The Cost of Living in Vietnam | An Expert Guide

Vietnam, a rapidly developing nation in Southeast Asia, offers an attractive combination of low living costs and improving infrastructure. With a population of approximately 98 million people, Vietnam combines traditional charm with modern development, particularly in urban centers like Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) and Hanoi.

Vietnam's economy has shown consistent growth, driven by manufacturing, technology, and services sectors. The country has positioned itself as an emerging tech hub while maintaining significantly lower living costs than many neighboring countries, making it particularly attractive to digital nomads and expatriates.

The expatriate community in Vietnam is concentrated primarily in HCMC and Hanoi, with growing populations in Da Nang and Nha Trang. Many are drawn by opportunities in education, technology, and international business, along with the country's affordable lifestyle and rich culture.

‍

Regional Comparison

‍

Housing Costs in Vietnam

Housing costs in Vietnam vary significantly between major cities and neighborhoods. In prime areas of HCMC like District 1 or District 2, a modern one-bedroom apartment typically rents for 12,000,000-18,000,000 VND monthly, while similar accommodations in residential areas range from 8,000,000-12,000,000 VND. Hanoi offers slightly lower prices, while cities like Da Nang provide even more affordable options.

Summary:

• Rent, 1-bedroom apartment (HCMC prime): 12,000,000-18,000,000 VND/month
• Rent, 1-bedroom apartment (HCMC residential): 8,000,000-12,000,000 VND/month
• Rent, 1-bedroom apartment (other cities): 6,000,000-10,000,000 VND/month

‍

Food Costs in Vietnam

Food expenses in Vietnam can be very affordable, particularly when embracing local cuisine. A meal at a local restaurant costs 40,000-70,000 VND, while dinner at a Western restaurant might run 150,000-300,000 VND per person. Monthly grocery shopping at supermarkets like VinMart typically costs 3,000,000-5,000,000 VND for one person, though local markets offer significant savings.

Summary:

• Local restaurant meal: 40,000-70,000 VND
• Western restaurant dinner: 150,000-300,000 VND
• Monthly groceries (1 person): 3,000,000-5,000,000 VND

‍

Transportation Costs in Vietnam

Transportation in Vietnamese cities primarily relies on motorbikes, ride-hailing services, and increasingly, public transit. A monthly motorbike rental costs 800,000-1,500,000 VND, while ride-hailing services like Grab typically charge 15,000-30,000 VND for short trips. Many expatriates choose to buy motorbikes for regular use.

Summary:

• Motorbike rental: 800,000-1,500,000 VND/month
• Ride-hailing (short trip): 15,000-30,000 VND
• Bus fare: 7,000-10,000 VND

‍

Healthcare Costs in Vietnam

Healthcare in Vietnam varies significantly between public and private facilities. International health insurance typically costs 1,500,000-3,000,000 VND monthly per person. A consultation at an international clinic costs 500,000-1,000,000 VND, while specialist visits range from 800,000-2,000,000 VND. Most expatriates use private international hospitals in major cities.

Summary:

• International health insurance: 1,500,000-3,000,000 VND/month
• Doctor's consultation: 500,000-1,000,000 VND
• Specialist visit: 800,000-2,000,000 VND

‍

Utility Costs in Vietnam

Utility costs in Vietnam can be significant, particularly due to air conditioning use. Monthly utilities including electricity, water, and basic internet typically range from 1,500,000-3,000,000 VND for an apartment. Internet service costs 200,000-400,000 VND monthly for reliable connections. Mobile phone plans with data typically range from 100,000-300,000 VND monthly.

Summary:

• Basic utilities: 1,500,000-3,000,000 VND/month
• Internet: 200,000-400,000 VND/month
• Mobile phone plan: 100,000-300,000 VND/month

‍

Example Monthly Expenses in Vietnam

Average monthly expenses for a single person living in HCMC:

• Rent (1-bedroom, good area): 15,000,000 VND
• Utilities: 2,000,000 VND
• Food: 4,000,000 VND
• Transportation: 1,000,000 VND
• Healthcare (insurance): 2,000,000 VND
• Internet/Phone: 500,000 VND
• Entertainment: 3,000,000 VND
• Total: 27,500,000 VND

‍

Cost of Living vs Quality of Life Correlation

‍

If you want to know more about Vietnam and the cost of living there you can also check out the Vietnam page.