For many office workers in Singapore, the decision comes down to time versus money. Renting a compact apartment in the Central Business District (CBD) might cost upwards of S$3,500 a month, but it buys you something priceless: an extra 40 minutes of sleep every day. On the other hand, colleagues living in the suburbs save a few hundred dollars monthly — at the expense of a crowded 40-minute MRT commute each way.
So what’s it really like to call the CBD home?
Is the high rent justified by the location and lifestyle?
Rent and Location: Worth the Price Tag?
The CBD spans Raffles Place, Marina Bay, Tanjong Pagar, and Downtown. According to 2025 URA Q1Q2data
Studios: S$3,300–S$3,800/month
1-Bedroom units: S$4,000–S$4,800/month
In comparison, suburban areas like Jurong East or Punggol are about 30–40% cheaper.
Yes, the rent is steep. But for many, the trade-off is worth it: unbeatable convenience and a lifestyle that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.
Voices from the CBD: Real Residents Share
The Banker: 40 Extra Minutes of Sleep
“I used to live in Tampines and spend 40 minutes on the MRT every day. Now, from my studio near Raffles Place, I walk eight minutes to the office. I get 40 more minutes of sleep, and my energy is completely different. Sure, the rent is high and the apartment small, but for someone working long hours, time matters more than space.”
The Engineer: Gym and Jogging at Marina Bay
“I live in a one-bedroom in Downtown, close to my office at Marina One. After work, I just head downstairs to the gym, then go for a run around Marina Bay. The night view is amazing. Everything is convenient — groceries, restaurants, cafés. The only issue? Hosting friends at home feels tight.”
The Expat: CBD First, Suburbs Later
First year: Studio in Tanjong Pagar, rent S$3,500/month
Now: 3-Bedroom in Jurong East, rent S$3,200/month, commute ~35 minutes
“When I first moved to Singapore, I chose Tanjong Pagar. Being downtown felt safe and convenient while I adjusted. After a year, I relocated to Jurong East — three bedrooms for less rent than my studio in the CBD. The commute is longer, but the space is much better for long-term living.”
CBD vs Suburbs: How Do You Choose?
Commuting: If you work in finance or tech and often stay late, living in the CBD is a game-changer. Walking or cycling to work means more rest and less stress. The downside? MRT stations in the area are notoriously packed during rush hours.
Lifestyle: Dining, gyms, supermarkets, and shopping malls are literally downstairs. Amoy Street and Tanjong Pagar are food havens. But meals and entertainment will set you back more than in the heartlands.
Social Life: The CBD buzzes with after-work drinks, networking events, and professional meetups. That said, it lacks the tight-knit community feel of suburban neighborhoods, where people tend to know their neighbors better.
Housing: Most CBD apartments come with pools, gyms, and sleek facilities. But expect smaller layouts and high rents — a one-bedroom unit easily costs S$4,000+ per month. Not exactly family-friendly or budget-friendly.
Investment: For landlords, the CBD is a strong bet. Rental demand is steady, yields are solid, but the entry cost is high. Suburbs, while cheaper, also hold long-term growth potential.
The Bottom Line
Living in Singapore’s CBD feels like living in the city’s beating heart.
Efficient: Save precious commuting time
Dynamic: Access to world-class amenities and nightlife
Costly: Smaller spaces and steep rents
For young professionals or expats with flexible budgets, the CBD offers an unmatched mix of convenience and lifestyle. For families or those seeking more space, the suburbs may be the smarter choice.
Thinking of renting or buying in Singapore’s CBD? Explore the latest listings and price trends on Housebell.