HanoivsSão Paulo
Overall
💰+14.3%
Hanoi is 14.3%more expensive
Rent
🏠+36.4%
Housing is 36.4% higher
Dining
🍽️+14.3%
Restaurants 14.3% pricier
Groceries
🛒0.0%
Food shopping 0.0% same
Comparing the cost of living between Hanoi, Vietnam and São Paulo, Brazil reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Hanoi is more expensive than São Paulo by approximately 14.3%. 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 São Paulo by 27%. A one-bedroom apartment in Hanoi's city center costs around ₫12,000,000, while the same in São Paulo is approximately R$2,800.
Dining out in Hanoi offers significant savings compared to São Paulo. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₫50,000 in Hanoi versus R$30 in São Paulo.
Public transportation in Hanoi is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₫200,000 compared to R$230 in São Paulo.
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 São Paulo, the same lifestyle would cost around R$1,250. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₫16,870,000 monthly in Hanoi versus R$4,375 in São Paulo. 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 São Paulo, 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 São Paulo 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
São Paulo
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hanoi more expensive than São Paulo?
Yes, Hanoi is approximately 14.3% more expensive than São Paulo overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Hanoi compared to São Paulo?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your São Paulo salary when living in Hanoi. For example, if you earn $50,000 in São Paulo, you'd need about $57,143 in Hanoi for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Hanoi and São Paulo?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 27%, 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?
São Paulo offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, São Paulo provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Hanoi if you prioritize cultural experiences, or São Paulo for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Hanoi vs São Paulo?
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 São Paulo, these figures are R$3,050 for singles and R$7,875 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Hanoi and São Paulo 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 São Paulo to maintain your lifestyle from Hanoi
Calculate Salary Equivalence