India vs Vietnam: Which Is Cheaper?
India is the cheaper country overall — about 23% less than Vietnam, or roughly $593 versus $771 a month for a single person (population-weighted across 6 and 6 cities). A city-centre one-bedroom averages $381 in India against $534 in Vietnam. Vietnam rates higher on safety (69 vs 47/100). Internet is faster in Vietnam (269 vs 54 Mbps). Healthcare scores 65 vs 60/100, favouring India.
India vs Vietnam at a glance
| Metric | India | Vietnam |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of living / mo | $593 | $771 |
| Rent (1BR, centre) / mo | $381 | $534 |
| Safety | 47/100 | 69/100 |
| Internet | 54 Mbps | 269 Mbps |
| Healthcare | 65/100 | 60/100 |
| Walkability | 44/100 | 58/100 |
| English spoken | 42% | 21% |
| Avg temperature | 81°F | 85°F |
| Digital nomad visa | No | No |
Figures are population-weighted averages across 6 cities in India and 6 in Vietnam.
Cost range by country
In India, monthly costs run from Jaipur at $391 up to Mumbai at $775.
In Vietnam, monthly costs run from Dalat at $520 up to Ho Chi Minh City at $790.
India vs Vietnam FAQ
Is India or Vietnam cheaper to live in?
India is cheaper — about $593 a month for a single person versus $771 — roughly 23% less.
Is India or Vietnam safer?
Vietnam scores higher on safety: 69/100 versus 47/100.
Is India or Vietnam better for retirement?
India is the stronger pick for retirees — both cheaper ($593/mo) and higher on healthcare (65/100).
Which is better for digital nomads, India or Vietnam?
Vietnam has faster internet (269 vs 54 Mbps), but India stretches a remote income further at $593/mo.
Is India or Vietnam better to visit?
India is the more budget-friendly trip at roughly $593 a month for day-to-day costs, while Vietnam edges it on safety (69/100). Both offer plenty of variety — 6 cities in India and 6 in Vietnam.
Which should you choose?
India and Vietnam are closely matched — India leads on a lower cost of living, cheaper rent, better healthcare, Vietnam on higher safety, faster internet, better walkability. Choose by the one or two factors that matter most to you.
Choose India for
- a lower cost of living
- cheaper rent
- better healthcare
Choose Vietnam for
- higher safety
- faster internet
- better walkability