Ah, Saigon! The bustling city of motorbikes, street food, and endless charm. Known officially as Ho Chi Minh City, this vibrant metropolis in Vietnam is not just a haven for travellers but also a hub for expats and digital nomads. One of the most common questions people ask about this city is: How much does it cost to live or travel in Saigon? So, let’s dive in!
Accommodation 🏨
Short-Term Stays
For travellers, the accommodation options range from budget hostels to luxurious hotels. Here’s a breakdown:
- Hostels: Starting at $5-10 per night (120,000-240,000 VND) for a bed in a dormitory.
- Budget Hotels: $15-30 per night (360,000-720,000 VND) for basic private rooms.
- Mid-Range Hotels: Around $50-80 per night (1.2M-1.9M VND) with better amenities and central locations.
- Luxury Hotels: Prices soar to $150+ per night (3.6M VND and up) for 5-star experiences.
Long-Term Rentals
If you’re planning a longer stay:
- Studio Apartments: $250-500 per month (6M-12M VND) in District 1 or 2.
- One-Bedroom Apartments: $400-800 per month (9.5M-19M VND) depending on location and facilities.
- Shared Housing: Rooms in shared apartments cost $150-300 per month (3.6M-7.2M VND).
Food and Drinks 🍲
Street Food 🍜
The heart of Saigon’s cuisine lies in its streets. Prices are delightfully low:
- Pho (Vietnamese noodle soup): $1.50-2.50 (35,000-60,000 VND).
- Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich): $1-2 (24,000-48,000 VND).
- Com Tam (broken rice): $2-3 (48,000-72,000 VND).
Restaurants
- Local Restaurants: $5-10 (120,000-240,000 VND) for a full meal.
- Western Restaurants: $8-20 (190,000-480,000 VND) depending on the venue.
Drinks 🍺
- Beer: $0.50-2 (12,000-48,000 VND) for local brands like Saigon Beer.
- Coffee: $1-3 (24,000-72,000 VND) for the iconic Vietnamese iced coffee (‘Ca Phe Sua Da’).
- Cocktails: $3-10 (72,000-240,000 VND) at bars and clubs.
Transportation 🚶♂️
Getting around in Saigon is affordable:
- Motorbike Rentals: $50-70 per month (1.2M-1.7M VND).
- Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab, Gojek): $1-3 (24,000-72,000 VND) per ride within the city center.
- Public Buses: Less than $0.50 (12,000 VND) per trip.
- Taxis: $3-10 (72,000-240,000 VND) for short to medium distances.
Attractions 🏞️
Saigon offers a mix of free and paid attractions:
- War Remnants Museum: $2 (48,000 VND).
- Independence Palace: $1.70 (40,000 VND).
- Cu Chi Tunnels (Day Tour): $15-20 (360,000-480,000 VND).
- Ben Thanh Market: Free to enter, but budget for shopping!
Monthly Budget for Expats and Digital Nomads 🏠
Here’s a rough breakdown of monthly expenses:
| Category | Budget-Friendly ($) | Comfortable ($) | Luxury ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | 250-400 | 500-800 | 1,000+ |
| Food | 150-300 | 400-600 | 800+ |
| Transportation | 50-100 | 100-200 | 300+ |
| Entertainment | 50-100 | 150-300 | 500+ |
| Total | 500-900 | 1,150-1,900 | 2,600+ |
Tips to Save Money 💸
- Eat Local: Stick to street food for budget-friendly and authentic meals.
- Negotiate: Bargaining is common at markets like Ben Thanh.
- Ride a Motorbike: It’s the cheapest way to get around.
- Find Deals: Apps like Foody offer discounts on dining and activities.
- Live Outside District 1: Accommodation in districts like Binh Thanh is cheaper.
Saigon is a city where your dollar can stretch surprisingly far if you know where to look. Whether you’re backpacking, working remotely, or planning to settle down, this city offers something for every budget. If you’re ready to experience the charm of this incredible city, it’s time to pack your bags and start exploring!
