Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), formerly known as Saigon, is Vietnam’s largest city and a dynamic hub for digital nomads. Known for its vibrant street life, delicious food, and a growing community of remote workers, HCMC offers an affordable yet bustling urban experience. Here’s a breakdown of the cost of living for digital nomads in Ho Chi Minh City.
1. Accommodation Costs in Ho Chi Minh City
HCMC provides a range of housing options, from budget rooms to high-end serviced apartments.
- Co-Living Spaces: $200–$400/month
- Studio Apartments: $300–$600/month
- Mid-Range Apartments: $600–$1,000/month (modern studios or 1-bedroom apartments)
- Luxury Apartments: $1,200–$2,000/month (serviced apartments with amenities)
Popular Areas for Nomads:
- District 1: Central, vibrant, and close to coworking spaces.
- District 2 (Thao Dien): Popular among expats, offering a quieter vibe.
- District 3: A mix of local culture and modern amenities.
Pro Tip: Use websites like Batdongsan or join Facebook groups like Ho Chi Minh City Expats for rental options.
2. Food and Dining
Vietnamese cuisine is world-famous, and HCMC is no exception. The city offers both affordable street food and upscale dining experiences.
- Street Food: $1–$3 per meal (e.g., banh mi, pho)
- Local Restaurants: $3–$6 per meal
- Western Restaurants: $8–$15 per meal
- Groceries for a Month: $150–$250
Must-Try Foods: Pho (Vietnamese noodle soup), com tam (broken rice with grilled pork), and banh xeo (Vietnamese pancake).
Pro Tip: Check out Ben Thanh Market for authentic Vietnamese street food at great prices.
3. Transportation
Getting around Ho Chi Minh City is affordable and convenient.
- Motorbike Rental: $50–$80/month (plus ~$10 for fuel)
- Taxi and Ride-Hailing (Grab, Gojek): $1–$5 per trip
- Public Buses: $0.30–$1 per ride
- Bicycle Rentals: $10–$20/month
Pro Tip: Ride-hailing apps like Grab are efficient and cheap for getting around the city without owning a motorbike.
4. Co-Working Spaces and Internet
HCMC has a growing number of coworking spaces and reliable internet infrastructure, making it ideal for digital nomads.
- Coworking Memberships: $100–$150/month
- Day Pass: $5–$10/day
- Home Internet: $10–$20/month
Top Co-Working Spaces:
- The Hive
- Dreamplex
- WeWork Ho Chi Minh City
Pro Tip: Many cafes, such as The Workshop or L’usine, offer excellent Wi-Fi and are popular with remote workers.
5. Entertainment and Lifestyle
HCMC has a lively culture, with plenty of options for entertainment and relaxation.
- Cultural Sites: $1–$5 (e.g., War Remnants Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral)
- Fitness Memberships: $20–$50/month
- Nightlife: Drinks at bars start at $2–$5, with clubs charging more.
- Outdoor Activities: $10–$30 (day trips to the Mekong Delta or Cu Chi Tunnels)
Must-Do Activities:
- Take a river cruise on the Saigon River.
- Explore Bui Vien Street for nightlife.
- Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda for a cultural experience.
6. Visa and Other Expenses
Vietnam offers flexible visa options for digital nomads.
- Tourist Visa: $25–$50 (extendable for $50–$100)
- E-Visa: $25 (valid for 30 days)
- Health Insurance: $30–$80/month
- Miscellaneous Expenses: $50–$100/month
Pro Tip: Apply for an e-visa online at the official government website.
Estimated Monthly Cost of Living in Ho Chi Minh City
| Expense | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $300–$1,200 |
| Food and Dining | $150–$400 |
| Transportation | $50–$100 |
| Co-Working/Internet | $100–$200 |
| Entertainment/Lifestyle | $100–$300 |
| Miscellaneous | $50–$150 |
| Total | $750–$2,350 |
Why Ho Chi Minh City is a Great Choice for Digital Nomads
Ho Chi Minh City strikes the perfect balance between affordability and vibrancy. Its thriving expat community, efficient coworking spaces, and rich cultural experiences make it an excellent base for remote workers. Whether you’re working in a modern coworking hub or enjoying a bowl of pho on the street, HCMC delivers a unique blend of work and lifestyle.
Want to see the cost of living in other Vietnamese cities? Go back to our guide to being a digital nomad in Vietnam and see the full list.
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