How the RTS Link Is Changing the Way Singaporeans Think About Living in Johor Bahru

This contributed article is written by Adrian Lim, Senior Director & Head, International Residential Sales, at Savills Singapore.

When the 4km stretch of the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) from Woodlands North Station in Singapore to Bukit Chagar station in Johor Bahru is operational at the start of 2027, it will make commuting between this international border easier.

But the promise of a more seamless border crossing experience has fuelled a broader discussion about how Singaporeans are starting to treat Johor Bahru’s property market as part of their longer-term housing strategy.

For many Singaporeans, Johor Bahru has long been associated with weekend trips — a place for short visits rather than long-term living. But that perception is beginning to change.

As we draw closer to the completion of the RTS, which is set to be operational in January 2027, the conversation among some Singaporeans is no longer just about how quickly they’ll be able to cross the Causeway.

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