Bukit Merah Subzone, Bukit Merah, Singapore
Bukit Merah Subzone is part of the larger Bukit Merah Planning Area in central Singapore. Though relatively small in population, the subzone is strategically positioned within a well-developed part of the city, offering a blend of residential blocks, commercial amenities, and light industrial activities.
Geography and Boundaries
The Bukit Merah subzone spans 0.4117 square kilometres1. It is bordered by:
- Redhill to the northwest
- Henderson Hill to the northeast
- Kampong Tiong Bahru to the east
- Telok Blangah Way to the southeast
- Depot Road to the southwest
- Alexandra Hill to the west
Its location positions it close to both the Central Business District and the southern waterfront, making it well connected to major commercial and industrial zones in Singapore.
Population and Demographics
As of 2024, Bukit Merah Subzone has an estimated 1,000 residents1. With a population density of 2,429 persons per square kilometre, it is one of the less densely populated parts of the planning area. Between 2020 and 2024, the population declined by 2.6%, reflecting its limited residential land use and stronger emphasis on non-residential functions.
Land Use and Character
The Bukit Merah subzone has a mixed character. While there are pockets of HDB flats and residential neighbourhoods, a significant portion of the land is utilised for commercial, community, and light industrial purposes. The area’s industrial history is tied to the broader Bukit Merah estate, which was once home to workshops, warehouses, and supporting facilities for the nearby docks and shipyards.
In addition to residential estates, the subzone also hosts neighbourhood amenities such as small retail shops, eateries, and service providers that cater to residents in surrounding subzones.
Transport and Connectivity
The Bukit Merah subzone is well connected by road networks including Jalan Bukit Merah, a major arterial road that runs through the area and links it to Alexandra Road and the Central Expressway (CTE). Public transport is served by numerous bus services, with the nearest MRT stations located in Redhill and Tiong Bahru subzones. This accessibility makes the subzone convenient for both residents and workers commuting into the area.
Community and Amenities
The subzone supports the community with a range of facilities:
- HDB precinct shops and food centres providing essential goods and services.
- Access to schools and childcare centres located in neighbouring subzones.
- Nearby healthcare facilities such as the Bukit Merah Polyclinic and private clinics.
- Recreational spaces and connectivity to green areas including Telok Blangah Hill Park and the Southern Ridges within walking or short driving distance.
These amenities enhance the liveability of the subzone, even with its relatively small residential population.
Neighbourhood Identity
The Bukit Merah subzone represents the wider identity of the Bukit Merah Planning Area as a district of contrasts—where residential life meets commerce and light industry. It carries forward the industrial legacy of Bukit Merah while adapting to modern demands, serving as a link between older residential neighbourhoods and Singapore’s dynamic commercial centres.
Real Estate (Sept 2025)
The Bukit Merah subzone, forming the core of the Bukit Merah Planning Area, offers a wide mix of public and private housing in a highly convenient city-fringe location. Its proximity to the Central Business District (CBD), HarbourFront, and the Greater Southern Waterfront makes it a sought-after residential address.
- HDB Resale Prices: Bukit Merah is known for its mature estates with a broad selection of flats. A 3-room HDB flat here typically costs S$380,000–S$520,000, while 4-room flats range from S$620,000–S$800,000. Larger 5-room units can go from S$850,000–S$1.05M, reflecting the strong demand for centrally located homes.
- Private Housing: The subzone is home to several prominent condominiums, such as The Pinnacle@Duxton, Sky Everton, and Avenue South Residence. Private condo prices generally fall between S$2,000–S$2,500 per square foot. A 2-bedroom condo unit usually costs S$1.8M–S$2.2M, while 3-bedroom units range from S$2.5M–S$3.2M.
- Rental Rates: Rentals in Bukit Merah are highly competitive due to its city-fringe location and MRT accessibility. HDB flats rent for about S$3,000–S$3,600/month for 4-room units and S$3,800–S$4,500/month for 5-room flats. Condominiums command higher rents, with 2-bedroom units priced at S$4,500–S$5,500/month and 3-bedroom units at S$6,000–S$7,500/month.
- Average Sizes: HDB flats in Bukit Merah are relatively spacious compared to newer estates, with 3-room units averaging 700 sq ft, 4-room flats around 1,000 sq ft, and 5-room flats close to 1,200 sq ft. Condominium units typically range from 650–900 sq ft for 2-bedroom layouts and 1,000–1,300 sq ft for 3-bedroom units.
- Market Drivers: The appeal of Bukit Merah stems from its connectivity via multiple MRT stations, central location, and lifestyle amenities. Attractions such as Tiong Bahru Market, VivoCity, and Mount Faber Park, combined with ongoing transformation under the Greater Southern Waterfront, make the area highly desirable for both buyers and investors.
Fun Facts
- Bukit Merah literally means “Red Hill” in Malay, referring to the area’s red lateritic soil.
- Despite its name, the Bukit Merah subzone itself is one of the least populated parts of the planning area.
- The subzone is traversed by Jalan Bukit Merah, a major road that lends its name to the entire planning area.
Quick Facts
- Planning Area: Bukit Merah
- Subzone: Bukit Merah
- Population (2024): 1,000
- Area: 0.4117 sq km
- Population Density: 2,429 per sq km
- Population Change (2020–2024): -2.6%
- Bordering Subzones: Redhill (NW), Henderson Hill (NE), Kampong Tiong Bahru (E), Telok Blangah Way (SE), Depot Road (SW), Alexandra Hill (W)
- Character: Mixed-use, with residential, commercial, and light industrial functions
- Fun Fact: Jalan Bukit Merah, which runs through the subzone, gives its name to the entire planning area.
References
Page Details
This page was created on 11 September 2025. Hi, my name is Timothy and created it from my research, for my own entertainment, knowledge and to satisfy my curiosity. I am providing the information to you in good faith and hope it is useful. I try to get the details as accurate as possible. I also try to update the page whenever I stumble on new details. So this and all my other pages are perpetual work in progress. If you discover any error, please politely inform me, pointing out where the error lies, and I will correct it as soon as possible. Your helpfulness will keep this page accurate, relevant and helpful to those who need the information.Subzones of Singapore
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