As of December 2024, Singapore will raise its public transportation fares once again. The fare adjustment has sparked some discontent, as many Singaporeans grapple with rising living costs, which have affected everything from food to housing.
Image: Getty
In the face of growing financial pressures, some residents are questioning whether transportation costs will continue to be affordable in the future. However, while the fare hike is frustrating for some, it is worth comparing Singapore’s transportation costs to other countries like South Korea, China, Japan, Switzerland, and Australia.
A closer look and comparison with 8 other countries with similar rail networks might put the increase in perspective:
Cost Comparison of a 40km Train Journey Based on Standard Adult Fares:
Image: Dreamstime
Singapore Length of journey: 41.6 km Route: Punggol to Tuas Link Cost: S$2.37
South Korea Length of journey: ~40 km Route: Seoul Station to Suwon Station Cost: KRW 2,150 (≈ S$2.20)
China Length of journey: ~40 km Route: Beijing South to Langfang Cost: CNY 9.38 (≈ S$1.76)
Japan Length of journey: ~40 km Route: Tokyo to Yokohama Cost: JPY 570 (≈ S$7.00)
Australia Length of journey: ~40 km Route: Sydney Central to Penrith Cost: AUD 6.00 (≈ S$5.30)
Switzerland Length of journey: ~40 km Route: Zurich to Winterthur Cost: CHF 10.00 (≈ S$15.00)
United Kingdom Length of journey: ~40 km Route: London Victoria to Gatwick Airport Cost: £10.00 (≈ S$17.00)
Germany Length of journey: ~40 km Route: Munich to Augsburg Cost: €19.90 (≈ S$29.00)
A Step Back: Singapore’s Efficiency at a Lower Cost
While Singapore’s fares are increasing, they remain competitive compared to many developed nations. Switzerland, with its high standard of living, stands out for significantly higher transportation costs, while Japan and Australia offer fares higher than Singapore but are still more affordable than Switzerland.
In this context, Singapore’s relatively well-maintained public transportation system continues to provide good value for commuters. Despite the impending fare hike of up to 10 cents, the cost-benefit ratio of using public transport in Singapore remains favorable, especially considering the extensive network and the efficiency of services offered.
Images: Public Transport Council
The fare adjustment, while unwelcome for some, is still moderate when compared to the much steeper prices seen in other developed nations. This broader comparison highlights the relative affordability and value Singaporeans receive from their public transport system.
If you have not managed to catch up with news about the impending fare hike, find out more here!
Poll: What do you think? Are the fare hikes fair for Singaporeans?
Yes
No
