Ho Chi Minh City vs Kuala Lumpur: Cost of Living Compared
Ho Chi Minh City is roughly 29% cheaper overall — about $790 versus $1,019 per month for a single person. A city-centre one-bedroom averages $608 in Ho Chi Minh City against $675 in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur scores higher on safety (78 vs 68/100). Internet is faster in Ho Chi Minh City (274 vs 162 Mbps).
City Comparer
Ho Chi Minh CityVietnam
Kuala LumpurMalaysia
Ho Chi Minh CityKuala Lumpur
Daily Cost$26/day$34/day
Monthly Cost$790$1,019
Rent$608$450
Safety6878
Healthcare6370
Air Quality5436
Tourist Safety6065
Disaster Risk4030
Winter High87°F86°F
Summer High88°F88°F
Sunny Days355343
Rainy Days221296
Nightlife5560
Food9086
Culture6255
Coffee Culture8268
Veg Friendly5552
Late Night3/62/6
Cleanliness3560
Green Spaces3055
Hiking5555
Beaches7065
Surfing00
Skiing00
Diving2040
Yoga4045
Running3040
Sports3040
Bikeability1015
Internet274 Mbps162 Mbps
Transit4062
Walkability6050
Cowork Spaces5545
Power Reliability100100
Ho Chi Minh City vs Kuala Lumpur FAQ
Is Ho Chi Minh City or Kuala Lumpur cheaper to live in?
Ho Chi Minh City is cheaper — about $790 per month versus $1,019, a difference of roughly 29%.
Is Ho Chi Minh City or Kuala Lumpur safer?
Kuala Lumpur scores higher: 78/100 versus 68/100.
Which has faster internet, Ho Chi Minh City or Kuala Lumpur?
Ho Chi Minh City — median download speeds are 274 Mbps versus 162 Mbps.
Full city guides
Cost of living in Ho Chi Minh City →
Cost of living in Kuala Lumpur →