The Ultimate Guide to Renting a Studio Apartment in Singapore (2026)
Yes, there are studio apartments in Singapore, and they are one of the most popular housing options for single expats, students, and young professionals. Whether you are looking to rent in the bustling CBD or a quiet suburb, renting a studio gives you complete privacy and independence in one of the world's most dynamic cities.
If you are currently navigating the Singapore rental market, here is everything you need to know about studio apartments, including 2026 rental prices, typical sizes, and the best move-in ready options available today.
What Exactly is a Studio Apartment in Singapore?
In Singapore, a studio apartment is a compact, self-contained living space where the bedroom, living area, and kitchenette are combined into a single open floor plan, accompanied by a separate private bathroom.
Unlike a 1-bedroom apartment, which has a distinct wall and door separating the bedroom from the living space, a studio is designed to maximize spatial efficiency without sacrificing comfort.
Typical studio apartments in Singapore range from 19 sqm to 35 sqm (approx. 200 to 380 sq ft). Because they lack dividing walls, they often feel brighter and more open than traditional partitioned units, making them a highly sought-after choice for modern city living.
How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Studio in 2026?
Studio rents in Singapore can vary widely. Location matters, but so do building type, unit size, furnishing level (unfurnished, partial, fully furnished), and lease length. Use the ranges below as directional guidance, then verify using live listings for your target neighborhood and unit type.
Estimated studio rent ranges (directional)
| Region | Typical neighborhoods (examples) | Estimated monthly rent (S$) |
|---|---|---|
| Central / Prime | Tanjong Pagar, Orchard, Marina Bay, River Valley | 2,800 to 4,000+ |
| City fringe | Tiong Bahru, Queenstown, Novena, parts of Geylang | 2,200 to 3,000 |
| Suburbs / heartlands | Woodlands, Pasir Ris, Jurong | 1,800 to 2,200 |
Important notes
- These are broad ranges, not guarantees. Studios can be found below these bands and well above them, depending on the unit and the market at the time you search.
- Always specify S$ in quotes and price lists to avoid confusion with USD.
Why furnished options can be simpler
Traditional rentals in Singapore may be unfurnished, partially furnished, or fully furnished. If you choose an unfurnished or lightly furnished unit, you may need to budget extra for essentials like a bed, wardrobe, appliances, and basic home items.
That’s why some renters prefer flexible, move-in-ready options.
The Co-living Advantage
Providers like Cove offer studios that are typically fully furnished and designed to be move-in ready, which can reduce upfront setup time and additional furnishing costs. If you’re comparing options, look beyond the monthly rent and check what’s included, such as:
- Furniture and appliances
- WiFi and utilities
- Housekeeping or maintenance support
- Lease flexibility and minimum stay terms
- Deposit requirements and move-in fees
This helps you compare total cost and convenience, not just headline price.
Who Are Studio Apartments Best For?
Studio living isn't for everyone, but it is the perfect housing solution if you fall into one of these categories:
- Single Professionals & Expats: After a long workday in the CBD, a studio offers a private, comfortable sanctuary where you don't have to navigate shared common spaces or roommates.
- Couples: For couples who want their own private space but don't want to pay the premium prices associated with larger 1-bedroom condos, a spacious studio is a highly economical choice.
- Students: International students and post-graduates who prefer a quiet, dedicated environment for studying over chaotic shared university dorms.
Top 4 Move-In Ready Studio Apartments in Singapore from Cove
If you want to skip the hassle of furniture shopping and interior design, here are four of the best beautifully designed, move-in ready studio apartments currently available through Cove:
1. 487 Geylang Road (Cove 275)
- Location: Geylang / Aljunied (City Fringe)
- Vibe: An industrial-inspired heritage shophouse featuring a unique loft-style bed and robust, modern charm.
- Features: 14.5 sqm, queen bed, private bathroom, in-unit washer/dryer, and a fully equipped private kitchenette.
- Price Range: Starting from ~$2,850/mo.
2. 41A Opal Crescent (Cove 307)
- Location: Serangoon / Kallang
- Vibe: A quiet, spacious residential haven perfect for those who want a larger layout and a peaceful neighborhood.
- Features: A massive 27 sqm floor plan, queen bed, private bathroom, large external windows letting in abundant natural light, and a dedicated workspace.
- Price Range: Starting from ~$2,500/mo.
3. 52 Foch Road (Cove 178)
- Location: Jalan Besar / Bendemeer (Central)
- Vibe: A stunning 2-storey shophouse that seamlessly combines vintage Singaporean charm with modern comfort in a vibrant cultural enclave.
- Features: Up to 33 sqm layouts, queen bed, private bathroom, kitchenette, dedicated workspace, and exclusive lift access.
- Price Range: Starting from ~$2,300/mo.
4. 54 & 56 Niven Road (Cove 381)
- Location: Dhoby Ghaut / Little India (Core Central)
- Vibe: Premium luxury living in a beautifully restored landed house, located just minutes away from Orchard Road and the CBD.
- Features: Queen bed, private bathroom, kitchenette, washer, dryer, and luxury furnishings including a smart TV.
- Price Range: Starting from ~$3,500/mo.
Buying vs. Renting a Studio in Singapore
While renting is the norm, you can buy studio apartments in Singapore. They are almost exclusively found in private condominium developments. As of 2026, purchasing a studio condo typically costs between $500,000 to $700,000+ depending on the tenure and location.
However, for expats, purchasing property in Singapore incurs a massive Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD), currently set at 60% for most foreigners. Because of this, unless you are a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident planning to live in the unit for over 5 to 10 years, renting a flexible co-living studio is universally the smartest financial move.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are utilities included in Singapore studio rentals?
In many standard rentals, utilities are paid by the tenant, and you may need to set up accounts (such as electricity) depending on the arrangement. In some rentals, Wi-Fi or selected utilities may be included, especially in serviced or professionally managed setups.
At Cove, studios typically come with a streamlined move-in setup, so the essentials are easier to activate and manage from day one.
Can I rent a studio apartment for 3 months?
Yes, private residential properties must be rented for at least 3 consecutive months per occupant, so a 3-month stay is generally the minimum compliant duration for private homes.
While many landlords prefer longer leases (often 12 to 24 months), flexible operators can be more open to shorter stays, as long as they remain compliant.
Do HDBs have studio apartments?
HDB does not offer “studio condos” in the typical private-market sense. However, HDB has 2-room Flexi flats that can feel studio-like, and they are primarily intended for seniors, with specific eligibility requirements.
For most expats and younger professionals, studio options are typically found in the private rental market or in professionally managed furnished rentals.
Find Your Studio Apartment at Cove
Skip the hassle of empty rooms and stressful move-ins. Browse Cove’s fully furnished, beautifully designed studio apartments across Singapore and book your viewing today.