Thailand vs Vietnam: Which Is Cheaper?
Vietnam is the cheaper country overall — about 26% less than Thailand, or roughly $771 versus $1,036 a month for a single person (population-weighted across 6 and 7 cities). A city-centre one-bedroom averages $534 in Vietnam against $679 in Thailand. Vietnam rates higher on safety (69 vs 58/100). Internet is faster in Vietnam (269 vs 265 Mbps). Healthcare scores 78 vs 60/100, favouring Thailand.
Thailand vs Vietnam at a glance
| Metric | Thailand | Vietnam |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of living / mo | $1,036 | $771 |
| Rent (1BR, centre) / mo | $679 | $534 |
| Safety | 58/100 | 69/100 |
| Internet | 265 Mbps | 269 Mbps |
| Healthcare | 78/100 | 60/100 |
| Walkability | 52/100 | 58/100 |
| English spoken | 20% | 21% |
| Avg temperature | 88°F | 85°F |
| Digital nomad visa | Yes | No |
Figures are population-weighted averages across 7 cities in Thailand and 6 in Vietnam.
Cost range by country
In Thailand, monthly costs run from Ko Pha-ngan at $700 up to Phuket at $1,214.
In Vietnam, monthly costs run from Dalat at $520 up to Ho Chi Minh City at $790.
Thailand vs Vietnam FAQ
Is Thailand or Vietnam cheaper to live in?
Vietnam is cheaper — about $771 a month for a single person versus $1,036 — roughly 26% less.
Is Thailand or Vietnam safer?
Vietnam scores higher on safety: 69/100 versus 58/100.
Is Thailand or Vietnam better for retirement?
It depends on priorities: Vietnam is cheaper ($771 vs $1,036/mo), while Thailand scores higher on healthcare (78 vs 60/100).
Which is better for digital nomads, Thailand or Vietnam?
Vietnam — it pairs faster internet (269 Mbps) with the lower cost of living ($771/mo), the combination most remote workers want.
Is Thailand 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 — 7 cities in Thailand 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 Thailand for
- better healthcare
Choose Vietnam for
- a lower cost of living
- cheaper rent
- higher safety
- faster internet
- better walkability