The cost of living in Da Nang is one of the primary reasons why this coastal city has become a top destination for digital nomads and retirees in Southeast Asia. Are you considering a move to Da Nang, Vietnam’s most livable city? As an expat or digital nomad, understanding the cost of living is crucial for planning your budget and lifestyle.
Whether you’re looking to retire, work remotely, or simply experience life in this vibrant coastal city, read on to discover why Da Nang offers an incredible quality of life at a fraction of the price of many Western countries.
The Ultimate Guide to Cost of Living in Da Nang city, Vietnam in 2024
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Why Choose Da Nang in 2026?
Before we dive into the specifics of living costs, let’s explore what makes Da Nang such an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads:
- Beautiful beaches: With miles of pristine coastline, including the famous My Khe Beach, Da Nang offers a perfect blend of city and beach life, promoting both relaxation and privacy.
- Modern infrastructure: As Vietnam’s third-largest city, Da Nang boasts well-developed infrastructure, including reliable internet and transportation networks, perfect for those seeking good privacy and accommodation.
- Rich culture: The city’s proximity to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Hoi An and Hue makes it an ideal base for exploring Vietnamese culture and history, along with its good food.
- Affordable living: Compared to other Southeast Asian destinations like Thailand, Da Nang offers a high quality of life at very reasonable prices in Da Nang.
- Growing expat community: While smaller than expat hubs like Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang’s international community is welcoming and diverse.
Now, let’s break down the cost of living in Da Nang for 2026, including accommodation prices.
Housing Costs of living in Da Nang city
Discovering suitable housing is a significant consideration for newcomers to Da Nang. This section explores the range of rental options available, from city center apartments to luxurious ocean-view accommodations.
Housing Costs of living in Da Nang city
Apartment Rentals
- Studio apartment in the city center: $150-$300 per month
- One-bedroom apartment in the city center: $300-$500 per month
- Two-bedroom apartment in the city center: $350-$700 per month
- Luxury apartment with ocean view: $700-$1500 per month
Keep in mind that prices can vary depending on the specific neighborhood and amenities in Da Nang City. Popular expat areas like An Thuong or My An tend to be slightly more expensive but offer easy access to Western-style restaurants, cafes, and services, making it ideal for those who love good food.
Utilities
Monthly utilities for a typical apartment (electricity, water, garbage, cooling) average around $50-$80 per month. Prices in Da Nang can vary seasonally. Internet service is relatively inexpensive, with high-speed connections available for $10-$20 per month.
Food and Dining Prices in Da Nang
Explore the vibrant food scene in Da Nang, where both grocery shopping and dining out offer a variety of affordable options that cater to different tastes and budgets.
Food and Dining Prices in Da Nang
Grocery Prices
- 1 liter of milk: $1.50
- Loaf of fresh bread: $0.80
- 1 kg of rice: $1.20
- 1 kg of chicken breast: $4
- 1 kg of beef: $10
- 1 kg of local fruits (bananas, mangoes, etc.): $1-$2
Restaurant Prices
- Local street food meal: $1-$3
- Mid-range restaurant meal: $5-$10 per person for good food.
- Western-style restaurant meal: $10-$20 per person
- Domestic beer at a bar: $1-$2
- Cappuccino in a cafe: $1.50-$2.50
Cooking at home can significantly reduce your food expenses, but even eating out regularly in Da Nang is affordable compared to Western countries, making it easy to enjoy good food.
Transportation Expenses
Transportation Expenses in Da Nang
Transportation Expenses in Da Nang
Getting around Da Nang is easy and inexpensive. Here are some typical transportation costs:
- Motorbike rental: $40-$60 per month
- Gasoline (1 liter): $1
- Taxi start fare: $0.50
- Taxi 1 km: $0.50, one of the lowest in any city in Vietnam.
Monthly public transportation pass: $10 in Da Nang City.
Many expats choose to rent a motorbike as their primary mode of transportation, as it’s convenient and cost-effective. However, if you prefer not to drive, taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab are readily available and affordable.
Healthcare and Insurance
Healthcare and Insurance cost in Da Nang city
While healthcare in Vietnam is generally inexpensive compared to Western countries, many expats opt for international health insurance for peace of mind. Here are some healthcare-related costs:
- Doctor’s visit (general practitioner): $10-$20
- Private health insurance: $50-$150 per month, depending on coverage
- Common medications: Generally very affordable, often less than $5 for a course of antibiotics
Entertainment and Leisure
Entertainment and Leisure cost in Da Nang city
Da Nang offers plenty of opportunities for entertainment and relaxation without breaking the bank:
- Movie ticket: $4-$6 in Da Nang City.
- Gym membership: $20-$40 per month
- Yoga class: $5-$10 per session
- Beach club day pass: $10-$20
- Day trip to Hoi An: $20-$30 including transportation and meals
Overall Budget per Month
So, what’s the bottom line for living in Da Nang, a city in Vietnam? Here’s a sample monthly budget for a single person living comfortably:
- Rent (one-bedroom apartment): $400 for furnished accommodation.
- Utilities and internet: $70. This price in Da Nang doesn’t include installation fees.
- Groceries: $200
- Eating out and entertainment: $300
- Transportation (motorbike rental and fuel): $70
- Health insurance: $100
- Miscellaneous expenses: $100
Total: Approximately $1,240 per month
Of course, this budget can vary significantly depending on your lifestyle choices. Many expats report living comfortably on $800-$1,000 per month, while others spend $1,500 or more for a more luxurious lifestyle.
Tips for Saving Money in Da Nang, Vietnam
To make the most of Da Nang’s affordable cost of living:
Lowering your cost of living in Da Nang is simple if you follow a few local tips. Below are effective ways to save money without sacrificing comfort:
- Rent Long-Term: Landlords usually discount the rent by 10-20% for 6-12 month contracts, significantly reducing your cost of living in Da Nang.
- Eat Local: Prioritizing Vietnamese street food over imported Western goods can cut your food bill in half.
- Shop at Traditional Markets: Buying fresh produce at Han Market or Bac My An Market is cheaper than supermarkets like Lotte Mart.
Is Da Nang Right for You?
While the cost of living in Da Nang is undoubtedly attractive, it’s important to consider other factors when deciding to move here:
- Visa requirements: Vietnam’s visa policies can be complex and subject to change, especially in busy cities like Da Nang City. Research the latest regulations or consult with a visa agency, especially if you’re considering moving to Da Nang City.
- Language barrier: While many young people in Da Nang City speak some English, learning basic Vietnamese will greatly enhance your experience.
- Cultural differences: Be prepared for a different pace of life and cultural norms compared to Western countries.
- Weather: Da Nang has a tropical climate with a rainy season from September to January, perfect for those who value their privacy. Make sure you’re comfortable with the heat and humidity.
Comparison: Cost of Living in Da Nang vs. Ho Chi Minh City
Comparing the cost of living in Da Nang with Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) reveals significant savings for expats. Specifically, rent prices in Da Nang are often 30-40% lower than in District 1 or Thao Dien of HCMC for similar quality apartments. Furthermore, while food prices are comparable, the cost of living in Da Nang offers better value due to the free access to world-class beaches and nature, which would cost extra in a busy metropolis. Ultimately, if you want to maximize your budget, Da Nang is the smarter choice.
Cost of Living in Da Nang vs. Ho Chi Minh City
FAQs
Is Da Nang expensive to live?
No, Da Nang is generally considered affordable. The average monthly cost for a single person is around 23,751,623 VND (~$1,000 USD), which is relatively low compared to many other cities.
Is Da Nang cheaper than Ho Chi Minh City?
Yes, Da Nang is about 16.3% cheaper overall than Ho Chi Minh City when including rent.
What is the average income in Da Nang?
According to the most recent data from 2022, the average monthly income per capita in Da Nang was 5,807,000 VND (approximately $245 USD). This placed Da Nang 6th nationally in terms of per capita income, after cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Hai Phong.
The average monthly salary in Da Nang is estimated to be around 17,500,000 VND ($745 USD). However, salaries can range widely from 4,420,000 VND ($188 USD) to 77,900,000 VND ($3,315 USD) per month depending on the job. In the structure of monthly per capita income in Da Nang:
- 58.9% comes from wages and salaries
- 27.5% from non-farm self-employment
- 0.8% from agriculture, forests and fisheries
- 12.8% from other revenues
Da Nang’s per capita income increased by 11.1% from 2021 to 2022. The minimum wage in Da Nang (Region II) is 3,920,000 VND per month (about $167 USD) as of 2023. Some sources provide different figures, like an average monthly salary of 5,581,500 VND, but the most recent official data from the General Statistics Office seems to be the 5,807,000 VND figure from 2022.
FAQs related to whether to live in Da Nang and its cost of living
Is Da Nang a nice place to live in terms of privacy and accommodation?
Yes, Da Nang is considered one of Vietnam’s most livable cities, known for its good food and privacy. It offers a good balance of urban amenities and natural beauty, with clean air and good infrastructure.
Is Da Nang cheaper than Hanoi?
Yes, Da Nang is about 10.2% cheaper than Hanoi when including rent, according to the cost of living index.
Is Da Nang a good place to retire in Jul 2024?
Da Nang can be an excellent place for retirees due to its low cost of living, good healthcare, and relaxed lifestyle. However, job opportunities may be more limited compared to larger cities.
Which part of Da Nang is best to stay?
Popular areas for expats in Da Nang City include An Thuong, My Khe Beach, and Hai Chau District. The beachside area offers a more relaxed atmosphere, while the city center provides more urban conveniences.
When should I avoid Da Nang?
The rainy season from August to December may be less pleasant for some visitors. However, Da Nang is generally considered a year-round destination.
Is Da Nang a livable city?
Yes, Da Nang is widely regarded as one of Vietnam’s most livable cities. It offers a high quality of life with its clean environment, good infrastructure, and balance between urban amenities and natural attractions.
Conclusion
To sum up, the cost of living in Da Nang in 2026 remains one of the most competitive in Asia, offering a high-quality lifestyle for $600 – $1,000 per month. Whether you are moving here for work, retirement, or remote travel, knowing the real cost of living in Da Nang helps you plan a stress-free transition. If you are ready to find a home that fits your budget, check out our list of Apartments for Rent in Da Nang to get the best value for your money today.