HanoivsNairobi
Overall
💰+7.1%
Hanoi is 7.1%more expensive
Rent
🏠+13.6%
Housing is 13.6% higher
Dining
🍽️+14.3%
Restaurants 14.3% pricier
Groceries
🛒+6.7%
Food shopping 6.7% more
Comparing the cost of living between Hanoi, Vietnam and Nairobi, Kenya reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Hanoi is more expensive than Nairobi by approximately 7.1%. 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 Nairobi by 12%. A one-bedroom apartment in Hanoi's city center costs around ₫12,000,000, while the same in Nairobi is approximately KES 50,000.
Dining out in Hanoi offers significant savings compared to Nairobi. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₫50,000 in Hanoi versus KES 500 in Nairobi.
Public transportation in Hanoi is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₫200,000 compared to KES 4,000 in Nairobi.
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 Nairobi, the same lifestyle would cost around KES 29,480. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₫16,870,000 monthly in Hanoi versus KES 103,180 in Nairobi. 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 Nairobi, 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 Nairobi 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
Nairobi
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hanoi more expensive than Nairobi?
Yes, Hanoi is approximately 7.1% more expensive than Nairobi overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Hanoi compared to Nairobi?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Nairobi salary when living in Hanoi. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Nairobi, you'd need about $53,571 in Hanoi for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Hanoi and Nairobi?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 13%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Nairobi offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Nairobi provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Hanoi if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Nairobi for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Hanoi vs Nairobi?
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 Nairobi, these figures are KES 54,480 for singles and KES 173,180 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Hanoi and Nairobi in 2025 shows moderate 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.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Nairobi to maintain your lifestyle from Hanoi
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