City Profile
Bukit Merah, Central Region
Singapore · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Bukit Merah, meaning 'Red Hill' in Malay, is a mature planning area and residential town located in Singapore's Central Region. Its name is derived from the red soil uncovered during early excavations in the Henderson/Lengkok Bahru area. Historically known for pepper and gambier plantations, Bukit Merah has transformed into a vibrant urban area offering a mix of residential, commercial, and light industrial activities. The area is highly sought after due to its strategic location, providing excellent connectivity to the Central Business District and southern waterfront. It is characterized by a blend of older HDB estates and newer developments, reflecting its continuous evolution under urban renewal programs aimed at enhancing its liveability and connectivity.
The Central Region is Singapore's vibrant core, encompassing its main commercial, financial, and governmental districts, alongside diverse residential areas. Its economy is primarily driven by finance, professional services, and headquarters functions, with a significant contribution to the national GDP. Living in the Central Region offers a cosmopolitan and lively lifestyle with abundant amenities, but it is known for its higher cost of living, particularly for housing. The climate is consistently hot and humid year-round, with average daily temperatures between 23-25°C at night and 31-33°C by day, and frequent rainfall.
How this 78/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 85 / 100 | 85.0 | 30% | 25.5 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 82.0 | 66.3 | 25% | 16.6 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $116,709 Income needed to live here: $65,629 Unemployment rate: 2.9% | 94.4 | 20% | 18.9 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: no usable reading Job growth rate: 2% | 60.0 | 15% | 9.0 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 85 / 100 | 85.0 | 10% | 8.5 |
| Overall score | 78.4 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (Tier 2 (reasoned), q=100 ✓ perfect), last refreshed
25 September 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Performance
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Bukit Merah, consistent with Singapore's overall high cost, is notably elevated, particularly concerning housing. Singapore's Cost of Living Index was 81.9 in 2024, relative to New York City at 100. While public transport remains relatively affordable, other expenses such as private housing and car ownership contribute significantly to the high cost. For instance, the median rent for a 3-room HDB flat (equivalent to a 2-bedroom apartment) in Bukit Merah was S$2,500 (approximately USD 1,953) in the fourth quarter of 2025. Utilities, including electricity and internet, can add around S$180 (approximately USD 140) to monthly expenses for a smaller unit. Food costs, while manageable at hawker centers, can quickly escalate with dining out at mid-range restaurants.
Income
Salary Insights
Bukit Merah's economy is influenced by Singapore's robust and competitive national landscape, which was ranked the world's most competitive economy in 2024. Key sectors driving employment and growth in Singapore include Financial & Insurance Services, Health & Social Work, Professional Services, and Information & Communications. The area itself has a historical connection to logistics and maritime industries, with container ports located within its broader planning area. [cite: 14, 29, from previous search] Singapore's labor market expanded in 2025, with resident employment increasing by 11,600, primarily in higher-skilled sectors. The country also boasts a thriving entrepreneurial climate, ranking fourth globally in the 2025 Global Startup Ecosystem Index. While Bukit Merah itself is a residential hub, its residents benefit from the diverse job opportunities and strong economic resilience of the wider Central Region.
The average salary in Bukit Merah is $51,566 per year. You would need approximately $65,629 to live comfortably.
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Transport
Transportation in Bukit Merah is highly efficient and well-integrated, making it a car-lite friendly area. The median commute time for residents in Bukit Merah was 30 minutes in 2025, among the shortest in Singapore. The area is well-served by an extensive bus network, with bus-only commuting being common. It also benefits from proximity to MRT stations, providing seamless connectivity across the island. Singapore's public transportation system is renowned for its affordability and reliability, with fares increasing by 6.0% in December 2024. [cite: 15, 47, 49, from previous search] While car ownership is possible, the high cost of gasoline, averaging around USD 9.23 per gallon in September 2026, and efficient public transit options, make car dependency low.
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Community Q&A
Questions about Bukit Merah
What people ask about living in and moving to Bukit Merah, Central Region.
What is the typical rent for a 2‑bedroom apartment in Bukit Merah?
In Bukit Merah, the average monthly rent across all unit types is about $1,563. A two‑bedroom flat usually sits near that average, though exact prices depend on the building’s age, amenities and exact location within the district. To get a realistic sense, browse current listings on local property portals and filter for two‑bedroom units in Bukit Merah. You can also check recent rental market reports from the city’s...
How does the cost of living in Bukit Merah compare to the rest of Singapore?
Bukit Merah’s cost‑of‑living index is 82, meaning everyday expenses such as food, transport and utilities are about 18 % lower than the national average (which is set at 100). This reflects relatively affordable grocery prices and local dining options, while still being close to central amenities. Budgeting a bit less than you would in higher‑priced districts should be sufficient, especially if you take advantage of...
Are there many job opportunities in Bukit Merah for fresh graduates?
Bukit Merah sits within Singapore’s Central Region, which hosts a mix of commercial offices, retail centres and light industrial spaces. While the district itself is not a primary business hub, its proximity to nearby business districts means many entry‑level positions are accessible via short commutes. The average annual salary city‑wide is $51,566, giving a benchmark for entry roles. Check the city’s employment por...
Is Bukit Merah considered a safe neighbourhood?
Bukit Merah scores 85.0 out of 100 on the city’s safety index, indicating a relatively low level of crime and a strong sense of security. The district benefits from regular patrols by the city’s police force and community safety programmes. For the most up‑to‑date safety statistics, you can consult the municipal safety dashboard or the national crime statistics portal, which break down incidents by neighbourhood. Add...
Where can I find primary healthcare services in Bukit Merah?
The district hosts several primary care clinics that offer general practitioner services, dental care and basic diagnostics. For more comprehensive treatment, a major public hospital is located within a short drive or public‑transport ride from Bukit Merah. The city health department’s website provides a searchable directory of clinics and hospitals, including information on operating hours, specialties and whether t...
What recreational activities are popular in Bukit Merah?
Bukit Merah offers a mix of green spaces, community centres and cultural venues. You’ll find parks with jogging tracks, playgrounds and picnic areas, as well as sports facilities such as swimming pools and courts that can be booked through the district’s community centre portal. There are also regular markets, festivals and art exhibitions organized by the municipal cultural affairs office. For a full calendar of eve...
What schooling options are available for primary children in Bukit Merah?
Bukit Merah offers a range of primary education options, including government schools, government‑aided institutions and private international schools. The district’s education authority website lists all schools by type and provides enrollment criteria, catchment areas and application timelines. For public schools, you’ll need to apply through the national primary school placement system, which uses your residential...
What is the overall lifestyle like for expats in Bukit Merah?
Bukit Merah blends residential calm with easy access to the city’s central amenities. The lower cost‑of‑living index (82) makes everyday expenses more manageable than in pricier districts, while the safety score of 85 indicates a secure environment. Residents enjoy a variety of dining options, shopping malls and green spaces within walking distance. Public transport links make commuting to the CBD and other parts of...
How well connected is Bukit Merah to the rest of Singapore?
Bukit Merah enjoys extensive connectivity through the city’s public transport network, including rail lines, bus routes and major arterial roads. The district is served by multiple train stations on the main north‑south and east‑west corridors, providing a direct ride to the Central Business District in roughly 20‑30 minutes. Bus services complement the rail system, linking residential areas to nearby MRT stations an...
What should I know about the moving process into Bukit Merah?
Moving into Bukit Merah follows the standard city regulations for residential relocations. If you’re using a moving company, they must comply with the municipal traffic management rules, especially when loading or unloading in congested streets; permits can be applied for through the city’s transport authority if needed. For apartment blocks with lift access, you may need to coordinate with the building management fo...
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