Best Places to live in Ho Chi Minh City for Expats

A key consideration for expats relocating abroad is finding the right balance between affordable living costs and a high life quality. Vietnam ranks as the world’s most affordable country for expats, offering low living expenses, financial satisfaction, and a comfortable household income. The country is home to around 98.2 million people and 101,550 are expats living permanently in the major cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh.

Among its cities, Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), formerly known as Saigon, is particularly notable as Vietnam’s financial capital and most populous city with 9.3 million residents. Situated along the Saigon River, HCMC has a captivating mix of architectural heritage and a thriving modern business hub. Offering urban living, career opportunities, and rich culture with easy access to nature escapes. This combination creates the perfect work-life balance that attracts many expats.

As the largest city in Vietnam, HCMC is divided into 24 districts consisting of 19 inner city districts and five suburban areas. Each district has its own unique charm, featuring tourist attractions and a mix of local and expat communities. With 24 districts, selecting the ideal neighborhood can be challenging. This guide will help you navigate Ho Chi Minh City’s best areas for expats to live in, considering factors such as lifestyle, budget, and convenience.

District 1 – The Heart of the City and Central Business District

District 1, the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, it is the city centre and the cultural hub. This lively district is filled with the city’s top attractions, embassies, businesses, restaurants, shopping centers, and nightlife.

Expats can enjoy shopping at high-end boutiques along Dong Khoi and Nguyen Hue Street while exploring the city’s landmarks such as Ben Thanh Market and the Reunification Palace. At night, Bui Vien Walking Street comes alive with travellers and young locals gather to eat and socialise. Adding to it all, HCMC’s iconic skyscraper, Bitexco Financial Tower defines District 1’s skyline further enhancing the modern appeal of the city.

With its dynamic energy, rich cultural experiences, and high living standards, District 1 attracts expats who enjoy being at the center of action. The district offers a wide selection of serviced apartments and hotels at many price points, which makes it a top choice for expats seeking both comfort and convenience.

District 3, District 4, and Binh Thanh District – A Small Retreat near the City Centre

District 3, District 4, and Binh Thanh District are your affordable and peaceful alternatives to bustling District 1. These areas are excellent for young expats looking for a mix of modern living and Vietnamese culture. Conveniently located just West (District 3), South (District 4), and North (Binh Thanh District) of District 1, they provide easy access to the downtown city's nightlife while offering a more relaxed atmosphere.

The three districts are known for their tree-lined streets, parks, traditional temples, local markets, and colonial architecture. In District 3, you can explore cultural landmarks like the War Remnants Museum, Tan Dinh Church, and Turtle Lake. District 4 is renowned for its affordable and delicious street food, specifically seafood. Meanwhile, Binh Thanh is a rapidly developing district, with property investors developing high-rise buildings and luxury shopping malls like Landmark 81, the second tallest building in Southeast Asia.

Despite their distinct characteristics, these districts all offer local food vendors, markets, coffee shops, co-working spaces, and parks for foreigners to enjoy. Housing options are diverse and affordable, ranging from cozy apartments to shared houses and historic French colonial villas. With reasonable rental prices and their proximity to the city centre, the three districts are perfect for young expats and entrepreneurs looking for a convenient and lively place to call home.

District 2 (Thao Dien) and District 7 (Phu My Hung) – The Expat Havens

District 2 (Thao Dien) and District 7 (Phu My Hung) are home to long-term expats and wealthy Vietnamese families. Located across the Saigon River, both districts are close enough to the city centre while offering a peaceful retreat from District 1's busy atmosphere.

These areas provide a laid-back ambiance with extensive greenery and traffic-free streets, making them ideal for those seeking a family-friendly environment and luxury living. The neighbourhoods feature westernised housing options such as large houses and villas. You’ll also find expat-friendly amenities like international schools, international grocery stores, international hospitals, gyms, Western-style bars, and restaurants.

Known as the expats bubble, Thao Dien and Phu My Hung are equipped with facilities tailored to foreigners, though this comes with a higher cost of living compared to other districts. However, for expat families relocating to Vietnam and prefer a quieter and more serene environment, these districts are the perfect choice.

Conclusion

Ho Chi Minh City offers a wide range of living options for expats, from lively urban areas to peaceful family-friendly neighbourhoods. Whatever your lifestyle, budget, or personal preferences, HCMC has a place for your needs.