Cost of Living in Da Nang, Vietnam: Thrive 2024 with Updated Prices

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. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about living expenses in Da Nang in 2024, from housing and food costs to transportation and entertainment. Prices in Da Nang can fluctuate, so it’s best to budget accordingly. 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

Why Choose Da Nang in Jul 2024?

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 2024, 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

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:

1. Learn basic Vietnamese: This can help you negotiate better prices in Da Nang and find local deals.
2. Shop at local markets: Fresh produce and goods are often cheaper at markets than in supermarkets.
3. Use a motorbike: It’s the most cost-effective way to get around the city.
4. Take advantage of happy hours and local specials: Many restaurants and bars in Da Nang City offer great deals during off-peak hours.
5. Explore free activities: From beach days to hiking in Son Tra Peninsula, there’s plenty to do in Da Nang that doesn’t cost a thing.

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.

Conclusion

Da Nang offers an exceptional quality of life at a cost that’s hard to beat anywhere in Vietnam or even Southeast Asia. With its beautiful beaches, delicious food, and growing expat community, it’s no wonder that more and more people are choosing to call this city home. Whether you’re a digital nomad looking for a temporary base or a retiree seeking a permanent residence, Da Nang’s affordability and charm make it a top contender for expats in 2024.

FAQs

FAQs related to whether to live in Da Nang and its cost of living

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.

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.