What neighbourhood is right for you?
If you’re thinking about where to live in Singapore, we’ve got you covered.
Singapore is an island state that’s known for its high-quality infrastructure, safety, and delicious food. The island’s position at the heart of Southeast Asia also means that it’s a place where history, art and culture intersect – everything you could ask for in a new home
Where should you live on this island? This guide will help you choose the right neighbourhood in Singapore.
Woodlands
Woodlands, located in Singapore’s north, is a popular neighbourhood for families who prefer to live in the suburbs, far from the hustle and bustle of the centre. Here, you’ll be able to take your family (and furkids) out for strolls, cycling or skating at verdant spaces such as Marsiling Park, Admiralty Park and Treehaus Park.
The Singapore American School is the reason for the large American community in Woodlands. The Singapore American School is known for hosting fun events, especially during Halloween. This can be an excellent opportunity to meet your neighbours.
As for housing options, in addition to the usual flats, you’ll find plenty of landed houses with gardens at reasonable prices. Families with pets and/or children may prefer the extra space to living in an apartment.
Tanglin
Tanglin is excellent for families looking to live in low-rise condominiums or houses with gardens. Located between Holland Village and Orchard, the neighbourhood is sufficiently removed from the din of busy roads, yet mere minutes away from Orchard Road, Singapore’s prime shopping belt. This is also where you’ll find Tanglin Trust School, a British International School.
The Singapore Botanic Garden is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can jog, picnic or listen to musical performances on the Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage. Finally, Tanglin also encompasses Dempsey Hill, a former army barracks turned dining enclave known for its superb range of restaurants and bars (and free parking – a rare luxury in Singapore).
Serangoon
The central Serangoon neighborhood is located in the northeastern part of Singapore. It has something to offer everyone. The housing ranges from HDB flats to new condos to terraced homes, and residents include a mix of locals, expatriates, especially Australians and French.
Serangoon Gardens is a particularly charming subzone organised around a dining cluster with bistros and cafes, Italian restaurants, and the famous Chomp Chomp hawker centre.
Bukit Timah
Do you love living near nature? Bukit Timah is not only known for its great cafes and restaurants but also offers an array of outdoor activities. Explore the hiking trails and summit Singapore’s highest natural peak in Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, or take up horseriding at Horsecity, located at the former racecourse.
It is also worth visiting the recently restored colonial era Bukit Timah Railway Station. It lies along the 24km Railway Corridor, which is popular with hikers and cyclists. There are also several Singaporean top schools in the area, including Chatsworth International School and Swiss School Singapore.
Bedok
Another neighbourhood popular among nature lovers is Bedok, which stretches from Bedok Reservoir in the north to East Coast Park in the south. Fitness enthusiasts run, cycle or kayak in the former, which also has a treetop adventure park and four giant ziplines that cross the water.
East Coast Park is a great place to fish, enjoy seafood at renowned restaurants or just relax on the beach. Bedok, Singapore’s largest residential estate, is a great place to meet new people.
West Coast / Clementi
West Coast, along with Clementi District adjacent to it, is the perfect neighbourhood if you are looking for a peaceful respite. The East Coast counterpart is less congested, but still offers beautiful open spaces for relaxation. A number of Japanese schools are located in the area, which has led to a large Japanese expat community.
West Coast Park hosts a slew of amenities such as a dog park and an adventure playground, plus spaces for archery, kite flying, and waterfront cycling. Further to the west are even more natural spaces to explore, including the Chinese and Japanese Gardens, Pandan Reservoir, and Jurong Eco Garden.
Read more about: The LakeGarden Residences
Holland Village
Established in the early 20th century by the Dutch community, Holland Village has evolved into a buzzy hub of great food and vibrant nightlife. The quaint shops in Holland Village house everything from noodle and bakeries to pubs and wine bars with live music. Chip Bee Gardens is a private estate bordered by cafes and restaurants.
Situated close to the Orchard, Downtown and Dempsey areas, Holland Village offers varied housing options including condominiums, bungalows and terraced houses.
Tanjong Pagar
Located downtown, Tanjong Pagar is a great option if you’re commuting to the Central Business District (CBD) for work, which is just a 10-minute cab ride or one MRT stop away.
This neighbourhood is known as a foodie paradise. Tanjong Pagar, one of the four districts that make up Chinatown, is home to many hawker centres like Maxwell Food Centre and world-class restaurants. Many restaurants have been ranked in international best-of lists. These include Jigger & Pony, located at the Amara Hotel, No Sleep Club, on Keong Saik Road and Tippling Club, on Tanjong Pagar Road.
The area has also undergone significant redevelopment, and most condominiums come with pools, gym facilities and views of the skyline. If you’re interested in more unique accommodation, here’s also where you’ll find 18th-century shophouses available for rent.
Katong
Steeped in Peranakan and Eurasian heritage, Katong is a district that’s full of character. Joo Chiat Road is lined with cafes and trendy shops that make this area a popular hangout at weekends. It also has bars and restaurants for a fun evening out. Housing is available to suit different needs. From terraced houses to high-rise apartment with an ocean view, there are many options.
Tiong Bahru
Tiong Bahru, with its Art Deco walkup apartments dating back to 1930s is one of Singapore’s oldest housing estates. This hipster area is characterized by heritage hawkers and chic cafes. It also has stylish boutiques as well as a juxtaposition of low-rise historic apartments with condominiums.
If you know how to look, there are many hidden gems in the area. For instance, contemporary yakitori joint Bincho is concealed within a heritage coffee shop; art residency studio and gallery Grey Projects may be found on the second storey of a shophouse; and a World War II air raid shelter opens to the public only for official guided tours.
River Valley/ Orchard
Welcome to the Singapore’s flashiest and most fashionable neighbourhood. You can live your Crazy Rich Asians dream here, as you have a wide range of upscale retail and dining options right on your doorstep.
River Valley is a wealthy area dominated by luxury condominiums. The Orchard district borders it to the north. To the south is Robertson Quay, by the Singapore River, which offers a classy array of dining options and is especially lively at night.
The conclusion of the article is:
The right neighborhood can make a big difference in your quality of living. Explore these family-friendly neighbourhoods in Singapore to find your perfect home, a place of laughter, love, and lasting memories. From top-rated schools to family-friendly amenities, these neighborhoods have everything you need to create a happy and fulfilling family life. So, why wait? Start your search for the perfect family-friendly neighborhood today and make your home where the heart truly is.
