SINGAPORE: A recent social media post by a diner complaining about the price of his chicken rice has ignited a lively debate among netizens regarding the cost of living in Singapore.

The diner expressed his shock at paying $5.50 for the meal, which consisted of chicken, rice, tofu, clear broth, and cucumber.

"Is $5.50 expensive for this? The cost of living in Singapore is really getting out of hand!" he exclaimed on the popular Complaint Singapore page. However, the reactions were not all sympathetic. Many commenters pointed out that the price is actually quite reasonable, especially considering the generous portion sizes.

Diverse Opinions on Pricing

Several users noted that the inclusion of tofu—a common side dish—often costs an additional $0.70 to $1, thereby justifying the $5.50 price tag. "That seems fair," remarked one user, while another bluntly stated, "If this is expensive, then you should cook yourself."

The discourse also revealed varying perceptions of food prices across different regions. Commenters shared their experiences, noting that a plate of chicken rice at nearby food courts can reach up to $9.95. One user even highlighted that the same meal could set someone back up to $25 in Australia or nearly $30 in Doha, Qatar.

Comparative Price Analysis

Comparatively, some Malaysian diners mentioned they pay between 10 to 14 ringgit for similar chicken rice dishes, urging the Singaporean diner to rethink his assessment. A user pointed out that the cost of raw chicken alone has skyrocketed to over $12 in the market, alongside the operating costs for restaurants, such as rent and labor.

Interestingly, data from the CEIC suggests that as of October 2024, the average price for a plate of chicken rice in Singapore was $4.20, indicating that the diner’s meal—including tofu—was not far off from the current trend.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the discourse prompts a crucial question: what is considered a reasonable price for food in a cosmopolitan city like Singapore? As living costs rise, the perspective on food pricing and value continues to evolve, reflecting the diverse opinions of residents and their experiences around the globe.