Vietnam Digital Nomad Guide: Pros, Cons, and Key Insights from Someone Who Lives in Vietnam
Introduction
Vietnam has rapidly emerged as a top destination for digital nomads, offering a very fulfilling lifestyle, affordable living, and a growing community of remote workers. As someone who has lived in China for over a decade and spent the last eight years (and counting!) in Vietnam, split between Saigon and Danang, I can personally vouch for the country’s dynamic energy and welcoming atmosphere.
I had previously dabbled in this whole digital nomad thing (a few days here and there), but I recently decided to try out the digital nomad lifestyle for a full two months. Packed my bag and decided to do a 3 country "market study" (Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia).
This guide draws from firsthand experiences and practical insights to help those unfamiliar with South East Asia - and in this post specifically, for Vietnam - to help them navigate the unique aspects of living and working here as a digital nomad. Whether you're drawn by the low cost of living, the cultural richness, or the sense of adventure, this guide will cover legal requirements, lifestyle benefits, challenges, and practical tips to make your transition smoother.
Why Vietnam is Attractive for Digital Nomads
Affordable Cost of Living
One of the biggest draws for digital nomads is the cost of living. And this is perhaps where Vietnam shines through. Bang for your buck, this is in my strong opinion the best place out of many good places.
You can comfortably live in Vietnam on a budget of 1,000 to 2000 USD per month even in a relatively big city, including accommodation, food, and entertainment. If you really want to cut corners, you could still live easily for under 1,000USD.
Compared to other digital nomad hotspots like Thailand and Indonesia, Vietnam offers a lower cost without sacrificing quality of life. And you're not limited to just one or two parts of the country - buses go everywhere, and you don't necessarily have to take boats or ferries.
Community and Culture
In Saigon, where I live full time, there's a very active startup community with many coworking spaces catering to both startups and digital nomads. Major cities (and even smaller ones like Nha Trang!) are filled with coworking spaces, cafes, and networking events that make it easy to build connections.
Living in Saigon, it's relatively easy to surround oneself with a diverse community of entrepreneurs, freelancers, and corporate professionals. Coworking spaces like Dreamplex and Toong are not just about work—they offer opportunities to meet like-minded people and attend community-driven events.
Read more about tried and tested Saigon coworking spaces here
Reliable Internet and Infrastructure
With a high internet penetration rate and multiple coworking spaces, Vietnam offers reliable connectivity essential for remote work. Major cities have fast internet which is very affordable, but some rural areas may face occasional power cuts and spotty connectivity.
Comparison: Vietnam vs. Other Digital Nomad Hotspots
| Criteria | Vietnam | Thailand | Indonesia | Malaysia |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living | Very Affordable | Moderate | Varies by location | Moderate to Affordable |
| Internet Speed | Reliable in cities | Generally fast | Varies, slower on islands | High-speed in major cities |
| Visa Options | Tourist, Business, E-Visa | Long-stay visas available | Social Budaya, Visa Runs | Malaysia Digital Nomad Pass, MM2H |
| Community | Growing, inclusive | Established, diverse | Creative, laid-back | Established, multicultural |
| Nightlife | Vibrant, varied | Dynamic, party-friendly | Relaxed, beach vibes, alcohol can be limited and expensive | Cosmopolitan, multicultural, alcohol expensive |
| Weekend Activities | Cultural tours, beach trips | Island hopping, trekking | Surfing, yoga retreats (for Bali, in particular) | UNESCO heritage city exploration, nature reserves |
Read here if you want specific information about Visas for Vietnam
Best Vietnam Cities for Digital Nomads
I've spent some time in all of these cities, but on this particular trip, I tried out Hoi An for an extended period. More info below.
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
A bustling urban hub, perfect for those who thrive in a fast-paced environment. Offers numerous coworking spaces, 24/7 cafes, and a dynamic expat community. The nightlife is absolutely jumping with bars, live music, and late-night food options. Dynamic work environment, high-speed internet, a world class restaurant scene. It's like Shanghai was in the early 2000's but somehow better (at least in my opinion). Things to look out for would be traffic congestion (along the highways in particular, but side roads are relatively ok), air quality issues during certain months, higher cost of living compared to smaller cities... oh, and potential flooding.
Hanoi
The capital city combines historical charm with modern amenities. Known for its lakeside cafes, old imperial era temples, and deep history. The nightlife here is more laid-back, with jazz bars and cultural shows. With a rich cultural heritage, it's perfect for those who are looking to stay somewhere with "something to do" for weekends. Can enjoy a unique coffee culture, cooler climate compared to the south. But then, traffic is very bad just about everywhere, and the air quality can be abysmal. Winters are also very similar to ca phe den da - dark, cold, and bitter.
Nha Trang
A coastal city known for its stunning beaches, thriving evening activities, and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those looking to balance work with leisure. Surprisingly good nightlife, and a very wide range of dining options. The beach is perhaps the biggest draw, and that makes for a relatively dense city "center" with most things covering the few hundred meters of real estate close to water. They even have an international airport. Only worked here a few days at a time, and only in coffee shops, but I can strongly say that's a top contender.
Da Nang
A coastal city with a relaxed vibe, blending urban conveniences with stunning beaches. Ideal for digital nomads seeking work-life balance. Weekends can be spent surfing or exploring the Marble Mountains. There's something to be said about living a coastal lifestyle. It's far less crowded than major cities, with excellent seafood. I've spent a few years here, and very much think it's a great place to retire. Smaller digital nomad community compared to Saigon or Hanoi, occasional storms. But at least it doesn't really flood badly, and the international airport is just there, well within reach in case you want a short getaway.
Now, let's move on to the main part of my digital nomad trip...
Hoi An
Hoi An is an ideal destination for digital nomads who prefer a balanced lifestyle. Known for its peaceful vibe, scenic rice paddies, and a mix of urban convenience and natural beauty, Hoi An offers an optimal environment for short to mid-term stays. Peaceful environment, affordable living, and the option to have sunset at the beach, or a rice paddy! Nightlife can be quite limited though, with a significantly slower pace, and occasional flooding during the rainy season. During weekends, you can explore the old town, visit nearby beaches, or join community dinners at Hub Hoi An.
Hub Hoi An: The Go-To Co-Working Space in Hoi An
Hub Hoi An stands out as a top choice for digital nomads in the area. I really have to give props to the community-driven environment, supportive staff, and productive ambiance.
Set right in the middle of lush rice fields, it uniquely combines nature with functionality, offering both quiet zones for focused work and social areas for community engagement. Took out a weekly pass as soon as I saw the view from the airconditioned work space!
Hub Hoi An is more than just a coworking space; it’s an experience. Whether you’re looking to dive into deep work in the quiet room or strike up conversations over coffee in the common area, the space fosters both productivity and social connection.
During my time at Hub Hoi An, I appreciated the sense of community. The daily communal lunches brought together freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers, creating a diverse and inspiring environment.
The location itself, surrounded by lush green rice paddies, provides a tranquil yet energizing workspace. The weekly events, ranging from professional development workshops to casual dinners, make it easy to integrate into the community.
Pros of Hub Hoi An:
- Excellent community with daily events, networking, and community lunches.
- Fast and reliable Wi-Fi, crucial for remote work.
- Scenic location with views of rice paddies and access to nature.
- Affordable packages, perfect for short to mid-term stays.
- Supportive and friendly staff who go out of their way to assist members.
- Various work zones: quiet rooms, call-friendly (3 sound proof rooms, you can prebook), outdoor spaces for brainstorming.
- Delicious unlimited coffee, community meals, and healthy food options prepared by dedicated in-house chefs.
- Strong focus on community integration through events and collaborative activities.
Cons of Hub Hoi An:
- Limited ergonomic office chairs, a lot of the current chairs were quite creaky
- Some reports of issues during the rainy season, including damp rooms and wet floors
- Slightly outside the city center, requiring a short bike ride to reach central Hoi An (but I actually liked my "morning commute")
Networking (in Saigon)
Saigon is very international - you'd be surprised as the range of people you'll meet. But, it's also got deep networks within each nationality. You can find events tailored to both business professionals and creative entrepreneurs, especially if you want to connect within specific Chambers of Commerce. AmCham, BritCham, CanCham... there's even a Spam Cham!
On that of that, when it comes to startup and tech communities, many coworking spaces like The Hive host regular meetups, workshops, and social gatherings.
Additionally, expat and digital nomad Facebook groups are invaluable for staying updated on smaller events and connecting with like-minded individuals. I’ve found that building a network in Saigon often starts at coworking spaces but extends to cafes, bars, and community events. The inclusive environment makes it easy to meet new people and collaborate on projects.
Vietnam Sample Monthly Budget
| Expense | Average Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $300 - $700 (shared or studio) |
| Food | $150 - $300 (frequently eat local) |
| Coworking Space | $100 - $150 (get month pass) |
| Transportation | $20 - $100 (rent a bike or take Grab) |
| Leisure/Activities | $150 - $300 (drinking will be your biggest expense |
| Total | $720 - $1,550 |
Conclusion: Vietnam is a Top Destination for Digital Nomads and Entrepreneurs
Beyond just being a temporary home for remote workers, Vietnam presents incredible opportunities for those looking to put down roots and build something long-term. If you’ve been captivated by the country’s incredible energy and entrepreneurial spirit, why not take the next step and set up a business here?
Imagine combining your passion for remote work with the potential of owning a thriving enterprise in one of Southeast Asia’s most promising markets. Whether it’s tech, services, or hospitality, Vietnam’s favorable business climate and supportive community make it an ideal location to transition from a digital nomad to a full-fledged business owner.
Key Takeaways from This Guide:
- Cost-Effectiveness: Living comfortably on $1,000 to $2,000 per month is feasible in most Vietnamese cities, with affordable food, accommodation, and coworking spaces.
- Community and Connectivity: Major cities like Saigon and Hanoi host very active digital nomad communities, while smaller towns like Da Nang and Hoi An offer a slower pace without sacrificing productivity.
- Infrastructure and Internet: Reliable, high-speed internet is widely available in cities, with numerous coworking spaces tailored to remote work needs.
- City Choices: Each city caters to a different nomad lifestyle—Saigon for startup enthusiasts, Hanoi for culture seekers, Da Nang for beach lovers, and Hoi An for tranquility.
- Challenges and Solutions: While Vietnam’s lifestyle is appealing, digital nomads should prepare for challenges such as air quality issues in cities and occasional language barriers.
Make Vietnam Your Next Big Step
If you’re inspired by the possibilities here and believe in the potential of building something lasting, United Consulting can help you navigate the setup process with ease. From company registration to ongoing administrative support, we specialize in making your transition to becoming a business owner in Vietnam seamless and efficient.
Reach out to us today and turn your digital nomad journey into a long-term entrepreneurial success story.
Schedule a free consultation!
I Live in Vietnam, but Played Digital Nomad for a Month. Here's a Digital Nomad Guide to Hoi An.