Relocating to Singapore: A Guide for Hong Kong Expats in 2026

Relocating to Singapore: A Guide for Hong Kong Expats in 2026

Singapore and Hong Kong share many similarities, and relocating from one to the other is an exciting move for many expats looking for a fresh start without losing the comforts of city living.

Singapore offers a familiar pace with its efficient transport, strong financial sector, and global outlook, but with a more structured and predictable environment. From clean streets and green spaces to a stable political landscape, it is a place that feels both dynamic and reassuring, especially for professionals and families planning their next chapter.

That said, moving cities always comes with practical questions. Housing, schooling, lifestyle changes, and understanding local rules can feel overwhelming at first.

In this blog post, we’ll look at why Singapore appeals to Hong Kong expats, help you navigate the transition smoothly, and share a few tips on arranging your housing.

Whether you are relocating for work, family, or long-term security, knowing what to expect makes all the difference when turning a move into a confident, well-planned decision.

Why Singapore Appeals to Hong Kong Expats

Singapore has become an increasingly popular choice for Hong Kong expats. Both cities offer compact, fast-paced, and highly efficient lifestyles, but many expats find Singapore pulls ahead when it comes to work-life balance.

Lower pollution is a big draw, too. Singapore’s air quality index averages around 30, compared to about 50 in Hong Kong, which makes a noticeable difference to day-to-day living. Add to that the fact that nearly 47 percent of Singapore is covered in parks and green spaces, and the city simply feels more breathable and family-friendly.

Practical considerations also play a role. Direct flights between Singapore and Hong Kong take just four hours, making it easy to visit family or stay connected to home. On the work front, visa pathways are relatively straightforward.

The Employment Pass is well-suited to professionals, with approval rates around 85 percent for skilled workers in sectors like tech and finance. That level of clarity offers reassurance when planning a long-term move.

Cultural familiarity helps ease the transition. English is widely spoken, Cantonese is commonly heard, and dim sum options rival those back in Hong Kong. Events like the Singapore Food Festival echo the buzz of Lan Kwai Fong.

Lastly, surveys show about 65 percent of relocating Hong Kong expats cite stability as a key reason for choosing Singapore, especially after the uncertainties of recent years.

Expat Lifestyle and Community

Singapore’s expat lifestyle feels instantly familiar to many Hong Kong movers, thanks to a strong network of clubs, associations, and social groups that make settling in much easier.

It is simple to find professional networks, hobby-based communities, and family-friendly circles that mirror the social scene back home. Daily life also offers plenty of variety. Orchard Road delivers the same kind of shopping buzz Hong Kong is known for, while places like Sentosa add something different with relaxed beach escapes that Hong Kong might lack.

For families, education and healthcare are major positives, and Singapore is excellent on both fronts. International schools such as Canadian International School offer IB programmes with foreign language options, which helps children transition smoothly while staying connected to their roots.

Healthcare is another key selling point. According to Mercer reports, medical costs in Singapore are around 20 percent lower than Hong Kong’s private sector, yet standards remain consistently high.

Getting around is easy, too. Public transport efficiency rivals the MTR, but Singapore also pushes greener initiatives like bicycles, hiking trails, and cleaner urban planning.

Safety is often what seals the deal for families. Crime rates are roughly half those of Hong Kong, creating a secure environment where kids can grow up with greater independence. Overall, Singapore delivers a well-balanced expat lifestyle that feels both familiar and refreshingly different.

Singapore's Real Estate Landscape

Singapore’s real estate landscape continues to stand out as a safe and steady option, especially when compared to the volatility many buyers have seen in Hong Kong. While Hong Kong’s property prices stayed mostly flat, Singapore recorded around 7 percent price growth in 2025, driven by strong local and expat demand.

Rental performance is another highlight. Yields typically sit between 3 and 4 percent, making property ownership appealing for those looking to generate consistent passive income rather than short-term gains.

For foreign buyers, the rules are something to factor in. The 60 percent Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty can look steep at first, although certain visa holders may qualify for exemptions. Despite this, interest remains strong, largely because the fundamentals are so clear and predictable.

Many expats are particularly drawn to East Coast precincts, which offer waterfront living similar to Repulse Bay, but with far better connectivity and everyday convenience.

The expansion of the Thomson East Coast MRT line has been a real boon to the area, cutting commute times to the CBD to as little as 15 minutes. Looking ahead, data from Knight Frank points to projected annual price growth of 6 to 9 percent in these areas through 2030.

For buyers prioritising stability, lifestyle, and long-term appreciation, Singapore’s property market remains hard to ignore.

Emerging Neighbourhoods: Spotlight on Bayshore

Bayshore is quickly emerging as one of Singapore’s most exciting neighbourhoods, especially for expats and investors looking ahead. Once a quieter stretch of the East Coast, the area is being reshaped by new infrastructure and thoughtful urban planning.

The relatively new Bayshore MRT station on the Thomson East Coast Line is a major draw, offering fast and direct access to the CBD while keeping the relaxed coastal atmosphere intact.

What makes Bayshore so popular is its location on the East Coast, surrounded by lush greenery and parks, along with nearby malls, schools, and dining options. It feels similar to waterfront suburbs back home, but with Singapore’s signature efficiency layered in.

For those seeking long-term liveability with strong growth potential, Bayshore is fast becoming a neighbourhood to watch.

One exciting new development is Vela Bay, an upcoming condo in the Bayshore Road area. This leasehold project boasts spacious units, pools, and gyms, ideal for families transitioning from Hong Kong apartments. Its location near the MRT ensures convenience, while views evoke harborfront luxury. Come tour the Vela Bay showflat and see for yourself!

Practicial Steps for Relocation and Investment

When it comes to practical steps for relocation and investment, starting with a reconnaissance trip is always a good choice. Singapore’s 30-day visa-free entry for Hong Kong passport holders makes this easy, giving you time to explore neighbourhoods, view properties, and get a real feel for daily life.

Many expats also work with agents experienced in cross-border moves, and virtual viewings are now common, which helps narrow options before committing. On the financing side, local banks such as DBS offer home loans at around 2 to 3 percent, noticeably lower than typical Hong Kong rates of about 4 percent.

Currency considerations matter too. Some buyers choose to hedge their exposure, especially since the Singapore dollar strengthened roughly 5 percent against the Hong Kong dollar in 2025. For those who prefer a lighter entry, REITs provide a way to test the market without full ownership.

Compared to Hong Kong’s higher transaction costs, Singapore tends to favour buy-and-hold strategies, made even more attractive by the absence of inheritance tax.

There are lifestyle adjustments to consider. The humidity can take time to get used to, but air-conditioned homes make it manageable. Overall, surveys show about 70 percent of Hong Kong expats report higher satisfaction after relocating.

For those craving change without losing familiarity, Singapore offers upgraded living and solid long-term investment potential

Conclusion

Ready for a move? From a robust property market to strong lifestyle and community support, the transition from Hong Kong to Singapore is often thought of as effortless and rewarding.

Practical policies, competitive financing, and long-term investment appeal make planning both a home and a future more straightforward. While there are adjustments along the way, most find that the benefits quickly outweigh the challenges.

Good luck, and all the best in your new life!