How Much Does It Cost to Live in Vietnam? A City-by-City Breakdown (2025 Edition)

27/6/2025

Vietnam is quickly becoming one of the most attractive destinations in Southeast Asia for travelers, digital nomads, and expats alike. With its vibrant cities, tropical beaches, and affordable lifestyle, it offers a compelling alternative to more expensive countries in the region. In this guide, we break down the cost of living in Vietnam’s three most popular cities—Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang—with updated 2025 data. Whether you’re planning a short stay or a long-term move, this article gives you an overview of what you can expect to spend on rent, food, transportation, internet, and more.

1. Overview of Vietnam’s Living Costs

Compared to Japan, the U.S., or most Western countries, Vietnam offers a significantly lower cost of living. However, prices vary depending on the city, neighborhood, and lifestyle choices.

Exchange Rate (as of April 2025)

• 1 USD ≒ 24,500 VND
• 1 JPY ≒ 170–180 VND

Common Monthly Expenses

• Rent: Largest cost, varies widely
• Food: Very affordable, even when eating out
• Transportation: Grab is dominant; fuel is cheap
• Internet & mobile: Low cost, high speed
• Extras: Gym, entertainment, health insurance, visa fees

2. Living Expenses in Ho Chi Minh City

As Vietnam’s economic hub and largest city, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is vibrant, fast-paced, and full of opportunities. It also has the highest cost of living in Vietnam, especially in expat-friendly districts like District 1 and Thao Dien.

Estimated Monthly Costs

Rent

• Serviced apartment (1BR): $500–1,200
• Local-style apartment: $200–400

Food

• Street food or local meals: 30,000–60,000 VND ($1.20–2.50)
• Mid-range restaurant: 100,000–250,000 VND ($4–10)

Transportation

• Grab (5km ride): 30,000–50,000 VND ($1.20–2)

Internet/Mobile

• SIM with 20GB data: ~100,000–150,000 VND/month ($4–6)

Others

• Gym membership: 500,000–1,500,000 VND/month ($20–60)
• Co-working space: $100–200/month

3. Living Expenses in Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital city, offers a mix of traditional charm and modern development. It tends to be slightly more affordable than Ho Chi Minh City, with a calmer pace of life and beautiful colonial architecture.

Estimated Monthly Costs

Rent

• Serviced apartment (1BR): $400–900
• Local apartment: $150–300

Food

• Local meal: 25,000–50,000 VND ($1–2)
• Café or modern eatery: 80,000–200,000 VND ($3–8)

Transportation

• Taxi/Grab: 30,000–45,000 VND for short trips

Utilities

• Electricity/water: 200,000–500,000 VND/month depending on usage

Co-working Spaces

• Popular with expats: $100–150/month

4. Living Expenses in Da Nang

Da Nang is a coastal city known for its laid-back lifestyle, proximity to nature, and growing digital nomad community. It’s generally cheaper than Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and offers the bonus of easy beach access.

Estimated Monthly Costs

Rent

• Seaview apartment (1BR): $300–600
• Local housing: $150–250

Food

• Local meal: 25,000–40,000 VND ($1–1.50)
• Western café/restaurant: 80,000–150,000 VND ($3–6)

Transportation

• Grab rides: 20,000–40,000 VND ($0.80–1.60)

Internet/Mobile

• Data SIM plan: ~100,000 VND ($4/month)

Others

• Many people walk or use motorbikes for short distances
• Gyms and yoga studios are generally cheaper than big cities

5. Comparison Table & Tips for Saving Money

Tips to Save on Living Costs

• Eat at local restaurants or food courts for better prices
• Negotiate long-term rent discounts with landlords
• Use eSIMs or prepaid SIM cards to save on data
• Walk or use electric bikes/motorbikes for short trips
• Shop at local markets instead of international chains

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Conclusion: Vietnam Offers a Flexible Lifestyle for Every Budget

Whether you’re looking for a busy city life, a cultural escape, or a relaxing beach town, Vietnam has something for everyone—and at a fraction of the cost you might expect.

• Ho Chi Minh City: Ideal for business-minded and social expats
• Hanoi: Perfect for lovers of history and quiet living
• Da Nang: A paradise for beach lovers and digital nomads

By understanding the cost of living in each city, you can plan your move or trip more confidently—and start enjoying the charm of Vietnam right away.

（Photo by Unsplash.com）