Insider Guides

Coliving vs Renting Your Own Apartment in Singapore: How to Choose

Two of the most popular ways to live in Singapore pull in different directions. Renting your own apartment gives you space and privacy; coliving trades some of that for flexibility, community and a far lighter setup. Here is how to decide which fits your stay.

Open-plan communal space in a Figment coliving home

The quick comparison

Factor	Coliving	Your own apartment
Lease length	Flexible, often month-to-month after a minimum term	Usually 12–24 months
Setup	Move-in ready and furnished	Often unfurnished; you furnish it
Bills & wifi	Bundled into one payment	Arranged and paid separately
Community	Shared spaces and events	Mostly private
Upfront cost	Lower deposit	Larger deposit plus furnishing
Privacy	Private room, shared common areas	Entire unit to yourself

When coliving makes sense

Coliving suits people who value flexibility and a soft landing: new arrivals, professionals between homes, or anyone who would rather not sign a two-year lease or buy furniture. A private room in a thoughtfully run shophouse, with cleaning, wifi and utilities handled, removes most of the friction of moving. See what this looks like across our coliving homes and spaces for professionals.

When your own apartment makes sense

If you are staying long term, moving with family, or simply want full control of your space, a standard apartment lease is hard to beat. You choose the layout, decorate freely and answer to no housemates. Remember the three-month minimum lease for private homes still applies. Browse house rentals or the wider rentals across Singapore.

Plant-filled private room in a Figment shophouse

Cost beyond the headline rent

Comparing only monthly rent can mislead. An apartment usually adds furniture, internet setup, utility deposits and a larger security deposit, while coliving folds most of these into one figure. Over a short or uncertain stay, the all-in coliving number often wins; over several years, a private lease can pull ahead.

A middle path

If you need privacy but not a long commitment, a serviced-apartment-approved home can bridge the gap — our one-month rentals offer hotel-style flexibility within the rules. For heritage character with room to breathe, the shophouse rentals are worth a look.

Five questions to help you decide

How long am I staying? Under a year tilts toward coliving; multi-year tilts toward a private lease.
Do I want furniture and bills handled, or full control of the home?
How much do I value privacy versus built-in community?
What can I commit upfront — a larger deposit, or a lighter one?
Are my plans likely to change? Flexibility favours coliving or a serviced-apartment stay.

If you are still unsure, start flexible. A short-term rental or a coliving room lets you settle in and learn the city before committing to a long lease.

Frequently asked questions

Is coliving cheaper than renting an apartment?

It depends on stay length. Coliving’s bundled costs usually win for shorter or uncertain stays; a private lease can be more economical over several years.

Can I get my own bathroom in coliving?

Many Figment rooms offer en-suite options. Check individual house listings for room-by-room details.

Do I have to commit long term with coliving?

No. Most Figment coliving stays run month-to-month after a short minimum term, which is much of the appeal compared with a one or two-year apartment lease.