Vietnam's capital offers expat families an authentic Southeast Asian experience with growing international education options. The city combines French colonial architecture with traditional Vietnamese culture, creating a unique atmospheric backdrop for family life. Cost of living remains very affordable, allowing families to enjoy comfortable lifestyles while accessing quality international schools. The food scene is exceptional, from street food to upscale dining. Traffic can be chaotic and air quality variable, but the city's charm and friendly locals compensate. Healthcare is adequate with international clinics available. The expat community is well-established and welcoming, particularly around international school areas. Cultural activities, weekend trips to stunning natural sites, and rich history provide excellent family experiences.

💰 Cost of Living

Monthly family budget estimates (USD)

At a Glance

$600

Avg. rent /mo

$3.00

Budget meal

$20

Mid-range dinner (2 ppl)

Dining & Drinks

Cappuccino$2.00

Domestic beer$0.70

Imported beer$2.20

Water (1.5L)$0.30

Groceries

Loaf of bread$1.00

Milk (1L)$1.70

Dozen eggs$1.60

Chicken (1 kg)$3.80

Transport

Taxi flag-drop$0.50

Taxi per km$0.40

Monthly transit pass$8.00

Gasoline (per liter)$1.05

Monthly Bills

Internet$10 /mo

Utilities (avg.)$55 /mo

Gym membership$25 /mo

Domestic help$300 /mo

Preschool / nursery$350 /mo

Comfortable

An apartment in Cau Giay or Dong Da, eating at local pho shops and bun cha stalls, using Grab bikes, shopping at Vinmart and local markets.

$1,800/mo

Rent$550

Groceries$250

Lifestyle & leisure$150

Transport$40

Utilities$60

Dining out$200

Healthcare$80

School fees (per child)$300

Domestic help$170

Established

A modern apartment in Tay Ho or The Manor complex, an international school, a car with driver, regular dining out in the Old Quarter, weekend trips to Ninh Binh or Ha Long Bay.

$5,000/mo

Rent$1,500

Groceries$500

Lifestyle & leisure$350

Transport$350

Utilities$100

Dining out$500

Healthcare$250

School fees (per child)$1,100

Domestic help$350

Premium

A luxury villa in Ciputra or Starlake compound, top-tier international school, private healthcare, fine dining, golf club, and regular travel.

$11,000/mo

Rent$3,500

Groceries$850

Lifestyle & leisure$800

Transport$700

Utilities$180

Dining out$1,100

Healthcare$550

School fees (per child)$2,500

Domestic help$820

Hanoi offers an exceptionally low cost of living by international standards, making it a popular destination for expat families and digital nomads. Street food and local restaurants are remarkably cheap, while international schools and imported goods carry significant premiums. The gap between local and expat lifestyles is one of the widest in Southeast Asia. Current exchange rate is approximately 25,400 VND to 1 USD.

🌬️ Air Quality

Average monthly AQI (US EPA scale)

120

Jan

110

Feb

115

Mar

100

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

105

Nov

115

Dec

Good (0–50)Moderate (51–100)USG (101–150)Unhealthy (151+)

Yearly average AQI is 91. Best air quality Apr–Oct (best: Aug at 60). Jan–Dec air quality worsens due to heat, humidity, and dust (peak: Jan at 120). Families with children who have asthma or respiratory conditions should plan indoor activities during summer months.