Cost of Living in Vietnam for Indian Students [2025]

Vietnam provides very reasonable living costs for international students. It boasts world-class universities with international tie-ups, creating ample opportunities after finishing graduation. The nation attracts a large number of international students due to its high education standards, affordable tuition fees, as well as living expenses. To get a better idea of what to expect while studying and living in Vietnam, keep reading the blog as we explore the different aspects of the cost of living in Vietnam.

Why Should You Consider Studying in Vietnam?

Vietnamese universities are increasingly recognized for academic strength in engineering, technology, and business. They focus on actual skills, innovation, and preparation to deal with global challenges in knowledge. Studying abroad in Vietnam will give you a rare opportunity to explore an authentic, historic, exciting, and fast-developing country. With a deep history and rich culture, Vietnam is an intriguing destination featuring friendly people, amazing food, and astounding beauty. Most importantly, the average cost of living in Vietnam is much lower than most other countries.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Living in Vietnam for Indian Students

The cost of living in Vietnam is influenced by different factors that all international students must consider. The following list of variables affects the nation’s overall cost of living for students.

• Educational Institutions: Your choice of program and the school or institution you enroll in will impact the amount you pay for tuition fees. For instance, tuition for medicine and veterinary science degrees is significantly higher than for other disciplines. The institutions also offer a wide range of diploma courses.
• Accommodation Type: Among the best options for student housing are living on campus or renting an off-campus apartment. Although university accommodation is readily available, the cost can be higher because it frequently includes utilities and possibly meals. In general, off-campus housing is more affordable, especially shared living arrangements outside of the city core. As a typical way to save money, many students choose to live together in flats.
• Transportation Cost: Compared to public transportation, owning a car is far more expensive. Most cities in Vietnam have effective bus systems. In many places, student transportation passes are reasonably priced, making them a great way to save money. 
• Lifestyle Patterns: Your monthly expenses will be significantly impacted by the way you decide to spend your money. The cost of living in Vietnam will increase if you travel frequently and eat out. On the other hand, cooking at home and choosing inexpensive recreational activities can help you save money. 
• Insurance and Healthcare: Healthcare and insurance have a big impact on Vietnam’s cost of living. Students must have Overseas Student Health Coverage (OSHC), which raises their costs. While studying overseas, medical costs can be high if they are not covered by insurance, thus students must budget for them. 

Note: To make more informed decisions about studying abroad, you can join our study abroad program and consult with our expert education consultants.

Overview of the Cost of Living in Vietnam for Indian Students

Vietnam has grown in popularity as a study-abroad destination because of its low price of living in Vietnam and distinctive cultural experiences. Both natives and foreigners can find options that fit their budgets thanks to Vietnam’s range of living expenses. 

A major attraction is its affordability since average monthly living costs fall between ₹37,500 to ₹75,000. By covering necessities like housing, food, transportation, and utilities, this range enables people to live comfortably according to their preferred way of life.

1. Accommodation Costs

Numerous rental home alternatives in Vietnam are available to suit price ranges. Apartments in high-rise structures with spectacular views and contemporary conveniences are available in vibrant cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. A modest room in a shared house is an excellent alternative for individuals who want to experience a communal life while saving money. 

Vietnam offers lodging options that will satisfy your comfort and budget, whether you’re looking for a fully equipped apartment or a cozy, basic studio. The cost of living in Vietnam differs according to the type of accommodation.

Here is a table of the average cost of living in Vietnam:

Accommodation Type	Average Monthly Rent (VND)	Average Monthly Rent (INR)
One-bedroom apartment (Outside City Center)	₫6,829,038 – ₫13,558,076	₹22,500 – ₹45,000
One-Bedroom Apartment (City Center)	₫9,105,384 – ₫18,210,764	₹30,000 – ₹60,000
Three-Bedroom Apartment (City Center)	₫18,210,764 – ₫34,145,192	₹60,000 – ₹1,12,500
Studio Apartment (Outside City Center)	₫4,552,692 – ₫9,105,384	₹15,000 – ₹30,000
One-bedroom apartment (Outside City Center)	₫6,,829,038 – ₫13,658,076	₹22,500 – ₹45,000
Three-bedroom apartment (Outside City Center)	₫13,658,076 – ₫22,763,461	₹45,000 – ₹75,000

2. Food and Grocery Expenses

In general, cooking at home is less expensive in Vietnam than eating out. Depending on food tastes and how often home-cooked meals are consumed, a basic shopping price for one person can range from ₹7,500 to ₹15,000 per month.

Here’s a table outlining the weekly grocery expenses of various items that you may incur:

Item	Average Cost (VND)	Average Price (INR ₹)
Milk (1 litre)	₫18,210	₹60
Bread (loaf)	₫12,875	₹42.42
Eggs (dozen)	₫24,888	₹82
Rice (1 kg)	₫18,377	₹60.55
Chicken Fillets (1 kg)	₫81,644	₹269
Apples (1 kg)	₫55,239	₹182
Bananas (1 kg)	₫18,817	₹62
Potatoes (1 kg)	₫10,319	₹34
Tomatoes (1 kg)	₫14,568	₹48
Onions (1 kg)	₫11,467	₹37.78
Street Food	₫45,527	₹150
Dining Out (Casual Meal)	₫75,878	₹250

3. Transportation Costs

Vietnam offers a variety of reasonably priced transportation options. Taxis and buses are examples of public transportation, whereas ride-hailing services and motorbike rentals are examples of private transportation. Depending on the mode of transportation selected, the cost of transportation may change.

Here’s a table that gives an overview of transportation expenses for living in Vietnam:

Transportation Mode	Average Cost (VND)	Average Cost Per Trip (INR ₹)
Public Transport (Bus/Train)	₫9,105	₹30
Gasoline (per litre)	₫31,261	₹103.83
Taxi Ride (per 1 km)	₫7,587	₹25
Car Rental (per day)	₫151,756	₹500
Renting a Motorbike (per day)	₫37,939	₹125

4. Health Insurance and Medical Expenses

With high-quality services accessible in major cities, healthcare in Vietnam won’t significantly raise living expenses due to its extremely low cost. Health insurance, which can range from ₹7,500 to ₹15,000 per month, depending on the coverage, is recommended for international students.

Here’s an overview of the health insurance costs for living in Vietnam for Indian students:

Healthcare and Wellness	Average Cost (VND)	Average Cost (in INR)
Health Insurance	₫3,035,128	₹10,000
Gym Membership	₫667,728	₹2,200
Yoga Classes	₫288,337	₹950
Fitness Classes	₫667,728	₹2,200

5. Utilities, Communication, and Internet Charges

If you reside in Vietnam as an international student, it is important to consider the costs of utilities like electricity, water, and heating. These are essential for your daily comfort and well-being. Along with utilities, you will need a reliable internet connection and a mobile phone plan.

The table below shows the average monthly cost of living in Vietnam for utilities and communication:

Expense Type	Average Cost (VND)	Average Monthly Cost (INR ₹)
Utilities (electricity, water, cooling)	₫1,067,454	₹3,517
Mobile Phone Bill	₫98,034	₹323.77
Internet Connection	₫211,548	₹697

Note: These estimates provide a general idea of monthly expenses and may vary depending on your usage and service providers.

6. Entertainment and Leisure Costs

Vietnam provides a range of sports, entertainment, and outdoor activities. Free outdoor activities for students include hiking, beach visits, and park exploration. Recreational activities, however, are typically expensive. Monthly spending can be greatly increased by going to the movies, eating out with friends, or attending social events.

Depending on your individual preferences and the frequency of your leisure activities, these estimations may differ. You may have a happy, balanced student life in Singapore without going over budget if you plan. This is a summary of how much entertainment and leisure activities cost in Vietnam: 

Activity Type	Average Cost (VND)	Average Monthly Cost (INR ₹)
Movies (1 Seat)	₫91,053	₹300
Fitness Club (Monthly)	₫430,381	₹1,418
Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour)	₫189,999	₹626

7. Miscellaneous Expenses

You must include additional expenses for things like study materials, clothing, and personal hygiene products in addition to the necessities. The cost of these can change based on personal needs. Budgeting for them, however, guarantees that you are ready for every facet of Vietnamese student life.

The typical miscellaneous living expenses for international students in Vietnam are shown in the table below: 

Expense Type	Average Cost (VND)	Average Cost (INR ₹)
Clothing and Personal Care	₫3,035,128	₹10,000
Study Materials/Books	₫1,821,076	₹6000

Differences in Living Expenses Between Major Cities

When comparing the cost of living in Vietnam, it is important not to overlook the fact that the living expenses in major Vietnamese cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City differ significantly from smaller, coastal cities.

The most costly cities are Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City because of their prominence as centers of culture and the economy. Costs for lodging, food, and transportation are greater than in other areas. A one-bedroom flat in the heart of the city, for instance, can cost anything from ₹30,000 to ₹60,000 a month to rent.

Smaller villages and coastal cities such as Vietnam Da Nang and Nha Trang provide more economical living. Accommodations are far less expensive, with comparable units costing ₹15,000 to ₹30,000 a month. Transportation and food expenses are also reduced.

Category	Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City	Coastal and Smaller Cities
Accommodation	₹30,000 to ₹60,000 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre	₹15,000 to ₹30,000 per month for a similar apartment
Transportation	Higher costs with more extensive public transport options and higher taxi fares	Lower costs around ₹5000- ₹10000 with cheaper public transport and taxi fares

How to Reduce Your Living Expenses in Vietnam?

Living expenses in Vietnam for an international student may be less than in most countries but can be still expensive for many students. However, there are several ways to manage your costs effectively. Here are some tips to help you reduce your living expenses in Vietnam:

• Shared Accommodation: Sharing accommodation with other students is one of the most effective ways to reduce the average cost of living expenses. Renting an apartment with roommates is much more affordable than living alone or opting for on-campus housing. By splitting the rent and utility bills, you can significantly lower your monthly costs. Therefore, shared accommodation is a smart choice for budget-conscious students.
• Using Public Transport: Parking, fuel, and other expenses can make owning a car costly. Use the well-connected public transportation systems of Vietnam instead. For transportation, most cities provide student passes at a reduced price. It offers a cost-effective way to navigate around the city. Taking the bus, rail, or tram can result in significant transportation cost savings. 
• Managing Utility Costs: Bills for utilities like water might raise monthly costs if you’re not careful. These expenses can be decreased by adopting easy practices like watching how much water you use, controlling your heating and cooling, and turning off lights when not in use. Your monthly budget may be impacted by these minor changes, which will ultimately increase your savings.
• Reducing Grocery and Meal Expenses: Cooking at home whenever feasible is an excellent method to save money. Your food expenses can be considerably reduced by purchasing groceries in bulk and taking advantage of sales. Overspending can be avoided by meal planning and purchasing within a budget. To lower the cost of living in Vietnam, you can also think about splitting grocery bills with your housemates. 
• Scholarships on Education: Explore scholarship options while applying to universities in Vietnam. Many universities in Vietnam offer scholarships for international students based on merit or financial need. In addition, the Indian government scholarships for studying abroad also help students fund their studies. These scholarships will help you pay the tuition fees and meet the overall financial expense of studying in Vietnam. You must check the eligibility criteria for scholarships and apply timely. 

Also Read: How to Get a Scholarship to Study Abroad

Conclusion

When studying overseas, it’s critical to handle your finances well. Make a budget that accounts for your cost of living in Vietnam. This will assist you in determining potential areas of overspending and enable you to make necessary modifications. In the near term, forming this habit will help you keep financial control and promote financial discipline. Finally, working to become financially savvy while studying overseas leads to a more rewarding and stress-free academic experience. 

If you are an Indian student planning to study abroad, check out our guide on the cheapest countries to study abroad for Indian students. Discover the top colleges, courses, tuition fees, and more.

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