What It’s Really Like to Live in Geylang’s Red-Light District: A Comprehensive Guide

Latest Real Estate News & Updates: Geylang in 2025

• Record-Breaking HDB Sale: In June 2024, a four-room HDB flat in Geylang was sold for S$1,006,888, marking the first time a four-room flat in the area has exceeded the S$1 million threshold. 
• Urban Renewal Initiatives: The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has completed rejuvenation works in the Geylang Serai cultural belt, enhancing public spaces and preserving cultural heritage. 
• Geylang River Revitalization: The Geylang River has undergone a transformation under the Active, Beautiful, Clean (ABC) Waters Programme, improving water quality and creating attractive public spaces along the river. 
• New Developments: Several new condominium projects have been launched in Geylang, offering freehold properties in a city-fringe location with proximity to MRT stations and potential for capital appreciation. 

 

What It’s Really Like to Live in Geylang?

Geylang represents a deep and primal hunger in Singapore. The desire for No Signboard Seafood, Sean Kee Duck Rice, and 126 Dim Sum. (There’s also something about red lights and whatnot). This week, we spoke to a someone who rented and lived in Geylang for a year, about what it’s like to live there:

Marcos Teng is Malaysian, but worked in Singapore for three years; he returned to Kuala Lumpur just this year. But while in Singapore, he made the decision to boldly rent in the heart of Singapore’s infamous red-light district: Geylang Lorong 18 to 20.

The residence he chose was Treasures@G20, in which he lived for a year. Marcos mentions the unit was about 400+ square feet, and the rent was fantastically low at just S$1,500 a month.

“I knew it was not a clean area,” he says,” but it was about a five minutes’ drive to my office in town. And when I scouted some alternatives, they were all about S$500 to S$700 more per month – and many had fewer amenities. So since I was living alone, I thought why not…I’m not really bothered, and it’s cheap and convenient.

My mother wasn’t thrilled of course, she made me promise not to visit the ‘red lantern’ houses. And she bought a Feng Shui candle for me to light and walk around the room when I moved in.”

But Marcos soon learned a lot about living there that he never expected:

• The friendliness of the people will surprise you
• On one street, foreign workers who gawk get chased off with water guns
• There are more illegal cigarette sellers than illegal-anything else
• You’ll gain weight living there
• If you’re expecting dangerous triads, you’ll be disappointed

1. The friendliness of the people will surprise you

Marcos lived in both Tampines and Geylang, but it’s clear which he prefers:

“Later I moved to the Tampines area, but between the two I feel Geylang was actually more  friendly. In Geylang the coffee shop people knew their customers’ names. There was once I left my phone on the table, and the zhi char guy – his name is Alex – actually came to the ground floor of my unit to return it. In Tampines I left a bag at McDonald’s, it never came back.

And there were these two acquaintances from China. I kept passing them on the way home – I ended up having coffee with them once or twice a week. The people in Geylang don’t have airs about them; if you sit at a table with anyone, they are willing to include you in the conversation, even if you’ve never met.”

2. On one street, foreign workers who gawk get chased off with water guns

“I think it was Lorong 18,” Marcos says, “I can’t remember it too clearly now. But one unusual spectacle was that these working girls would line up there, and big mobs of foreign workers would walk up and down to take a peek. But there were always angry people in the houses nearby, and they would come out and yell at the workers to go away. And sometimes they would spray water at them, with a water gun or a hose.

Probably the ugliest thing I saw in Geylang or in Singapore. But the image stuck with me, as where else do you see this sort of thing? Geylang really is a world on its own at times.”

The working girls Marcos refers to are illegal prostitutes; when last we checked, this no longer happens as the police have now cleared the streets.

3. There are more illegal cigarette sellers than illegal-anything else

While most people associate Geylang with commercial sex, the real vice in that area – according to Marcos – is smoking. During his time there, Geylang was the go-to place for shady people to get unlicensed cigarettes. In fact, this was a far bigger problem than illegal prostitution or gang fights, from what he could see.

“Illegal cigarette sellers were all over the place,” Marcos says, “they sold unlicensed cigarettes from big trash bags. Everywhere along the lorongs you would see men with trash bags nearby, and then one guy running out to cars and pedestrians yelling something like ‘Marlboro Marlboro Camel Marlboro Light’.

If you walk down the street at night you might be approached a sex worker; but you’d almost definitely be approached by seven or eight cigarette peddlers. They were definitely the biggest criminal group there – they outnumbered the gamblers and prostitutes by maybe five to one.” 

This resulted in one memorable incident, in which Marcos accidentally started a stampede:

“I was halfway down the road in a taxi when I realised my laptop was still in the house. So I told the driver to wait a few minutes, and I ran out and sprinted down to my block.

A few cigarette sellers saw me running, and they must have thought the police were coming. I heard some of them shout a warning, and the next second there was a crowd of people sprinting in the same direction. It was like I started a marathon.”

This was back in around 2016 to 2017, and the situation has since died down. Most of the sellers have taken their business online, although the occasional peddler still appears. Please don’t be stupid and buy anything from them, as that’s illegal.

4. You’ll gain weight living there

Marcos’ vow to try all the food in Geylang in a year was a failure. He did, however, see gains elsewhere.

“I put on four kilos that year,” Marcos says, “And the same will happen to anyone who lives there. Every two steps you walk in Geylang, someone is trying to sell you food. And I guess the nature of intense competition is why the restaurants still standing are always the good ones.”

Marcos also points out that food is readily available almost around the clock:

“Some of the places, like one nasi lemak place, are open 24 hours; as are at least two of the Halal coffee shops. And because the food is stationed at both ends of the lorong, you die-die also will see them when you’re coming or leaving home. The temptation to step in is just too strong.”

The food prices, Marcos says, are surprisingly divergent too: “Sin Huat Eating House, where Anthony Bourdain went to eat crab, was still famous when I was there. The place looks damn run down and old, so I got a shock when I ate there with two other people and the bill was over $200.

That is the first coffee shop I’ve ever had to use my credit card in – and they had the card machine and all, so it was clearly common.”

Overall, Marcos packed on the pounds and spent a disproportionate amount on food. Both are unavoidable hazards of living in an exotic foodie haven.

5. If you’re expecting dangerous triads, you’ll be disappointed

Geylang is still home to many clan associations, some of which were once considered dangerous. Once.

But as Marcos points out, the clan associations are not triads (although long ago there was some relation). For the most part, they’re heritage clubs aimed at preserving a dying culture. Marcos says that most of them seem to spend all day playing mah-jong, or practising cultural arts like lion dances. I think I never saw more than a dozen people – and there was never any shouting or swearing, except the friendly sort.”

Marcos also says the fights in the area are more commonly because of drunk individuals, than actual gangs.

“The few times I saw fighting in the coffee shop, it was between individuals. A lot of it was just due to drinking, and then someone would make a comment that irritates someone else at the table. Way different from those dangerous triads in movies lah.”

Marcos does, however, say there are specific groups of drinkers who are a hazard in Geylang coffee shops. “It’s the same group all the time that fight among themselves,” he says, “so when I spot them I just ta-pau or sit far away.”

Things to do in Geylang

Cultural and Religious Landmarks

Geylang is home to several places of worship that reflect its multicultural heritage:

• Masjid Haji Mohd Salleh: Established in 1896, this mosque serves the Muslim community in Geylang. Despite its proximity to the red-light district, it continues to operate actively, offering daily prayers and community services. 
• Sri Sivan Temple: Located at Geylang East Avenue 2, this Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is known for its unique octagonal structure and vibrant festivals. 
• Buddhist Library: Situated at Lorong 24A, this library serves as a cultural hub, offering Dhamma talks, art exhibitions, and welfare activities. 

Culinary Delights

Geylang is renowned for its diverse culinary offerings:

• Geylang Serai New Market: A bustling market offering a variety of local Malay and Indian-Muslim dishes, spices, and ingredients. 
• Sin Huat Eating House: Famous for its crab bee hoon, this seafood restaurant has garnered international acclaim. 
• Durian Shops: Geylang is a haven for durian enthusiasts, with numerous shops offering the “King of Fruits” in various forms. 

Shopping and Entertainment

• Paya Lebar Quarter (PLQ): A modern shopping mall offering retail, dining, and entertainment options. 
• City Plaza: Known for its fashion boutiques and electronics stores, this mall is a favorite among bargain hunters. 
• Geylang Adventures: A cultural tour company offering guided walks through Geylang’s streets, providing insights into the area’s history and transformation.

 

A Changing Landscape: Geylang’s Turnaround

Over the years, Geylang has begun to shed its notorious reputation, with urban renewal projects and changes in local regulations leading to a noticeable shift in the area’s character. Historically, Geylang’s red-light district was primarily centered around Lorong 18, with its neon-lit signs and bustling streets. However, with the introduction of stricter regulations and enforcement, the area has slowly become less associated with adult entertainment.

The Singapore government’s focus on urban renewal has played a key role in changing the perception of Geylang. Today, the area is undergoing significant transformation. Several new developments, including boutique hotels and residential projects, have sprung up, catering to a wider demographic. This shift is fueled by Geylang’s central location, which has become more attractive to young professionals and families looking for affordable housing options.

While the transformation is ongoing, it’s clear that Geylang is experiencing a turnaround, moving beyond its red-light district image to become a more desirable residential and commercial area.

 

Geylang’s Real Estate Market: The Growing Demand for Property

Geylang’s real estate market has become an increasingly attractive option for investors and homebuyers. With its central location and rapidly changing landscape, property prices in the area have seen steady growth in recent years. Investors are particularly drawn to the potential for future capital appreciation, as the neighborhood continues its shift from a red-light district to a more diverse and vibrant community.

While prices in Geylang are still relatively affordable compared to more prime districts like Orchard Road or Marina Bay, they are expected to increase as the transformation takes hold. The influx of new developments, including high-end residential condominiums and mixed-use commercial spaces, has contributed to this rise in demand. The neighborhood’s relatively lower price point makes it an attractive entry point for those looking to own a property in a central location without the premium prices of other areas.

Additionally, the ongoing gentrification of Geylang, along with improved infrastructure and amenities, has led to greater demand for rental properties. Young professionals, expatriates, and small families are increasingly opting to rent in Geylang due to its proximity to work and affordable rental options.

Challenges and Considerations for Prospective Residents

While Geylang’s transformation offers many opportunities, it’s important to acknowledge that there are still certain considerations to keep in mind before deciding to move to the area. Residents must be prepared for the mixed-use nature of the district, where adult entertainment establishments sit alongside residential and commercial properties. Noise and congestion, particularly on weekends or public holidays, can be a concern, as can the potential for interactions with street-based activities related to the red-light district.

For some, the presence of the adult entertainment industry may be an unavoidable aspect of life in Geylang. However, it is worth noting that the district has become more family-friendly in recent years, with the expansion of educational institutions, parks, and family-centric developments.

 

Looking for a property? Find the home of your dreams today on Singapore’s largest property portal 99.co! You can also access a wide range of tools to calculate your down payments and loan repayments, to make an informed purchase.