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Ho Chi Minh City vs Singapore: Cost of Living Compared

A side-by-side comparison of rent, daily expenses, and quality-of-life factors in Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam) and Singapore (Singapore). Data sourced from official government statistics, updated 2026.

CategoryHo Chi Minh CitySingapore
CountryVietnamSingapore
CurrencyVND (₫)SGD (S$)
1BR Rent Range₫9,000,000 - ₫27,000,000S$1,900 - S$6,300Cheaper
2BR Rent Range₫15,000,000 - ₫42,000,000S$2,800 - S$10,500Cheaper
Groceries / mo₫4,000,000S$500Cheaper
Transport Pass / mo₫1,500,000S$130Cheaper
Dining Out / mo₫3,000,000S$450Cheaper
English Level3/5 (Moderate)5/5 (Excellent)Cheaper
Neighborhoods Tracked510
Healthcare SystemPublic + PrivatePublic + Mandatory Savings (Medisave)

Verdict

Overall, Singapore tends to be more affordable when comparing rent, groceries, transport, and dining costs. However, the two cities use different currencies, so exchange rates and local salary levels also play a significant role. Use our calculator to see what your specific salary means in each city.

Explore Ho Chi Minh City

5 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in Vietnam

View Ho Chi Minh City details

Explore Singapore

10 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in Singapore

View Singapore details

Calculate your salary in both cities

Enter your gross salary to see net pay, rent affordability, and savings potential in Ho Chi Minh City and Singapore.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Singapore cheaper to live in?

Based on our data, Singapore is generally cheaper to live in when comparing rent, groceries, transport, and dining costs. However, costs vary significantly by neighborhood and lifestyle.

What is rent like in Ho Chi Minh City vs Singapore?

In Ho Chi Minh City, 1-bedroom rents range from ₫9,000,000 to ₫27,000,000 per month across 5 neighborhoods. In Singapore, 1-bedroom rents range from S$1,900 to S$6,300 per month across 10 neighborhoods.

How do transport costs compare in Ho Chi Minh City vs Singapore?

A monthly public transport pass costs ₫1,500,000 in Ho Chi Minh City and S$130 in Singapore. Both cities have well-developed public transit systems.

Which city is better for expats, Ho Chi Minh City or Singapore?

Ho Chi Minh City has an English proficiency rating of 3/5 (Moderate) and Singapore rates 5/5 (Excellent). Ho Chi Minh City uses Public + Private healthcare, while Singapore uses Public + Mandatory Savings (Medisave). Both factors are important for expats considering a move.

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Updated Mar 2026

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© 2026 AffordWhere. Estimates only, not financial advice.

2026 tax rules • Mar 2026 rent data