Moving to Johor Bahru from Singapore has never been easier. With the RTS (Rapid Transit System) Link opening soon, the two nations will be just 5 minutes away from each other. So, if you are planning a move soon, read on.
Also, book a removal company in Singapore early; your desired move slot will be gone soon. This blog answers all the what and hows of moving to Johor Bahru. Also, how the RTS will help you beat the daily commute chaos in the Causeway.
However, the official opening is still six months away; until then, cheap van movers in Singapore are your life-savers for a budget-friendly move.
How Will The RTS Link Transform Your Daily Cross-Border Commute?
For starters, you’d be able to skip the Causeway traffic entirely. No more long wait on the morning work commute. Other benefits include-
A lightning-fast 5-minute transit
The rapid 4 km rail connection links Singapore’s Woodlands North MRT to JB’s Bukit Chagar station in just five minutes.
Single-stop immigration clearance
Co-located customs facilities mean you clear both Singapore and Malaysia borders at your departure station.
Avoid massive Causeway traffic jams
Bypass the notorious multi-hour peak jams on the Causeway and Second Link by taking the automated train.
High-frequency train departures
Trains run every 3.6 minutes during peak hours, moving up to 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction.
Affordable transit fares
Expected one-way ticket prices will sit around $5 to $7 SGD, making daily commuting highly cost-effective.
These are some of the perks you can expect when the RTS officially starts. So, it’s time for you to plan your Johor Bahru move.
What Should You Consider When Planning Your JB Relocation Logistics?
Moving to Johor Bahru from Singapore is still considered a cross-border move, so it does need meticulous planning and deploying an experienced removal company in Singapore.
Hire experienced cross-border movers
Choose licensed movers experienced in customs documentation to transport your household goods.
Secure your Malaysia immigration visa
Obtain your Employment Pass, Dependant Pass, or explore the active MM2H program before moving.
Establish a detailed inventory list
Create a comprehensive packing list with item valuations to ensure smooth clearance at Singapore customs.
Anticipate potential border delays
Schedule your moving truck’s journey during off-peak weekday hours to avoid heavy cargo clearance traffic.
For now, you’d still have to use the Causeway for commuting to Johor Bahru, so expect traffic and delays, but it’s definitely the right time to make the move.
How Much Money Can You Save By Living In Johor Bahru?
If you are a Malaysian national, moving back to Johor Bahru would help you save significantly. These are the cost cuts you can expect in your monthly expenses-
Drastically lower housing rental rates
Rent a luxury 3-bedroom condo in JB for $550 to $1,200 SGD, a fraction of standard Singapore rental prices.
Substantial grocery and dining savings
Save up to 60% on monthly food, cafe dining, and daily grocery bills by spending in Malaysian Ringgit.
More affordable private education options
Pay significantly lower tuition fees at top-tier international schools located in Iskandar Puteri.
Cheaper recreational and lifestyle costs
Enjoy highly affordable weekend activities, cinema tickets, spa visits, and sporting facilities.
For now, these cost benefits are like early bird benefits, so ensure that you make the most of them when you have time before the RTS commences.
What Are The Best Expat-Friendly Neighbourhoods To Rent In JB?
Lastly, if you are an expat or Singaporean moving to Johor Bahru, you can seek cheap van movers in Singapore for now, but choose a neighbourhood that fits your needs.
Iskandar Puteri and Medini
Exceptionally well-planned townships offering modern condo options, green spaces, and top international schools nearby.
Bukit Chagar and JB Central
Perfect for daily commuters, putting you within walking distance of the RTS Link terminus and major shopping malls.
Danga Bay waterfront district
Ideal for those seeking scenic coastal views, modern serviced high-rises, and easy access to local dining hubs.
Bukit Indah suburban enclave
Extremely popular for families, boasting mature residential streets, hypermarkets, and great local eateries.
These are a few of the best locations in Johor Bahru. Consider your lifestyle needs and work description before choosing your residence.
FAQs
Is it possible to live in Johor Bahru and work in Singapore?
It’s ideal if you value savings and don’t mind the commute, but not ideal if time is your top priority. But with the RTS, the commute will be reduced to 5-10 minutes, so it can be considered.
How much is the RTS Link from Singapore to Johor?
Service is targeted to begin in December 2026, with one-way fares expected to land around S$5–S$7 (RM15. 50–RM21. 70).
What day is the cheapest for removals?
Weekdays (Monday to Thursday) are cheapest to avoid peak weekend rates. Ensure the process takes only one day by booking movers well in advance.
How much should I budget for a move?
Budget $800 to $2,500 SGD depending on your home size. This accounts for cross-border permits and hiring experienced international movers.
What affects moving costs the most?
Total volume of goods and packing services influence the cost heavily. You can slash expenses by packing yourself or opting for DIY.
Conclusion
Due to the changing move trends, the removal company in Singapore currently experiences a lead time of six to eight weeks. So, you can experience the RTS when it happens, but for now it’s better to move to Johor Bahru till the prices are lower.
Also, moving to Johor Bahru has several perks, and with the RTS you can replace your monthly housing expense with much lower travel costs. Therefore, plan the move early because the estate pricing may fluctuate as well.
