Cost of Living in Ho Chi Minh City in 2024: How Much Does an Expat Need to Live in The Most Developed City in Vietnam?

When planning to settle down in Ho Chi Minh city a.k.a Saigon, understanding the cost of living in Ho Chi Minh City is so important. According to 2024 data, the estimated monthly cost of living in Saigon for a single person is $702 without the rent. By estimating financial issues, this article can help you to determine more clearly whether Ho Chi Minh City is a suitable place to stay and establish a career or not.

Besides, are you wondering how to apply E-visa to Vietnam 2024, check it out here: Apply E-visa to Vietnam in 2024

Accommodation

The rental prices in Ho Chi Minh City 2024 can vary significantly depending on the location and type of accommodation. Generally, it ranges between $200 - $600 for a single-bedroom apartment in this city. Central areas like District 1 and District 3, with their high-rise buildings and luxury apartments, naturally commanding higher rental prices. On the other hand, suburban districts like District 7 and District 9, with quieter surroundings and more boarding houses and individual rental rooms, are suitable for those seeking more reasonable rental rates.

In addition to location, the size and amenities of the room/apartment also affect the rental price. Apartments with multiple bedrooms, spacious layouts, and high-end furnishings will naturally be more expensive than small studio apartments with fewer amenities. To find suitable options, you should research rental prices on reputable real estate websites, contact brokers, or directly visit areas of interest to survey prices and the quality of accommodation.

Monthly utilities

The utilities such as electricity, water, internet, cable TV and 4G SIM card generally have reasonable prices in Ho Chi Minh City. On average, the total cost for these utilities is around $100 per month, even with frequent usage. This price can vary depending on:

• Usage level: If you regularly use air conditioning, many electronic devices, or have a preference for entertainment through the internet or cable TV, the costs may increase.
• Service packages: Internet and cable TV providers often offer various service packages with different prices such as $10.21 with 60 Mbps or more and channel/data capacities. Choose a package that suits your usage needs to optimize costs. Besides, a mobile phone monthly plan with calls and 10GB+ Data can cost you $6.07.

However, to ensure a comfortable living environment, it's essential to include these expenses in your monthly budget. By budgeting reasonably for these costs, you can be more proactive in managing your finances and avoid budget shortages.

Transportation

Ho Chi Minh City boasts a diverse transportation system, providing numerous commuting options for both tourists and residents. The dense bus network offers extremely affordable ticket prices - about $6 for monthly tickets. 

For those who prefer speed and convenience, taxis and motorbike taxis are always ready to serve, although the costs will be higher compared to buses.  

If you prefer driving motorcycles, you need a valid international driver's license and skills to navigate the complex traffic here. For your information, buying a scooter in Vietnam can fluctuate between $1000 - $2000 for the new one and one liter of gasoline can cost you around $0.93. Finally, ride-hailing services like Grab or Be that are increasingly popular offer comfort and safety but with costs equivalent to taxis.

Eating out

Ho Chi Minh City is a culinary paradise, where the culinary essence of the three regions - North, Central, and South - converges, offering travelers an endless journey of flavors.

Wandering around the streets, travelers can easily spot food carts selling banh mi, bun bo Hue, banh xeo, or che - typical street foods for just between $0.7 and $2 per serving. This is a perfect choice for those who love simplicity and want to immerse themselves in the vibrant life of the locals. So, the total expense per day is about $8.5 to fill your hunger and conquer your thirst. How cheap it is!

Conversely, Saigon also boasts many renowned restaurants serving elaborately crafted dishes, focusing on beautiful presentation with the starting price - $50

Groceries

Ho Chi Minh City is famous for its diverse system of traditional markets and supermarkets, catering to all your food shopping needs. Local ingredients often come at much more affordable prices than imported goods. Therefore, shopping at local markets and cooking at home is a great way to save costs for meals. So, the monthly spending for buying food from locals ranges from $40 to $60.

Sports 

The price of a gym membership in Ho Chi Minh City can vary depending on the location, amenities, and included services. Expect to pay anywhere from $25 to $150 per month for fancier gyms. Besides, Ho Chi Minh City offers plenty of free ways to stay active like running, yoga, or bodyweight exercises in the city’s beautiful parks. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of living in Ho Chi Minh City in 2024 offers an array of affordable options across various aspects of daily life, from housing to amenities, transportation, and dining. This affordability, coupled with the city's vibrant atmosphere and diverse cultural offerings, makes it an enticing destination for individuals seeking a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle. Whether it's exploring traditional markets for budget-friendly ingredients or indulging in upscale dining experiences, residents can tailor their living experience to suit their preferences and budget. With its blend of modernity and cultural richness, Ho Chi Minh City continues to stand out as a dynamic and appealing choice for residents in search of a vibrant urban environment

>> Read more articles about living in Vietnam in 2024 here: Cost of living in Vietnam in 2024, Cost of living in Danang in 2024
>> Open more opportunities to work as an ESL teacher in Vietnam here: Top 5 English Centers to teach in Vietnam in 2024