Top 5 student areas in Singapore
Discover the favourite areas for university students in Singapore and what makes them unique.
Choosing where to study is one of the most important decisions when considering an international academic experience, which is why in this article we tell you about the top 5 student areas in Singapore. This country has become one of the most attractive educational destinations in Asia thanks to the quality of its universities, its multicultural environment and its excellent professional opportunities.
Throughout this article, we'll review the most recommended areas for students in Singapore, analysing the pros and cons of each area, the most prominent universities, and the rental options that students usually choose. In addition, as an online platform specialising in student accommodation, we help you understand which area best suits your budget, lifestyle, and academic goals.
Bukit Timah
Bukit Timah is one of the greenest and quietest areas in Singapore. It has a residential and safe atmosphere, ideal for students looking for an area with quality of life and proximity to top-level academic institutions.
Pros and cons of studying in Bukit Timah
Living and studying in Bukit Timah offers many benefits, although there are also certain negative aspects to consider during your stay.
Pros of studying in Bukit Timah
- Quiet, residential environment, ideal for concentrating on studies.
- Proximity to green areas such as the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.
- Excellent public transport links to central Singapore.
Cons of studying in Bukit Timah
- Higher cost of living and rent than in other areas of the city.
- Less nightlife compared to more central areas.
Top Universities in Bukit Timah
Bukit Timah is home to and close to campuses and academic centres of prestigious institutions such as the National University of Singapore (NUS). It’s one of the highest-ranked universities in Asia and the world, particularly renowned in areas such as law, science and technology.
Top Universities in Bukit Timah
Rent for students in Bukit Timah is usually higher than the Singapore average. Rooms in shared flats cost approximately S$900-1300 per month, depending on the type of accommodation, proximity to public transport and services included. Even so, many students choose this area for its convenience, tranquillity and proximity to universities.
Queenstown
Queenstown is a residential area located between the city centre and the west of the city. It’s very popular with students precisely because of this, as it has good public transport links to different areas of Singapore. It also has good services, a good social life and is close to several institutions.
Pros and cons of studying in Queenstown
Student life in Queenstown has many positive aspects, but there are also some disadvantages that may affect your daily life.
Pros of studying in Queenstown
- Wide range of supermarkets, shopping centres, hawker centres and services.
- Very well connected by MRT and buses to the city centre and other key areas.
- Student atmosphere due to having a campus of NUS.
Cons of studying in Queenstown
- Some areas may be more crowded during peak hours.
- Rents are somewhat high compared to surrounding areas.
Top Universities in Queenstown
Queenstown is home to one of the most important campuses of the National University of Singapore. Many of its faculties and facilities are located here, such as the University Hospital and the Health Centre.
Student housing in Queenstown
In this part of the city, rents remain high, although they may be slightly more affordable than in more central areas. For example, students can find rooms in shared flats for an average of S$800-1200.
Tiong Bahru
Another option you may consider for living in Singapore as a university student is Tiong Bahru. It is one of the liveliest areas in the country, with a distinctive hipster vibe thanks to its modern cafés, local shops, and historic architecture. Choosing Tiong Bahru is ideal for creative types, artists, and those who want to be close to the city but away from the chaos of the metropolis.
Pros and cons of studying in Tiong Bahru
Tiong Bahru offers many academic opportunities, although it isn’t without certain drawbacks for students.
Pros of studying in Tiong Bahru
- A youthful, creative atmosphere with a rich cultural life.
- A wide range of cafés, restaurants, and places to study or socialise.
- Centrally located with excellent MRT and bus connections.
Cons of studying in Tiong Bahru
- Highly sought-after area, with limited accommodation availability.
- High rents due to its popularity and location.
Top Universities in Tiong Bahru
From Tiong Bahru, prestigious institutions such as Singapore Management University and Duke-NUS Medical School are easily accessible, thanks to its proximity to the city centre and good public transport links.
Student housing in Tiong Bahru
As it is a sought-after area, both by students and young professionals, it’s normal for rents to be on the high side within Singapore. For your reference, single rooms in shared flats typically cost between S$900-1400 per month, depending on the characteristics of the room.
Clementi
Clementi is a planned suburban residential area with a close-knit community. It’s very popular with students looking for a more affordable area that’s well located and convenient for getting around. As it’s a planned community, it has plenty of amenities and offers a good student life.
Pros and cons of studying in Clementi
Choosing Clementi to study brings with it great advantages, although certain disadvantages may affect the experience.
Pros of studying in Clementi
- Strategic location close to several university campuses.
- It’s more affordable than more central areas.
- Excellent MRT and bus connections to other areas of Singapore.
Cons of studying in Clementi
- Less nightlife compared to more central areas.
- A more residential and peaceful environment for some students.
Top Universities in Clementi
There are no university campuses in Clementi itself, but it’s close to many of the country's universities. For example, the campus of the National University of Singapore is easily accessible, as are institutions with campuses to the west of the city, such as Nanyang Technological University.
Student housing in Clementi
Thanks to the balance between price and location offered by Clementi, it’s one of the most sought-after areas for international students. The cost of rentals is usually more affordable than in areas such as Tiong Bahru or Queenstown: a room in a shared flat costs approximately S$700-1100 per month.
Jurong East
Jurong East is one of the most dynamic areas in western Singapore and an important commercial and transport hub. In recent years, it has undergone significant development, becoming an attractive option for students seeking good prices, fast connections and access to universities without living in the city centre.
Pros and cons of studying in Jurong East
The academic experience in Jurong East has many advantages, but certain disadvantages could influence your stay.
Pros of studying in Jurong East
- Excellent connectivity thanks to its major MRT station.
- More affordable rents than in central areas.
- Wide range of shopping centres, restaurants and services.
Cons of studying in Jurong East
- Greater distance to central Singapore and tourist areas.
- The busiest area with an intense pace during working hours.
Top Universities in Jurong East
Jurong East offers easy access to institutions such as the National University of Singapore and educational centres in the west of the city, making it a practical base for university and technical students.
Find more practical information about the university and its faculties in the guide to accommodation near the National University of Singapore.
Student housing in Jurong East
Rent for students in Jurong East is generally more affordable compared to more central areas of the country. Rooms in shared flats average between S$650-1000 per month, depending on the type of accommodation, proximity to the MRT and services included.
Find accommodation in Singapore with Erasmus Play
Choosing one of the top 5 student areas in Singapore largely depends on your budget, your university, and the lifestyle you are seeking. Areas such as Bukit Timah, Queenstown, or Tiong Bahru stand out for their quality of life and location, while areas such as Clementi or Jurong East offer more affordable options without compromising on good transport links and amenities.
Whatever your choice, Singapore is a top-tier academic destination, with internationally recognised universities and a unique multicultural experience. From our online student accommodation platform, you can compare verified rooms, flats and residences in the city's main areas and find the accommodation that best suits your needs safely and 100% online.
Other guides on studying and living in Singapore
You can find more information about your exchange in the following guides: