Singapore District Guide: Best Neighborhoods for Families

At a Glance

• Singapore is divided into 28 districts, categorized into CCR, RCR, and OCR.
• Tanjong Pagar (D2), Bukit Timah (D10), and Beauty World (D21) are top choices for Korean families.
• Occupancy rules have been relaxed to allow up to 8 residents per household until 2028.

One of the biggest challenges when first moving to Singapore is deciding where to live. I remember feeling overwhelmed by the 28 different district numbers when I first arrived. Choosing a place near work often means a longer commute to the kids' schools, while finding a spot near Korean supermarkets can come with a hefty price tag.

While Singapore is roughly 1.2 times the size of Seoul, the atmosphere and cost of living vary significantly by district. With 'Master Plan 2025'—the new urban development strategy—kicking into gear for 2025 and 2026, the popularity of certain areas is shifting. Today, I’ll break down the key features of the 28 districts that every Singapore resident should know.

1. CCR (Core Central Region): The Heart of Singapore

The CCR represents the most affluent and vibrant parts of Singapore, covering districts 1, 2, 6, 9, 10, and 11. This region is a favorite among high-earning professionals and expats. While rents are high, the convenience and prestige are often worth it.

• District 9 (Orchard, River Valley): Home to the famous Orchard Road shopping belt. It features a high density of luxury condos with excellent access to hospitals and amenities. Expect to pay around SGD 8,000 to 12,000 per month for a 3-bedroom unit.

• District 10 (Bukit Timah, Holland Village): This is the most popular area for Korean parents. It’s close to the Singapore Korean International School (SKIS) and surrounded by prestigious local schools. Holland Village offers a charming European vibe, perfect for weekend brunches.

• District 1 & 2 (Marina Bay, Tanjong Pagar): The hub for finance professionals. Tanjong Pagar, in particular, is often called 'Little Korea' due to its abundance of Korean restaurants and supermarkets, making it easy to satisfy those home-cooked cravings.

2. RCR & OCR: Balancing Value and Quality of Life

The RCR (Rest of Central Region) and OCR (Outside Central Region) offer a more relaxed living environment slightly away from the city center. Thanks to Singapore's excellent transport network, commuting from these areas is now very manageable.

• District 15 (East Coast, Marine Parade): If you love the ocean, this is the place for you. You can enjoy jogging or cycling at East Coast Park, and the area is famous for its food scene. It’s also highly recommended for frequent travelers due to its proximity to the airport.

• District 21 (Upper Bukit Timah): A strong Korean community has formed around the Beauty World area. With Korean supermarkets like Koryo Mart and many affordable Korean eateries, resident satisfaction is very high here.

• District 22 (Jurong): Currently being developed as Singapore’s 'Second CBD.' With major malls like Westgate and JEM, there’s no need to head downtown for shopping. Rents are much more reasonable than the CCR, typically ranging from SGD 4,000 to 6,000 for a 3-bedroom unit.