China vs Vietnam: Which Is Cheaper?
Vietnam is the cheaper country overall — about 23% less than China, or roughly $771 versus $1,001 a month for a single person (population-weighted across 6 and 8 cities). A city-centre one-bedroom averages $534 in Vietnam against $664 in China. Vietnam rates higher on safety (69 vs 59/100). Internet is faster in Vietnam (269 vs 211 Mbps). Healthcare scores 68 vs 60/100, favouring China.
China vs Vietnam at a glance
| Metric | China | Vietnam |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of living / mo | $1,001 | $771 |
| Rent (1BR, centre) / mo | $664 | $534 |
| Safety | 59/100 | 69/100 |
| Internet | 211 Mbps | 269 Mbps |
| Healthcare | 68/100 | 60/100 |
| Walkability | 63/100 | 58/100 |
| English spoken | 11% | 21% |
| Avg temperature | 72°F | 85°F |
| Digital nomad visa | No | No |
Figures are population-weighted averages across 8 cities in China and 6 in Vietnam.
Cost range by country
In China, monthly costs run from Guilin at $671 up to Macau at $1,711.
In Vietnam, monthly costs run from Dalat at $520 up to Ho Chi Minh City at $790.
China vs Vietnam FAQ
Is China or Vietnam cheaper to live in?
Vietnam is cheaper — about $771 a month for a single person versus $1,001 — roughly 23% less.
Is China or Vietnam safer?
Vietnam scores higher on safety: 69/100 versus 59/100.
Is China or Vietnam better for retirement?
It depends on priorities: Vietnam is cheaper ($771 vs $1,001/mo), while China scores higher on healthcare (68 vs 60/100).
Which is better for digital nomads, China or Vietnam?
Vietnam — it pairs faster internet (269 Mbps) with the lower cost of living ($771/mo), the combination most remote workers want.
Is China or Vietnam better to visit?
Vietnam is the more budget-friendly trip at roughly $771 a month for day-to-day costs, and it also rates higher on safety (69/100). Both offer plenty of variety — 8 cities in China and 6 in Vietnam.
Which should you choose?
On balance, Vietnam comes out ahead — it leads on a lower cost of living, cheaper rent, higher safety and is the cheaper of the two at $771/mo.
Choose China for
- better healthcare
- better walkability
Choose Vietnam for
- a lower cost of living
- cheaper rent
- higher safety
- faster internet