Expat Communities in Singapore — Where International

Singapore has one of the highest proportions of foreign-born residents in Asia, with established communities from across South and East Asia, Europe, North America and Australia. Housing is divided between HDB public flats (where most Singaporeans live, but generally not foreigners), private condominiums (where most expat tenancies sit) and landed property (rare and expensive). This guide walks through the districts where international residents most often settle, with honest notes on rent, schools and commute.

Holland Village, Bukit Timah & Tanglin

Long-established expat family belt. Popular with British, Australian, American, European and Indian families, anchored by several international schools (Tanglin Trust, Singapore American School not far away, Dover Court, etc.). Mix of condominiums and landed homes, leafy streets, premium pricing.

Orchard, River Valley & Robertson Quay

Central districts close to Orchard Road shopping and the CBD. Popular with professionals — singles, couples and families — wanting walkable city living and short commutes. Mostly high-rise condominiums, premium pricing, well-served by MRT.

East Coast — Katong, Joo Chiat & Marine Parade

Eastern coastal districts popular with Eurasian, Peranakan and a growing international community drawn by lower rents (relative to central), beach access via East Coast Park, food culture and the upcoming Thomson-East Coast Line. Mix of older condos, newer developments and conservation shophouses.

Sentosa Cove

Waterfront villa and condo enclave on Sentosa Island. Premium pricing, popular with senior executives and families wanting a resort-style environment. Quieter, more isolated, school commutes can be long.

Novena, Newton & Bukit Timah Road corridor

Central residential corridor north of Orchard. Popular with corporate professionals and families wanting central condo living with reasonable proximity to schools. Strong MRT access, mix of older and newer condominium developments.

Choosing the right neighbourhood

Three things drive housing choice in Singapore for newcomers: school location (international school waiting lists are real and decide many decisions), MRT access for the working spouse, and budget. Most foreigners rent rather than buy. Visit in person, ask about lift wait times, swimming pool maintenance, sun orientation and bus stop proximity before signing.

Plan your move to Singapore

Read the Singapore guide and request a realistic relocation quote before flying in for a look-see.

Open the Singapore Country Guide

Frequently asked questions

Where do most British expats live in Singapore?

Common choices include the Holland Village / Bukit Timah / Tanglin family belt (especially around Tanglin Trust School and Dover Court), the East Coast (Katong, Joo Chiat) and central condos in River Valley, Orchard and Newton for younger professionals.

Where do Indian and Asian expat families settle?

Indian families are spread across many neighbourhoods, often clustered around schools (NPS, GIIS, DPS). Japanese and Korean families have their own school networks and often cluster around West Coast (Clementi, West Coast Road area) and parts of Bukit Timah and Tanglin.

Do I need a car in Singapore?

Most international residents do not own a car — the MRT is excellent, taxis and ride-hailing are abundant, and Certificate of Entitlement (COE) costs make car ownership very expensive. Some families with multiple school runs in different districts do choose to own a car or use a regular driver.

How do school waiting lists work?

Many international schools have waiting lists. Apply to multiple schools 6–12 months in advance, then choose housing within a sensible commute or near the school's bus route. Confirm fees, term dates and waiting-list dynamics directly with each school.

How do I meet other expats in Singapore?

Through international schools, professional networks (chambers of commerce by country), sports clubs (rugby, cricket, hash house harriers, etc.), faith communities, language and cultural associations and online forums — including The Expats Hub.

Related guides

This guide is general information for planning purposes only. Visa, customs, tax, school admissions and shipping rules change. Always confirm requirements with the relevant government authority, school or licensed advisor before making decisions.