Guide to the Trendiest Places to Live in Singapore

Singapore is a dynamic city where the real estate market is constantly evolving. From chic urban neighborhoods to trendy locales known for their vibrant lifestyle, the city offers a range of fashionable and sought-after places to live. Whether you’re an expat, young professional, or a couple looking for style and convenience, here’s a guide to the trendiest places to live in Singapore in 2025.

1. Tiong Bahru

• Why it’s trendy:
  Tiong Bahru is one of Singapore’s most iconic neighborhoods, known for its blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. The area is a hotspot for hip cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries, all set against the backdrop of its unique 1930s pre-war architecture. With its laid-back vibe and proximity to the CBD, Tiong Bahru attracts creative professionals and young couples who appreciate its mix of history and modernity.

• Vibe:
  Urban-chic, nostalgic, and bohemian.

• Features:

  • Art Deco-style flats, boutique cafes, independent bookstores, and trendy wine bars.

  • Close to Orchard Road, the central business district (CBD), and public transport.

2. Bukit Timah

• Why it’s trendy:
  Bukit Timah is a popular area for families and affluent professionals who want the balance of nature and city living. The neighborhood offers plenty of greenery, with parks like the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and the Singapore Botanic Gardens nearby. It’s also home to some of the best international schools in the city, making it ideal for expat families. High-end condos and spacious landed properties add to its desirability.

• Vibe:
  Family-friendly, serene, and upscale.

• Features:

  • Top-rated schools, green spaces, trendy cafes, and high-end condos.

  • Close to Holland Village, a hub for expats and young professionals.

3. Holland Village

• Why it’s trendy:
  Holland Village, often referred to as "Holland V," is a buzzing expat enclave that exudes a cosmopolitan charm. The neighborhood is known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, cafes, and quirky shops. Holland Village has a laid-back, village-like feel while being close to the city center, making it an ideal spot for those who enjoy a social yet relaxed lifestyle.

• Vibe:
  Bohemian, social, and lively.

• Features:

  • Trendy cafes, pubs, and restaurants.

  • A blend of residential options from chic apartments to colonial-style homes.

  • Great public transport links to other parts of Singapore.

4. Orchard Road

• Why it’s trendy:
  Orchard Road is Singapore’s most famous shopping street, known for its high-end retail outlets, luxury malls, and vibrant atmosphere. For those who want to live amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, Orchard Road offers unparalleled access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The area is also home to several premium condominiums and apartments that boast stunning views and top-tier facilities.

• Vibe:
  Glamorous, stylish, and bustling.

• Features:

  • High-rise luxury condos, top-tier shopping malls (e.g., ION Orchard, Paragon), and fine dining options.

  • A central location with excellent accessibility to public transport.

5. Robertson Quay

• Why it’s trendy:
  Robertson Quay is an up-and-coming neighborhood that has grown in popularity among young professionals and couples. Located along the Singapore River, it offers a more relaxed, artsy vibe compared to its neighboring Clarke Quay. With an eclectic mix of riverside restaurants, art spaces, and wine bars, Robertson Quay offers a perfect blend of urban living and waterfront charm.

• Vibe:
  Artsy, modern, and vibrant.

• Features:

  • Riverside living with restaurants, bars, and cultural spaces.

  • A quieter, more laid-back atmosphere compared to nearby Clarke Quay.

  • Stylish, modern apartments and condos.

6. East Coast (Marine Parade)

• Why it’s trendy:
  East Coast is one of Singapore’s most desirable residential areas for its scenic beauty and laid-back lifestyle. Marine Parade, in particular, is known for its stunning coastline, popular beach park, and proximity to East Coast Park. It’s an attractive choice for young professionals and families who enjoy outdoor activities, dining by the sea, and a vibrant local scene.

• Vibe:
  Relaxed, coastal, and family-friendly.

• Features:

  • Beautiful views of the sea and easy access to East Coast Park.

  • Proximity to local cafes, restaurants, and schools.

  • High-rise condos with ocean views and landed properties.

7. Novena

• Why it’s trendy:
  Novena is one of Singapore's emerging areas that is becoming increasingly popular with young professionals and families. Known for its blend of modern developments, luxury living, and healthcare facilities (such as Tan Tock Seng Hospital), Novena is both well-connected and convenient. It also offers a range of dining and shopping options, making it a vibrant yet peaceful place to live.

• Vibe:
  Modern, family-oriented, and quiet.

• Features:

  • Proximity to reputable healthcare institutions, schools, and shopping malls (e.g., United Square).

  • A mix of high-rise condos and landed properties.

  • Close to MRT stations for easy commuting to other parts of the city.

8. Chinatown

• Why it’s trendy:
  Chinatown is an eclectic and culturally rich area that has seen a renaissance in recent years. While it retains its traditional charm with markets, temples, and heritage sites, it has also attracted a younger, more creative crowd. With trendy restaurants, boutique shops, and artistic spaces, Chinatown offers a balance of heritage and modern living.

• Vibe:
  Vibrant, historic, and hip.

• Features:

  • Heritage shophouses, modern apartments, and boutique hotels.

  • Great food scene, from local hawker stalls to high-end dining.

  • Proximity to cultural landmarks and vibrant nightlife.

9. Bugis & Kampong Glam

• Why it’s trendy:
  Bugis and Kampong Glam are two neighborhoods that have experienced a transformation into modern hotspots while retaining their cultural charm. Bugis is known for its lively shopping scene and proximity to the CBD, while Kampong Glam, home to Singapore’s Muslim community, offers a colorful mix of boutique shops, trendy cafes, and cultural landmarks like the Sultan Mosque.

• Vibe:
  Eclectic, cultural, and trendy.

• Features:

  • Boutique living, quirky cafes, and vintage shops.

  • Proximity to art spaces, bars, and local markets.

  • Close to the CBD and well-served by public transport.

10. Dempsey Hill

• Why it’s trendy:
  Dempsey Hill is a leafy, upscale area that is well-known for its restaurants, bars, and boutique stores housed in restored colonial buildings. It offers a serene yet hip environment, perfect for those seeking a balance of tranquility and lifestyle options. The area is highly favored by expatriates and high-net-worth individuals.

• Vibe:
  Trendy, laid-back, and refined.

• Features:

  • Expansive residences, some housed in restored colonial buildings.

  • Exclusive restaurants, art galleries, and shopping experiences.

  • Close to Orchard Road but quieter and more private.

Singapore offers a wide variety of trendy neighborhoods to suit every lifestyle. Whether you're drawn to the hip vibes of Tiong Bahru, the beachy charm of East Coast, or the cosmopolitan energy of Orchard Road, these areas are at the forefront of modern living. In 2025, these places are not only trendy but also offer excellent connectivity, a thriving food and culture scene, and luxury living options for those seeking the best that Singapore has to offer.