Japan vs Vietnam: Which Is Cheaper?
Vietnam is the cheaper country overall — about 47% less than Japan, or roughly $771 versus $1,457 a month for a single person (population-weighted across 6 and 7 cities). A city-centre one-bedroom averages $534 in Vietnam against $936 in Japan. Japan rates higher on safety (84 vs 69/100). Internet is faster in Vietnam (269 vs 229 Mbps). Healthcare scores 79 vs 60/100, favouring Japan.
Japan vs Vietnam at a glance
| Metric | Japan | Vietnam |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of living / mo | $1,457 | $771 |
| Rent (1BR, centre) / mo | $936 | $534 |
| Safety | 84/100 | 69/100 |
| Internet | 229 Mbps | 269 Mbps |
| Healthcare | 79/100 | 60/100 |
| Walkability | 82/100 | 58/100 |
| English spoken | 14% | 21% |
| Avg temperature | 69°F | 85°F |
| Digital nomad visa | Yes | No |
Figures are population-weighted averages across 7 cities in Japan and 6 in Vietnam.
Cost range by country
In Japan, monthly costs run from Sapporo at $1,111 up to Tokyo at $1,616.
In Vietnam, monthly costs run from Dalat at $520 up to Ho Chi Minh City at $790.
Japan vs Vietnam FAQ
Is Japan or Vietnam cheaper to live in?
Vietnam is cheaper — about $771 a month for a single person versus $1,457 — roughly 47% less.
Is Japan or Vietnam safer?
Japan scores higher on safety: 84/100 versus 69/100.
Is Japan or Vietnam better for retirement?
It depends on priorities: Vietnam is cheaper ($771 vs $1,457/mo), while Japan scores higher on healthcare (79 vs 60/100).
Which is better for digital nomads, Japan or Vietnam?
Vietnam — it pairs faster internet (269 Mbps) with the lower cost of living ($771/mo), the combination most remote workers want.
Is Japan or Vietnam better to visit?
Vietnam is the more budget-friendly trip at roughly $771 a month for day-to-day costs, while Japan edges it on safety (84/100). Both offer plenty of variety — 7 cities in Japan and 6 in Vietnam.
Which should you choose?
Japan and Vietnam are closely matched — Japan leads on higher safety, better healthcare, better walkability, Vietnam on a lower cost of living, cheaper rent, faster internet. Choose by the one or two factors that matter most to you.
Choose Japan for
- higher safety
- better healthcare
- better walkability
Choose Vietnam for
- a lower cost of living
- cheaper rent
- faster internet