West vs East: Settling the Debate on Which Side is “Better”

There’s been a long-standing debate between the country’s West and East sides, and we think it’s time to settle it once and for all.

Singapore is a bustling city-state that is known for its modern infrastructure, efficient transport system, and vibrant economy. All four regions — East, West, North, and Central — have unique characteristics and advantages, making each of them a desirable place to live.

But those who live in the East say that…

The East is More “Established”

Easties typically argue that the East is lauded for its laid-back lifestyle, proximity to the beach, and vibrant food scene. The area is well-connected by public transport, with the MRT and bus services providing easy access to other parts of Singapore. Popular residential areas in East Singapore include Bedok, Tampines, and Pasir Ris. These areas are highly sought after by families, young professionals, and expats.

One of the advantages of living in East Singapore is the access to a range of amenities. There are several shopping malls, supermarkets, and local markets in the area, providing residents with a diverse range of options for their daily needs. The area is also known for its excellent schools, making it a popular choice for families with children. The proximity to Changi Airport is another advantage, making it an ideal location for those who travel frequently.

Generally, properties in East Singapore are believed to be more expensive than West Singapore real estate.

There are several reasons for this. Firstly, the East is generally perceived as more upscale and exclusive, with many high-end residential areas such as Katong, Siglap, and Marine Parade. These areas are popular among affluent buyers and expatriates due to their proximity to the city centre, beachfront, and amenities such as shopping malls, restaurants, and prestigious schools.

Secondly, the East is well-connected to major transport infrastructure such as Changi Airport, the Central Business District, and the Marina Bay Financial Centre. This accessibility further boosts the value of properties in the area.

In addition, the limited availability of land in the East has contributed to the high prices of real estate in the region. Due to restrictions on land use, there is limited development of new residential properties, driving up the prices of existing properties.

A quick look at the URA Master Plan’s Regional Highlights will give you a general feel that the East will retain the vibe of a charming “seaside destination” while the “transforming live, work and play in the West” exudes a sense of hustle and bustle.

On the other hand…

West is the Best

Considered a more “ulu” area by Easties, the West region of Singapore is relatively further away from the CBD and Changi Airport, which can impact its overall appeal. However, the West region has its own set of advantages, such as larger land parcels, which offer more space for development, and lower land costs, which can lead to more affordable housing options.

West Singapore’s claim to fame is arguably the Jurong Lake District, a key economic centre in Singapore. This district is home to several industrial parks, research and development centres, and high-tech industries. The government has also invested heavily in this area, with plans to develop it into a leading business hub in Asia. This means that residents of West Singapore can enjoy easy access to job opportunities and a thriving economy.

West Singapore is served by several major expressways, including the Ayer Rajah Expressway (AYE) and the Pan Island Expressway (PIE), as well as several MRT lines. The upcoming Jurong Region Line and Cross Island Line will further improve connectivity, making it even easier to travel to other parts of the island.

West Singapore is known for its beautiful parks and nature reserves, which offer residents plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Some popular parks in the region include the Jurong Lake Gardens, West Coast Park, and Bukit Batok Nature Park. This makes it an excellent location for families and nature lovers.

The region has a wide range of housing options to suit different lifestyles and budgets. From high-end condominiums to landed properties and public housing estates, there is something for everyone. The upcoming Tengah Town, which is being developed as Singapore’s first “forest town,” will also offer a unique living experience surrounded by nature.

West Singapore is home to several top-ranked educational institutions, including the National University of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University and several Polytechnics. This means that residents have access to quality education options for their children.

In Conclusion

Obviously, the debate between East and West Singapore ultimately boils down to personal preferences and priorities. If I had to make a choice, I’d pick the East over the West, given that it’s an already “developed” area.

But I can see how others may consider the West as a potential area of investment to maximise capital gains by buying real estate in choice areas, waiting for government planning and development to do its magic, and then selling in a market where people begin to realise the value of owning a West side property.

Both areas have their own unique advantages and drawbacks, so it is important for potential buyers to carefully consider their needs and preferences before making a decision.