Is It Better to Buy Near Workplaces or Green Spaces? A Buyer’s Dilemma

City center or nature retreat? We weigh the pros and cons of buying near commercial hubs versus parks to help you choose based on your lifestyle priorities.

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Jul 4, 2025 - 15:50

Is It Better to Buy Near Workplaces or Green Spaces? A Buyer’s Dilemma

For many homebuyers in Singapore, choosing the right location is one of the toughest decisions. Do you prioritise being close to your workplace for a shorter commute, or living near parks and nature reserves for a more relaxed lifestyle?

Both options have their merits, but which one offers greater value in the long run? Let’s break down this common buyer’s dilemma to help you decide.

1. The Case for Buying Near Workplaces

Living close to your workplace has obvious advantages, especially in a fast-paced city like Singapore.

Shorter Commutes, More Time

Reduces time spent in traffic or on public transport
Frees up hours each week for family, hobbies, or rest
Minimises the stress of long daily travel

This can significantly improve quality of life, particularly for professionals with demanding schedules.

Strong Rental Demand

Properties near business hubs such as Raffles Place, Marina Bay, and One-North often enjoy high rental demand from expatriates and young professionals. For investors, this translates into:

Steady tenant interest
Higher rental yields
Faster occupancy rates

2. The Case for Buying Near Green Spaces

On the other hand, homes near parks and nature reserves offer a very different kind of lifestyle appeal.

Health and Wellbeing Benefits

Proximity to greenery has been linked to lower stress levels, improved mental health, and increased physical activity. In Singapore, popular green spaces like Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park, East Coast Park, and Bukit Timah Nature Reserve provide residents with easy access to jogging trails, cycling paths, and fresh air.

Family-Friendly Living

For families, being near parks and playgrounds creates opportunities for outdoor activities and bonding. Such areas tend to feel more peaceful and less dense than urban centres.

3. Resale and Long-Term Value Considerations

Near Workplaces:

Properties in central locations often hold their value due to consistent demand. However, they can be more expensive upfront, and buyers may have to compromise on space.

Near Green Spaces:

As Singapore continues to focus on creating a "City in Nature," demand for homes near parks is rising. Areas like Jurong Lake Gardens and Thomson Nature Park are seeing renewed interest as buyers seek balance between urban convenience and natural surroundings.

4. A Balanced Approach

The ideal solution might be a location that offers both—reasonable proximity to workplaces and access to green spaces.

For example:

Districts like Bishan and Queenstown provide shorter commutes to the city while being close to parks.
Emerging hubs such as Jurong Lake District offer waterfront living with future business and lifestyle developments nearby.

This balance caters to both lifestyle and investment needs.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose proximity to workplaces or green spaces depends on your priorities and stage of life.

For young professionals, being near work might take precedence for convenience and rental potential.
For families or retirees, the lifestyle and wellness benefits of green spaces may outweigh the need for centrality.

The key is to look beyond the immediate benefits and consider how your choice aligns with your long-term goals. In Singapore’s ever-evolving urban landscape, a well-chosen location can give you both comfort and strong returns.