Singapore, with its unique blend of cultural values, high cost of living, and fast-paced urban lifestyle, presents a very distinctive landscape for young adults contemplating a move out of their family home. In many cultures, leaving home in your late teens or early twenties is common, even expected. In Singapore, however, this step often comes later—partly due to practical realities, and partly because of deep-rooted cultural traditions that value multi-generational living.
Still, more young Singaporeans are choosing to move out in their twenties—whether for independence, work convenience, or personal growth. This guide will walk you through the financial, logistical, emotional, and social aspects of making this move, ensuring you’re well prepared for independence and all the challenges that come with it.
The Financial Reality Check
Before you start scrolling through property listings or daydreaming about your new minimalist chic living room, you’ll need to confront the biggest factor in your decision: money.
Understanding Singapore’s cost of living
Singapore consistently ranks among the most expensive cities in the world. Housing costs are a major contributor, and moving out means you’ll be taking on an entirely new set of expenses.
Building a realistic budget
Before you even start house-hunting, sit down with your numbers. Calculate your monthly income after CPF deductions, and list your essential expenses—transportation, food, insurance, phone bills, and any existing debt repayments. The amount you’re left with will set the upper limit for your rent.
As a rule of thumb, financial planners suggest keeping rent to no more than 30% of your take-home pay. In Singapore’s market, that’s easier said than done, but it’s a good guideline to prevent being “house poor” (spending so much on rent that you can barely afford anything else).
Rental vs. purchase
In your 20s, unless you’ve met the requirements for an HDB BTO or resale flat (which generally requires being 35 for singles, unless you’re married), renting will likely be your main option. The rental market is diverse—ranging from a shared room in a mature HDB estate to an entire condominium unit in the city centre. Be prepared for substantial differences in price depending on property type, location, and size.
Hidden costs you might forget
Rent isn’t the only cost to plan for. There’s a slew of additional expenses you’ll need to budget for:
- Utilities – Electricity, water, and gas can cost anywhere from $100 to $300 a month, depending on usage and air-con habits.
- Internet and mobile – Expect to pay $40–$70 monthly for broadband.
- Conservancy charges – For HDB rentals, these fees (often $20–$90) are typically borne by the tenant if specified in the lease.
- Initial set-up – Furniture, appliances, cooking equipment, cleaning supplies, and even things like curtains and storage boxes add up quickly.
- One-off moving costs – Whether you hire movers or rent a van, moving isn’t free.
Accounting for these early ensures you won’t get caught off guard when bills start arriving.
The Search for a Place
Once your budget is clear, the real hunt begins.
Choosing the right location
Where you live affects your commute, social life, and even your mental health. Consider:
- Proximity to work or school – A shorter commute saves time and money.
- Access to amenities – Supermarkets, hawker centres, gyms, and parks can greatly improve your day-to-day life.
- Public transport links – Singapore’s MRT and bus network is excellent, but being too far from a station can be inconvenient.
Many young renters choose neighbourhoods like Tiong Bahru, Queenstown, and Toa Payoh for their balance of accessibility and amenities, while others opt for more affordable outer areas like Yishun or Jurong.
Deciding on flatmates
Living alone offers maximum privacy but comes at a high cost. Flat-sharing reduces expenses and can be a great way to meet new people—but it also means compromise. You’ll need to align on house rules, cleaning schedules, and bill-splitting arrangements.
If you’re moving in with friends, be aware that friendships can be tested by the realities of shared living—differences in cleanliness standards, sleeping patterns, and lifestyle habits can create tension.
Navigating lease agreements
Before signing anything, read your tenancy agreement carefully:
- Lease duration – Most leases in Singapore run for 12–24 months. Shorter leases are possible but often more expensive.
- Security deposit – Usually one month’s rent for a one-year lease, two months for two years.
- Early termination clauses – Some leases allow early exit with notice and a penalty; others do not.
- Furnished vs. unfurnished – Understand what’s included to avoid buying unnecessary items.
Take photos of the property before moving in to document its condition—this protects you from unfair deductions from your deposit later.
The Emotional and Social Aspect
While most people focus on the financial and practical side, moving out in Singapore also carries emotional weight—especially given our strong family-oriented culture.
The family dynamic
In many Singaporean families, children live at home until marriage, and moving out while single can be seen as unusual. Your decision might be met with questions or even resistance from your parents. Have an open, honest conversation about your reasons—whether it’s for shorter commutes, personal growth, or simply wanting your own space.
Reassure them that moving out doesn’t mean you’re abandoning them. Regular visits, shared meals, and phone calls can help maintain close ties.
Adjusting to independence
Living on your own means being fully responsible for your life—cooking, cleaning, laundry, paying bills, and handling repairs. At first, it can be overwhelming, but with time it becomes second nature. Many young Singaporeans find that this newfound responsibility builds resilience and self-confidence.
Managing loneliness and social shifts
Independence also changes your social patterns. You may have more freedom to host friends or pursue hobbies, but you might also feel lonely at times, especially if you’re used to a bustling family home.
Building a support network is crucial—join interest groups, take up community activities, or simply schedule regular meet-ups with friends and family.
Practical Skills You’ll Need
Beyond money and emotions, there’s a set of practical skills that will make your transition far smoother.
- Cooking basic meals – Relying solely on takeaway or dining out can quickly drain your budget and affect your health.
- Basic home maintenance – Knowing how to change a lightbulb, unclog a sink, or operate a circuit breaker will save time and money.
- Time management – Juggling work, chores, and social life requires discipline.
- Financial tracking – Keeping a record of your spending ensures you stay within budget and can adjust when needed.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Moving out in your twenties can be both liberating and challenging.
Advantages:
- Greater independence and privacy
- Personal growth and life skills
- Closer proximity to work or school
- Opportunity to create a space that reflects your personality
Challenges:
- Significant increase in monthly expenses
- Possible tension with family members
- Responsibility for all household management
- Potential loneliness
The key is to ensure the benefits outweigh the drawbacks for your personal situation.
Making the Transition Smoothly
When you’ve decided to take the plunge, plan your move strategically:
- Start small – Don’t feel the need to buy everything at once. Essentials first, extras later.
- Stagger your purchases – Spread out the cost of furniture and appliances.
- Keep a moving checklist – Include administrative tasks like updating your address for bank accounts and insurance.
- Have an emergency fund – At least three months’ worth of expenses to cushion against unexpected costs or income disruptions.
Conclusion: A Milestone Worth Embracing
Moving out from your parents’ home in your 20s is one of the most defining experiences of adulthood. In Singapore, where it’s less common to do so before marriage, it’s a decision that requires courage, planning, and a healthy dose of practicality.
You’ll face new responsibilities, from paying bills on time to making your own dinner after a long day. You’ll also enjoy the freedom to set your own rules, decorate your own space, and shape a life that’s truly yours.
While the road to independence is not without its bumps, the skills, confidence, and self-reliance you gain are invaluable. With thoughtful preparation—financial, emotional, and practical—you can make the transition smoothly and set yourself up for a fulfilling new chapter of life.
