If you’re a Singaporean looking for a home in Johor Bahru due to the rising costs of living in Singapore, finding a neighbourhood that offers both a good quality of life and proximity to either Woodlands or Tuas Checkpoint for your daily commute.
Whether you’re after suburban tranquillity, vibrant city living, or luxurious enclaves, here are 6 of the best JB neighbourhoods to to live, along with some developments to check out in the area.
1. JB City Centre – Shopping haven, close to RTS
Image credit: Google Maps
Starting off strong, we have Johor Bahru City Centre. By now, you are likely familiar with City Square Mall and Komtar JBCC mall, which greet you once you step out of the Woodlands CIQ. In fact, it’s also home to lots of yummy foodie spots like Ah Hua Teochew Kway Teow, IT Roo Cafe, and Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory.
As for the residential properties in the area, there are several residential properties boast wonderful sea views. Additionally, an added bonus is their location near the upcoming Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link.
TriTower Residence
One of the top residential properties near JB City Centre is TriTower Residence, which was completed recently. With up to 8 different unit configurations, their floor areas range between 668 sqft to 1,347 sqft. This makes the units comparable to those in Singapore—just at a much more agreeable price point!
Speaking of price points, units range from S$122K to S$304K, and come partly-furnished and with a 24-hour concierge service. At the same time, residents will get access to a shuttle bus that takes them to amenities within the vicinity, such as Woodlands CIQ and JB Central.
Distance to JB checkpoint: 4-min drive (Woodlands)
Price: S$122K-S$304K
Pros: Located within a 10-minute drive of hospitals, Woodlands Checkpoint, and malls in JB Central
Cons: Certain units might have obstructed views of the sea
Setia Sky 88
Image credit: Google Maps
True to its name, Setia Sky 88 will make you feel as if you’re living among the clouds—only if you’re on the higher floors, that is. The 3-block development comprises a whopping 55 storeys with many of its facilities situated up top. From sky gyms and parks to a sky club that offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the city, it certainly is a dream.
Setia Sky 88 is also conveniently located near the future Bukit Chagar RTS Terminal Station, which means that Singaporean residents will find commuting across the border a breeze. This also means the condominium complex is located right on the edge of JB, granting residents unblocked views of the sea.
Distance to JB checkpoint: 10-min drive (Woodlands)
Price: S$110K-S$365K
Pros: Units have relatively high ceilings, maximizing each unit’s space
Cons: Certain units might be blocked from sea view
2. Taman Mount Austin – Family-friendly with great amenities
Image credit: Austin Heights Water & Adventure Park
Mount Austin thrives as a vibrant area located about 20 minutes from the Causeway. Known for its buzzing café scene and lively nightlife, it’s the kind of place where you can grab brunch with friends on the weekend or unwind at a KTV after work. Notably, this area is also home to the exciting Austin Heights Water & Adventure Park.
For Singaporeans who want to enjoy a social lifestyle, Mount Austin definitely strikes the perfect balance between fun and convenience. This makes it such a draw for those commuting to Singapore for work while wanting to enjoy life on the weekends.
Nearby schools to send your kids to:
- Austin Heights Private & International School
- LUCA International School
- IMA International Montessori Academy
- Canadian High School
- Sunway College JB
- SMK Taman Mount Austin
- SJC(T) Ladang Mount Austin
Havona Residensi Mutiara
Image credit: Google Maps
Completed in 2019, Havona Residensi Mutiara is a relatively new, freehold condominium development that offers a blend of comfort and convenience. The units they offer range from 1-bedroom apartments to larger 3-bedroom configurations, making the development suitable for both singles and growing families.
Located in the heart of Taman Mount Austin, it’s close to key amenities such as AEON Tebrau City, healthcare, and schools like Austin Heights International School. The development itself offers 24-hour security, as well as a range of in-house amenities such as swimming pools, a gym, lounges, and barbeque pits.
Distance to JB checkpoint: 19-min drive (Woodlands)
Price: S$152K-S$213K
Pros: Freehold and variety in unit configurations
Cons:Neighbours might not reside long-term as units can be rented out
Austin Heights
Image credit: Austin Heights Sdn. Bhd.
If you’re looking for a well-established community to live in, Austin Heights is a prestigious residential enclave to put on your radar. The development has pushed out various phases over the years, ensuring their properties cater to various family needs. This includes semi-Ds, bungalows, and linked villas—making them ideal for multi-generational households.
Residents will also enjoy proximity to Austin Heights Golf & Hotel Resort, which offers residents recreational facilities such as a golf course, a gym, and swimming pools. Additionally, the community’s strategic location provides convenient access to major roads, and by default the retail and schooling options within the vicinity.
Distance to JB checkpoint: 26-min drive (Woodlands)
Price: S$365K-S$760K
Pros: Many international schools located nearby
Cons: Difficult to access via public transport
Aliva Mount Austin
Image credit: Aliva Mount Austin
Conceptualised as a service residence, Aliva Mount Austin is a high-rise development set for completion in 2026. In fact, if you are a fan of Japanese-inspired homes, Aliva’s pre-furnished Japandi units will definitely catch your eye. On top of having a concierge service, the apartment will be jam-packed with unique facilities like indoor playgrounds, a karaoke room, co-working spaces, and a even a sports hall for badminton and basketball.
Not only does Aliva Mount Austin cater to the needs of everyone in the household, and the nearby amenities also provide added convenience. These include hypermarkets like Lotus’s Desa Tebrau, malls like IKEA Tebrau and Toppen Shopping Centre, giving residents access to a wide variety of options for retail, essentials, and entertainment for the family.
Distance to JB checkpoint: 25-min drive (Woodlands)
Price: S$110K-S$225K
Pros: Mix-used condo with a shopping mall
Cons: Far from Tuas Checkpoint
3. Tebrau – Safer neighbourhood with healthcare & IKEA nearby
Image credit: IKEA
Our next area is just adjacent to Mount Austin: Tebrau. It’s got lots of convenient malls to meet your everyday needs, especially for households with kids. With the AEON Tebrau Mall, IKEA Tebrau, and the new Toppen mall within reach, it’s certainly convenient to shop for furniture and groceries or plan a mall outing for the family.
Beyond the shopping buzz, Tebrau’s appeal lies in its affordable housing and strong community vibe. With schools, hospitals, and everything you need nearby, it’s easy to see how Tebrau is an area that strikes the right chord for Singaporeans who want access to everything without straying far from home—or Singapore.
Eco Spring
Image credit: EcoWorld
Eco Spring is a gated community known for its European-inspired architecture. It features expansive green spaces and gable-roof black-and-white homes, making it an attractive option for families who value aesthetics. If you’re looking for a smaller home, the Santai D’ Eco Spring series consists of semi-furnished three-bedroom service apartments.
And at the heart of the estate sits Eco Palladium, a commercial hub styled after European town squares. It has become a trendy stop for many Singaporeans. With the wide variety of shops, cafes, entertainment options, and essential services it offers, the mall has quickly become a one-stop location for good food and leisure activities.
Distance to JB checkpoint: 29-min drive (Woodlands)
Price: S$114K-S$668K
Pros: Access to several entertainment and F&B options
Cons: Further from Tuas or Woodlands Checkpoints
Setia Eco Cascadia
Image credit: Setia Eco Cascadia
Located right next to Eco Spring, Setia Eco Cascadia is a yet another township you should check out while in Johor Bahru! As with most landed developments in JB, you’ll notice that Eco Cascadia also favors tree-lined streets and water features, creating a peaceful environment for its residents.
Eco Cascadia specialises in cluster houses, which can be grouped into three phases: Ashton, Clymer, and Hazelton. All of them come with a 20-foot rear garden, 4 ensuite bedrooms, majestic windows, and light-box chimneys that enhance natural light and ventilation.
Distance to JB checkpoint: 25-min drive (Woodlands)
Price: S$240K-S$425K
Pros: Sleek, modern designs with all-ensuite bedrooms
Cons: Far from Tuas or Woodlands Checkpoints
4. Bukit Indah – Secluded township with a 20-acre park
Image credit: Google Maps
Located about 20 minutes from Tuas Checkpoint, Bukit Indah is an area less-visited by Singaporeans and has all the makings of a quiet suburban dream. Unlike the busy district centre, this neighbourhood is populated with more low-density terrace houses as compared to high-rise accomodations, giving off a peaceful, almost small-town vibe.
You’ll also find an AEON Mall and Lotus hypermart for your daily needs, as well as numerous affordable salons and massage reflexologies in the area. There’s also a weekly pasar malam that takes place every Wednesday, where you can enjoy street food like JB-style lok lok, curry fishballs, and burgers.
Sky Loft, Sky Trees, Sky Breeze
Image credit: Google Maps
Located at the heart of Bukit Indah, developer SP Setia has managed to plan an extensive residential enclave that offers residents the perfect blend between urban and lush living. From an aerial viewpoint, one would be able to see how its condominiums and shop houses line a gigantic roundabout. And nestled within the roundabout is the Bukit Indah Recreational Park – 20 acres worth of greenery and recreational spaces.
Image credit: SP Setia
This development features freehold projects like Sky Loft, Sky Trees, Sky Breeze, as well as shop offices like Indah Prime I and II. On one hand, you have fully-furnished serviced apartments like Sky Breeze and Sky Trees. On the other hand, the condominium Sky Breeze could give Singaporeans more creative freedom when it comes to interior design.
All of them hold units ranging from 2 to 4 bedrooms that focus on providing modern and functional spaces, incorporating studies that can be converted into an extra bedroom. And of course, residents of all three complexes will be able to enjoy amenities such as sky gardens, pools, and gyms.
Image adapted from: SP Setia
Finally, we have Indah Prime I and II, which consist of 2-storey shop offices that are adjacent to the residential properties. The units have been taken up by salons, reflexologies, and eateries. In fact, there’s a good variety of local and foreign cuisines, including popular spots like DAORAE Korean BBQ and Marco Polo.
Distance to JB checkpoint: 22-min drive (Woodlands & Tuas)
Price: S$137K-S$548K
Pros: Proximity to malls, eateries, and recreational park
Cons: Serviced apartments might require steeper maintenance costs than most condos
D’Inspire Residence
Image credit: Google Maps
D’Inspire Residence in Bukit Indah, developed by KSL, is yet another freehold condominium that’s suitable for families and individuals alike. The development offers units ranging from studio to 4-bedroom units, starting at 895sqft. Additionally, the property’s strategic location allows for easy connectivity to Singapore via the Second Link Expressway: only a 25-minute drive.
As for the facilities at D’Inspire Residence, the condo aims to create a resort-like experience with amenities like swimming pools, saunas, and even golf putting greens. Outdoor spaces like playgrounds, jogging tracks, and landscaped gardens promote a healthy lifestyle for residents too—no matter how young or old.
Distance to JB checkpoint: 32-min drive (Tuas)
Price: S$88K-S$190K
Pros: Affordable but packed with amenities
Cons: Far from Woodlands Checkpoint
5. Taman Molek – Access to business centre & banks
Image credit: Google Maps
Taman Molek is well-known for being one of JB’s business districts. You’ll find a lot of professionals living here, thanks to the abundance of office spaces, banks, and business centres in the area. In fact, it’s also home to plenty of Japanese expats, which is why there’s many authentic Japanese bars and yakitori joints you can patronise.
Molek Pulai
Image credit: Google Maps
Within Taman Molek, Molek Pulai is a great integrated condominium that Singaporeans can consider. Completed by Berinda Properties in 2016, Molek Pulai features spacious apartments ranging from 947-1,431sqft, with options for 1 to 3-bedroom units.
The development is a convenient 5-15 minutes walk away from numerous preschools, public schools, and enrichment centres. It also provides convenient access to key highways as well, making it suitable for residents who need to commute to Johor Bahru’s city center or Singapore via Woodlands CIQ.
Nearby schools to send your kids to:
- AZ Nursury & Preschool
- Gem Preschool and Kindergarten
- Taman Molek Brilliant Stars Preschool
- Tadika Xaris Molek
- SK Taman Molek
- SMK Taman Molek
- Smart Reader Kids Taman Molek
- Creative Music Enrichment Centre
- Clay Music academy International
Distance to JB checkpoint: 21-min (Woodlands)
Price: S$122K-S$183K
Pros: Schools near the property allows buyers to enjoy value increases in the future
Cons: Tighter traffic during peak hours due to schools nearby
6. Iskandar Puteri – Gated communities, golf course & international schools
Iskandar Puteri, formerly known as Nusajaya, is a relatively scenic neighborhood where you’ll find Legoland Malaysia and the wonderful Puteri Harbour. It’s also well-connected to school clusters like EduCity, which houses 9 colleges and universities. This makes the area a great choice for families who want a blend of fun, education, and scenic beauty.
Nearby schools to send your kids to:
- SJKC Ming Chih
- Invictus International School
- Marlborough College Malaysia
- Raffles American School
Horizon Hills
Image credit: Horizon Hills Official Website
Horizon Hills is a lush, gated community that’s perfect for those seeking a little more peace and privacy from the city hustle. It even has its own resort-like Golf & Country Club, complete with dining options. On top of the 18-hole par-72 golf course, the clubhouse has swimming pools, a gym, a children’s playroom, and even a ballroom for formal events.
Within this township, you can choose from a wide variety of residential types: freehold condominiums like D’Suites, semi-detached or cluster houses, and bungalows and villas like The Hills project. So, you’ll have more options to consider depending on your budget and lifestyle needs.
Distance to JB checkpoint: 27-min drive (Woodlands), 26-min drive (Tuas)
Price: S$300K-S$1.8M
Pros: Access to an abundance of luxurious amenities
Cons: Difficult to access by public transport
Eco Botanic
Image credit: EcoWorld
The cousin of Eco Spring, Eco Botanic also offers a blend of luxury living and lush greenery. In fact, the homes here are surrounded by tree-lined streets and green spaces. Eco Botanic also offers several residential concepts, including gated landed homes, cluster houses, serviced apartments, and commercial units.
What sets Eco Botanic apart is its shophouse sections, which feature eateries, convenience stores, clinics, and even a Corgi dog café! It’s evident that the estate is a well-planned township that offers more than just beautiful homes. Plus, it comes with 24-hour security, so you can rest easy knowing your neighborhood is safe.
Distance to JB checkpoint: 23-min drive (Tuas), 32-min drive (Woodlands)
Price: S$274K-S$670K
Pros: 5-min drive from supermarkets, clinics, car workshops, restaurants, and enrichment centres.
Cons: Older properties can be over 10 years old
Emerald Bay, Puteri Harbour Quayside, Teega 
Image credit: gdparchitects
Puteri Harbour is a seric seaside spot that’s often peppered with yachts and a swanky dining scene. Furthermore, the area is known for its upscale condos with stunning sea views, which also means homes here come with a more premium price tag. Developments like Emerald Bay also offer waterfront townhouses that emulate the style of villas in the Maldives.
For those who yearn to enjoy waterfront living but can’t bear to look at price of the properties in Singapore, you can check out apartments like Puteri Harbour Quayside and Puteri Harbour Teega Suites. In fact, these developments boast lush sky pools and gyms, outdoor sky observation decks, spa and yoga rooms, and more resort-like privileges!
Distance to JB checkpoint: 27-min drive (Tuas), 33-min drive (Woodlands)
Price: S$213K-S$700K
Pros: Tranquil environment and sea view homes
Cons: Less recreational options within the vicinity
6 best JB neighbourhoods near the causeway
Each of these areas offers unique lifestyle benefits with easy access to Singapore, all under a 35-minute drive. So whether you’re looking for lively urban living, family-friendly suburbs, or luxurious enclaves surrounded by nature; you should be able to find something that suits your lifestyle.
With varying options for entertainment, work-life balance, and affordability, there’s no denying that Johor Bahru is fast becoming an attractive place where Singaporeans could potentially consider to live in or invest in a weekend home!
For more information on JB home and living ideas:
- Renting property in JB
- 22 best furniture shopping places
- 4 third-party courier services for JB furniture
Cover image adapted from: Google Maps, Horizon Hills Official Website
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