Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Is the cost of living in Singapore too high?
Is the cost of living in Singapore too high? Are we paying too much to afford a good standard of living? Discuss your views here.
# posted by Sulaiman @ 3:45 AM 
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Erm... i think, the cost of living in s'pore is quite high. BUT, it's reasonable. s'pore is very small and has limited land. Like wat IFFAH said, a 4-room flat in s'pore is equivalent to a bungalow in malaysia.
Cost of living too high, got pros and cons lah. The most important con is that: PEOPLE PREFER TO BUY THING IN MALAYSIA AS THEY ARE MUCH MORE CHEAPER OVER THERE...
Er... actually hor, if the cost of living never increase then the development of the country will thus be seen as "NOT PROGRESSING". RIGHT???
well i think tt the cost of living though quite high is rather manageable...like the others have said the cost of living increases as the country progresses...like in teh NE quiz where when we cross into a new era the cost of building buildings becomes much higher...so i tink tt when the cost of living increases it is actually a gd sign as it means tt the country is improving n progressing instead of staying as it is...so all of us shld not see the increase in a bad light but rather with a little smile as it ensures us tt we r not a stationary country..
something to ponder about - the low income people in Singapore. Is the cost of living affordable for these low income families?
Generally Singapore have a higher cost of living, but certain people would felt the pressure of the higher cost of living stronger than others. These people are usually those who live in larger houses and those who have cars. In Singapore, larger houses mean higher electric/water/miscellaneous bills (bcos the rate is higher for larger houses). Having a car in Singapore is real expensive; you have to pay all kinds of taxes, and road fees when driving your car from sub-urban areas to city areas. Which means, taking a taxi every day is even much cheaper than owning a car.
However people who does not own large houses or cars can also feel the pressure of a higher living cost in Singapore. Buying a four-room-flat in Singapore is equivalent to buying a Terrence house in Malaysia, or a bungalow in china. If you buy the same daily necessities or groceries in both Malaysia and Singapore, you will find that the cost of these items in Malaysia is much cheaper than in Singapore. However, living in countries which have lower cost of living is not always good. Take a look at china, you will always be hearing news of “evil” merchants making and selling goods which are harmful or even fatal to human lives. In Malaysia, you can be innocently walking along the roads, when suddenly a motorist can wheeze by and snatch away your handbag, sending you tumbling to the ground, seriously injured. The safe environment of Singapore cannot be compared to those of lower living cost.
However, the living cost of Singapore when compared to countries like America or Japan, it is actually lower. An apple in America can be twice the price of an apple in Singapore. In Japan, the cost of the public transport is MORE than three times the cost of public transport in Singapore.
Actually it is inevitable that the cost of living will rise as a country advances or become more high-tech. Take a look at shanghai (in china), the cost of living in shanghai has risen with the open of china to the outside world. Which means, the more a country advances the higher will be the cost of living.
Actually it is inevitable that the cost of living will rise as a country advances or become more high-tech. Take a look at shanghai (in china), the cost of living in shanghai has risen with the open of china to the outside world. Which means, the more a country advances the higher will be the cost of living.
Having said what I have said, my conclusion is the living cost in Singapore is actually quite average, not too high and not too low. ^_^
I agree to the idea that houses in Singapore are much more expensive, and that it is because of limited lands in Singapore. As lands are limited, it became precious, expensive.
I also agree with yia jia that COE are expensive, but it is not because Singapore wanted to promote public transport, this is the least impt reason. The main motive was because roads are limited(as lands are limited), thus the roads cannot hold too many cars at a time, it might also cause congestion. Another reason is that Singapore wants to reduce the omission of harmful gases.
I also agree with yia jia that COE are expensive, but it is not because Singapore wanted to promote public transport, this is the least impt reason. The main motive was because roads are limited(as lands are limited), thus the roads cannot hold too many cars at a time, it might also cause congestion. Another reason is that Singapore wants to reduce the omission of harmful gases.
i read a few posts which say that the governemtn gives tax reliefs as it is very kinds to us..personally i do not think so...
the govt. has given tax reliefs or rebates as they want to cushion the impact of the too high cost of living in sg
it is obvious from the recent Progress Package, where a majority of the people who received it as reported in the papers, used the money to pay the bills. of course there are exceptional cases...but how many are there ?
obvious the cost of living is too high.
the govt. has given tax reliefs or rebates as they want to cushion the impact of the too high cost of living in sg
it is obvious from the recent Progress Package, where a majority of the people who received it as reported in the papers, used the money to pay the bills. of course there are exceptional cases...but how many are there ?
obvious the cost of living is too high.
The average person income in 2005 was roughly $3500 according to SingSTAT.
Considering that there is one breadwinner in the family of four. there will not be enough money left over to save, if we compare the income to the national average of expenditure of all households in 2003 as $3200. this is furthermore foregoing the more desirable wants of people.
hence from this statistics, it can be concluded that the cost of living in sg is too high.
Considering that there is one breadwinner in the family of four. there will not be enough money left over to save, if we compare the income to the national average of expenditure of all households in 2003 as $3200. this is furthermore foregoing the more desirable wants of people.
hence from this statistics, it can be concluded that the cost of living in sg is too high.
Just a thought - if the cost of living is so high - why then many Singaporeans (almost all) are owning luxury items like handphones? How about cars? Are these additional income brought upon us or we imposed on ourselves? Having said that, sometimes cars for example might become a necessity because of the nature of the job like sales.
#Is the cost of living affordable for these low income families?#
ERM...I think, the cost of living for low income families would be affordable IF they plan their finances well. Oh, that’s for families with income of maybe, at most $1000, for a family of at most 4 members? I think they are able to survive.
ERM...I think, the cost of living for low income families would be affordable IF they plan their finances well. Oh, that’s for families with income of maybe, at most $1000, for a family of at most 4 members? I think they are able to survive.
BUT, for families which has 4 members and less than $1000 for family income, i think it's very hard for them to survive.
%Aiya%, actually i think if the families which know they can't afford to survive as well as the "okay okay" families, they should find out a way to solve the problem.And, yes the govn can intervene to help, they're always welcome wat.
@MAYBE@, the lower income families can either: %SCRIMP AND SAVE% or
*GET MORE JOBS* or, the best, ^SIT AT HOME AND SHAKE LEG^,wait for the govn to give u $$.
BUT, i've to say, the last solution won't get them anywhere.
*GET MORE JOBS* or, the best, ^SIT AT HOME AND SHAKE LEG^,wait for the govn to give u $$.
BUT, i've to say, the last solution won't get them anywhere.
I think the cause cost of living standard is high. This is due to the natural response of humans..NEVER SATISFIED...give them internet and they demand broadband...give them higher salary,say prices increase....so the desire of the people that lead the cause rising cost of living standard.
I think the cost of living in Singapore is acceptable
Most goods in Singapore are imported from other countries. Imported goods are usually more expensive, because of taxes imposed on these goods. This cause Singaporeans need to spend more money, leading high cost of living standard.
But, majority of the Singaporeans affordable to buy those goods
Most goods in Singapore are imported from other countries. Imported goods are usually more expensive, because of taxes imposed on these goods. This cause Singaporeans need to spend more money, leading high cost of living standard.
But, majority of the Singaporeans affordable to buy those goods
Singapore is a developing country thus it is natural to have a high living standard. If the cost of living standard is low how can Singapore progress and compete with other country. the cost of living goes along with the development of Singapore, so the cost of living s high.
I think that the cost of living in Singapore is acceptable.
It solely depend how much a person earn and the way they manage their money. Those who have a higher income will not think that the cost of living in Singapore is high, unless he overspent on all his 'wants'.
Those who have a lower income will still be able to continue their life if they know how to manage their money. Basic necessities are affordable to them, unless they yearn for more high-class items. E.g. he or she can afford to eat in a coffee shop, but instead, he or she eats in a high-class restaurant. This will not be considering a need but a want.
Thus, if one can manage their money well, the cost of living in Singapore is acceptable.
It solely depend how much a person earn and the way they manage their money. Those who have a higher income will not think that the cost of living in Singapore is high, unless he overspent on all his 'wants'.
Those who have a lower income will still be able to continue their life if they know how to manage their money. Basic necessities are affordable to them, unless they yearn for more high-class items. E.g. he or she can afford to eat in a coffee shop, but instead, he or she eats in a high-class restaurant. This will not be considering a need but a want.
Thus, if one can manage their money well, the cost of living in Singapore is acceptable.
After reading much of the comments about handphones, houses, salaries, I would want to make a stand that the cost of living in Singapore is NOT high at all.
Why do I say so? First and foremost I believe the governamnt is doing whatever it can to maintain th financial standards in Singapore. For example like what Justin said about the news of an increase in bonus for civil servants.
Why do I say so? First and foremost I believe the governamnt is doing whatever it can to maintain th financial standards in Singapore. For example like what Justin said about the news of an increase in bonus for civil servants.
# posted by 
: 3:13 AM
: 3:13 AM
Secondly, I would like to use a example to argue on the point that Singapore standards of living is too high. Why so?
If the people of a lower income range do not spluge, will they find that the standards of living is too high? Like buying phones like N70 and expensive luxury goods. Fine... they might say that the food in food courts are increasing in price.
But do we all know the fact that the environment is much better than the past where they used to sell food at a lower price? For instance, more food centres with air conditioning.
If the people of a lower income range do not spluge, will they find that the standards of living is too high? Like buying phones like N70 and expensive luxury goods. Fine... they might say that the food in food courts are increasing in price.
But do we all know the fact that the environment is much better than the past where they used to sell food at a lower price? For instance, more food centres with air conditioning.
# posted by : 3:20 AM
: 3:20 AM
And once more, the government is covering the extra spending that we citizens need to pay like the increase in pricing of food in food centres, through the increase in bonus.
# posted by : 3:23 AM
: 3:23 AM
For lower income group, they will definitely think the cost of living is high, as they could not buy things that would make them live a comfortable life. But think carefully, they still afford to pay for their basic needs like food. Eg one of my friend’s father only has a salary of $1500+ and mother $1500+. But they can survive in Singapore. Thus I think Singapore cost of living is ok.
personally i feel that the cost of living is very much dependent on the family income...like what jingmei said...
an example would be a standard family income of $2000 of 4 people. 2 parents and 2 children. school fees alone is very expensive if considering tertiary education. usually these families in these range do not qualify for the assistant schemes in school as their total income is not less than $1000-1500.
not forgetting that there are so many things to consider...rising gst from 3% to 5 %, transportation fees going up a few cents every now and then...is this not evidence of increasing prices...frankly i feel that the cost of living has certainly gone up and is too high for the lower income range of singaporeans.
an example would be a standard family income of $2000 of 4 people. 2 parents and 2 children. school fees alone is very expensive if considering tertiary education. usually these families in these range do not qualify for the assistant schemes in school as their total income is not less than $1000-1500.
not forgetting that there are so many things to consider...rising gst from 3% to 5 %, transportation fees going up a few cents every now and then...is this not evidence of increasing prices...frankly i feel that the cost of living has certainly gone up and is too high for the lower income range of singaporeans.
to my own opinion and have a few experiences...the lower income to average income families own credit cards for certain reasons...it may not mean everyone, but it is what i observed...
there are families in sg who sign up for credit card to pay for utility bills, the constant worry of insurance, and groceries... and these families do not even own a car...many end up with the limit maxed out on the card and interest being paid every month...if the cost of living was lower...i believe these families could make better use of money and not fall into the pitfall of credit cards...
there are families in sg who sign up for credit card to pay for utility bills, the constant worry of insurance, and groceries... and these families do not even own a car...many end up with the limit maxed out on the card and interest being paid every month...if the cost of living was lower...i believe these families could make better use of money and not fall into the pitfall of credit cards...
to all those who say that singaporeans want luxury goods hence they feel the pinch of the high cost of living...
i personally think that we as people are naturally influenced by what we see and hear...especially advertisements...there is no such thing as a person having absolute self control...perhaps a lot but never 100%...so is temptations not obvious...
it is also only natural that once in a while people purchase items beyond their capabilities...however, even so....if there was a lower cost of living, prices would be lower...and things would be cheaper..
of course it is all a vicious cycle where the employee would get affected by the employer...but for the lower income group...the cost of living is too high...
i personally think that we as people are naturally influenced by what we see and hear...especially advertisements...there is no such thing as a person having absolute self control...perhaps a lot but never 100%...so is temptations not obvious...
it is also only natural that once in a while people purchase items beyond their capabilities...however, even so....if there was a lower cost of living, prices would be lower...and things would be cheaper..
of course it is all a vicious cycle where the employee would get affected by the employer...but for the lower income group...the cost of living is too high...
lastly...i would like to counteract michel's recent post about the lower income groups restraining themselves...
we are always influenced by what we see and hear everytime, especially with our friends around us...some of us are more priviledge than the others...it is always easier for the higher end of the stick to say that self restrain must be done so cost of living is not high...however, it is only when one has experienced what it feels like to be constantly instigated and pushed forward that people of the lower income feel the pinch...to them the cost of living is too high...
the govt. has helped...but is it enough ?
we are always influenced by what we see and hear everytime, especially with our friends around us...some of us are more priviledge than the others...it is always easier for the higher end of the stick to say that self restrain must be done so cost of living is not high...however, it is only when one has experienced what it feels like to be constantly instigated and pushed forward that people of the lower income feel the pinch...to them the cost of living is too high...
the govt. has helped...but is it enough ?
i cant help it but michel's post has left a certain nagging in my head...
michel :
the govt. is only capable of giving bonuses to civil servants...but not to forget...that the employees of the private sector which make up a huge percentage of sg workforce, need to remain competitive hence the bonuses vary...furthermore, when bonuses are received...i believe many families who are enduring the high cost of living are paying the bills just to ensure their continual survival and pay for necessities in singapore...
michel :
the govt. is only capable of giving bonuses to civil servants...but not to forget...that the employees of the private sector which make up a huge percentage of sg workforce, need to remain competitive hence the bonuses vary...furthermore, when bonuses are received...i believe many families who are enduring the high cost of living are paying the bills just to ensure their continual survival and pay for necessities in singapore...
i agree that influence of the people play an important role as if one people with a lastest handphone N80 n u got an old one i sure that u will buy another one right this is like trend thus lead to increase of living standard (more newpoor)
i also agree that the influence of people play an important role for the high cost in singapore.if the lower income is able to 100% control all their wants,they should be able to just get on with life but no extra cash in hand.however,like what justin says there is no such thing as a person having absolute self control.thus they tend to overspent leading to increase new poor in singapore.
the increase of bus fare,to the higher income group,the small increse is nothing to them.however,to the lower income group,every cents count especially those who take public transport to work everyday.the small amount will accumulate to a hugh amount.
the increase of bus fare,to the higher income group,the small increse is nothing to them.however,to the lower income group,every cents count especially those who take public transport to work everyday.the small amount will accumulate to a hugh amount.
I would like to point out to leroy that although sg has a high percentage of people who save through their cpf...the money in there can only be used for specific reasons and mostly withdrawn only after their retire...so we cannot term this money saved to be effective in helping reducing the cost of living...
i would further like to point out to leroy about the use of credit cards...
although it may bring out the "new poor" in singapore, the use of credit cards is also used to pay utility bills, grocery bills, insurance etc. etc.
it is because of the high cost of living which when accumulated exceeds the average family income that people resort to such means...
obviously not everyone is affected, but it is always the lower end of the stick of singaporeans that naturally feel the pinch...
although it may bring out the "new poor" in singapore, the use of credit cards is also used to pay utility bills, grocery bills, insurance etc. etc.
it is because of the high cost of living which when accumulated exceeds the average family income that people resort to such means...
obviously not everyone is affected, but it is always the lower end of the stick of singaporeans that naturally feel the pinch...
ok leroy has made a substantial point..but i would like to point out a few things...
USA has a colossal population, therefore the proportion of lower income families there is higher as compared to singapore, hence USA cannot be compared...furthermore, the people in the USA have a welfare provided to them in terms of SOCIAL SECURITY..and this is no small sum, furthermore it is for each person and the cost prices there are lower for goods.
in singapore, it does not necessarily mean that when you dont see beggars on the street the cost of living is lower or even average...we MUST NOT FORGET about the LOWER INCOME FAMILIES. those that are living in public housing.
although there is government subsidies for people according to their assets, this therfore PROVES THE POINT that the cost of living in SINGAPORE IS TOO HIGH...
THE GOVT. IS HELPING REDUCE THE COST OF LIVING ! WHY ? BECAUSE IT IS TOO HIGH
USA has a colossal population, therefore the proportion of lower income families there is higher as compared to singapore, hence USA cannot be compared...furthermore, the people in the USA have a welfare provided to them in terms of SOCIAL SECURITY..and this is no small sum, furthermore it is for each person and the cost prices there are lower for goods.
in singapore, it does not necessarily mean that when you dont see beggars on the street the cost of living is lower or even average...we MUST NOT FORGET about the LOWER INCOME FAMILIES. those that are living in public housing.
although there is government subsidies for people according to their assets, this therfore PROVES THE POINT that the cost of living in SINGAPORE IS TOO HIGH...
THE GOVT. IS HELPING REDUCE THE COST OF LIVING ! WHY ? BECAUSE IT IS TOO HIGH
Regard of ee may qust-Any other countries in tis world ish developing wud...does tat mean tat onli those wid high living standard is developing??
it is true that every country is developing,BUT at a different rate so, it does not mean that only those with high living standard is developing but just at a faster rate and the way the government uses the money also affect the rate of developing.
it is true that every country is developing,BUT at a different rate so, it does not mean that only those with high living standard is developing but just at a faster rate and the way the government uses the money also affect the rate of developing.
I do not agree with rentro that if we don't mind using the stair we would be able to save the money. If there is no lift, do you expect those living at high level climbing the stairs? Even if the lift is not build on every level, it will not be convenience to the elderly. The elderly are the ones who really need the lift. Thus, having lift is not a want.
I disagree with rentro ----- if we don't mind using the stair we would be able to save the money and we will have to pay for the lift
Personally,I think having lift in every floor is a need n not a want . like cihui wat say, if u are a elderly, u definitely need a lift . if there is no lift , people might get into accidence like someone falling from the stairs.
Personally,I think having lift in every floor is a need n not a want . like cihui wat say, if u are a elderly, u definitely need a lift . if there is no lift , people might get into accidence like someone falling from the stairs.
comment to rentro about lifts payment...
the lifts provided in each of the HDB blocks are for the use of the residence, obviously they must be paid for in maintanance, hence about every month there is town council charges which include the removal of rubbish and payment for the lifts...
furthermore, the bills for each household is different according to the sizes, since those at the upper level make use of the lifts everyday...payment is defintely necessary, i am sure none of us who stay at the upper floors want to walk up the stairs with a 10kg bag of rice ?
the lifts provided in each of the HDB blocks are for the use of the residence, obviously they must be paid for in maintanance, hence about every month there is town council charges which include the removal of rubbish and payment for the lifts...
furthermore, the bills for each household is different according to the sizes, since those at the upper level make use of the lifts everyday...payment is defintely necessary, i am sure none of us who stay at the upper floors want to walk up the stairs with a 10kg bag of rice ?
i frankly do not see how the cost of living is directed to lifts...
the lifts business is a one off thing...sooner or later all estates would have them, with the help of the town council...only the maintanance would be included in the cost of living.
the lifts business is a one off thing...sooner or later all estates would have them, with the help of the town council...only the maintanance would be included in the cost of living.
adeline :
shouldnt the cost of living be decreased when the economy gets better. should not the government reduce the cost of living and not tax the citizens so much...
the money can come from other prospectives such as investments...
shouldnt the cost of living be decreased when the economy gets better. should not the government reduce the cost of living and not tax the citizens so much...
the money can come from other prospectives such as investments...
well..personally.. i think that the cost of living is sinigapore is acceptable... Thae fact that singapore's ecomomy is thriving
.its shows that government is earning, thus i think that it's right to increase the cost of living..but not to the large extend that people can't aFFORD...well i agree with aishini, sometimes... its really because of humans' wants or should i say what humans desires.
.its shows that government is earning, thus i think that it's right to increase the cost of living..but not to the large extend that people can't aFFORD...well i agree with aishini, sometimes... its really because of humans' wants or should i say what humans desires.
humans needs can caused people to be bankrupt.. Some people may own big house, bungalows and big posh cars...but well.. you might never know that they might be struggling super hard must to pay off their loans and installments..
I don't think this would pose as a problem to those who scrimp and save.. i mean they would not think that the cost of living in singapore is high because they do not spend unnessarily...thus. if one knows how to spend properly, the cost of living would not pose a problem to them.well, even if one can't pay it...i believe the government would take measures to help those who can't afford?... An example is .. in the past years, a news reported on this two poor sibilings who could not afford to pay the electricity and stuffs.. and some of their basics nesseities..
they had been living in darkness for ages...or should i say, survive without having electricity and going to the nearest coffee shop to collect water in bottles every morning.. for drinking and bath purposes..the government did offered help to them..
I don't think this would pose as a problem to those who scrimp and save.. i mean they would not think that the cost of living in singapore is high because they do not spend unnessarily...thus. if one knows how to spend properly, the cost of living would not pose a problem to them.well, even if one can't pay it...i believe the government would take measures to help those who can't afford?... An example is .. in the past years, a news reported on this two poor sibilings who could not afford to pay the electricity and stuffs.. and some of their basics nesseities..
they had been living in darkness for ages...or should i say, survive without having electricity and going to the nearest coffee shop to collect water in bottles every morning.. for drinking and bath purposes..the government did offered help to them..
after reading afew.. there is a question that bugs me.. izzit if we giv more money to the government then our cost of living will be higher? then if this is the case.. why is there ppl still complaining about taxes which will be given to the government? do they not want to live in a condusive environment?
theng ong
but den now our country is recruiting more foreign talents to our country. do u think we will still b able to get good jobs and high pays?
m i out of question??
but den now our country is recruiting more foreign talents to our country. do u think we will still b able to get good jobs and high pays?
m i out of question??
to muhd...
tax can make a major difference in the items we purchase...
there are a number of taxes that affect the pricing of the product...import tax, customs tax, goods and service tax. all these will affect the pricing.
this is only 1 item, an average person purchases more than these, will this not increase the overall expenditure and thus the cost of living, making it too high for all of us ?
tax can make a major difference in the items we purchase...
there are a number of taxes that affect the pricing of the product...import tax, customs tax, goods and service tax. all these will affect the pricing.
this is only 1 item, an average person purchases more than these, will this not increase the overall expenditure and thus the cost of living, making it too high for all of us ?
to theng ong...
considering the current situation in the world where there are quite a number of disasters and chaos taking place, this will ultimately affect the economy of other countries...hence leading to the basic value of jobs.
from here, wages need to be decreased to cope with the fall of economy. you said that more people are getting better educated, will this not increase the competition for a particular job. the person who is equally educated or even better may ask for a lesser pay just to secure the job. thus we cannot say that pay will be higher and cost of living is manageable
considering the current situation in the world where there are quite a number of disasters and chaos taking place, this will ultimately affect the economy of other countries...hence leading to the basic value of jobs.
from here, wages need to be decreased to cope with the fall of economy. you said that more people are getting better educated, will this not increase the competition for a particular job. the person who is equally educated or even better may ask for a lesser pay just to secure the job. thus we cannot say that pay will be higher and cost of living is manageable
i guess i will start from scratch. Firstly, to all the people who stated that the cost of living is high in Singapore.(like Justin,Desiree,Reena,etc.) Yup. I agree with you guys. The cost of living in Singapore is indeed high.
OK. hmm, to start off. Get all your wants away first. Lets look at the necessary needs first. Imagine, you are a typical singaporean. OK, nvm. Maybe you already are one. A typical day. If you eat outside(at some rundown kopitiam)lets take the cheapest. S$2.50(bowl of noodles)+S$1(drink)
For a meal. S$3.50 average. Lets say you take 2 meals a day. An average of S$7 a day.
Our neighbouring country(malaysia). On the other hand, a meal there is about RM$2(bowl of noodles)+RM1(drinks) an average of RM$3 which is about S$1.50.
In conclusion, singapore's cost of living is far too high. S$7 compare to S$1.50, it's more than 3 times as expensive.
OK. hmm, to start off. Get all your wants away first. Lets look at the necessary needs first. Imagine, you are a typical singaporean. OK, nvm. Maybe you already are one. A typical day. If you eat outside(at some rundown kopitiam)lets take the cheapest. S$2.50(bowl of noodles)+S$1(drink)
For a meal. S$3.50 average. Lets say you take 2 meals a day. An average of S$7 a day.
Our neighbouring country(malaysia). On the other hand, a meal there is about RM$2(bowl of noodles)+RM1(drinks) an average of RM$3 which is about S$1.50.
In conclusion, singapore's cost of living is far too high. S$7 compare to S$1.50, it's more than 3 times as expensive.
However, Singapore's wages are indeed higher to match our cost of living. But like what Mr sulaiman said. What about the lower income families? Some of them just struggle to live. Taking one step at a time. Not knowing what's happening next. So where's the help from the goverment? Joc might have said about the 2 siblings getting help from the goverment.
But that was after how long? Few years? If the people in the neighbourhood didnt help these 2 siblings. I think they would have been long gone. With such a high cost of living the goverment must come up with a pragmatic solution to this. Either the cost of living goes down or more subsides. More Finacial support would be better i think.
But that was after how long? Few years? If the people in the neighbourhood didnt help these 2 siblings. I think they would have been long gone. With such a high cost of living the goverment must come up with a pragmatic solution to this. Either the cost of living goes down or more subsides. More Finacial support would be better i think.
then why not implement a solution that old people stay on the lower floors of the so called 30 storey flat. This will accomodate the old folks.
# posted by : 7:59 PM
: 7:59 PM
THESE TAX IS ENOUGH TO BURN A HOLE IN YOUR POCKET!.justin, i agree to that..well..i think if singapore would to lower the taxes and GST..i think most singaporeans will definitely be happy. and would be able to cope well enough....and thus cost of living in singapore would nto pose a problem to them....
hawk..what i meant was also..the government also found jobs for those siblings.
hawk..what i meant was also..the government also found jobs for those siblings.
to michel :
when a person gets old, it is even difficult to climb the first story stairs...hence, if what you mean is no lifts for the lower levels as the old folks stay there is not advisable.
c'mon lets all get back to the point about cost of living...
when a person gets old, it is even difficult to climb the first story stairs...hence, if what you mean is no lifts for the lower levels as the old folks stay there is not advisable.
c'mon lets all get back to the point about cost of living...
ee may you brought up a good point, i would tend to agree however...
generally the people who find the standard of living high is people who are already living at the simplest they can. even if you want to consider tuition of music lessons, should the teachers charge that much ?
it is precisely that they have to overcome the high standard of living thus they charge the high prices. hence it is obvisou that the standard of living is high for everyone as it all runs in a vicious cycle.
generally the people who find the standard of living high is people who are already living at the simplest they can. even if you want to consider tuition of music lessons, should the teachers charge that much ?
it is precisely that they have to overcome the high standard of living thus they charge the high prices. hence it is obvisou that the standard of living is high for everyone as it all runs in a vicious cycle.
to wad farah have said.. (if less taxes, we will have to pay more money to pay for our medical bills.) so.. is the tax helping us or not??
some of them sae that the tax is burning a hole on our pockets and some of them sae that if we lesser the tax we have to pay more for the medical fees.. therefore i feel that the cost of living is high to a CERTAIN extend.
1 last thing..
i agree with ee may~! if one dun hav the ability to afford it den dun go for it.. but den can one withstand the temptation??
i agree with ee may~! if one dun hav the ability to afford it den dun go for it.. but den can one withstand the temptation??
I think the cost of living in Singapore is high.
As the gap between the poor and the rich is getting wider in Singapore this shows a very bad sign. Things like property taxes, public transport prices; increasing GST rates etc are all affecting the poor but nothing to the rich. The rich don't even bother with such things. What’s $1.45/L of petrol to them? What’s $1-$2 of ERP to them? What’s even $200 of property tax a year to them?
As the gap between the poor and the rich is getting wider in Singapore this shows a very bad sign. Things like property taxes, public transport prices; increasing GST rates etc are all affecting the poor but nothing to the rich. The rich don't even bother with such things. What’s $1.45/L of petrol to them? What’s $1-$2 of ERP to them? What’s even $200 of property tax a year to them?
The cost of living in Singapore is expected to increase as
everything needs to be upgraded as time pass due to it being wore and tore. Even the parliament building looks nicer than before after upgraded.
everything needs to be upgraded as time pass due to it being wore and tore. Even the parliament building looks nicer than before after upgraded.
Overall I think that both government policies and rising expectations of the people are the 2 main reasons that cause rising cost of living
i agree that both government policies and rising expectations of the people are the two main reasons that cause rising cost of living.not only the lower income group suffer but in the process,it creates more new poor.although people have to paid taxes,which resulted in the high cost of living,it is still reasonable as like what farah said some of the money from our taxes also go to hospital subsidies...
hmm. i agree with adeline post to a certain extent. The post about GST making the people work harder?
Indeed it will push Singapore to a better future. But any human with a proper mind(mentally saint) will think the tax is making their life difficult. Though it's helping the country, but i feel it's kind of too much? 5%? they think we are printing money(exaggrating). loLs. They think we are living in malaysia? Though malaysia GST is also 5%. However, one thing we have to know that, they have their goods at a lower cost price. Mostly locally manufacture. As these companys producing these goods cheaply. They sell it cheaply too. If it's imported to Singapore, additional tax will be included. This already makes imported good to Singapore expensive. Even at cost price.
'hawKS- benghock*
Indeed it will push Singapore to a better future. But any human with a proper mind(mentally saint) will think the tax is making their life difficult. Though it's helping the country, but i feel it's kind of too much? 5%? they think we are printing money(exaggrating). loLs. They think we are living in malaysia? Though malaysia GST is also 5%. However, one thing we have to know that, they have their goods at a lower cost price. Mostly locally manufacture. As these companys producing these goods cheaply. They sell it cheaply too. If it's imported to Singapore, additional tax will be included. This already makes imported good to Singapore expensive. Even at cost price.
'hawKS- benghock*
An add on to my last post:
Goods locally produce, firstly, it's made at a high cost.
Reasons:
1. The Rent/Land is expensive.
2. Many Tax even for companys.
3. Wages are high(++ CPF contribution.)
This all makes our local produces expensive. In other words, both local and imported goods all comes at a high price. However this does not end here. There's still a middle man. Shops at shopping centres. Their rents are already high. To make a clear profit, the goods that they are selling are marked up again. Even without any GST, the items we are buying are already expensive. In addition, the goverment says this? 'The country have to move forward'? ++ GST. In conclusion, the cost of living have been turn on really high. Taxes are still important, but maybe lightening it will be a good solution. Maybe back to the old 3%. At least Singaporeans cost of living will be lower by a bit.
'hawKS- benghock*
Goods locally produce, firstly, it's made at a high cost.
Reasons:
1. The Rent/Land is expensive.
2. Many Tax even for companys.
3. Wages are high(++ CPF contribution.)
This all makes our local produces expensive. In other words, both local and imported goods all comes at a high price. However this does not end here. There's still a middle man. Shops at shopping centres. Their rents are already high. To make a clear profit, the goods that they are selling are marked up again. Even without any GST, the items we are buying are already expensive. In addition, the goverment says this? 'The country have to move forward'? ++ GST. In conclusion, the cost of living have been turn on really high. Taxes are still important, but maybe lightening it will be a good solution. Maybe back to the old 3%. At least Singaporeans cost of living will be lower by a bit.
'hawKS- benghock*
Taxes is indeed a problem, but there will always be taxes for imported goods. So , how about producing these goods locally. But anyway Singapore is too small to produce everything on its own. Unlike china and Malaysia, it does not have big plots of land. Actually I think the root problem to the high cost of living is because Singapore is SMALL.
Limited roads--->less cars can be on the road--->car owning are made expansive
Limited land--->land became precious--->housing expensive
Limited land--->not enough reservoirs--->water expensive
limited land--->cant produce everything on our own(eg. Wood, rubber)--->have toimport---> imported goods hav taxes--->
expensive.
Limited roads--->less cars can be on the road--->car owning are made expansive
Limited land--->land became precious--->housing expensive
Limited land--->not enough reservoirs--->water expensive
limited land--->cant produce everything on our own(eg. Wood, rubber)--->have toimport---> imported goods hav taxes--->
expensive.
Taxes is indeed a problem, but there will always be taxes for imported goods. So , how about producing these goods locally. But anyway Singapore is too small to produce everything on its own. Unlike china and Malaysia, it does not have big plots of land. Actually I think the root problem to the high cost of living is because Singapore is SMALL.
Limited roads--->less cars can be on the road--->car owning are made expansive
Limited land--->land became precious--->housing expensive
Limited land--->not enough reservoirs--->water expensive
limited land--->cant produce everything on our own(eg. Wood, rubber)--->have toimport---> imported goods hav taxes--->
expensive.
Limited roads--->less cars can be on the road--->car owning are made expansive
Limited land--->land became precious--->housing expensive
Limited land--->not enough reservoirs--->water expensive
limited land--->cant produce everything on our own(eg. Wood, rubber)--->have toimport---> imported goods hav taxes--->
expensive.
i agree with joyce that limited land causes high living in singapore.as goods need to be imported,it become expensive.however,the wants of the people is also a very important reason.eg.the goods imported from both china and japan are similiar,but people will think that japan goods are always better than china.there are also some (like what what benny said) thinking that expensive=good.
to leroy : who posted that people will become more lazy if there is no tax.
with relation to the cost of living, without tax, people will be able to make better use of the money than pay for extra cost. without tax or even a reduction, does not mean people need not work or become lazy, they still have to work for the necessities...what is being is to lower the cost of living for the benefit of everyone...every cent counts, and when added up they can be quite a pinch..
like some of the examples given, it is very obvious that singaporeans have a high cost of living...too high such that we pay for more than we want...perhaps the tax is good as it improves the standard of living but why should the cost of living increase ?
with relation to the cost of living, without tax, people will be able to make better use of the money than pay for extra cost. without tax or even a reduction, does not mean people need not work or become lazy, they still have to work for the necessities...what is being is to lower the cost of living for the benefit of everyone...every cent counts, and when added up they can be quite a pinch..
like some of the examples given, it is very obvious that singaporeans have a high cost of living...too high such that we pay for more than we want...perhaps the tax is good as it improves the standard of living but why should the cost of living increase ?
to theng ong's disagreement with me saying that the cost of living should decrease when the standard of living increases...
as the years past, techonology becomes more apparent in our lives...it is through the use of technology that our standard of living increases, but it is also through technology that the cost of living should decrease, technology is used to make our lives easier, more efficient and more productive, hence does this not decrease the cost of living ?
the cost of living is high because there is more focus on bringing economy growth. economic growth is necessary, but at the expense of the cost of living of Singaporeans ?
as the years past, techonology becomes more apparent in our lives...it is through the use of technology that our standard of living increases, but it is also through technology that the cost of living should decrease, technology is used to make our lives easier, more efficient and more productive, hence does this not decrease the cost of living ?
the cost of living is high because there is more focus on bringing economy growth. economic growth is necessary, but at the expense of the cost of living of Singaporeans ?
to brian's post : you said that a simple man will not feel the pinch of the high cost of living but the rich does...
there is truth in this statement to an extent. the rich feel the pinch as the products they purchase are generally much more expensive .
HOWEVER, when you say a simple, you need to be more specific. A simple man can simply mean a priest. BUT, if you are talking about the average Singaporean, they will feel the high cost of living. they work relentlessly just to pay HOUSEHOLD Bills, not necessities. Not to forget the taxes !
there is truth in this statement to an extent. the rich feel the pinch as the products they purchase are generally much more expensive .
HOWEVER, when you say a simple, you need to be more specific. A simple man can simply mean a priest. BUT, if you are talking about the average Singaporean, they will feel the high cost of living. they work relentlessly just to pay HOUSEHOLD Bills, not necessities. Not to forget the taxes !
It is precisely because of the HIGH COST OF LIVING that the government is stepping in to help by giving :
Progress Package,
Tax rebates
Reduction in conservancy charges for different households.
It is obvious that they see the high cost of living and are trying to reduce it, so we CANNOT SAY that the cost of living is NOT HIGH.
Progress Package,
Tax rebates
Reduction in conservancy charges for different households.
It is obvious that they see the high cost of living and are trying to reduce it, so we CANNOT SAY that the cost of living is NOT HIGH.
i think the cost of living in s'pore is quite high lookin at the kind of prices in s'pore right now.for example are prices of housing.. we are paying for da price of a space in the air. see how expensive it is.. as compared to prices in malaysia
regarding da prices in hospital, i would like to agree with it because as technology advances, things will be much more expensive and no one is to be blamed because we also want living conditions in s'pore to be good
i also agree that sometimes what ppl wants and desire will make them think that the prices in s'pore are too high and therefore ppl should be understanding that prices are increased because the economy is thriving also
i would like to agree on ye jia's first post..its not because of the govt. wants to increase the price of living in s'pore but its because s'pore is improving and advancing in every aspect. So,therefore i think that s'pore's cost of living is not too high...
Perhaps you misunderstood my point or i was not clear enough...what i mean is that average income families or even the low income families have to work very hard to pay for the necessity bills such as utility bills. Every cent that they work for goes into such payments. Now, if the cost of living was not high, would they need to struggle so much until they fear that their power supply gets cut ?
Now,if we were talking about the well to do, they of course would still work hard and earn money, but much more than the average and low income families. The rich feel the pinch of the cost of living at a minimised scale as compared to those of the lower income and average families.
A significant proof that the cost of living is too high in singapore, where a majority of the population is made up of average and low income families.
Now,if we were talking about the well to do, they of course would still work hard and earn money, but much more than the average and low income families. The rich feel the pinch of the cost of living at a minimised scale as compared to those of the lower income and average families.
A significant proof that the cost of living is too high in singapore, where a majority of the population is made up of average and low income families.
Agreeable with you that because of Singapore's limitation that the high cost of living is present, however, it does not defeat the fact that the cost of living is too high.
So back to the posts topic, it is precisely of Singapore's high cost of living that the government has stepped in to give rebates. However, is it a necessity to increase it at the same time ? GST Hike or Progress Package.
Let's look at it in the long run.
So back to the posts topic, it is precisely of Singapore's high cost of living that the government has stepped in to give rebates. However, is it a necessity to increase it at the same time ? GST Hike or Progress Package.
Let's look at it in the long run.
Though many might see it as an illogical step...i personally feel that the tax is there to keep us citizens in check, just so that we give that extra 'little hardwork' in all the jobs we do so that we can pay for those 'extra charges'.And it could be this little hardwork that will improve our economy to greater heights...
..i agree with what leroy said....Maybe because of taxes, it will keep us in check , so that we would work harder?.. what if there isn't any taxes in singapore..Hmm? would the people still work doubly harD?
..i agree with what leroy said....Maybe because of taxes, it will keep us in check , so that we would work harder?.. what if there isn't any taxes in singapore..Hmm? would the people still work doubly harD?
what i meant in the last post is citizens tends to slack and not worry about paying taxes anymore....it might even lead to a situation wheere they buy more things than what they can afford and ended up in huge loans?
agreeing with brian and some others..yupps.perhaps..its because singapore is a small island with scarce resources that make the cost of living in singapore high..comparing to malaysia..It has plentiful of resources...thus cost of living in malaysia is much cheaper..even the rate of changing of cash - the ratio is 1:2
I do agree that the cost of living in Singapore is high. Everything now cost maybe twice the price a few years back. As a student myself. i sometimes have trouble keeping my money 'cause most of the time, my school money is not enough to buy what i really wanted. Sometimes, the food i want to buy outside is twice my allowance.
Therefore, i agree with the terms that the cost of
Therefore, i agree with the terms that the cost of
I do agree that the cost of living in Singapore is high. Everything now cost maybe twice the price a few years back. As a student myself. i sometimes have trouble keeping my money 'cause most of the time, my school money is not enough to buy what i really wanted. Sometimes, the food i want to buy outside is twice my allowance.
Therefore, i agree with the terms that the cost of
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Therefore, i agree with the terms that the cost of
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