The Singapore dream : exploring housing aspirations of Singapore’s public housing tenants

Abstract

In Singapore, where 91% of the population are homeowners, the Singapore Dream of homeownership and asset enhancement is perpetuated regardless of economic class. This creates a mainstream narrative that favors homeownership, with public renting falling outside the norm and representing instability. However, for the low-income public housing tenants, homeownership may not be a priority as they grapple with fulfilling basic needs. In this qualitative study, I explore the housing aspirations of low-income public housing tenants and the meanings they ascribe to housing. By unpacking their realities, I found that housing represents meanings of family, stability, and dignity. These shape aspirations through their life course and generational opportunities, household spatial needs, the pressure of tenancy status, and pursuit for stability. Findings suggest that a holistic approach is needed to consider varying aspirations in Singapore. Consequently, policies should instill stability within tenants’ lives while allowing them to pursue ownership within their means.