Comparing Global Property Markets: Where Does Your City Stand?
By Bloom Realty Team | Jan 20, 2026 | 7 min read
Singapore property prices feel high, but how do they compare on the global stage? When we benchmark against other financial hubs like London, New York, and Hong Kong, the picture becomes nuanced.
Price Per Square Foot (PSF) Wars
| City | Prime CBD PSF (USD Approx) | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Hong Kong | $3,500+ | Still the most expensive, but correcting. |
| New York (Manhattan) | $2,800+ | Comparable to SG's prime, but with higher holding taxes. |
| London (Zone 1) | $2,500+ | Sluggish growth post-Brexit. |
| Singapore | $2,200 - $3,000 | Catching up fast. |
Stability vs Volatility
Singapore commands a "safe haven premium." Unlike Western markets, which are more susceptible to sharp corrections due to interest rate shocks (as seen in 2023/24), Singapore's prudential measures (ABSD, TDSR) smooth out the curve. Investors pay for lower volatility.
Taxation Landscape
While Singapore's 60% ABSD for foreigners is headline-grabbing, other cities have their own
"poisons."
- USA: Estate Duty (Inheritance Tax) can be 40% for non-residents.
- UK: Capital Gains Tax is significant.
- Singapore: No Capital Gains Tax. Only the upfront stamp duty strikes
hard.
Conclusion
Singapore offers the best mix of political stability and tax efficiency upon exit. However, the high entry barrier (ABSD) means it is strictly a long-term play for foreigners.