Neil...welcome to Singapore...in December. Answers to your questions vary, depending on your lifestyle, and school costs also vary, but using what you've given...here is a sampling of costs which I know about:
For example, at International Community School, for 3 kids in primary school (grades 1-6) your cost for the year (2 semesters) could be approx $50,000 ...but discounts are available, so that can be much lower. Many schools are listed on this expat web site and you can shop and compare. If your company can help with school fees that would be great...a good place to bargain in the contract, as it's higher here than some other places, as land is scarce and rental fees for school properties are very high. My family's electric/water/gas has been $300-$450 a month, running 2 AC units a lot. 2 handphones cost approx $90 per month. Internet is $60 per month. Transportation, for buses and MRT's, which we use...again this depends on how far you live from work, and school, and how much you need to go, but $100 per person per month will take you a lot of places...and have some left over for the inexpensive taxi's, too. With a family of 5...may be cheaper to take a taxi...for the whole group. ...so you could figure more in the budget. Groceries/food is relatively inexpensive and you can eat for pretty cheap, in our opinion. What do you spend on groceries wherever you are now? ...probably will be cheaper here, unless you live in Indonesia.

We did live in an unfurnished 3 BR HUDC apartment for $1,100 per month, but just moved (because the workplace moved) to a 3 BR terrace, which is $1,450. These prices are fairly low and many pay more...so think a bit higher. You can pay as much or little for rents as you want, and your budget will allow. Agents are available to help, and use one that will show you places within your budget. Lots of start up costs, too....with utility and rent deposits, agent fees, etc. etc. Our budget doesn't allow us to spend lots and lots, as some do. Your company probably has a medical plan for you and your family, and if not, should bargain for that, too, but not overly expensive here. I'm the maid, so don't have that expense, which could be $700-$1,000 per month. If you plan to have a car, others would have to comment on that...but expensive I think. ...plus all the other expenditures for you and your family. Add it all up and get a rough estimate. The rich will have a different opinion. Basically, if you want it, it's probably in Singapore, and can be purchased within your budget.
Again, welcome Neil. It's hot and very humid here, and a terrific place to live! I know you and your family will enjoy it. Don't forget that everyone will need comfortable walking shoes and an umbrella, and lightweight clothes will be helpful.
