Cost Comparison 2025

HanoivsGeneva

Vietnam
Switzerland

Overall

💰

+161.9%

Hanoi is 161.9%more expensive

Rent

🏠

+354.5%

Housing is 354.5% higher

Dining

🍽️

+242.9%

Restaurants 242.9% pricier

Groceries

🛒

+155.6%

Food shopping 155.6% more

Comparing the cost of living between Hanoi, Vietnam and Geneva, Switzerland reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Hanoi is more expensive than Geneva by approximately 161.9%. 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 Geneva by 78%. A one-bedroom apartment in Hanoi's city center costs around ₫12,000,000, while the same in Geneva is approximately CHF 3,000.

Dining out in Hanoi offers significant savings compared to Geneva. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₫50,000 in Hanoi versus CHF 25 in Geneva.

Public transportation in Hanoi is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₫200,000 compared to CHF 80 in Geneva.

Purchasing power in Geneva is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Hanoi.

Grocery shopping in Hanoi is more affordable by approximately 61%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.

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 Geneva, the same lifestyle would cost around CHF 798. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₫16,870,000 monthly in Hanoi versus CHF 2,794 in Geneva. 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

Item
Hanoi, Vietnam
Geneva, Switzerland

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
₫12,000,000
CHF 3,000
1BR Outside Center
₫7,000,000
CHF 2,200
3BR City Center
₫25,000,000
CHF 5,500

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
₫50,000
CHF 25
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
₫400,000
CHF 120
Cappuccino
₫50,000
CHF 5
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
₫25,000
CHF 8

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
₫35,000
CHF 2
Bread (500g)
₫20,000
CHF 3
Eggs (12)
₫35,000
CHF 6
Cheese (1kg)
₫350,000
CHF 25

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
₫8,000
CHF 3
Monthly Pass
₫200,000
CHF 80
Taxi Start
₫15,000
CHF 7
Gasoline (1L)
₫24,000
CHF 2

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
₫2,000,000
CHF 200
Internet (60 Mbps)
₫200,000
CHF 60
Mobile Minute
₫2,000
CHF 0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Hanoi to Geneva, 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 Geneva 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

Cost of Living Index42
Rent Index22
Purchasing Power Index28

Geneva

Cost of Living Index110
Rent Index100
Purchasing Power Index125

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hanoi more expensive than Geneva?

Yes, Hanoi is approximately 161.9% more expensive than Geneva overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

How much salary do I need in Hanoi compared to Geneva?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 2.6x of your Geneva salary when living in Hanoi. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Geneva, you'd need about $130,952 in Hanoi for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Hanoi and Geneva?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 78%, 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?

Geneva offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Geneva provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Hanoi if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Geneva for better value.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Hanoi vs Geneva?

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 Geneva, these figures are CHF 2,998 for singles and CHF 6,794 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Hanoi and Geneva in 2025 shows significant 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 Geneva to maintain your lifestyle from Hanoi

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-28 • Data sourced from multiple providers