Cost of Living in Vietnam

The cost of living in Vietnam is remarkably low, and it is an appealing destination for expats looking for an affordable yet enjoyable lifestyle. Both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer a good balance between modern conveniences and budget-friendly expenses, and living costs about 60 percent lower than you’ll generally find in the US or UK.

Your living expenses in Vietnam will depend on your lifestyle, but you can enjoy a good life without spending a fortune. The largest dents in your monthly budget will be in the areas of housing, schooling, and Western foodstuffs. On the other hand, travel, phone, and internet costs are exceptionally low.

Like most countries, Vietnam has its fair share of temptations, such as the huge variety of electronic gadgets you can spend your hard-earned salary on. That said, it’s easy enough to live comfortably and save at the same time. Many expats report being able to save significantly while maintaining a higher quality of life than they would in their home countries.

Cost of accommodation in Vietnam

Expats moving to Vietnam on a short-term basis will likely rent property rather than buy. The cost of accommodation in Vietnam varies depending on the standard of accommodation you require and the property’s location.

Vietnam’s rental market is experiencing sustained demand, particularly in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and a significant boost in serviced apartments driven by record international visitor numbers. Rapid economic growth, foreign investments, and new infrastructure developments continue to influence rental prices.

As a rule of thumb, housing closer to the city centre comes at a premium, while accommodation in outlying suburbs is more affordable. Remember to account for utility costs in your monthly budget, which are usually charged in addition to the rental fee.

Expat Accommodation and Utilities in Vietnam

Cost of transport in Vietnam

There are plenty of cost-effective ways to get around Vietnam. Negotiating the price of taxi and motorcycle taxi fares is common practice – don’t be shy about doing so. You might not want to drive in Vietnam due to the chaotic conditions on the city streets. If you want a private vehicle, you can save yourself considerable stress by hiring a driver who knows the local roads.

For daily commuting, ride-hailing services like Grab dominate the market, and they provide both car and motorbike transport options. Although routes and schedules may take time to get used to, public buses are also an economical alternative. The metro line in Hanoi is now operational, and Ho Chi Minh City’s first metro line, which opened in December 2024, connects Ben Thanh Market to the Eastern Bus Terminal. A second line in HCMC is progressing. These developments, along with Vietnam’s expanding rail network and plans for high-speed rail connections with China, are making intercity travel increasingly convenient.

As a long-term resident, you can apply for a Vietnamese driver’s licence by converting your home country’s licence. International driving permits can only be used for short stays and must be accompanied by your home country licence.

Getting Around in Vietnam

Cost of groceries in Vietnam

Grocery shopping in Vietnam offers expats plenty of options between traditional markets, modern supermarkets, and increasingly popular online options. If you’re looking for the best value, local wet markets provide fresh produce, seafood, and meat at lower prices than supermarkets. These markets are an important part of Vietnamese daily life and allow some pricing negotiation.

For convenience and international brands, you can shop at major supermarket chains like Big C, Lotte Mart, and Co.opmart. These hypermarkets stock a wide variety of imported goods, but prices are often higher than in local markets. You might want to mix and match; buy fresh produce at markets and rely on supermarkets for packaged and speciality items. Convenience stores such as Circle K and FamilyMart are widely available, and it’s easy to grab essentials on the go.

Online grocery shopping has grown rapidly, and platforms like Tiki, Lazada, and Shopee offer increasingly competitive grocery delivery services. Major supermarket chains have also jumped into e-commerce, and many offer same-day delivery options for fresh and frozen foods.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Vietnam

Vietnam is a paradise for food lovers, and expats will find a diverse range of dining experiences. Whether you’re indulging in street food or dining at high-end restaurants, there’s something to suit every taste. Local eateries and food stalls provide delicious, affordable Vietnamese dishes, and it’s easy to enjoy authentic cuisine without overspending.

For nightlife enthusiasts, Vietnam’s entertainment scene is alive and well. Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1 buzzes with energy after dark. Hanoi’s nightlife offers a more relaxed vibe, and the party typically doesn’t go as late. Both cities have a mix of rooftop bars, traditional Bia Hoi (fresh beer) spots, and lively nightclubs.

If you prefer outdoor activities, Vietnam offers numerous options. You can go trekking in Sapa, explore caves in Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, or enjoy water sports like kitesurfing along the coastline. The country’s rich history is also reflected in its many museums, temples, and cultural festivals.

While international restaurants and upscale bars can be expensive, local brands and traditional Vietnamese entertainment are super budget-friendly, and you can experience the best of the country without breaking the bank.

Lifestyle in Ho Chi Minh City

Cost of education in Vietnam

The cost of education in Vietnam depends on the type of institution and location. Compared to many Western countries, schooling in Vietnam is generally more affordable, but international schools can be significantly pricier.

Public schools follow the national curriculum in Vietnamese and are the most budget-friendly option, and elementary education is now free for citizens. Public school class sizes tend to be large with basic facilities, and private schools offer a mix of Vietnamese and international curricula, smaller class sizes, and better resources. International schools follow globally recognised programmes, and are a preferred choice for expat parents.

Education and Schools in Vietnam

Cost of healthcare in Vietnam

Health insurance is a must when moving to Vietnam, as public healthcare is typically considered unsuitable for expat needs. While the government has invested in upgrading facilities, public hospitals still face overcrowding and limited resources, particularly in rural areas. Urban facilities have improved considerably, but quality varies significantly from one hospital to another.

Conversely, private healthcare in Vietnam is excellent, widely accessible, and relatively affordable compared to Western countries. Many private hospitals have internationally trained doctors, modern facilities, and English-speaking staff, and are the preferred choice for expats.

Your health insurance costs will depend on factors such as age, lifestyle, and the level of coverage you choose. Currently, there’s no form of public health insurance available to expats in Vietnam, so private coverage is necessary. Most employers provide some form of health insurance, but you might want to opt for additional private coverage to ensure access to top-tier medical care.

Healthcare and Medical Insurance in Vietnam

Cost of living in Vietnam chart

Prices are in Vietnamese dong (VND) and may vary depending on location and service provider. The table below shows average prices for Hanoi in June 2026.