Singapore amongst top global cities in office design costs

This places Singapore in the top global cost tier, alongside major financial hubs like New York City, London, and Zurich.

Singapore is now one of the priciest places in the world to fit out an office, according to JLL’s Global Office Fit-Out Cost Guide 2025, which pegs the city’s average cost at around $1,592 (US$1,200) per square metre for a medium-quality workplace.

This places Singapore in the top global cost tier, alongside major financial hubs like New York City, London, Tokyo, and Zurich. “As in previous years, fit-out costs are highest in the US, Canada, UK, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Singapore, and Japan,” the report stated.

JLL’s research benchmarked a standardised project—an office in a Central Business District with “a moderately open and flexible layout and medium-quality finishes”—to compare costs across 68 cities worldwide. Singapore emerged as one of the most expensive, outpacing even some Western markets.

The findings come as many multinational corporations in Singapore prioritise premium office spaces that reflect their brand, attract talent, and support hybrid work. This is further driving demand for high-end interiors and tech-forward designs.

In Asia Pacific more broadly, average fit-out costs ranged from $1,791 (US$1,350) to $2,110 (US$1,590) per sqm, depending on the layout. Singapore’s costs soar well above this range.

Cost pressures in the region are being driven by rising labour and material costs. Mechanical & Electrical services alone account for nearly 30% of total fit-out costs in Asia Pacific, with JLL noting that “specifications of materials and finishes can have a significant impact” on pricing.

Whilst Singapore’s costs are high, demand remains strong, especially for sustainable and tech-enhanced offices. According to the report, “corporates are seeking high-quality, sustainable spaces to enhance employee wellbeing and productivity.”