The Real Cost of Living in a Service Apartment for a Month

Service apartments in Singapore have become a preferred housing for expatriates, business travellers, and relocating families who need a flexible yet comfortable living solution. Due to their blend of hotel-like amenities and residential comfort, they are increasingly seen as a cost-effective alternative to long-term hotel stays. However, the monthly cost of service apartments in Singapore varies widely depending on the location, unit size, included services, and the brand.

Discover the actual expenses you can expect when living in one for a month, along with cost breakdowns and value considerations.

Monthly Rental Rates by Apartment Tier

The cost of service apartments depends significantly on whether the unit is considered basic, mid-range, or luxury. You can find studios or compact 1-bedroom units in city-fringe areas starting from S$3,000 to S$4,000 per month. These are typically functional spaces, often lacking extensive amenities or daily housekeeping. Mid-tier service apartments, usually 1- to 2-bedroom units in central locations, range from S$5,000 to S$7,500 monthly. They typically come fully furnished, with weekly cleaning services, internet, and access to on-site facilities like pools or fitness centres. The best service apartments in the luxury end can cost anywhere from S$8,000 to over S$12,000 monthly. These typically include premium interiors, daily housekeeping, concierge services, and central city views.

What’s Included in the Cost

Unlike conventional rentals, the cost of service apartments often includes multiple bundled services. Most properties offer utilities (water, electricity, air conditioning) as part of the monthly fee, along with high-speed Wi-Fi, cable TV, and maintenance. Housekeeping is either weekly or bi-weekly in mid-range options and daily in luxury apartments. Amenities such as gyms, swimming pools, business centres, and residents’ lounges are also typically included at no additional cost. However, if you’re comparing rates, checking if taxes and service charges (typically 7% GST and 10% service charge) are already factored into the quoted price is necessary. After all, these can increase your monthly bill by up to 17% if excluded.

Hidden Costs to Consider

While service apartments are marketed as all-inclusive, there may be hidden costs. For example, additional guests may incur extra charges. Parking is often limited and sometimes chargeable, especially in central locations. Laundry services, if not self-service or included in the room, can also add up, especially for extended stays. Furthermore, if you exceed the utility usage cap, which some apartments enforce, you may be billed separately. Early termination or extension clauses may also involve extra fees, so reading the rental terms carefully is critical.

Comparing Service Apartments with Hotels and Traditional Rentals

Service apartments offer better value in terms of space and amenities compared to long hotel stays. Hotels may charge upwards of S$300 per night for a standard room, totalling over S$9,000 monthly without kitchen access or living space. Meanwhile, traditional apartment leases require deposits, long-term commitments, and often exclude furnishings and utilities. In contrast, the best service apartments in Singapore provide flexibility, especially for stays between 1 to 6 months, without the complexity of leases or the hassle of setting up utilities and furniture.

Best Value Locations for Extended Stays

Consider areas slightly outside the CBD, such as Novena, River Valley, or Tiong Bahru, if you’re looking for the best service apartments without overpaying. These areas offer quick access to the city, nearby MRT stations, and lower rates than Orchard or Marina Bay. Serviced apartment brands in these neighbourhoods provide competitive pricing while maintaining high standards of comfort and professionalism.

Conclusion

Living in a service apartment for a month offers a practical balance between comfort and flexibility, but the total cost depends on your location, apartment class, and service level. While options range from S$3,000 to over S$12,000 per month, careful selection can yield a well-equipped and conveniently located unit without overstretching your budget. The cost of service apartments in Singapore is justifiable, especially since service apartments remain one of the most strategic accommodation choices for short- to mid-term stays.

Contact Aurealis Serviced Residence and discover cost-effective options tailored to your housing needs today.