What neighbourhood is right for you?
We’ve got all the information you need to decide where you want to live in Singapore.
Singapore is an island state that’s known for its high-quality infrastructure, safety, and delicious food. Singapore’s central location in Southeast Asia means it is a place of history, culture and art.
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. You can take your family and pets for a stroll, a bike ride or ice skating in the verdant parks of Marsiling Park. Admiralty Park is also nearby.
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.
You’ll also find a variety of affordable landed houses, which have gardens, as an alternative to flats. Families with pets and/or children may prefer the extra space to living in an apartment.
Tanglin
Tanglin offers low-rise condos and houses with gardens that are perfect for families. The neighbourhood, located between Holland Village, Orchard and the prime shopping belt of Singapore, Orchard Road is just minutes away. Tanglin Trust School is a British International School located in this neighbourhood.
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. Tanglin includes Dempsey Hills, an ex-army barracks that has been transformed into a dining enclave. Parking is free, which is a rarity 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, a charming area, is organised around a cluster of dining establishments including Italian restaurants and the Chomp Chomp Hawker Centre.
Read more about: The Chuan Park at Lorong Chuan
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 trails in Bukit Timah and climb Singapore’s highest peak. Or, take up horseriding, located on the site of the former racecourse, at horsecity.
It is also worth visiting the recently restored colonial era Bukit Timah Railway Station. The 24km Railway Corridor is a popular hiking and cycling route. There are also several Singaporean top schools in the area, including Chatsworth International School and Swiss School Singapore.
Bedok
Bedok is another neighbourhood that’s popular with nature lovers. It stretches from Bedok Reservoir to East Coast Park. 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 is home to a variety of amenities, including a dog park, an adventure playground and areas for kite-flying, waterfront cycling and archery. To the west, there are more natural areas to explore including the Chinese and Japanese Gardens as well as the Pandan Reservoir and Jurong Eco Garden.
Holland Village
Holland Village, founded in the early 20th Century by the Dutch community of Singapore, has grown into a vibrant hub for great food and 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.
Holland Village is located near the Orchard area, Downtown, and Dempsey. It offers a variety of housing options, including bungalows, condominiums, and terraced homes.
Tanjong Pagar
Tanjong Pagar, located downtown, is an excellent option for commuters to the Central Business District. The CBD is only a 10-minute taxi ride away or one MRT station.
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.
This area has undergone a significant amount of redevelopment. Most condominiums have pools, gyms, and panoramic views. You can also rent 18th-century shops if you want a more unique experience.
Katong
Katong, a district with a rich Peranakan heritage and Eurasian culture, is full of personality. 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. The contemporary yakitori joint Bincho can be found in a heritage café. An art residency studio and gallery Grey Projects can be found on the 2nd floor of a shophouse.
River Valley/ Orchard
Welcome to Singapore’s most flashy and 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. Robertson Quay is located south of the Singapore River and offers a variety of fine dining restaurants. It is particularly 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. These neighborhoods offer everything you need for a happy, fulfilling family life. They have top-rated schools and family-friendly amenities. Why wait? Begin your search today for the perfect neighborhood that is family-friendly and find your new home.