Vietnam Remains One of the World’s Most “Affordable” Destinations in 2026

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Citing the annual ranking by InterNations - a global platform assessing expatriate life worldwide, JDN reported that Vietnam continues to rank first for the lowest cost of living in 2026, marking its fifth consecutive year in this position.

Survey results indicate that 89% of expatriates living in Vietnam are satisfied with their daily expenses, while 87% believe their income is sufficient to “live very comfortably.” From dining and accommodation to transportation and travel, prices in Vietnam are considered especially competitive compared to the general cost levels in Europe.

According to JDN, a liter of gasoline in Vietnam costs around 0.7 euros, and a meal can cost less than 1 euro - figures the newspaper describes as “hard to believe” when compared with many European countries. The Vietnamese dong’s lower value against the euro significantly enhances purchasing power for both tourists and foreign workers.

International visitors experience wrapping banh tet at the Thoi Son community-based tourism site (Dong Thap Province). (Photo: Tuoi Tre Newspaper)

Street food is regarded as one of the country’s major highlights. In Hanoi and many large cities, signature dishes such as pho, banh mi, and bun cha typically cost between 1 and 3 euros - a price range rarely found in many other renowned tourist destinations.

Accommodation costs are also considered modest: dormitory beds start at 5 euros per night, while hotels and guesthouses commonly range from 8 to 20 euros per night. A monthly public transportation pass costs around 7 euros, and taxi fares are under 0.5 euro per kilometer.

Travel experiences in Vietnam are also described by JDN as offering excellent value for money. A two-day cruise on Ha Long Bay costs approximately 100 euros, including accommodation, meals, kayaking, and cave exploration. In Sa Pa, a two-day tour exploring terraced rice fields is priced at around 60 euros, including a guide, meals, and one night in a homestay.

Amid a context in which many European households are tightening their budgets, JDN concludes that Vietnam represents a compelling combination of reasonable costs and rich cultural experiences - from street food and natural landscapes to vibrant urban life. This helps Vietnam further consolidate its position as an attractive destination on the global tourism and expatriate living map.

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