Cost of Living in Defu
Detailed cost of living data — sourced from authoritative datasets and normalized for direct comparison.
Cost of Living in Defu, North-East Region
Singapore, and by extension areas like Hougang, is recognized as one of the most expensive cities globally, with a Numbeo Cost of Living Index of 87.7 (New York = 100) in 2026. This high cost is driven by factors such as limited land space, high demand for premium services, and reliance on imports for goods and food. Housing, in particular, represents a significant portion of monthly expenses, with rental prices varying based on location and type of accommodation. While central areas command higher rents, mature estates like Hougang offer more moderate, though still substantial, housing costs. Groceries and dining out also contribute to the overall expenditure, though public transport remains relatively affordable and efficient, helping to mitigate some of the daily living costs for residents.
Monthly Costs
Detailed Breakdown
About Defu, North-East Region
Defu, located within Singapore's North-East Region, is primarily known as the Defu Industrial Estate, a significant hub for manufacturing, warehousing, and related industrial activities. While not a traditional residential town, it is situated within the larger Hougang planning area, a mature and populous residential town. Hougang itself, meaning "river end" in local dialects, has a history rooted in pig farming and agricultural land before its transformation into a large public housing estate starting in the late 1970s. Today, Hougang offers a blend of HDB flats and private residences, serving a diverse population and providing a range of amenities that cater to families and residents seeking a balance between urban convenience and a community-focused lifestyle. The area's development has been marked by continuous upgrades, including modern shopping malls, community centers, and improved transport links, making it a self-sufficient and well-connected part of Singapore.
About North-East Region
The North-East Region of Singapore is a densely populated residential hub known for its balance of modern urban development and green spaces, encompassing planning areas like Ang Mo Kio, Hougang, Punggol, and Sengkang. The economy is supported by industrial estates and technology parks, including Seletar Aerospace Park, which houses aviation manufacturing and research facilities, and the Punggol Digital District, focusing on technology and logistics. Living in the North-East offers a family-friendly atmosphere with access to waterfront parks, recreational trails, and community facilities, though the cost of living, particularly for rent, is high, with a single person's average monthly expenses (including rent) estimated around S$3,522.80. The region experiences a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by consistent heat, high humidity, and abundant rainfall throughout the year, with average annual temperatures around 28.77°C (83.79°F).
