Singapore just ranked as the 22nd happiest city in the world and Asia’s 2nd happiest city for 2026. According to the 2026 World Happiness Report, Singaporeans are some of the happiest people on the planet. But this piece of news has local’s eyes rolling because we’re proudly famous for complaining about everything. From the miserable weather to MRT delays every week, no lunch seats at the hawker centre, and social media filled with daily gripes about the price of bubble tea, slow escalators, and disappointing food after hours-long queues…we’ve made a list of the most complained about things in the Lion City. Discover the top 10 complaints in Singapore.
Why do Singaporeans complain so often?
If we’re officially the second happiest nation in Asia, maybe we’re the first for the art of complaining? We can’t help but laugh about this title while also being vocal about the daily frustrations faced by locals. Below are the top 10 complaints in Singapore we’ve found through research.
- Cost of Living
- Job Security
- Public Transport (Crowding and Delays)
- Weather (Too Hot or Too Rainy)
- Government Policies & New Laws
- Food Prices & Hawker Centre Issues
- Housing Affordability
- Strict Fines & OTT Rules
- Healthcare Costs & Waiting Times
- Noise & Construction
Overall, Singaporeans are usually vocal about the rising cost of living, from groceries to utilities, while 35% cite it as their main worry. Meanwhile, job security is another frequent concern with many feeling anxious about layoffs. Despite an efficient MRT system, crowded trains and occasional delays are a top complain, as well as the unpredictable weather—either non-stop rain or too hot that you could fry an egg.
Additionally, government policy changes and new laws are becoming a hot topic to complain about. Particularly, when these policies impact daily life or finances. Plus, shrinking hawker portions and rising food prices are another complaint at every meal. Meanwhile, Singaporeans often vent about their neighbour’s noise levels and love to joke about living in a ”fine city”—from chewing gum bans to eating on the MRT…these complaints in Singapore keep conversations alive.
Certainly, the art of complaining is a alive and well in Singapore despite being happy on paper.
