Tracking Kopi-O Kosong Prices Could Reflect Singapore’s Rising Living Costs, Says Local

A Singaporean man has proposed an unconventional way to measure the cost of living in the city-state, suggesting that the price of a cup of kopi-o kosong (black coffee) could serve as an indicator. In a Facebook post shared on January 17, Daniel Tan posted a photo of a cup of coffee, stating that it costs $1.30.

Tan explained that the price of this simple drink, which consists of just black coffee without any milk or sugar, has increased several times. He proposed that, by tracking these price changes, residents could gain insights into the wider trends affecting Singapore’s cost of living. “Do you think this price for just pure coffee is reasonable?” he asked in his post.

Many social media users engaged with Tan’s suggestion, offering their opinions on the rising cost of kopi-o kosong. Some defended the price, suggesting that it factors in the cost of labour, expertise, and resources needed to prepare the drink. “Anything with the word pure comes at a premium,” one commenter stated. “It’s about cost versus time, skill, and effort. If you don’t want to pay, then make it yourself.”

Others disagreed, arguing that the cost was excessive and that brewing coffee at home is far more affordable. “Not acceptable,” one user remarked. “Why pay $1.30 when you can make your own coffee at home? People are spending more on bubble tea!” However, some users found the price reasonable. “Cheap ah, $1.30,” one commenter responded, while another agreed, saying, “I think it’s acceptable as it supports businesses and keeps them running.”