Should Malaysians Work in Singapore in 2025? Pay, Tax & Lifestyle Comparison

Disclaimer: All salary figures, cost-of-living estimates, and currency conversions in this article are provided as general examples for educational purposes only. Actual figures vary by employer, industry, experience level, and economic conditions. This article does not constitute financial, career, or investment advice.

Introduction

Every year, many Malaysians explore job opportunities across the Causeway. In 2025, topics such as wages, exchange rates, rising living costs, and career advancement continue to influence career decisions. Singapore remains a major regional hub for engineering, healthcare, logistics, finance, IT, and F&B roles.

This article provides a neutral comparison to help readers understand the differences in income, expenses, and lifestyle when evaluating potential work opportunities in Singapore.

1. Salary Comparison (Example Ranges)

Salary ranges below are example estimates based on typical market observations and publicly available data. Actual earnings vary significantly by company, role, and qualifications.

Job Category (Example)	Malaysia Salary (RM, Example)	Singapore Salary (SGD, Example)	Converted to RM (SGD × 3.2, Example)
Fresh Graduate	RM2,800 – RM3,500	SGD 3,200 – 4,000	RM8,960 – RM11,200
Engineer (3–5 yrs)	RM5,000 – RM7,000	SGD 4,500 – 6,000	RM16,000 – RM22,400
Technician	RM2,000 – RM3,000	SGD 2,200 – 3,000	RM6,400 – RM9,600
IT / Software	RM6,000 – RM10,000	SGD 6,000 – 9,000	RM19,200 – RM32,000
Nurse	RM3,000 – RM5,000	SGD 3,500 – 5,500	RM9,600 – RM16,000

Overall, salaries in Singapore tend to be higher when converted into ringgit. However, the actual benefit depends on each individual's living situation, expenses, and lifestyle choices.

2. Tax Comparison: Malaysia vs. Singapore

Tax structures in both countries are progressive, but the applicable rate depends on income brackets and tax residency status.

Annual Income (SGD, Example)	Singapore Tax Rate (Approx., Example)
First SGD 30,000	0%–2%
SGD 40,000–80,000	3.5%–7%
SGD 80,000–120,000	~11.5%

3. Cost of Living Comparison (Example)

Cost estimates represent general examples. Actual expenses vary by location, lifestyle, commuting distance, and accommodation choice.

A. Accommodation

Option	Singapore Cost (Example)	Malaysia Cost (Example)	Notes
Rent a room (HDB)	SGD 650–1,200	RM400–800	Often the largest expense in Singapore
Rent whole unit	SGD 2,800–3,800	RM1,200–2,000	Usually shared in SG to reduce cost
Johor commute	—	RM700–1,200 + transport	Lower rent, longer travel time

B. Food

Item	Singapore Price (Example)	Malaysia Price (Example)
Hawker meal	SGD 4–7	RM7–15
Restaurant meal	SGD 15–25	RM20–40
Coffee/tea	SGD 1.50–3	RM2–5

C. Transport

Singapore has extensive MRT and bus networks, while Malaysia relies more heavily on private vehicles.

D. Healthcare

Healthcare quality is high in Singapore but can be costlier for non-citizens. Many Malaysians continue to seek treatment in Malaysia.

4. Work Culture Differences

Singapore: structured, performance-driven, competitive.
Malaysia: more varied by industry, potentially offering more balance.

5. Lifestyle Considerations

Singapore benefits: strong public transport, safety, and infrastructure.
Challenges: higher cost of living, limited living space.

Malaysia benefits: lower living costs, larger housing, family proximity.
Challenges: traffic and slower progression in some sectors.

6. Exchange Rate Impact

The SGD commonly maintains a stronger position against the RM, which may influence savings for those converting earnings into ringgit.

7. Savings Scenarios (Examples)

These scenarios are simplified examples for illustration. Actual savings depend on spending habits and individual choices.

• Scenario A — Working in Malaysia (Example): Salary RM4,500 → savings RM600–1,200/month depending on expenses.
• Scenario B — Working in Singapore, living in SG (Example): Savings vary widely depending on rental and lifestyle choices.
• Scenario C — Working in SG, living in Johor (Example): Savings may be higher due to lower accommodation costs but require longer travel time.

8. Career Development

Singapore may provide broader international exposure, while Malaysia may offer familiarity and potentially more balanced lifestyle options depending on the sector.

9. Visa & Residency

Eligibility for Employment Pass (EP), S Pass, and Permanent Residency (PR) depends on government criteria. Readers should always refer to official sources.

10. Suitability

Working in Singapore may suit individuals seeking specific industry exposure or opportunities, while others may prioritize Malaysian lifestyle advantages. The suitability varies by personal goals.

11. Practical Considerations

• Estimate living expenses and compare multiple options.
• Assess transport and accommodation arrangements early.
• Understand visa requirements and renewal conditions.
• Build a financial buffer before relocating.
• Keep updated with tax rules in both countries.

12. Conclusion

Whether working in Singapore in 2025 is the right choice depends on personal priorities, financial goals, and career direction. This comparison provides an overview to help individuals make informed decisions based on their own circumstances.

Final Disclaimer (SC-Compliant): This article is intended for general information and educational purposes only. It is not financial, investment, or employment advice.