Areas of Singapore

This list doesn't encompass all of Singapore! It just covers some of the areas we most recommend you move to if you're new to Singapore.

Central:

Close to the business district, the most "happening" areas, but also some of the most expensive.

• The CBD: If you want to be right in the city centre, with some of the best dining options & nightlife within reach, stay here. Apartments here are some of the most expensive in Singapore, but they're extremely luxurious.

• Outram Park/Tanjong Pagar/Chinatown: If you're keen on living in a shophouse in the CBD, this is the area to be in. Chinatown is beautiful, with parks, Michelin star restaurants, cafes, and galleries within a few minutes' walk.

• Orchard, River Valley, and Robertson Quay: Known as the most high end residential area in Singapore and home to the famous Orchard Road shopping street, some of the nicest condos in the country are here. Robertson Quay in particular is known as an expat hub, with the walking and bike trails along the Singapore River, riverfront bars and restaurants, and the newly opened New Bahru development in reach.

East:

Historic, less highrises and more shophouses, walkable neighborhoods.

• Tanjong Katong, Marine Parade, Joo Chiat, and Siglap: Some of the most historic neighborhoods in Singapore, and just steps away from the walking/biking trails and oceanfront restaurants in East Coast Park, these areas are highly walkable "neighborhoods" that feel more like towns than areas 15 minutes from the city centre. The TEL (Brown) line services this area.

• Geylang and Paya Lebar: Paya Lebar is one of the largest shopping complexes in the East, and as a hub for both the East-West Line and the Circle Line, it's hard to find many locations more convenient for getting around Singapore, and it's a beautiful area with hawker centres, parks (and lots of Park Connectors!), and easy access to Katong and the waterfront. Newcomers to Singapore tend to avoid Geylang because it's known as the city's red light district, but those who have been around longer know it's actually one of the best food hubs in the city (with lots of diverse/international options), is filled with interesting shops and spots to hang out, and just a couple minutes away from the city centre. Visit before you judge the place.

• Bugis, Farrer Park, and Little India:

West:

Mostly residential, with hotspots for recreation and nightlife.

• Holland Village: A gem of a neighborhood in the West, where it's difficult to get bored: lots of superb highrises, a nightlife street that's packed every weekend, and easy access by MRT to the city centre. One of the fastest growing neighborhoods in Singapore for a reason.

• Sentosa: An island about 15 minutes' drive from the city centre, Sentosa is mostly a recreation destination but also hosts most of Singapore's beach clubs, and has lots of private villas.