Ho Chi Minh City vs Penang: Cost of Living Compared

Ho Chi Minh City and Penang have similar overall living costs — around $790 per month for one person. A city-centre one-bedroom averages $442 in Penang against $608 in Ho Chi Minh City. Penang scores higher on safety (82 vs 68/100). Internet is faster in Ho Chi Minh City (274 vs 162 Mbps).

City Comparer

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh CityVietnam
Penang, Malaysia
PenangMalaysia
92%overall match
Ho Chi Minh City leads in coffee culturePenang leads in bikeabilityHo Chi Minh City has 69% faster internet
💰Cost🛡️Safety☀️Weather🎭Culture🏄Activities🌐Internet
Ho Chi Minh CityPenang
Daily Cost$26/day
$26/day
Monthly Cost$790
$790
Rent$608
$350
Safety68
82
Healthcare63
70
Air Quality54
64
Tourist Safety60
68
Disaster Risk40
25
Winter High87°F
84°F
Summer High88°F
87°F
Sunny Days355
339
Rainy Days221
307
Nightlife55
40
Food90
92
Culture62
72
Coffee Culture82
50
Veg Friendly55
62
Late Night3/6
2/6
Cleanliness35
55
Green Spaces30
50
Hiking55
50
Beaches70
72
Surfing0
5
Skiing0
0
Diving20
25
Yoga40
40
Running30
45
Sports30
32
Bikeability10
40
Internet274 Mbps
162 Mbps
Transit40
42
Walkability60
50
Cowork Spaces55
25
Power Reliability100
100

Ho Chi Minh City vs Penang FAQ

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Penang cheaper to live in?

Ho Chi Minh City and Penang cost about the same — roughly $790 per month for one person.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Penang safer?

Penang scores higher: 82/100 versus 68/100.

Which has faster internet, Ho Chi Minh City or Penang?

Ho Chi Minh City — median download speeds are 274 Mbps versus 162 Mbps.