Singapore among world's least affordable destinations for expats

The city-state ranked 41st out of 46 destinations when it comes to personal finances, according to the 2025 Expat Insider study.

Canada and the U.K. were named the least affordable destinations for expats, with 62% and 61% of expats surveyed unhappy with the general cost of living respectively compared with the global average of 40%.

Conducted annually since 2014, the study gathered insights from more than 10,000 expats representing 172 nationalities living in countries and territories worldwide.

Survey participants for the personal finance index were asked to rate their satisfaction with their financial situation, general cost of living, and whether their disposable household income was enough to lead a comfortable life in their country of residence.

Singapore has for years been named one of the world's most expensive cities for both locals and expatriates due to high cost of living.

Vietnam was named the most affordable country for expats this year, followed by Colombia and Panama.