Singapore was ranked the 34th happiest city in the world and the second happiest city in Asia in 2025. According to the 2025 World Happiness Report, Singaporeans are some of the happiest people on the planet. But this is especially funny to locals, because Singaporeans are famous for complaining about everything. From the weather to MRT delays by one minute, no seats during lunch 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 concepted a list of the most complained about things in the Lion City. Read on to find out the top 10 complaints in Singapore.
Why Singaporeans complain so often?
We can’t help but laugh at the irony of being officially the second happiest nation in Asia while being so vocal about daily frustrations. Here 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 famously vocal about the rising cost of living, from groceries to utilities, 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 until you can fry an egg.
Recently, changes in government policies and new laws are becoming a hot topic. Particularly, when these policies impact daily life or finances. Additionally, shrinking hawker portions and food prices are another complaint at every meal. Plus, Singaporeans often vent about the neighbour’s noise 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.
SEE MORE: 10 Best Neighbourhoods In Singapore According To Locals