Why Bukit Chagar is Perfect for Malaysians & Singaporeans

Unbeatable Connectivity – 5 minutes to Singapore via RTS

High Rental Demand – Attract Singaporean tenants, Malaysian commuters, and expats

Strong Capital Growth – Buy undervalued properties now before RTS completion

Lifestyle Convenience – Walk to malls, eateries, and schools

The strong SGD to Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) exchange rate offers a golden opportunity to acquire premium property, enjoy a lower cost of living, and secure a valuable asset near the upcoming RTS Link.

Why Malaysians , Singaporeans & expat Earning in SGD Gain by Living in Bukit Chagar, Johor Bahru?

Lower Cost of Living

From SG HDBs to JB condos: More Singaporeans are now ‘working smart’ from across the Causeway by earning SGD income, but living RM lifestyle
(Source : The independent Singapore)

Groceries in Johor Bahru are far more affordable than in Singapore, with essentials like rice, chicken, and vegetables up to 180% cheaper. This price gap makes JB an attractive option for Singaporeans looking to save while enjoying a better lifestyle.(Source: Numbeo Cost of Living)

Commuting time & convenience — RTS shuttle will create a fast, predictable cross-border commute: that’s attractive to anyone who works in Singapore but wants lower housing costs in JB. Shorter commute time raises the property’s rental and resale appeal.
(Source:MRT Corp)

Cost of Living Comparison Between Johor Bahru and Singapore (Source: Numbeo Cost of Living)

Price gap & currency edge: A Singapore salary converted to ringgit gives much higher buying power in Malaysia today (≈ S$1 ≈ RM3.28), so the same SGD income buys a substantially cheaper property in JB .(Source: Wise)

Rent in Singapore is 87.3% higher compared to JB, making JB new projects an ideal choice for individuals and families seeking lower housing costs.
(Source:Berinda)

(All images are for illustration purposes only. The actual property and development may differ.)

(All images are for illustration purposes only. The actual property and development may differ.)

Malaysians working in Singapore who are already renting units near the RTS Bukit Chagar station will benefit from cheaper rent, on top of commuting time that’s reduced to just 5 minutes
(Source:iProperty)

Passengers will be able to travel from the Bukit Chagar station, which is next to the JB checkpoint, to the underground Woodlands North station in Singapore, and vice versa, in about five minutes.
(Source:iProperty)

(All images are for illustration purposes only. The actual property and development may differ.)

Why Malaysians working in Singapore, Singaporeans and expats will buy at Bukit Chagar (≈400 m to RTS)

With property prices up to 80% lower than Singapore condos, residents enjoy luxury facilities, spacious layouts, and unbeatable connectivity—while still earning in Singapore Dollars. Johor Bahru’s lower cost of living, and Bukit Chagar becomes the ultimate cross-border living and investment opportunity.

Bukit Chagar properties near the Johor Bahru–Singapore RTS Link are priced up to 75–85% lower per square foot than comparable Singapore condominiums. With units starting under RM1.2 million (approx. SGD 340k), Bukit Chagar offers premium facilities, spacious layouts, and unbeatable proximity to Singapore at a fraction of the cost. This makes it one of the most attractive cross-border property investment opportunities today

It’s not just Malaysians who see the value of Bukit Chagar.
With the RTS Link bringing Singapore and Johor closer than ever, a new wave of Singaporean tenants will also look across the causeway for space, affordability, and lifestyle.

Investor and rental demand is particularly strong for high-rise properties and serviced apartments. The cross-border rental market is supported by Singaporeans, international professionals, and expatriates seeking quality accommodation.
(Source: BambooRoutes)

According to JLL Malaysia's Q2 2025 Market Dynamics Report, average transaction prices for serviced apartments in Johor Bahru's downtown area (including Bukit Chagar) rose 20.4% year-on-year to RM709 PSF in the first half of 2025. New launches around Bukit Chagar are commanding RM1,000–1,500 PSF, driven by anticipation of the RTS Link's completion in late 2026.

High-end properties near the RTS have already seen a 20% surge in prices in H1 2025, with further growth projected due to cross-border demand and the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).

(Source: EdgeProp)

Bukit Chagar is set to become Johor Bahru’s most sought-after address, just 400m from the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link to Singapore. For Malaysians working in Singapore and Singaporeans seeking affordable property alternatives, Bukit Chagar offers the perfect balance of location, lifestyle, and value.

One of the main reasons why the projects above appeared as most viewed is their proximity to the RTS LInk. For example, R&F Princess Cove and Twin Tower Residence are located 2.1km and 900m away from the RTS Bukit Chagar station, respectively. This provides Malaysian residents who work across the border with the advantage of both an easy access to Singapore as well as combating the high rental prices in Singapore.
(Source:iProperty)

(All images are for illustration purposes only. The actual property and development may differ.)

(All images are for illustration purposes only. The actual property and development may differ.)

Discover how Malaysia's welcoming policies and vibrant lifestyle attract foreign residents, who contribute significantly to the economy. Learn about the positive impact of this foreign investment on local businesses, job creation, and the nation's overall prosperity.

(Source: iProperty)

To facilitate a seamless travelling experience, there will be co-located Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine (CIQ) facilities at both the Bukit Chagar and Woodlands North stations, such that commuters only need to undergo immigration clearance at the point of departure.
(Source: Land Transport Authority)

Direct rail integration in Singapore: Woodlands North connects to the Thomson–East Coast Line (TEL).
50% journey-time savings to core city destinations versus current alternatives—good for CBD/Orchard commuters.
(Source: Land Transport Authority)

(All images are for illustration purposes only. The actual property and development may differ.)

Singaporean & foreigners Living in Johor Bahru

Explore stunning visuals of modern living near Bukit Chagar.

Photo: Shaun Chen/Instagram

In fact, a survey by The Independent SG found that 55% of Singaporeans polled said they would move to JB to avoid high living costs. (Source: The Independent SG)

An Interview with Erika Oktora on Living in the Developing Locations of Johor
"You work in Singapore but stay in Johor. Tell us why you decided on moving to Johor? How much time does your daily commute take?"
(Source :Holiday Home Times)

Singaporeans are snapping up properties near the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link in Johor Bahru in anticipation of easier access across the border once the project is completed.
(Source: CNA)

The majority of Singaporeans are buying for their own stay, for retirement or for family members nearing retirement, he adds. Johor offers more in terms of the quality of the environment and space, apart from a lower cost of living compared with Singapore.
(Source: The Edge Malaysia)

Ms Loh is among a small group of Singaporeans who have relocated to Johor Bahru following the reopening of borders.
“I wanted a job that could accommodate my choice to live in Johor Bahru because it allows me to lower my living expenses. I can also save on transport, cook my own lunches and have more time for myself,” she added.
(Source: CNA)

Save money, bigger home: Actor Shaun Chen on why he moved to JB with his family (Source: New Straights Times)

cost of daughters studying in international school there is similar to S'pore school fees (Source: CNA)

Location

Discover the prime location near Bukit Chagar RTS station, ideal for urban living and investment opportunities.

Address

Bukit Chagar, Johor Bahru

Hours

9.30 AM - 6 PM

Five-minute walk to the Bukit Chagar RTS station, making it just one stop away from Singapore and giving cross-border access in under 10 minutes.

Layouts

Explore stunning visuals of modern living near Bukit Chagar.

Type D dual key layout at Bukit Chagar Living – 1003 sqft /95.93 sqm apartment with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a balcony. Designed for flexible living or rental income.

Type C layout at Bukit Chagar Living – a spacious 904 sqft/84sqm apartment with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a balcony. Ideal for couples or small families.

Type F duplex layout at Bukit Chagar Living – 2358 sqft/219.13 sqm across two floors with 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and 2 balconies. A luxury choice for multi-generational living.

Type A layout at Bukit Chagar Living – a compact 639sqft /64.38sqm apartment with 1 bedroom, study room, 1 bathroom, and balcony. Perfect for singles or young professionals.

Type E layout at Bukit Chagar Living – a large 1315 sqft/122.18 sqm apartment with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a balcony. Perfect for growing families.

Type G duplex layout at Bukit Chagar Living – 2547sqft/236.65sqm with 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and 2 balconies. The largest unit, offering premium space and comfort.

Property price comparison table

Notes: Bukit Chagar prices are 40-70% lower than Singapore’s (HDB SGD 550-650 psf; condos SGD 1,972 psf (Source:99.co))
Types C& D suit families; Types E & F for multigenerational or investment. RTS proximity boosts appeal.

School Cost Comparison:
Johor Bahru vs. Singapore
(2025, Annual Fees)

Sources: Fees sourced from school websites and databases like international-schools-database.com, edarabia.com, and educationdestinationmalaysia.com ,(as of October 2025).

Disclaimer: This information is provided for reference only and is based on publicly available data as of October 2025. School fees, exchange rates, and policies may vary or change; we strongly recommend verifying directly with the schools for the most up-to-date details. We do not take responsibility for any discrepancies, inaccuracies, or decisions made based on this comparison.

JB international schools cost 40-70% less than Singapore’s, saving SGD 10,000–35,000/year per child. For a family with two kids, this could mean SGD 20,000–70,000 saved annually, redirectable to housing

Preschool (Ages 3-6)

• Austin Heights International School (JB): https://www.austinheights.edu.my/ – Official site for fee details and enrollment.

• Fairview International School (JB): https://fairview.edu.my/our-campuses/location-johor-bahru/ – Official JB campus page with program info.

• EtonHouse International School (SG): https://www.etonhouse.edu.sg/ – Official site for preschool fees and admissions.

• International School of Singapore (ISS): https://www.iss.edu.sg/ – Official site for fee structure.

Primary (Ages 7-12)

• New Bridge International School (JB): https://www.newbridge.edu.my/ – Official site for primary programs and costs.

• Marlborough College Malaysia (JB): https://www.marlboroughcollegemalaysia.org/ – Official site for primary fees.

• Stamford American International School (SG): https://www.sais.edu.sg/ – Official site for primary tuition details.

• Dulwich College Singapore (SG): https://singapore.dulwich.org/ – Official site for primary school fees.

Secondary (Ages 13-18)

• Invictus International School (JB): https://www.invictus.edu.my/ – Official site for secondary curriculum and fees.

• Marlborough College Malaysia (JB): https://www.marlboroughcollegemalaysia.org/admissions/fees/ – Official fees page for secondary levels.

• UWCSEA (SG): https://www.uwcsea.edu.sg/ – Official site for secondary fees.

• Tanglin Trust School (SG): https://www.tts.edu.sg/ – Official site for secondary program costs.

• Doris School (General SG Source): https://www.doris.school/schools – Comparison tool for Singapore international schools.

Boarding (Optional, Ages 13-18)

• Marlborough College Malaysia (JB): https://www.marlboroughcollegemalaysia.org/boarding/boarding-overview/ – Official boarding overview and fees.

• UWCSEA (SG): https://www.uwcsea.edu.sg/admissions/boarding-applications – Official boarding applications and costs.

Additional Costs (General Sources)

• International Schools Database (JB/SG General): https://www.international-schools-database.com/ – Database for fee comparisons across JB and SG schools.

• Education Destination Malaysia (JB General): https://educationdestinationmalaysia.com/ – Resource for JB school costs and extras.

• SchoolAdvisor.my (JB General): https://schooladvisor.my/ – Malaysian school advisor for additional fees.

The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme

MM2H is open to all foreigners, including ASEAN citizens like Singaporeans, are eligible to apply for Malaysia's My Second Home (MM2H) program, which grants long-term residency visas for living, retiring, or investing in Malaysia. The program is particularly appealing due to Malaysia's proximity to Singapore, lower cost of living, cultural similarities, and options like the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Johor (e.g., Forest City), which offers reduced financial thresholds and easy cross-border access.

(Sources: https://mm2hagency.com/ , Immigration Department of Malaysia,
Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Official Portal)

Consult professionals for personalized advice, as rules can evolve.
List of Licensed MM2H Companies
(Source: Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Official Portal)

Disclaimer for MM2H Program Information:The information provided regarding the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program, including visa tiers, financial requirements, and application processes, is based on available data as of October 2025 and is intended for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the details presented may contain errors, omissions, or outdated information due to frequent changes in MM2H regulations, policies, or requirements.

We do not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or accuracy of this information. Applicants are strongly advised to consult with licensed MM2H agents, the Malaysian Immigration Department, or the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) for the most current and authoritative guidance. Any decisions or actions taken based on this information are at the user's sole risk, and we shall not be liable for any losses, damages, or consequences arising from reliance on this content.

For official and personalized advice, please refer to imi.gov.my or motac.gov.my and engage professional services as needed.

Moving to Malaysia from Singapore has become increasingly attractive for professionals, families, and retirees seeking better value for money, expanded business opportunities, and a more relaxed lifestyle.
(Source: LivinMalaysia)

MM2H Visa Tiers and Financial Requirements (2025 Updates)

(Source: Singapore Trace Immigration)

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Disclaimer: BukitChagarLiving.com is independently managed by a licensed freelance property consultant focused on helping Malaysians, Singaporeans and foreigners explore Bukit Chagar’s real estate opportunities. This website is not affiliated with any specific developer, government agency, or RTS project entity. All insights are based on publicly available sources such as official government websites and credible news portals. Information is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. For accurate project details and available units, please contact us directly for personalized assistance.