In this article, I’m going to take you on a tour through six of the cheapest cities in Vietnam where your wallet gets to relax too.
From beach paradises to historical wonders, there’s a budget-friendly spot for every type of traveler.
And don’t worry, I’ll give you the lowdown on what life costs in these places, both for a basic lifestyle and for those of you wanting a bit of luxury.
So, pack your bags and get ready to discover Vietnam’s most affordable gems!
Understand Vietnam’s Living Costs
Before we dive into the specifics of each city, it’s important to understand a general rule of thumb about living costs in Vietnam.
Saigon (officially known as Ho Chi Minh City) and Hanoi are the two biggest and most bustling cities in the country. Consequently, they are also the most expensive places to live in Vietnam. This is especially true if you’re looking to maintain a Western lifestyle.
In Saigon and Hanoi, to live comfortably with such a basic lifestyle, you would typically need at least $1,000 per month. This budget allows for a decent apartment, dining out, and enjoying various entertainment options that these vibrant cities have to offer. However, if you’re aiming for a higher-end lifestyle, embracing more luxury and exclusive experiences, you could be looking at expenses up to $4,000 per month. This could include upscale accommodations, gourmet dining, and premium entertainment and leisure activities.
Of course, it’s possible to live on less, more in line with local living standards, but this often involves making certain compromises in terms of comfort and convenience. For those who are looking to live a more modest lifestyle, it’s good to know that a single local’s estimated monthly costs in Ho Chi Minh City are around $500.
In contrast, other cities in Vietnam tend to be much more affordable. Not only do they generally have a lower cost of living, but many travelers also find them to be cleaner and less hectic compared to the hustle and bustle of Saigon and Hanoi.
This makes these other cities particularly attractive to those on a budget, including travelers and digital nomads who seek a more relaxed atmosphere without straining their finances.
So, as we explore each of these budget-friendly cities, keep in mind how their living costs compare to those of Vietnam’s two largest cities.
Da Nang
Best For: Beach enthusiasts and digital nomads looking for a mix of city life and beach relaxation.
Why Cheaper: Da Nang has a lower cost of living compared to big cities like Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi. You can find budget-friendly accommodation easily, and the food, especially local Vietnamese cuisine, is very affordable.
Approximate Costs:
- Basic Life: Around $500-$700 per month. This includes modest accommodation, local food, and public transportation.
- High-End Life: Around $1,200-$1,500 per month for a more luxurious apartment, dining at fancier restaurants, and extra leisure activities.
Nha Trang
Best For: Beach lovers and those who enjoy water sports.
Why Cheaper: Nha Trang is known for its budget-friendly resorts and the low cost of dining out, especially if you love seafood.
Approximate Costs:
- Basic Life: Approximately $450-$650 per month, covering simple living quarters, street food, and basic local experiences.
- High-End Life: Expect to spend about $1,100-$1,400 monthly for premium accommodations and upscale dining and entertainment.
Hue
Best For: History buffs and culture enthusiasts.
Why Cheaper: Hue is cheaper mainly because it’s not as touristy as other cities. The street food is incredibly affordable, and you can find budget accommodation easily.
Approximate Costs:
- Basic Life: Around $400-$600 per month for basic living needs including accommodation, local food, and transport.
- High-End Life: A budget of $1,000-$1,300 per month will get you a nicer place to stay, fine dining, and more access to cultural experiences.
Hoi An
Best For: Those who love exploring ancient towns and custom-tailored clothing.
Why Cheaper: Hoi An, although a tourist spot, remains affordable due to its competitive pricing in accommodation and a plethora of budget eateries.
Approximate Costs:
- Basic Life: About $450-$700 per month for a modest lifestyle, including local food and basic accommodation.
- High-End Life: For around $1,200-$1,500 per month, you can enjoy upscale living, fine dining, and custom-tailored clothing.
Can Tho
Best For: Adventurers and those interested in rural Vietnamese life and the Mekong Delta.
Why Cheaper: Being off the typical tourist trail, Can Tho is cheaper, with low-cost accommodation and food.
Approximate Costs:
- Basic Life: Roughly $350-$550 per month, covering simple accommodation and local food.
- High-End Life: A budget of about $900-$1,200 per month will afford a comfortable lifestyle with better accommodation and dining options.
Phan Thiet
Best For: Beachgoers and those interested in kitesurfing, windsurfing, and enjoying the coastal life.
Why Cheaper: Phan Thiet is a more local and less commercialized beach destination, which keeps its living costs lower.
Approximate Costs:
- Basic Life: Around $400-$600 per month for basic beachside living.
- High-End Life: With $1,000-$1,300 per month, you can enjoy a luxurious lifestyle with better beachfront accommodations and dining.
Remember, these are approximate costs and can vary based on your lifestyle choices and spending habits.
Vietnam offers a range of experiences for different budgets, making it a great destination whether you’re watching your wallet or looking to splurge a little!