HDB for Rent in Singapore

Renting an HDB flat in Singapore is a sensible and cost-effective housing choice, particularly for families, expatriates, and young professionals. These public housing units, developed by Singapore’s Housing & Development Board (HDB), are designed to provide affordable accommodation and are widely available across the country.

HDB flats come in a variety of sizes and layouts to suit different budgets and living preferences. You can opt to rent either a single room or an entire flat, with options ranging from one-bedroom studios to larger four- or five-room units. Typically located in mature estates or suburban neighbourhoods such as Tampines, Woodlands, and Jurong, HDB flats provide convenient access to schools, markets, and public transport.

What can renters expect when looking to rent a HDB flat?

The rental cost of an HDB flat varies depending on factors like location, flat size, furnishing, and local demand. Renting a single room generally costs between S$500 and S$1,800 per month. For entire units, smaller two-room flats may range from S$1,800 to S$2,500 per month, while larger three-room or five-room flats cost between S$2,850 and S$4,000 monthly. Compared to private housing options such as condominiums or landed properties, HDB flats are more budget-friendly while still offering essential amenities.

Latest HDB rental price trends

HDB rental prices inched up by 0.3% in April 2025 compared to March, with a 2.9% increase year-on-year. 4-room flats saw the highest monthly rise at 0.7%, while 3-room rentals rose by 0.3%. Rentals for 5-room flats stayed flat, and Executive flat rentals dipped by 0.9%. Rents rose in both Mature (+0.4%) and Non-Mature Estates (+0.2%).

Rental activity picked up, with 2,881 flats rented in April – a 5.9% increase from March. However, rental volumes were down 3.4% compared to April 2024 and remained 7.8% below the five-year April average. Most rentals came from 4-room flats (36.8%), followed by 3-room (33.5%), 5-room (24.3%), and Executive units (5.4%).

Are there any regulations governing subletting an HDB property?

When renting an HDB flat, it is crucial to understand the regulations governing subletting. Non-Singaporean tenants (excluding Malaysians) should ensure that the flat complies with the Non-Citizen Rent Out Quota. Additionally, landlords must secure HDB approval before renting out the unit. Tenants should verify these details to avoid any potential legal complications.

Things to know before renting an HDB property

1. Most HDB flats are either partially or fully furnished, making them move-in ready for tenants. These units typically include basic amenities such as air conditioning, kitchen appliances, and storage solutions.

1. While HDB flats lack the premium facilities found in private condominiums, they are situated in well-planned estates with easy access to supermarkets, hawker centres, parks, and public transport hubs.
2. The lease period for HDB rentals usually ranges from six months to two years. Short-term rentals under six months are prohibited under local regulations. This makes HDB flats ideal for tenants intending to stay in Singapore for mid- to long-term durations.

The process of renting an HDB flat

You can look for available HDB flats in the area of your choosing using the 99.co portal. Once you’ve shortlisted potential flats, schedule viewings to evaluate the properties. Inspections are vital to ensure the flat meets your expectations and aligns with the online listing. Pay attention to signs of wear and tear, test the appliances, and check the condition of shared spaces if you are renting a room. During the viewing, you can also discuss rental terms and address any questions with the landlord or agent.

After choosing a flat, the rental process starts with making an offer to the landlord. If accepted, the landlord may prepare a Letter of Intent (LOI) to confirm your interest in leasing the property. This is followed by the signing of a Tenancy Agreement (TA) by both parties. The TA outlines key details such as the rental amount, security deposit, and additional terms, including responsibilities for utilities.

Do HDB flats require a security deposit from renters?

Yes, they do! The security deposit for HDB rentals typically amounts to one month’s rent for a one-year lease or two months’ rent for a two-year lease. You should also account for additional costs like agent fees (if applicable), utilities, and internet services when budgeting.