Ho Chi Minh City vs Shenzhen – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and Shenzhen, China? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Ho Chi Minh City has a monthly cost of $2,020, which is 39.2% lower than Shenzhen's $3,320.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Ho Chi Minh City offers 30 Mbps, while Shenzhen provides 150 Mbps – making Shenzhen's connection 400.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Ho Chi Minh City is currently 35°C ⛈️, while Shenzhen is experiencing 29°C ⛈️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Ho Chi Minh City has a safety score of 75.0 , while Shenzhen scores 76.0 .
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Overall
Ho Chi Minh City wins
Ho Chi Minh City is 16% better
Quality of Life
Ho Chi Minh City wins
Ho Chi Minh City is 6% better
Cost
Ho Chi Minh City wins
Ho Chi Minh City is 45% better
Climate
Ho Chi Minh City wins
Ho Chi Minh City is 9% better
Infrastructure
Shenzhen wins
Shenzhen is 9% better
Social
Ho Chi Minh City wins
Ho Chi Minh City is 22% better
Ho Chi Minh City is 17% better
Ho Chi Minh City is 16% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Ho Chi Minh City | Shenzhen | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $2,020 | $3,320 | -39.2% |
| Daily Average | $67 | $111 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Ho Chi Minh City | Shenzhen | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $450.00 per month | $650.00 per month | -30.8% |
Daily Life
| Item | Ho Chi Minh City | Shenzhen | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $1.50 per cup | $2.50 per cup | -40.0% |
Transportation
| Item | Ho Chi Minh City | Shenzhen | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Ho Chi Minh City | Shenzhen | Difference |
|---|
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Final Verdict: Ho Chi Minh City vs Shenzhen
Ho Chi Minh City ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 16.0% higher than Shenzhen overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,020 vs $3,320
- Daily Expenses: $67 vs $111
- Ho Chi Minh City is 39.2% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Shenzhen leads with 80% faster connection
- Public Transport: Shenzhen has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Ho Chi Minh City Wins In:
- Overall Score (16% better)
- Healthcare (6% better)
- Cost of Living (45% better)
- Air Quality (9% better)
- Nightlife (22% better)
- Culture (17% better)
- Food Scene (16% better)
Shenzhen Wins In:
- Internet Speed (9% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Ho Chi Minh City if you prioritize better quality of life metrics and Overall Score. However, Shenzhen might be preferable if Overall Score is your top priority. Both cities offer unique advantages for digital nomads, with distinct trade-offs in cost of living, infrastructure, and lifestyle options.
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