Singapore Tops Asia-Pacific Rankings: What It Means for Filipino Digital Nomads

Singapore has once again proven its dominance as the Asia-Pacific region's most liveable, loveable, and prosperous city. In a recent study, it topped the list based on factors such as quality of life, economic opportunities, and sustainability.

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For digital nomads, this is even more reason to consider Singapore as a base for remote work. With its thriving economy, multicultural environment, and efficient infrastructure, the Lion City is a top-tier destination for those seeking a seamless blend of work and lifestyle.

Also read: Navigating Singapore Like a Local: The Ultimate Transportation Guide

Singapore: The best city in Asia-Pacific

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A study by Resonance and Ipsos ranked over 140 cities in the Asia-Pacific region, with Singapore taking the top spot. It excelled in three key categories: liveability, lovability, and prosperity. The country’s high GDP per capita, sustainable living initiatives, and dynamic retail and dining scenes played a major role in securing its position.

Tokyo came in second, followed by Seoul, Hong Kong, and Beijing in the top five. Singapore’s commitment to urban greenery, economic stability, and world-class infrastructure solidified its reputation as the ultimate city to live, visit, and work in. The report also noted that over 30 percent of respondents ranked Singapore as their top choice for a residence, travel, and career opportunities.

Best neighbourhoods for digital nomads

Each area in Singapore has its own vibe, and choosing the right neighbourhood can significantly enhance your experience. Here are the top picks for digital nomads:

East Coast

Image credit: Chensiyuan via Wikimedia Commons

East Coast is perfect if you enjoy a more relaxed, outdoor lifestyle while staying connected to the city. This area is known for its beachfront parks, cycling paths, and a laid-back atmosphere. East Coast Park is a favourite among joggers, cyclists, and anyone looking to unwind by the sea.

Housing here is relatively more affordable compared to central areas, with a mix of older apartments and modern condos. The main downside is the lack of MRT stations, but taxis and buses make commuting manageable.

Little India & Farrer Park

Little India | Sengkang via Wikimedia Commons

For those who love culture, diversity, and affordability, Little India and Farrer Park offer a vibrant atmosphere. The area is rich in heritage, with colourful shophouses, busy street markets, and some of the best Indian, Malay, and Chinese cuisines in Singapore.

Rent here is more budget-friendly compared to the city centre, and the area is well-connected with MRT stations. There are also plenty of co-working spaces and laptop-friendly cafés, making it a great spot for remote workers.

Tiong Bahru

Tiong Bahru | Cattan2011 via Flickr

Tiong Bahru is a charming mix of old and new. Known for its heritage Art Deco architecture, this neighbourhood has become a trendy hotspot for digital nomads and expats. It boasts stylish cafés, boutique shops, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it easy to blend work and leisure.

Cafés like Forty Hands and Tiong Bahru Bakery are popular with remote workers looking for a cosy workspace. While housing prices here are on the higher side, the central location and community feel make it a great choice.

Buona Vista

Buona Vista MRT Interchange | Choo Yut Shing via Flickr

For tech entrepreneurs and professionals, Buona Vista is an exciting hub. This neighbourhood is home to major research centres, the National University of Singapore (NUS), and tech giants like Google and Grab.

It offers a mix of student-friendly accommodations and high-end condos. Nearby, Holland Village provides a social and dining hub with international restaurants, bars, and cafés. With excellent MRT connections, it is easy to commute to other parts of the city.

Cost of living

Living in Singapore as a digital nomad requires careful budgeting. Your biggest expense will likely be accommodation. Rental prices vary depending on the neighbourhood and type of housing, with shared apartments and co-living spaces being more affordable options.

Here’s a rough breakdown of expected monthly expenses:

• Accommodation: SGD 1,500 – 3,000 (PHP 62,000 – 124,000)

• Coworking Space / Cafés: SGD 300 – 600 (PHP 12,000 – 25,000)

• Transportation: SGD 100 – 150 (PHP 4,000 – 6,000)

• Food: SGD 800 – 1,500 (PHP 33,000 – 62,000)

• Leisure & Entertainment: SGD 300 – 700 (PHP 12,000 – 29,000)

Hawker centres are your best bet for affordable meals, with local dishes costing around SGD 5 – 8 (PHP 200 – 330). Dining at mid-range restaurants or indulging in Singapore’s nightlife will quickly add up.

Work & connectivity

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Singapore offers excellent internet connectivity, with public Wi-Fi available in major areas. Many coworking spaces, such as WeWork, The Working Capitol, and The Hive, cater to remote professionals with flexible membership options. Digital banking and cashless payments make transactions seamless, adding to the convenience of working remotely in the city.

Also read: 10 Romantic Hotels in Singapore for the Ultimate Couple’s Getaway

Final thoughts

Singapore’s reputation as the most liveable city in Asia-Pacific aligns perfectly with its appeal as a digital nomad hub. It combines economic opportunity, modern infrastructure, and a high quality of life, making it an excellent destination for Filipinos looking to work remotely while enjoying a dynamic urban lifestyle.

While the cost of living is high, the benefits of working in a safe, efficient, and globally connected city outweigh the expenses. If you are a digital nomad seeking an exciting, well-connected, and culturally diverse environment, Singapore should be at the top of your list.