Introduction

Vietnam is a beautiful country with a vibrant culture and an affordable cost of living, which makes it an attractive destination for tourists and expats. In this article, we will provide an overview of the cost of living in Vietnam, including expenses related to housing, transportation, food, entertainment, and healthcare.    
 
Housing in Vietnam and compared to Nha Trang city  

Accommodation is one of the largest expenses for expats in Vietnam, particularly in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.  

Housing in Vietnam is generally affordable, particularly outside of major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.  

In HCMC and Hanoi: The cost of renting, in a central location, can range from $300 to $600 per month for a basic studio or one-bedroom apartment ; while a three-bedroom apartment can cost between $800 to $1,500 per month.  

If you decide to buy a property, the cost per square meter ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 depending on the location and type of property.  

However, rental price in Nha Trang center location can be 30-40% lower than in HCMC and Hanoi for the same quality, unless an apartment with seaview or beachfront location can cost higher.  

Transportation

Transportation in Vietnam is also relatively cheap, particularly when compared to other countries in the region.  

A typical taxi ride costs around $1 per kilometer. Grab taxis are a convenient service.  

While Grab motorbike taxis, popular in Vietnam these years, are even cheaper, with prices starting from around $0.3 per kilometer (Noted: the first kilometer would cost higher around $0,7).  

Motorbikes are a popular mode of transportation in Vietnam and can be rented for as little as $5 to $10 per day.  

Food and Drink

Food and drink are relatively cheap in Vietnam, particularly if you eat like a local at street food stalls or local markets.  

Vietnamese cuisine is world-renowned for its freshness, diversity, and affordability. A bowl of pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) can cost as little as $1, while eating out at local restaurants and street food vendors can cost as little as $2 to $5 per meal.  

If you prefer to eat at Western-style restaurants, expect to pay more.  

If you prefer to cook at home, grocery shopping can be relatively inexpensive, with basic food items like rice, vegetables, and meat costing around $20 to $30 per week.  

Entertainment and Leisure   

Vietnam offers a wide range of entertainment and leisure options, from outdoor activities like hiking and swimming to cultural experiences like visiting museums and temples. The cost of these activities can vary, but in general, they are relatively affordable. For example, a movie ticket costs around $4 to $5, while a day trip to a nearby beach can cost around $20 to $30.    
 

Healthcare

Healthcare in Vietnam has improved significantly in recent years, and there are many public and private hospitals and clinics throughout the country. The cost of healthcare can vary depending on the type of treatment and the facility, but in general, it is much cheaper than in many Western countries. A basic doctor's visit can cost as little as $10 to $20, while a more specialized treatment can cost up to $100.  

Other expenses

Other expenses such as utilities, internet, and phone bills are also relatively cheap in Vietnam. The cost of electricity, water, and gas for a small apartment can range from around $20-50 per month, while a monthly internet and phone package can cost between $10-20.  

Conclusion    

In conclusion, Vietnam offers an affordable cost of living and a high quality of life for both locals and expats. However, costs can vary depending on your lifestyle and location, so it's important to do your research and budget accordingly.  

In general, it is much cheaper than many other countries in the region, particularly if you adopt a local lifestyle and budget.. With its rich culture, beautiful scenery, and friendly people, Vietnam is a great place to live, work, and explore.