Best Places to Live in Singapore for Families

Singapore is one of the safest and most well-planned cities in the world, making it an ideal place to raise a family. With top-tier education, world-class healthcare, and numerous green spaces, the city offers a wide array of neighborhoods suited for families with children. Whether you’re an expat or a local family looking to move, choosing the right neighborhood can make a big difference in your lifestyle and day-to-day convenience.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to live in Singapore for families, focusing on amenities, accessibility, schools, and family-friendly activities.

1. Bukit Timah

A haven for nature and education

Bukit Timah is often considered the gold standard for family living in Singapore. It's an upscale residential area located in the central region, known for its proximity to top international and local schools like:

Hwa Chong Institution

National Junior College

Singapore Korean International School

Families are drawn to Bukit Timah for its leafy environment, spacious condominiums, and landed homes. The Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and the Rail Corridor offer abundant opportunities for weekend adventures and fitness activities.

While property prices can be on the higher end, the quality of life here is hard to beat for families who prioritize education and outdoor living.

2. Holland Village

A vibrant expat-friendly neighborhood

Holland Village is a favorite among expat families thanks to its western-style cafes, international supermarkets, and laid-back atmosphere. The area is well-connected via Holland Village MRT and has quick access to the city.

Nearby schools include:

Anglo-Chinese School (International)

Tanglin Trust School

United World College (Dover Campus)

Housing options range from low-rise apartments to larger condos and even some terrace houses. The lifestyle here is social and dynamic, yet peaceful enough for young families to settle comfortably.

3. Tampines

Affordable and family-oriented heartland

Tampines is a mature residential town in the eastern part of Singapore. It is well-equipped with shopping malls like Tampines Mall, Century Square, and Our Tampines Hub—a one-stop lifestyle center featuring a swimming pool, sports hall, library, and even a childcare center.

Schools in the area include:

St. Hilda’s Primary and Secondary

United World College East Campus

Temasek Polytechnic (nearby)

Tampines offers more affordable housing options compared to central areas, with plenty of HDB flats and newer condominiums. Parks, cycling paths, and East Coast Park are also easily accessible.

4. Woodlands

Great for nature lovers and northern commuters

Woodlands is located in the northern region of Singapore and is a top pick for families who enjoy a quieter suburban environment. It has a variety of amenities and is close to the Johor-Singapore Causeway, which is useful for families with ties to Malaysia.

Key highlights:

Admiralty Park and Woodlands Waterfront Park

Excellent connectivity via the Thomson-East Coast Line

Close to Singapore American School

The area is known for its spacious public housing, and recent developments have made Woodlands even more attractive for young families looking for affordability without compromising on space.

5. Serangoon

Balanced living with good schools

Serangoon offers a blend of tranquility and convenience. It’s situated in the north-east of Singapore and is especially popular with families thanks to its proximity to reputable schools like:

Australian International School

Stamford American International School

Yangzheng Primary School

Nex Mall, one of the largest suburban malls in Singapore, offers everything from groceries to entertainment. The area is served by the Circle and North-East MRT lines, ensuring a smooth daily commute.

You’ll find a mix of older HDB flats, terrace houses, and private condominiums here, catering to different budgets and lifestyle needs.

6. East Coast / Katong

Seaside charm meets city convenience

The East Coast is a beautiful, breezy neighborhood that many families adore. With proximity to East Coast Park and a rich heritage, it offers a unique lifestyle that’s both active and relaxed.

Family highlights include:

Wide beachfront cycling and picnic areas

Canadian International School

Tao Nan School and CHIJ Katong Primary

The area has a good mix of private condos and charming heritage houses. While it’s slightly further from the city center, the Thomson-East Coast Line will soon improve accessibility significantly.

7. Queenstown

Central and connected

Queenstown is centrally located and ideal for families who want quick access to the city while enjoying a community-oriented environment. It’s close to popular spots like IKEA, Queenstown Swimming Complex, and Alexandra Canal Linear Park.

Nearby educational institutions:

Queensway Secondary School

Global Indian International School

Management Development Institute of Singapore

It offers a mix of high-rise public flats and private developments. Its strategic location and comprehensive amenities make it a practical choice for families of all sizes.

8. Novena

Upscale urban comfort with excellent schools

Novena is a popular choice for families who value modern living close to the Central Business District (CBD). This district is home to several premium condos and is known for its excellent healthcare facilities like Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital.

Nearby schools:

SJI International

CHIJ Toa Payoh

Curtin Singapore

Families will love the variety of malls such as Velocity and Square 2, and Novena MRT offers fast connections to other parts of the island.

Final Thoughts

Singapore has no shortage of family-friendly neighborhoods. The best choice ultimately depends on your priorities—be it proximity to schools, outdoor space, affordability, or access to the city.

To summarize:

Choose Bukit Timah for top schools and greenery

Pick Holland Village for a vibrant expat scene

Go for Tampines if you want affordability with great amenities

Opt for Woodlands for more space and nature

Consider Serangoon for balance and schooling

Live in East Coast for lifestyle and beaches

Move to Queenstown for connectivity and convenience

Settle in Novena for premium city living

Each area offers something unique, and Singapore’s efficient transport and infrastructure ensure that you’re never too far from what you need.

Let your family’s lifestyle goals lead the way to your perfect home in this amazing city!