Money isnt everything, BUT Singapore’s cost of living is pushing u to chase for higher salary till the day u break down
Top 10 Reasons what makes you keep chasing like no ending:
Food prices are still rising
Food inflation reached 2.2% year-on-year in July 2026 (non-cooked food also becoming expensive)
Public transport fares UP UP UP
From 26 December 2026, adult card fares will rise by 12–13 cents per journey, while adult cash fares increase by 20 cents (while WFH is still not apply to everyone, haizzz)
Electricity costs also UP significantly
The regulated household electricity tariff increased 17% in Q3 2026 (many of my colleagues complaint and off air cond middle of the night)
Rent and accommodation costs
Accommodation inflation picked up in July, due to huge increases in housing rents and maintenance fees
Private transport remains expensive
Private transport inflation was still 8% year-on-year in July 2026
Travel and services are becoming more expensive
July's data showed higher prices for airfares (oil price + carbon tax + increased of landing fee applied to flight operator shifted to consumers)
Healthcare + insurance
In the first half of 2026, health insurance was one of the main contributors to price increases. (People can die better don’t get sick, too much burden)
Family and childcare expenses
Once you have children, the financial pressure becomes SO MUCH LARGER (childcare, enrichment, education, healthcare bla bla bla).
Supporting ageing parents
You need to cover parents' healthcare, daily expenses and long-term care
Retirement requires MORE MONEY in Singapore
What we having now clearly not enough for our retirement. We need to accumulate CPF/retirement savings while price will eventually go up.
Despite the aid, vouchers and cheaper deals available, the pressure to earn more doesn’t disappear. We need to worry whether we have enough buffer to keep up with rising costs, risks or emergency
Higher salary also means added stress, longer working hours, zero flexibility, reduced time with family members