What kind of lifestyle at 6.5k$/m

[Shifu]

Hello Community,

I am looking into an offer to go to Singapore. After taxes and some other expenses, I would be looking at 6.5k$ a month. I would be moving here with my wife, who doesn't have a job offer yet.

I did some research and reading through similar threads, it is clear to me that it would be possible to live on just one salary. It would be great though if I could get your opinion on what kind of life style one can enjoy in Singapore nowadays in this income range?

There are a few factors that could drive the costs up a little or even quite a bit:

I don't want to make too big compromises when it comes to housing. I don't necessarily need a condo with swimming pool, but I don't want to live in a bachelor pad, and I would really want to have a kitchen at Western standard (by that I mean not too small, and 4 stove plates + oven). I would prefer not to live too far away from the center (although I understand that there will be a trade-off), and the apartment must be fully furnished.

We are a young couple and enjoy going out quite a bit.

I would like to regularly buy imported things, as cheese, sour creme, but no truffle oil, expensive wines and such things.

Our fluffy third family member would be coming with us. I am putting this not just because of the costs for food, vet bills, etc. I wonder if this may be a restriction for the apartment (close to dog friendly park, dog friendly landlord,...) and in that sense be an additional cost driver?

We tend to use the A/C a lot.

On the other hand, I am more than happy to run the errands on the wet market, cook at home etc., or eat at the food courts. Does it make a big difference financially if you are vegetarian? Health insurance is covered.

Would be great if you could give me some guidance. Thanks in advance!

[bgd]

You should be able to find a condo for $3K or less, rents are down at the moment. Your dog may make the search a little harder depending on size.

Anything imported or deemed to be 'expat' products, cost. As does heavy usage of aircon.

Once you have found a place that suits you will know how much you have left over and then you can adapt your lifestyle around that. But with $6.5K after tax you should be able to live here reasonably well.

[Shifu]

Thanks for the answer! I understand spending up to 3k on an apartment wouldn't be completely stupid given the budget.

Our dog is 10.5 kg, not too big, but still a dog...

[lot286]

Make sure you live close to an MRT. the taxi rides here are expensive..