Top 7 Affordable Areas for Rent in Singapore for 2024

Nov 29, 2024

Top 7 Affordable Areas for Rent in Singapore for 2024

Introduction

While Singapore is known for its high cost of living, it offers a range of housing options to suit different budgets. Check out these top 7 affordable areas for rent in 2024 that offer great value without compromising on amenities and convenience.

The Rising Cost of Living in Singapore

Singapore's reputation as a global financial hub and a desirable place to live has significantly increased its cost of living. Factors like limited land area, strong economic growth, and high living standards contribute to rising housing, transportation, and general living costs. Despite government measures to address these concerns, affordability remains a challenge.

Importance of Affordable and Livable Rentals

Affordable housing plays a vital role in:

  • Reducing financial stress.

  • Supporting education, career growth, and community engagement.

  • Promoting social inclusion and well-being.

Accessible housing prevents displacement and ensures everyone has a stable place to call home.

Top 7 Affordable Areas for Rent in Singapore in 2024

Despite the high costs, these areas offer reasonably priced rental accommodations with excellent amenities and connectivity.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Affordable Housing

  1. Proximity to Public Transportation
    Living near MRT stations or bus stops reduces commuting costs and time. This is especially beneficial for those working in the city center or frequently traveling across Singapore.

  2. Availability of Amenities
    Neighborhoods with supermarkets, healthcare facilities, parks, and shopping malls save time on errands and improve convenience. Vibrant communities often attract diverse residents, creating a supportive environment.

  3. Community and Safety
    Consider crime rates, cleanliness, and community programs. Safer neighborhoods with strong resident involvement offer better living experiences.

The Top 7 Affordable Areas

1. Jurong West

  • Overview: A large suburban estate in the west, popular among students and young professionals.

  • Rental Prices: SGD 1,800/month for a 3-room HDB flat.

  • Amenities: Shopping malls (Jurong Point, Westgate), supermarkets, and hawker centers.

  • Accessibility: Connected by the East-West MRT Line.

  • Why It’s Affordable: Distance from the city center.

2. Woodlands

  • Overview: Northernmost estate, bordering Malaysia, with a family-friendly vibe.

  • Rental Prices: SGD 1,600–1,900/month for a 3-room HDB flat.

  • Amenities: Causeway Point Mall, parks, schools, and markets.

  • Accessibility: Served by the North-South MRT Line.

  • Why It’s Affordable: Far from the central business district.

3. Sembawang

  • Overview: Suburban area with seaside charm and a peaceful vibe.

  • Rental Prices: SGD 1,700–2,000/month for a 3-room HDB flat.

  • Amenities: Sembawang Shopping Centre, parks, and supermarkets.

  • Accessibility: Connected by the North-South MRT Line.

  • Why It’s Affordable: Remote location.

4. Bukit Batok

  • Overview: Well-established residential area in the west with parks and shopping centers.

  • Rental Prices: SGD 1,800–2,200/month for a 3-room HDB flat.

  • Amenities: West Mall, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.

  • Accessibility: Served by the Downtown and North-South MRT Lines.

  • Why It’s Affordable: Balanced living environment.

5. Yishun

  • Overview: Vibrant town in the north with ample amenities.

  • Rental Prices: SGD 1,700–2,100/month for a 3-room HDB flat.

  • Amenities: Northpoint City Mall, parks, and schools.

  • Accessibility: Connected by the North-South MRT Line.

  • Why It’s Affordable: A strong sense of community with affordable housing.

6. Tampines

  • Overview: Large suburban estate in the east with a self-sufficient town atmosphere.

  • Rental Prices: SGD 1,900–2,300/month for a 3-room HDB flat.

  • Amenities: Tampines Mall, recreational facilities, and parks.

  • Accessibility: Served by the East-West MRT Line.

  • Why It’s Affordable: Located outside the central area.

7. Pasir Ris

  • Overview: Easternmost estate known for its resort-like atmosphere.

  • Rental Prices: SGD 1,800–2,200/month for a 3-room HDB flat.

  • Amenities: White Sands Mall, Pasir Ris Park, and Downtown East.

  • Accessibility: Connected by the East-West MRT Line.

  • Why It’s Affordable: Offers a relaxed lifestyle at a lower price.

Conclusion

Jurong West, Woodlands, Sembawang, Bukit Batok, Yishun, Tampines, and Pasir Ris offer affordable rental options with great value for money. When searching for rental housing, consider proximity to transportation, local amenities, and the neighborhood’s atmosphere to find the perfect fit for your budget and needs.

What to read next?

Unlock Travel Rewards with RentlyPay and HeyMax: A Seamless Partnership

Discover how RentlyPay and HeyMax turn your monthly rent into travel rewards. With RentlyPay’s eGIRO plans, tenants earn Max Miles every time they pay rent. These Max Miles can be transferred to over 30 airline and hotel loyalty programs, including KrisFlyer and Asia Miles, redeemed for flights, hotels, or gift cards. By combining automated rent payments with HeyMax’s flexible rewards system, RentlyPay makes paying rent seamless and rewarding. Learn how to start earning and redeeming Max Miles for your next adventure.

Sep 12, 2025

Unlock Travel Rewards with RentlyPay and HeyMax: A Seamless Partnership

Pay Rent, Get Miles: The Upgrade Nobody Told You About

Paying rent in Singapore doesn’t have to feel like money down the drain. With RentlyPay, renters can turn their biggest monthly expense into credit card rewards, cashback, and air miles. Instead of manual bank transfers with zero perks, RentlyPay automates rent payments through eGIRO and card setups, giving tenants peace of mind while unlocking benefits. Whether you’re chasing KrisFlyer miles, looking for more cash flow flexibility, or simply want stress-free, on-time payments, RentlyPay makes rent work smarter for you.

Sep 9, 2025

Pay Rent, Get Miles: The Upgrade Nobody Told You About

🏡 What Kind of Renter Are You? (And Why Rently Gets You Anyway)

Not all renters are the same and that’s exactly why Rently works. Whether you're a planner, a comfort-seeker, an on-the-go explorer, or just want things to work, Rently’s got tools, services, and support tailored to your rental style. From deposit-free listings to verified agents and in-app maintenance, we’ve built a rental experience that actually makes sense. No matter what kind of renter you are, Rently gets you.

Aug 8, 2025

🏡 What Kind of Renter Are You? (And Why Rently Gets You Anyway)

Didn't Rent Through Rently? You Can Still Get Rently Care

Even if you found your apartment through another rental platform in Singapore, you can still access Rently Care — our post-move-in support service designed to help renters handle contract confusion, landlord issues, maintenance problems, and deposit concerns. If you moved in within the last 1–2 months or paid a rental deposit over $6,000, you qualify. Whether you're in a studio apartment, co-living space, or whole unit for rent, Rently Care ensures you're never renting alone. Because renting should feel safe, not stressful.

Jul 25, 2025

Didn't Rent Through Rently? You Can Still Get Rently Care
logo
100G Pasir Panjang Rd #07-14, Interlocal Centre, Singapore