Exploring the surprising trends in affordability amid rising costs.
While the cost of living in Singapore continues to climb, there are some areas where goods and services have become more affordable over time. From travel to sushi, Singaporeans share what they’ve noticed as being cheaper than in the past.
Andrea, 30, highlights how traveling has become more accessible. She recalls a time when planning family vacations was financially daunting. Today, budget airlines and affordable accommodations have made quick getaways possible without breaking the bank. “Back then, traveling abroad seemed like a major investment, but now we can save and enjoy affordable family trips,” she says.
Jessica, 24, appreciates platforms like Shopee and SHEIN, which offer household items at competitive prices. Moving into a new home last year, she replaced many items by purchasing them through these apps. “They’re probably cheaper because they get items directly from manufacturers,” she observes.
Zhe Rong, 26, points out how sushi has become more affordable and of better quality. While it was once a luxury item, stores like Don Don Donki and Sushiro now offer fresh, high-quality options at lower prices.
William, 34, notes that digital streaming services have drastically reduced the cost of entertainment. Instead of paying $60–$80 for DVD boxsets, he now enjoys a wide array of shows and music for a subscription fee of about $10 a month. However, he acknowledges the downside: “We no longer own these shows. If platforms remove them, they’re gone for good.”
Devi, 32, marvels at the affordability of smart TVs. What was once a luxury is now a standard in most homes, thanks to brands like Xiaomi and Prism+. However, she cautions about their durability: “Many of these TVs only last two to three years.”
Devi also notes that soju, once an expensive specialty drink, is now widely available at competitive prices in local convenience stores and even mama shops.
These reflections show that while inflation looms, some aspects of modern life in Singapore have indeed become more accessible, giving consumers a silver lining amidst rising costs.
