Cost of living in Hanoi Vietnam
Don’t lose your Dong!
Hanoi is an enchanting city, so much so that many footloose Westerners who arrive here begin to think instantly about settling in. No doubt they are encouraged by the fact that everything seems much cheaper here than back in Europe or the USA, and foresee a life of carefree living.
However, the reality is often rather different, and it is worth weighing things up carefully before committing yourself to a major life change. Unless you are independently wealthy, you’ll need to find a job, and unless you work for a joint venture company or multinational corporation, the most likely employment you’ll find is as an English teacher, a demanding job that is not highly paid.
Accommodation costs in Hanoi
Prices in Hanoi for rented accommodation have been soaring for several years as demand exceeds supply, so this is likely to be your biggest headache of establishing a foothold in the city.
Fortunately, many guest houses, particularly small, family-run places, will offer a monthly rate that is considerably cheaper than the daily rate, in a bid to keep rooms occupied for longer periods.
This at least allows you a base from which to search. You’ll need to hire the services of an experienced property agent to identify the kind of place you are looking for, and in the right area. For this you’ll need to pay a fee – usually the equivalent of a month’s rent. This may seem expensive but local knowledge is often priceless and secured discounted rates in the end.
Food and other essential costs in Hanoi
Once the rent is paid, there is no denying that you can take care of other day-to-day needs much more cheaply here than in most other countries. This includes bills for electricity and water, which are often included in monthly rental fees, as well as phone and internet fees.
Some typical costs in Hanoi are as follows:
Motorbike rental (per day) US$5
Meal in cheap restaurant US$3
Taxi ride US$3
Bottle of beer US$1
Internet café (1hr) US$0.30
Coca Cola (1litre) US$0.70
Pack of cigarettes US$1.50
Cinema ticket US$4.50
As you might imagine, imported products are much more expensive than locally produced merchandise, so if you have a taste for something in particular it will probably cost you more than back at home. Likewise, if you eat out and drink at some of the city’s top venues, you may pay up to five times the rate in more humble surroundings.
