HanoivsCape Town
Overall
💰+19.0%
Hanoi is 19.0%more expensive
Rent
🏠+59.1%
Housing is 59.1% higher
Dining
🍽️+42.9%
Restaurants 42.9% pricier
Groceries
🛒0.0%
Food shopping 0.0% same
Comparing the cost of living between Hanoi, Vietnam and Cape Town, South Africa reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Hanoi is more expensive than Cape Town by approximately 19.0%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Hanoi are lower than in Cape Town by 37%. A one-bedroom apartment in Hanoi's city center costs around ₫12,000,000, while the same in Cape Town is approximately ZAR 12,000.
Dining out in Hanoi offers significant savings compared to Cape Town. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₫50,000 in Hanoi versus ZAR 150 in Cape Town.
Public transportation in Hanoi is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₫200,000 compared to ZAR 800 in Cape Town.
Purchasing power in Cape Town is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Hanoi.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Hanoi can expect to spend approximately ₫4,820,000 per month (excluding rent), while in Cape Town, the same lifestyle would cost around ZAR 5,890. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₫16,870,000 monthly in Hanoi versus ZAR 20,615 in Cape Town. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Hanoi to Cape Town, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Cape Town to Hanoi requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Hanoi
Cape Town
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hanoi more expensive than Cape Town?
Yes, Hanoi is approximately 19.0% more expensive than Cape Town overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Hanoi compared to Cape Town?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Cape Town salary when living in Hanoi. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Cape Town, you'd need about $59,524 in Hanoi for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Hanoi and Cape Town?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 37%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Cape Town offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Cape Town provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Hanoi if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Cape Town for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Hanoi vs Cape Town?
In Hanoi, a single person needs approximately ₫11,820,000 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ₫31,870,000. In Cape Town, these figures are ZAR 13,890 for singles and ZAR 38,615 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Hanoi and Cape Town in 2025 shows notable differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Cape Town to maintain your lifestyle from Hanoi
Calculate Salary Equivalence