Pros and Cons of Moving to Ho Chi Minh City

Living in Ho Chi Minh City offers expats a chance to experience Vietnam’s most dynamic metropolis. The city has many benefits, but it also has drawbacks, and you should prepare yourself realistically to make the most of your expat life in Vietnam’s economic capital.

Moving to Ho Chi Minh City

Cost of living in Ho Chi Minh City

+ PRO: Extremely affordable cost of living

The cost of living in Ho Chi Minh City makes for exceptional value for money compared to Western cities. Your rent, dining, entertainment, and daily expenses will be a fraction of what you’d pay back home, allowing you to enjoy a higher standard of living on the same budget. Many expats find they can live comfortably in popular districts like District 1 or District 7, spending significantly less than they would in London or New York.

- CON: Overcharging foreigners

Despite the friendliness of the Vietnamese people, you may still face unfairly increased prices. To negotiate a fair deal, be firm when bartering and learn a few Vietnamese words.

+ PRO: Easy regional travel connections

Travel to neighbouring countries from Ho Chi Minh City is remarkably convenient and affordable. Popular destinations like Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur offer regular budget flights, and overland routes connect you to Cambodia and other Southeast Asian countries. Tan Son Nhat International Airport, Vietnam’s busiest hub, provides excellent connectivity for both business and leisure travel throughout the region.

Cost of Living in Ho Chi Minh City

Daily life and culture in Ho Chi Minh City

+ PRO: Welcoming attitude of the Vietnamese people

Vietnamese people are very friendly and welcoming to foreigners. Expats will find locals accommodating and genuinely interested in helping them.

+ PRO: Strong expat community

Ho Chi Minh City’s thriving international scene is varied and engaging, with something for everyone from young professionals to families. You’ll find active Facebook groups, regular meetups, and social events that make it easy to build your network and feel at home in Vietnam’s largest city.

+ PRO: Outstanding Vietnamese food scene

From street food stalls serving authentic pho to upscale international restaurants, Ho Chi Minh City’s dining options spoil expats for choice. The local food culture combines traditional Vietnamese cuisine with international flavours, and you’ll find everything from hole-in-the-wall local gems to fine dining establishments. Food costs are incredibly reasonable, even in the city’s most popular dining districts.

- CON: English language barriers

Despite Vietnam using a Latin-based alphabet, language barriers are a daily reality for expats living in Ho Chi Minh City. English proficiency is moderate compared to other Asian cities, although you’ll find higher levels in tourist areas, international businesses, and among younger Vietnamese people. Keep in mind that English isn’t commonly used in everyday situations like local markets, government offices, or residential areas outside the main expat districts.

+ PRO: Abundance of shopping outlets

Shopping is a favourite pastime for many Ho Chi Minh City residents, and you’ll have plenty of options available. The shops range from small markets to impressive department stores.

Shopping and Lifestyle in Ho Chi Minh City 

Getting around Ho Chi Minh City

- CON: Traffic and motorbike chaos

Getting around Ho Chi Minh City can be overwhelming for newcomers to Vietnam. Millions of motorbikes dominate the roads with seemingly no traffic rules, pedestrian crossings are few and far between, and the constant noise and fumes can be stressful. The motorbike culture and aggressive driving style differ dramatically from Western traffic norms, making daily commutes a significant adjustment for most expats.

+ PRO: Modern metro system in Ho Chi Minh City

Getting around Ho Chi Minh City became much easier when the first metro line opened in December 2024. The Ben Thanh-Suoi Tien route covers 12 miles (20km), connecting the city centre to Thu Duc City with air-conditioned comfort. Trains run from 5am to 10pm with 8 to 12 minute intervals, offering a clean alternative to the chaotic street traffic.

Getting Around in Ho Chi Minh City

Living conditions in Ho Chi Minh City

- CON: Tropical climate challenges in Ho Chi Minh City

Living conditions in Ho Chi Minh City include year-round tropical heat that rarely drops below 77°F (25°C), with high humidity levels that can feel overwhelming. The intense heat combined with heavy rainfall during the monsoon season (May to October) creates challenging weather conditions for expats from temperate climates. Air conditioning becomes essential rather than optional, affecting your monthly utility costs.

- CON: Pollution concerns

With nearly 10 million residents, Ho Chi Minh City suffers from a significant amount of noise and air pollution. You’ll see many Vietnamese people wearing face masks to prevent irritation from pollen and pollution, particularly during rush hours and in busy districts.

+ PRO: Beach escapes from Ho Chi Minh City

While Ho Chi Minh City isn’t coastal, popular beach destinations offer perfect weekend getaways from city life. Vung Tau lies just two hours away by road, while Mui Ne’s sand dunes and beaches are three to 4 hours by bus or private car. These coastal towns provide the perfect respite from HCMC’s heat and urban intensity, with many expats making regular trips for relaxation and water sports.

+ PRO: Wonderful sights and activities

If you’re looking to spend your days outdoors, you’ll be spoilt for choice. There are many recreational and water parks around the city, which are not just for the kids to enjoy. The city is also home to numerous historical and cultural sites for you to discover.

Weekend Breaks in Ho Chi Minh City

Services in Ho Chi Minh City

+ PRO: Excellent expat healthcare in Ho Chi Minh City

Services and amenities in Ho Chi Minh City include world-class private healthcare that rivals international standards. Leading hospitals offer English-speaking doctors, modern equipment, and comprehensive medical services. Many expats find the private healthcare system efficient and affordable compared to Western countries, with shorter waiting times and personalised care.

+ PRO: International education options in Ho Chi Minh City

If you’re moving to Ho Chi Minh City with children, you’ll find numerous excellent international schools offering British, American, and IB curricula. Districts 2 and 7 particularly cater to expat families.

+ PRO: International banking services for expats

Banking in Ho Chi Minh City is accessible and convenient for expats, with major international banks like HSBC and ANZ maintaining strong presences. These banks have English-speaking staff, multi-currency accounts, international transfer services and digital banking platforms and expat-friendly services.

- CON: Internet restrictions

Government internet censorship in Ho Chi Minh City affects daily digital life for expats. Access to certain websites is controlled, especially those with religious or political content. Social media users must verify their identities on platforms like Facebook and TikTok, while authorities can request user data from companies. Many expats use VPN services to maintain access to blocked content and preserve online privacy.

International Schools in Ho Chi Minh City
Healthcare and Hospitals in Ho Chi Minh City

Safety and challenges in Ho Chi Minh City

- CON: Petty crime in tourist areas

Safety challenges in Ho Chi Minh City include petty crime that particularly impacts expats and tourists. Stay watchful of your belongings and aware of your surroundings, especially in busy areas like Ben Thanh Market and District 1. Motorbike theft of bags and phones is quite common, particularly targeting foreigners who appear distracted or openly carry valuables.

+ PRO: Overall safety for expats in Ho Chi Minh City

Despite petty crime concerns, Ho Chi Minh City maintains a welcoming and relatively safe environment for foreign residents. Violent crime against expats is rare, and you can navigate most neighbourhoods day and night with reasonable precautions. The strong sense of community among both locals and expats, combined with Vietnam’s generally peaceful culture, creates a secure living environment that many find more comfortable than major Western cities.