Best HDB Towns to Live in Singapore: Where Comfort Meets Convenience

1. Toa Payoh – The Heart of Central Living

Toa Payoh is one of Singapore’s oldest HDB towns — but don’t let its age fool you. This mature estate has been rejuvenated with modern amenities, malls, and transport links.

Why it’s great:

Central location: Just minutes from Orchard and the CBD.
MRT lines: Served by both the North-South Line and nearby Downtown Line stations.
Green spaces: Toa Payoh Town Park and MacRitchie Reservoir are nearby.
Good schools: Pei Chun Public School and CHIJ Toa Payoh are reputable.

Ideal for: Families and working professionals who want a central location without sky-high condo prices.

2. Bishan – Premium Living in a HDB Town

Bishan has built a reputation for being an upscale HDB estate. With excellent schools, seamless transport, and strong resale values, it’s a top choice for many Singaporeans.

Key highlights:

Education: Close to Raffles Institution and Catholic High.
Transport: Interchange between North-South and Circle Line.
Amenities: Junction 8, Bishan Library, and Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park.
Low crime rate: Consistently ranked as one of the safest areas.

Ideal for: Parents with school-going children and buyers looking for long-term value.

3. Punggol – The Waterfront Town of the Future

Punggol is a model for modern HDB town planning. Once a sleepy area, it has transformed into a vibrant, family-centric neighborhood with smart features and scenic views.

What makes it stand out:

Punggol Waterway Park: Great for biking and weekend strolls.
Digital hub: Upcoming Punggol Digital District boosts job prospects.
Family-friendly: Childcare, preschools, and new primary schools.
Community vibes: Integrated hubs like Oasis Terraces.

Ideal for: Young couples, new families, and tech-savvy residents.

4. Queenstown – Where Heritage Meets Modernity

As Singapore’s first satellite town, Queenstown is steeped in history — yet remarkably modern. With luxurious amenities and easy access to town, it remains one of the most sought-after HDB areas.

Perks include:

MRT connectivity: On the East-West Line, just 10 mins from the CBD.
Healthcare: Near Alexandra Hospital and National University Hospital (NUH).
Shopping: IKEA, Anchorpoint, and Queensway Shopping Centre.
Culture: Close to Gillman Barracks and heritage trails.

Ideal for: Urban dwellers and expats who value accessibility with a touch of heritage.

5. Tampines – The Eastside Powerhouse

Tampines isn’t just a town — it’s a regional centre. It’s a top pick for those who want access to everything, from top-tier shopping to excellent schools and parks.

Why residents love it:

Three major malls: Tampines Mall, Century Square, and Tampines 1.
Education: Near Temasek Polytechnic and Singapore University of Social Sciences.
Connectivity: Downtown Line, East-West Line, and PIE access.
Sports and recreation: Our Tampines Hub is a mega lifestyle complex.

Ideal for: Families, students, and anyone who prefers living in the East.

6. Sengkang – A Green Haven for Families

Sengkang is another northeastern town that has grown fast. With lush parks, riverside boardwalks, and affordable housing, it's a haven for nature-loving families.

What you’ll find:

Greenery: Sengkang Riverside Park and Park Connectors.
Schools: Nan Chiau Primary and Secondary are highly regarded.
Family facilities: Sengkang Grand Mall, sports centre, and polyclinic.
LRT system: Complements the North-East MRT Line for easy travel.

Ideal for: Budget-conscious families who love outdoor activities.

7. Bukit Panjang – Quiet, Green, and Well-Connected

Located in the northwest, Bukit Panjang has matured into a peaceful and green town with impressive connectivity thanks to the Downtown Line.

Features that matter:

Transport: Direct MRT line to Bugis, Little India, and the CBD.
Nature: Near Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and Dairy Farm.
Modern malls: Hillion Mall and Bukit Panjang Plaza.
Affordable pricing: Still relatively lower compared to central estates.

Ideal for: Nature lovers and those looking for a slower-paced lifestyle.

8. Jurong East – The Upcoming Second CBD

Jurong East is fast becoming Singapore’s “second city”. With new developments, transport hubs, and plenty of retail options, it's a hotspot for west-siders.

What’s exciting here:

Transport: Jurong East MRT interchange, High-Speed Rail in future.
Employment: International Business Park and Jurong Innovation District.
Leisure: JEM, Westgate, JCube (redeveloping into JCube Residence).
Community: Lakeside Garden and family-friendly features.

Ideal for: Career-focused individuals and west-side dwellers.

Choosing the Right HDB Town: What to Consider

When picking your dream HDB town, ask yourself:

Do I need to be near my workplace or school?
Am I looking for a quiet or bustling neighborhood?
Is future resale value important to me?
Do I rely heavily on public transport?

Final Thoughts: Where Should You Live?

Each HDB town in Singapore has its own charm. Toa Payoh and Bishan offer central convenience, while Punggol and Sengkang are future-ready havens for young families. Jurong East presents economic opportunities, and Queenstown blends history with modern living.