Living in Ho Chi Minh City
Use these expat guides to plan the practical parts of life in Saigon: where to live, what it costs, how visas work, how to get around, what insurance to consider, and how to settle into daily routines with fewer surprises.
Start Here
Moving and first-week setup
Digital Nomad Guide to Ho Chi Minh CityCost, community, internet, visas, and daily setup for remote workers.Vietnam Entry Requirements 2026Documents, arrival rules, and what to check before boarding.Vietnam Long-Stay Visa OptionsLonger-stay routes for remote workers, retirees, and frequent visitors.Best Apps and Resources for ExpatsTransport, food delivery, banking, language, healthcare, and everyday tools.
Housing
Where to live and how to compare options
Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh CityDistrict-by-district guidance for visitors and long-stay residents.Rent Cost by Saigon DistrictHow monthly rent changes by neighbourhood and housing type.Serviced Apartments vs HotelsWhen a serviced apartment makes more sense than a hotel for long stays.Serviced Apartments vs Unfurnished RentalsA practical comparison for expats deciding between flexibility and independence.
Money
Budgets, rent, transport, and everyday spending
Cost of Living in Ho Chi Minh CityA realistic 2026 cost breakdown for expats.Monthly Budget Breakdown for ExpatsBudget, mid-range, and luxury tiers for Saigon life.Transport Costs in Ho Chi Minh CityMonthly numbers for Grab, motorbike rentals, taxis, and walking lifestyles.Motorbike vs Grab in SaigonHow to choose the right daily transport setup.
Visas and Admin
Paperwork and official planning
Healthcare and Safety
Insurance, emergency planning, and real daily risk
International Health Insurance for ExpatsPlan types, costs, and coverage tradeoffs.Vietnam Travel InsuranceWhat travel insurance covers and where gaps appear.Vietnam Health Insurance for TravellersShorter-stay health cover for visitors.Safety in Saigon for Long-Term ResidentsWhat actually matters after the first few weeks in the city.
Daily Life
Internet, coworking, food, weather, and getting around
Getting Around Ho Chi Minh CityGrab, motorbike, bus, and walking compared.Vietnam Internet and SIM OptionsSIM data plans, WiFi, and connectivity expectations.Vietnam SIM Card for TouristsWhich network to choose and how to buy.Ho Chi Minh City WeatherMonth-by-month weather guidance for planning routines.