Searching for an appartments to rent in Vietnam, whether you’re planning a short stay or a long-term move, the right neighborhood can make all the difference in your comfort, lifestyle, and daily convenience.
This expat-focused guide will walk you through the top neighborhoods in Vietnam for foreigners, including detailed insights into:
- What each area is known for
- Local conveniences and lifestyle
- Average monthly rent prices
- Popular apartment buildings
We’ll explore Vietnam’s four most popular destinations for expats: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Da Nang, and Nha Trang.
Need assistance with settle in Vietnam? Contact our team of experts at The Nest Asia today!
Best Neighborhoods in Hanoi for Expats
Hanoi is a city of charming contradictions—historic temples stand beside shiny office towers, and street food stalls sit next to global fashion brands. It’s a great place for expats seeking a balance of tradition and modernity.
1. Tay Ho (West Lake)
- Expat appeal: International schools, expat-owned cafés, and a calm, leafy vibe
- Amenities: L’s Place, Annam Gourmet, Horizon School, yoga studios, running paths
- Popular buildings:
- Fraser Suites Hanoi – 51 Xuan Dieu, Quang An, Tay Ho District
- D’. Le Roi Soleil – 59 Xuan Dieu, Quang An, Tay Ho District
- Watermark Westlake – 395 Lac Long Quan, Nghia Do, Cau Giay Distric
- Rent estimate:
- 1-bed apartment: $600–$900/month
- Villas: $1,500–$3,000/month
Why Tay Ho?
Tay Ho is ideal if you’re looking for a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle with a strong community feel. It’s particularly attractive to families and long-term expats, thanks to its abundance of green space, walkable streets, and international schools. The area feels like a small village within the city, making it easier to adjust to life in Vietnam..
Tay Ho Map – Google Map by The Nest Asia
2. Ba Dinh District
- Expat appeal: Central location near embassies, quieter streets, good infrastructure
- Amenities: Vincom Center, international clinics, schools, restaurants
- Popular buildings:
- Vinhomes Metropolis – 29 Lieu Giai, Ba Dinh District
- Lancaster Hanoi – 20 Nui Truc, Ba Dinh District
- Rent estimate: $500–$1,200/month
Why Ba Dinh?
A great choice for professionals and diplomats looking to stay close to the city center. Ba Dinh is central, well-connected, and full of quiet, tree-lined streets. You’ll find a mix of colonial villas and modern buildings, and you’re within walking distance to historical landmarks and major services.
Ideal for professionals and diplomats.
3. Cau Giay District
- Expat appeal: Tech hub with affordable housing and a youthful population
- Amenities: Supermarkets, fitness centers, Vietnamese and Korean restaurants
- Popular buildings:
- Discovery Complex – 302 Cau Giay, Dich Vong, Cau Giay District
- The Link Ciputra – Ciputra Urban Area, Phu Thuong, Tay Ho District
- Rent estimate: $400–$1,000/month
Why Cau Giay?
Perfect for younger expats or digital nomads looking for affordability and convenience. Cau Giay is also popular with Vietnamese professionals and students, so you’ll be immersed in local life while still enjoying modern comforts and coworking options.
Top Expat Areas in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s economic engine. It’s fast-paced, full of opportunity, and offers the most diverse housing market in the country.
1. District 2 – Thao Dien & An Phu
- Expat appeal: Trendy, walkable, international schools and Western-style conveniences
- Amenities: Mega Market, Estella Place, ISHCMC, gyms, craft coffee, bakeries
- Popular buildings:
- Masteri Thao Dien – 159 Hanoi Highway, Thao Dien, District 2
- The Vista – 628C Hanoi Highway, An Phu, District 2
- Estella Heights – 88 Song Hanh, An Phu, District 2
- Empire City – 2 Mai Chi Tho, Thu Thiem, District 2
- Gateway Thao Dien – 2 Le Thuoc, Thao Dien, District 2
- Q2 Thao Dien – 21 Vo Truong Toan, Thao Dien, District 2
- D’Edge Thao Dien – 207 Nguyen Van Huong, Thao Dien, District 2
- The Nassim – 30 Street 11, Thao Dien, District 2
- Thao Dien Pearl – 12 Quoc Huong, Thao Dien, District 2
- Rent estimate: $700–$2,500/month
Why Thao Dien?
Thao Dien is often referred to as the “expat bubble”—in the best way possible. This neighborhood is popular among families, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs who want a comfortable, stylish place to live with all Western conveniences nearby. With the opening of Ho Chi Minh City’s Metro Line 1, commuting from Thao Dien to District 1 is now faster and easier.
Metro Station – Photo by The Nest Asia
2. District 7 – Phu My Hung
- Expat appeal: Family-oriented, clean, safe, and structured with international vibes
- Amenities: Crescent Mall, FV Hospital, SSIS, Korean Town eateries
- Popular buildings:
- Scenic Valley – 801 Nguyen Van Linh, Tan Phu, District 7
- Happy Valley – Nguyen Van Linh Blvd, Tan Phu, District 7
- Sky Garden – 20 Pham Van Nghi, Tan Phong, District 7
- Midtown: Đường số 16, phường Tân Phú, Quận 7, TP. Hồ Chí Minh
- Rent estimate: $600–$1,800/month
Midtown in District 7 -Photo Source: Internet
Why Phu My Hung?
An excellent option for families and long-term expats seeking comfort and order. The streets are wide and quiet, sidewalks are clean, and the neighborhood feels safe and easy to navigate. It’s also home to several international businesses and healthcare providers.
3. Binh Thanh District
- Expat appeal: Close to District 1, affordable, riverside views
- Amenities: Landmark 81 Mall, Vinmec Hospital, parkland, nightlife options
- Popular buildings:
- Vinhomes Central Park – 208 Nguyen Huu Canh, Ward 22, Binh Thanh District
- Saigon Pearl – 92 Nguyen Huu Canh, Binh Thanh
- Rent estimate: $600–$1,500/month
Why Binh Thanh?
Great balance of location, modern living, and cost-effectiveness. Binh Thanh is favored by professionals and couples who want to be near the center without paying District 1 prices. Plus, the river views and central park make for relaxing downtime.
Best Places to Live in Da Nang for Expats
Da Nang offers a tranquil balance of modern amenities and natural beauty. With the beach on one side and green mountains on the other, this city is fast becoming a digital nomad haven.
1. My An & An Thuong Area
- Expat appeal: Beach lifestyle with cafes, coworking spaces, and yoga studios
- Amenities: Korean and Western restaurants, mini-marts, English-speaking salons
- Popular buildings:
- Monarchy – Tran Hung Dao Street, Son Tra District
- Azura – 339 Tran Hung Dao, Son Tra District
- Hiyori Garden Tower – 155 Tran Thu Do, Hai Chau District
- Rent estimate: $300–$1,000/month
Why My An?
An area that blends beach vibes with everything you need to feel at home. This is the epicenter of the Da Nang expat community, especially for digital nomads and freelancers who enjoy a healthy work-life balance. You’ll find international restaurants alongside street food stalls, plus yoga studios and surf schools.
My An Area – Photo by The Nest Asia
2. Hai Chau District (City Center)
- Expat appeal: River views, local culture, good for business or city lovers
- Amenities: Vincom, Han Market, traditional coffee shops, office buildings
- Popular buildings:
- Blooming Tower – 107 Duy Tan, Hai Chau District
- Indochina Riverside Towers – 74 Bach Dang, Hai Chau District
- Rent estimate: $400–$1,200/month
Why Hai Chau?
Good for those working in town who still want quick access to the beach. The city center is more traditional and gives you a chance to live alongside locals. You’re close to offices, schools, and the famous Dragon Bridge, while still being a short ride from the coast.
Expat-Friendly Areas in Nha Trang
Famous for its turquoise water and laid-back pace, Nha Trang is great for retirees, digital nomads, or those seeking a quieter coastal life.
1. Loc Tho Ward (City Center & Beachfront)
- Expat appeal: Heart of Nha Trang with ocean views, nightlife, and walkability
- Amenities: Vincom Plaza, bars, seafood restaurants, gyms, spas
- Popular buildings:
- Panorama Nha Trang – 2 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Loc Tho Ward
- The Costa Nha Trang – 32-34 Tran Phu, Loc Tho Ward
- Oceanus (Muong Thanh Vien Trieu) – 03-05 Pham Van Dong, Vinh Hoa Ward
- Rent estimate: $350–$1,200/month
Why Loc Tho?
Ideal if you want everything within walking distance—including the sea. Loc Tho is perfect for those who love an active lifestyle and social scene. You’re never far from fresh seafood, rooftop bars, or a quick dip in the ocean.
2. Vinh Hoa (North Nha Trang)
- Expat appeal: Quieter, less touristy, more budget-friendly
- Amenities: Local markets, street food, parks, great sea views
- Popular buildings:
- Muong Thanh Vien Trieu – 03-05 Pham Van Dong, Vinh Hoa Ward
- Rent estimate: $250–$700/month
Why Vinh Hoa?
Offers peaceful living with budget-friendly rent and stunning views. This area is more low-key, making it great for remote workers or retirees who want to stay away from the busy tourist spots.
Bonus Tips for Choosing the Right Neighborhood in Vietnam
Visit before committing: Spend a few nights in different areas to get a feel.
Transportation: Consider commute times if you’ll be working or studying.
Schools: Families should prioritize proximity to international schools.
Noise and construction: Vietnam is always building—check what’s nearby.
Flood zones: Particularly relevant in parts of HCMC and Hanoi.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the cost of living in Vietnam’s expat neighborhoods?
It varies by city and lifestyle. In places like Tay Ho (Hanoi) or Thao Dien (HCMC), you might spend $1,000–$2,000/month for a comfortable lifestyle, including rent, utilities, dining, and transport. Smaller cities like Da Nang or Nha Trang are more budget-friendly.
➡️ Read more: Cost of Living for Expats in Vietnam (Full Breakdown)
2. Is it easy to find English-speaking landlords or agents?
In popular expat areas, yes. Many landlords and real estate agents speak English or work through agencies that do. However, it’s always smart to have key terms in Vietnamese or use a relocation service to avoid misunderstandings.
➡️ Read more: Renting a House/Apartment in Vietnam: A Step-by-Step Guide
3. Which area is best for expats with kids?
District 7 (HCMC) and Tay Ho (Hanoi) are very family-friendly, with international schools, green parks, and safe neighborhoods.
➡️ Read more: Essential Services in Vietnam: A Detailed Guide to Healthcare, Banking, and Education for Expatriates (2025)
4. What utilities should I expect to pay in Vietnam?
Here’s a quick monthly estimate for a mid-sized apartment:
| Utility | Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) for single person |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $15–$20 (higher when AC use) |
| Water | $6–$10 |
| Internet (Fiber) | $10–$12 |
| Cleaning (optional) | $20–$50 |
| Management Fee | $20–$50 (depends on type and size of the appartment, type of vehicle) |
🔗 Suggested Internal Links to Other Posts
- Renting a House/Apartment in Vietnam: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Cost of Living for Expats in Vietnam (Full Breakdown)
- Is Vietnam Safe for Expats? A Look at Security, Healthcare, and Legal Stability
- Essential Services in Vietnam: A Detailed Guide to Healthcare, Banking, and Education for Expatriates (2025)
Conclusion
Finding your new neighborhood in Vietnam is more than just picking a rental—it’s about choosing a lifestyle. Whether you’re watching the sunrise over the ocean in Nha Trang or sipping espresso in a Thao Dien café, the perfect area is waiting for you.
Still unsure where to start? Reach out to The Nest Asia team for personalized advice and property searching.
Need help finding your ideal neighborhood? Contact us at The Nest Asia for local tips, apartment tours, and trusted relocation services.
About Us
The Nest Asia is a one-stop resource offering comprehensive information, practical relocation advice, cultural insights, valuable connections, and trusted services to help expatriates living in Vietnam navigate the transition, overcome challenges, and build a fulfilling life abroad. Starting your journey in a new country can often feel overwhelming. The Nest Asia is your trusted partner – we’re here to simplify that process and ultimately make Vietnam feel like home for you and your loved ones.
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Disclaimer: The Nest Asia is not an authorized provider of official government or non-government services. The information provided is intended for general guidance only. While we strive to offer accurate and timely information, we make no representations or warranties regarding its completeness or accuracy.
