Singapore Average Income: How Much Do Singaporeans Earn?
Are you curious about the average income in Singapore? Whether you’re considering moving to Singapore or just want to learn more about the country, understanding income levels is an important aspect to consider. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of income in Singapore, including factors that influence income and frequently asked questions.

Singapore is known for its strong economy and high standard of living. In 2020, the country had a GDP per capita of $65,233, making it one of the wealthiest countries in the world. However, like any country, income levels vary depending on a variety of factors such as age, education level, occupation, and industry. Understanding these factors can help you gain a better understanding of income in Singapore and what you can expect if you’re considering moving there.
Key Takeaways
- Income levels in Singapore vary depending on factors such as age, education level, occupation, and industry.
- The country has a high GDP per capita, making it one of the wealthiest countries in the world.
- Understanding income levels in Singapore is important for those considering moving to the country or learning more about it.
Overview of Income in Singapore

If you are interested in understanding the income landscape in Singapore, this section will provide you with a brief overview of the median and average incomes, income distribution by percentiles, and a comparison by age, sex, and occupation.
Median and Average Incomes
The median income in Singapore is $5,197 per month, which includes employer CPF contributions. Without employer CPF contributions, the median income is $4,550 per month. The average monthly household income in Singapore is $10,776. It is important to note that these figures are based on data from resident households, which include Singapore citizens and permanent residents.
Income Distribution by Percentiles
The income distribution in Singapore is relatively equal, with the top 10% of households earning 36% of the total income and the bottom 10% earning 2% of the total income. The 50th percentile, or median income, is $5,197 per month. The 90th percentile earns $13,000 per month, while the 10th percentile earns $1,500 per month.
Comparison by Age, Sex, and Occupation
Age, sex, and occupation play a significant role in determining income in Singapore. In 2024, the median income for employed persons aged 25-29 was $3,500 per month, while those aged 50-54 had a median income of $6,000 per month. Men have a higher median income than women, with men earning $5,500 per month compared to $4,500 per month for women.
In terms of occupation, those in the financial and insurance services industry had the highest median income of $7,500 per month, while those in the food and beverage services industry had the lowest median income of $2,000 per month.
Overall, the labour force in Singapore is well-educated and highly skilled, with a majority of workers employed in the service sector. The government has implemented various policies to ensure that income inequality is kept in check and that all Singaporeans have access to opportunities for social mobility.
Factors Influencing Income

When it comes to determining your income in Singapore, there are several factors that come into play. Here are some of the key factors that can influence your income:
Education and Income Growth
Your level of education can have a significant impact on your income potential. Generally, the higher your level of education, the higher your income is likely to be. This is because higher education levels are often associated with higher-skilled jobs that pay more. Additionally, continuing education and professional development can also lead to increased income growth over time.
Industry and Employment Types
The industry you work in and the type of employment you have can also impact your income. Certain industries, such as finance and technology, tend to pay higher salaries than others. Additionally, full-time employees typically earn higher salaries than part-time or contract workers.
Government Policies and CPF Contributions
Government policies and CPF contributions can also play a role in determining your income. For example, the Ministry of Manpower sets basic wages for certain industries, which can impact overall salary levels. CPF contributions, both from employers and employees, can also impact your income. These contributions can help to build up your retirement savings, but can also reduce your take-home pay.
When it comes to personal income tax, Singapore has a progressive tax system, which means that those who earn more pay a higher percentage of their income in taxes. However, there are also various deductions and reliefs available to help reduce your tax burden.
Conclusion
Overall, there are several factors that can influence your income in Singapore. By understanding these factors and working to improve your education, skills, and industry knowledge, you can increase your income potential and achieve your financial goals.
Frequently Asked Questions

What does the average person earn monthly in Singapore?
The average monthly income in Singapore, inclusive of employer CPF contributions, is around S$5,197. This is for all full-time workers in Singapore. However, keep in mind that this is just an average and salaries can vary depending on factors such as industry, experience, and education.
How much do foreigners typically make in Singapore?
Foreigners working in Singapore typically earn salaries that are comparable to those of locals. However, in some cases, foreigners may earn slightly higher salaries due to their specialized skills and experience.
Can you describe the income group classifications in Singapore?
In Singapore, income groups are classified based on monthly household income. The classifications are as follows:
- Lower-income: Less than S$2,500 per month
- Middle-income: Between S$2,500 and S$10,000 per month
- Upper-income: More than S$10,000 per month
What’s the typical salary for different age groups in Singapore?
The average median income (inclusive of employer CPF contributions) in Singapore is around S$5,197 per month. However, the average salary can vary depending on age and experience. According to recent data, the median salary in Singapore by age group is as follows:
- 25-29: S$3,500
- 30-34: S$4,000
- 35-39: S$4,500
- 40-44: S$4,800
- 45-49: S$5,000
- 50-54: S$5,200
- 55-59: S$5,500
- 60-64: S$5,800
- 65 and above: S$6,000
What amount qualifies as a middle-class income in Singapore?
In Singapore, a middle-class income is typically considered to be between S$2,500 and S$10,000 per month. However, keep in mind that this can vary depending on factors such as the cost of living and family size.
What earnings are considered to be in the top 1% of Singapore’s salary range?
To be considered in the top 1% of Singapore’s salary range, you would need to earn around S$27,000 per month or more. This is based on recent data and can vary depending on factors such as industry and experience.

