SGD$3500 - Reasonable offer?

[US Ex-pat]

Hello...I am a US citizen being offered an analyst job in Singapore for SGD$3500/month. I have 4 years experience from a top tier MNC from the US and would be relocating from Boston (to a local/regional co). I would appreciate any insight on what this kind of salary is comparable to in USD, preferably in the Boston & NY economies. What kind of lifestyle would I be able to afford with this salary, and is it on the lower end for an ex-pat? No housing would be included, but healthcare, food and travel allowances are (do employees need to contribute company medical?). Also, how many vacation days are normally allotted in Singapore? To give a better idea of the type of lifestyle I'd be living, I'm single and in my mid-twenties and would prefer a one-bedroom apartment that is clean and spacious enough, and not necessarily luxurious or in a Class A area. I will not need a car, and do enjoy going out to clubs and pubs (and the occasional travel and shopping spree). Would appreciate perspectives from ex-pats and locals alike on the salary, neighborhoods I should be targeting, breakdown of spending, etc. Thanks much for your help in advance!

[ohmygod...]

i think u are badly underpaid...with so much experience only 3500SGD? if its in USD maybe still okie...

grads with 1 to 2 yrs experience here get abt 3500sgd ....not to mention expats...

housing alone will prob cost u abt 1.2k approx depend on where u stay...

better think 2X...

[too little]

With no housing allowance, that is simply not enough money.....unless of course you never go out and don't mind living in housing that is much lower standard than you are likely used to. $3500USD/month would be better, not great, but do-able.

[Guest]

Yer getting screwed man.

[Peanut]

You should be asking for double that amount, since you need to factor in your housing and other allowances...u're underpaid!

[Hunter]

Yes, you appear to be 20% underpaid, but you can bite the bullet and use it as a stepping stone. It is not that bad because public (HDB) housing are clean and affordable. Since you are 25 yrs old, it is hard to negotiate a higher salary immediately. Ideally, aiming for a basic of SG$ 4,000 is more reasonable. Most employers are offering localised packages, as there are too many foreigners hunting for jobs in Asia. What you have 3.5 is not a good deal but worthy enough to consider a trial working in Singapore. Unfortunately, booze and cigarettes are expensive in Singapore. You can drink at kopi-tiams or buy from 7-Eleven if you are partial to your beer!

[sense]

3500 singapore dollar is reasonable for a 4 years experience like you.

For fresh graduate engineer, salary is ranged between 2000-2800 on the average.

Your package is more like on local term than expat terms.

For rental apartment like a 2bedroom apartment is about 600-800 sin dollar. If you just want to rent a single room in a shared apartment with the landlord. It's about 300-400 sin dollar a month, that includes electricity and water bills etc. This is just a guide line for out of town rental rate. Well, you need to negotiate yourself, set things clear when renting. For a start, just sign a short term rental agreement...easily to move out to a prefer place later.

Medical is not free in Singapore. You need to pay to see a doctor. Your company might include some susidy or free dental care.

Well... it's not expensive to see a doctor than in US ...that's for sure.

By the way, the tax in Singapore is way below US.

There are more guide lines
http://www.contactsingapore.org.sg


Don't worry, Singapore is a well structured country...you will be alright.

[joop]

3500 singapore dollar is reasonable for a 4 years experience like you.

For fresh graduate engineer, salary is ranged between 2000-2800 on the average.

Your package is more like on local term than expat terms.

For rental apartment like a 2bedroom apartment is about 600-800 sin dollar. If you just want to rent a single room in a shared apartment with the landlord. It's about 300-400 sin dollar a month, that includes electricity and water bills etc. This is just a guide line for out of town rental rate. Well, you need to negotiate yourself, set things clear when renting. For a start, just sign a short term rental agreement...easily to move out to a prefer place later.

Medical is not free in Singapore. You need to pay to see a doctor. Your company might include some susidy or free dental care.

Well... it's not expensive to see a doctor than in US ...that's for sure.

By the way, the tax in Singapore is way below US.

There are more guide lines
http://www.contactsingapore.org.sg


Don't worry, Singapore is a well structured country...you will be alright.

I would like to clarify the above point of rental apartments are $600-$800. It would not be possible to rent an apartment at $600-800 unless it's a HDB flat.

The price range should be $1,200 and above. Readers shouldn't be misled with the prices on the previous post.