Singaporeans are increasingly worried about the cost of living, with household optimism declining, according to Blackbox Research’s latest SensingSG survey. Conducted from 24 to 30 September, the survey of 1,533 citizens and permanent residents shows a four-point drop in the Good Governance Metre to 69, reflecting public ratings of government performance across 26 issues.
The survey highlights that 50% of respondents now consider the cost of living one of their top two concerns, up from 41% in the previous quarter. Confidence in Singapore’s overall direction remains high at 82%, though it has decreased from 87%. The financial outlook has also softened, with only 51% expecting to be better off in a year, down from 59% in Q2.
Particularly affected are those aged 40–49, with 64% citing cost of living as a major issue. Government performance ratings have declined in 20 of the 26 areas measured, with significant drops in ratings for cost of living, the gap between rich and poor, and jobs and unemployment.
The findings come as household costs rise, with August’s headline inflation at 2.3% and electricity and gas prices up 8.7% from the previous year. David Black, CEO of Blackbox Research, noted, “Recent global disruptions are starting to hit home hard.”
Workplace sentiment has also weakened, with only 51% of employees recommending their organisation as a place to work, down from 64% in Q2. The survey underscores the growing public demand for government action on affordability and fairness, despite a solid macroeconomic backdrop.
