Vietnam has become one of the fastest-growing economies in Southeast Asia, attracting foreign businesses and job seekers alike. But how much do employees in Vietnam actually earn? If you’re looking to find out the average salary in Vietnam, you’re in the right place!
In this guide, we’ll break down average salaries in Vietnam, monthly salary expectations, and how wages compare to the cost of living. Whether you’re a job seeker, an employer, or an expat considering moving to Vietnam, this article will provide key insights into salary trends in 2026.
What is the Average Salary in Vietnam in 2026?
As of 2026, the average monthly salary in Vietnam is around 14.9 million VND (approximately 600 USD). However, salaries vary significantly based on industry, experience level, and location.
- Entry-level employees typically earn between 7 million – 10 million VND per month.
- Mid-range professionals (3-5 years of experience) earn around 15 million – 25 million VND per month.
- Senior professionals and specialists can earn 30 million VND or more per month, especially in high-demand sectors like IT and finance.
The average annual salary in Vietnam, based on these figures, ranges from 84 million VND to 300 million VND (3,500 – 12,500 USD).
Salary by Industry in Vietnam
Different industries in Vietnam offer varying salary levels. Below are some average monthly salary figures for key sectors:
High-Paying Sectors
- Software Development & IT – 25 million – 40 million VND
- Finance & Banking – 20 million – 35 million VND
- Engineering & Manufacturing – 18 million – 30 million VND
- Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) – 15 million – 25 million VND
Mid-Range Sectors
- Education & Teaching – 12 million – 20 million VND
- Healthcare & Medical – 15 million – 25 million VND
- Marketing & Sales – 10 million – 20 million VND
Lower Average Sectors
- Retail & Hospitality – 8 million – 15 million VND
- Customer Service & Call Centers – 8 million – 12 million VND
- Entry-level factory workers – 6 million – 10 million VND
With Vietnam’s economy growing rapidly, many industries—especially BPO and software development—are seeing salary increments due to high demand for skilled workers.
Salaries in Vietnam by Location
Salaries vary greatly between Vietnamese cities and smaller towns.
Major Cities (Higher Salaries)
- Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) – 15 million – 35 million VND per month
- Da Nang & Haiphong – 12 million – 25 million VND per month
Smaller Cities (Lower Salaries, Lower Cost of Living)
- Vung Tau, Nha Trang, and Hoi An – 10 million – 20 million VND per month
- Rural areas – 6 million – 12 million VND per month
Salaries in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City tend to be higher due to the increased cost of living and better job opportunities. However, smaller cities offer a more comfortable lifestyle with lower expenses.
Minimum Wage in Vietnam in 2026
Vietnam has a tiered minimum wage system depending on location. As of 2025, the minimum wage in Vietnam is:
- Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City – 4.68 million VND per month
- Other large cities (Da Nang, Haiphong, etc.) – 4.16 million VND per month
- Smaller towns and rural areas – 3.64 million – 3.25 million VND per month
While these are the legal minimum wages, most skilled professionals earn much higher salaries.
Cost of Living in Vietnam
The cost of living in Vietnam is relatively low compared to Western countries. Here’s a breakdown of monthly expenses:
- Rent (small apartment) – 5 million – 12 million VND
- Food & groceries – 3 million – 7 million VND
- Transportation – 500,000 VND – 2 million VND
- Utilities & internet – 1.5 million – 3 million VND
A mid-range monthly budget in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City is around 15 million – 25 million VND, allowing a comfortable lifestyle for locals and expats.
Benefits of Outsourcing to Vietnam
Vietnam has become a top outsourcing destination due to:
✔ Low labor costs compared to Western nations
✔ A skilled workforce in IT, software development, and BPO
✔ Government support for business expansion
Many companies looking to outsource prefer Vietnamese employees for their adaptability and strong work ethic.
Is Vietnam a Good Place to Work?
fVietnam offers competitive salaries compared to other Southeast Asian nations and has a low cost of living. Whether you’re a Vietnamese worker, an expat, or a company looking to outsource, Vietnam’s business environment is promising.
If you’re considering a career move, Vietnam’s salary levels continue to rise, making it a top destination for job seekers and businesses alike!
Got more questions? Contact us for more insights on Vietnam’s job market!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the average salary in Vietnam in USD?
The average salary in Vietnam is about 600 USD per month (14.9 million VND).
2. Can you live on 10 million VND per month?
3. Which jobs pay the highest salaries in Vietnam?
4. What is the cost of living in Vietnam for expats?
5. What is the minimum wage in Vietnam?
The minimum wage in Vietnam ranges from 3.25 million – 4.68 million VND per month, depending on location.
