated content shared on social media. Moneycontrol has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.