The average salary in Vietnam has been changing in recent years as the economy grows and more businesses expand. In 2025, income levels continue to rise, but there are still big differences between cities, industries, and job positions.
In this article, terra will give you the latest information on salaries in Vietnam and help you understand what to expect in different regions and job levels.
What is the average salary in Vietnam?
The average salary refers to the typical monthly income that workers earn across the country. This figure is important because it shows the overall income level of the labor market and helps businesses set competitive pay scales. It also gives employees a clear idea of what they can expect when working in different locations or industries.
Average Vietnamese salary
According to the General Statistics Office (GSO) of Vietnam, the average Vietnamese salary of workers in the first 6 months of 2025 was 8.3 million VND/month (around 314 USD), marking a 10.1% increase compared to the same period last year.
If we look at each quarter, the average income in Q2/2025 was 8.2 million VND per month, a little lower than Q1 because many companies give bonuses and overtime pay at the beginning of the year. However, it is still about 800,000 VND (30 USD) higher than Q2/2024, showing a steady increase over time.
The figure of 8.3 million VND per month is a useful starting point when planning salaries for 2025. But the real pay will depend on where you work, the job you do, and the local market. We will explain more about these differences in the next sections.
Median salary in Vietnam
The General Statistics Office only reports average income, not median income. So, there is no official median salary for 2025 at the national level. Some job websites publish their own median estimates, but these are based on smaller samples and may not represent the whole market.
If you want a more accurate picture, you can use internal data and market surveys to create salary ranges, and use the GSO average salary as a reference.
Minimum wage in Vietnam
The average salary shows what people earn in real life, while the minimum wage is the lowest amount allowed by law. Most companies pay higher than the minimum wage to attract talent and stay competitive. As of July 1, 2025, the latest official minimum wage by region is:
| Region | Monthly Minimum Wage (VND) | Approx. (USD) | Hourly Minimum Wage (VND) |
| Region I | 4,960,000 | ~195 USD | 23,800 |
| Region II | 4,410,000 | ~173 USD | 21,200 |
| Region III | 3,860,000 | ~151 USD | 18,600 |
| Region IV | 3,450,000 | ~135 USD | 16,600 |
How regions are grouped:
- Region I includes major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, places with higher costs of living.
- Region II covers surrounding rural areas of those large cities, plus cities like Da Nang and Hai Phong.
- Region III includes provincial-level cities and districts like Bac Ninh, Bac Giang, Vinh Phuc.
- Region IV covers most of the rest of the country.
These rates are stated in Decree 74/2024/NĐ-CP by the Government of Vietnam.
Average salary in Vietnam by region & city
Vietnam’s labor market is dynamic, with salaries varying significantly depending on location. Major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City typically offer higher wages due to their economic scale, industrial growth, and concentration of multinational corporations.
Meanwhile, coastal hubs such as Da Nang provide competitive salaries in tourism and tech, whereas smaller provinces focus on manufacturing and agriculture, resulting in lower income levels. Below, we break down the average salaries and related job opportunities in key regions.
Hanoi average salary
Hanoi, Vietnam’s political and cultural center, offers one of the highest average salaries in the country. In Q1 2025, workers in the Red River Delta region, which includes Hanoi, earned an average of 9.8 million VND per month (~US$379). That’s about 18% above the national average.
The city is home to government institutions, embassies, and large domestic enterprises, which creates strong demand for roles in administration, law, and policy-making. Additionally, Hanoi has become a hub for technology startups and IT outsourcing firms, opening opportunities for software developers, data analysts, and digital marketing specialists.
English-speaking professionals can also find positions in education and international trade, given Hanoi’s role as a key business gateway to northern Vietnam.
Ho Chi Minh City average salary
The Southeast region, including Ho Chi Minh City, saw strong income growth as well. Average monthly earnings were around 9.3 million VND per month, with HCMC itself reaching 9.7 million VND (~US$375).
As Vietnam’s economic powerhouse, HCMC attracts foreign direct investment (FDI) and hosts regional headquarters for global corporations. This means high-paying opportunities in banking, fintech, and business consulting are abundant.
The booming e-commerce market and logistics sector also provide employment for sales executives, supply chain managers, and IT engineers.
Da Nang average salary
In Da Nang & surrounding regions (north-central & central coastal areas), the average monthly salary in Q1 2025 was 7.3 million VND (~US$283), marking an 11.7% year-on-year increase. Lower than Hanoi and HCMC but competitive for the region.
Known for its thriving tourism industry and growing tech ecosystem, Da Nang is a prime location for jobs in hospitality, travel services, and IT outsourcing. The city has seen an influx of foreign tech firms and software development companies, making it a hotspot for developers, project managers, and UI/UX designers.
Digital nomads and remote professionals are also flocking to Da Nang for its affordable living costs and excellent quality of life, creating a unique blend of tourism and tech-driven job markets.
Smaller provinces vs metropolitan areas
Smaller provinces primarily depend on agriculture, textiles, and basic manufacturing, which often pay less but provide stable employment for local workers. However, industrial parks in provinces like Binh Duong, Dong Nai, and Bac Ninh are attracting manufacturing giants, especially in electronics and auto parts, which is gradually pushing salaries upward in these areas.
While managerial and specialized roles remain concentrated in big cities, provincial areas are becoming appealing for factory workers and mid-level technicians due to expanding industrial clusters and improved infrastructure.
| Location / Region | Avg Monthly Salary (VND) | Approx. USD |
| National average (overall) | 8.3 million | ~US$321 |
| Urban areas | 10.1 million | ~US$393 |
| Rural areas | 7.2 million | ~US$280 |
| Red River Delta (e.g., Hanoi) | 9.8 million | ~US$379 |
| Southeast Region (e.g., Ho Chi Minh City) | 9.3-9.7 million | ~US$370-375 |
| North-Central & Central Coastal (e.g., Da Nang) | 7.3 million | ~US$283 |
Even though metropolitan areas like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang offer significantly higher average salaries compared to smaller provinces, the gap primarily reflects differences in economic activity, cost of living, and industry concentration.
This regional salary disparity is an important consideration for both job seekers and employers when planning relocation, recruitment strategies, or salary benchmarking.
Average salary in Vietnam by industry & job level
Average Vietnamese salary can vary greatly depending on the industry you work in, your job level, and the skills you bring to the table. Some sectors offer high-paying opportunities, while others provide more modest but stable incomes.
High-paying industries (IT, finance, real estate)
Technology, finance, and real estate continue to be among the highest-paying sectors in Vietnam. In IT, roles like software developers, data analysts, and cybersecurity specialists can earn from 15 to 50 million VND per month (~US$580-1,930) depending on experience and company.
The finance sector covers banking, fintech, and risk management, also offers strong pay. Mid-level positions earning 10-35 million VND (~US$385-1,350) per month and senior roles reaching even higher. Real estate careers, particularly in sales and management, can also be well-paid, with top performers in major cities earning above 22 million VND (~US$850) per month.
Lower-paying but common industries (manufacturing, textiles, services)
Manufacturing and textiles employ a large portion of Vietnam’s workforce, but wages are lower, typically 6-8 million VND per month (~US$230-310). Roles include production workers, technicians, and line supervisors. While pay is lower, these sectors provide stable employment and are expanding in industrial zones across the country.
Service sectors such as hospitality, retail, and food & beverage also fall into the lower-paying category, with entry-level staff earning 6-8 million VND (~US$230-310) per month. Despite modest salaries, these industries are vital for local employment and offer opportunities for career growth in management and operations.
Salary by job level (entry-level, mid-level, senior, manager)
A 2024 report from Firstman Vietnam shows the average salaries in Vietnam for different job levels in 2024 are as follows:
- Entry-Level/Junior: Salaries range from 7 to 15 million VND per month (~US$270-580), depending on the industry and role.
- Mid-Level: Salaries range from 15 to 30 million VND per month (~US$580-1,150), typically requiring 3 to 5 years of experience.
- Senior-Level: Salaries range from 30 to 50 million VND per month (~US$1,150-1,930), with 5 to 10 years of experience.
- Manager/Leadership: Salaries range from 50 to 80 million VND per month (~US$1,930-3,080), depending on management experience and responsibilities.
These figures represent average salaries and can vary based on industry, company, and specific position.
Salary differences by skills and qualifications
According to a report by ERA WorkForce Solutions, employees with highly specialized skills such as software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, and automation engineering usually earn higher salaries than those with more general skills like project management or human resources.
Educational qualifications also affect pay. People with advanced degrees such as a master’s or doctorate generally earn more than those with only a bachelor’s degree.
Gender and age gap in Vietnamese salaries
The International Labour Organization reports that the gender pay gap in Vietnam is about 13.8%, with women earning less than men for similar work, especially in rural areas.
The pay gap also changes with age. Women’s salaries tend to drop significantly during childbearing years and reach their peak between ages 55 and 59, while men’s salaries generally decrease after age 60.
Average salary in Vietnam compared to cost of living
In Vietnam, salaries vary widely between metropolitan areas and smaller towns or rural provinces. Major cities offer the highest pay, reflecting stronger economic activity, more multinational companies, and high-demand industries. However, daily expenses such as rent, food, transportation, and utilities are also much higher.
In contrast, rural provinces and smaller towns typically have lower salaries, depending on the sector. But the cost of living is significantly lower, with housing and food often costing half of what they would in big cities. For many workers, this means they can maintain a comfortable lifestyle despite earning less.
| Area type | Average salary (VND) | Average salary (USD) | Monthly cost of living (VND) | Cost of living (USD) |
| Urban areas | 12-25 million | $460-$960 | 10-20 million | $385-770 |
| Rural areas | 6-10 million | $230-$385 | 4-8 million | $155-310 |
It’s important to note that these are general trends, and individual circumstances can vary. Factors such as specific job roles, company policies, and personal lifestyle choices play a significant role in determining actual income and expenses.
Recent labor laws and regulations affecting salaries in Vietnam
Vietnam’s government regularly updates labor laws to ensure fair wages and improve workers’ living standards. A significant change effective July 1, 2024, is the official application of a new regional minimum wage across 34 provinces and centrally run cities, as stipulated in Decree 74/2024/ND-CP.
In addition, the base salary for public sector employees in 2025 remains at VND 2,340,000 (≈ USD 87) per month. Together, these regulations help shape the overall salary structure and support a minimum standard of living for workers across sectors and regions.
Comparison with other countries in Southeast Asia
Vietnam is roughly in the middle range in Southeast Asia, offering higher pay than Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar, but lower than Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. The difference is closely linked to local living costs, economic development, and foreign investment. Here’s an approximate comparison of average monthly salaries (USD) in Southeast Asia for 2025:
| Country | Average Salary (Local Currency) | Average Salary (USD) |
| Vietnam | VND 8.3 – 10.0 million | $314 – $380 |
| Thailand | THB 25,000 – 35,000 | $720 – $1,000 |
| Malaysia | MYR 3,000 – 5,000 | $660 – $1,100 |
| Singapore | SGD 4,500 – 6,500 | $3,400 – $4,900 |
| Indonesia | IDR 5 – 7 million | $330 – $460 |
| Philippines | PHP 20,000 – 30,000 | $360 – $540 |
| Cambodia | KHR 1.2 – 1.8 million | $290 – $435 |
| Laos | LAK 1.1 – 1.6 million | $300 – $430 |
| Myanmar | MMK 400,000 – 600,000 | $200 – $300 |
Sources: ASEAN Labor Market Reports; national statistics offices
Note: These figures are approximate and can vary based on the source, methodology, and specific data points included in the average calculation.
Frequently asked questions about average salary in Vietnam
The following questions answer common concerns for both employees and people considering working in Vietnam.
Which cities in Vietnam have the highest average salaries?
Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City consistently have the highest average salaries in Vietnam due to their status as major economic centers with diverse industries and a high demand for skilled labor. The Red River Delta region (Hanoi) and the southeastern region (Ho Chi Minh City) report average monthly incomes significantly above the national average.
Is the average Vietnamese salary increasing every year?
Yes, the average salary in Vietnam has been steadily rising. In Q1 2025, the average monthly salary increased by 9.5% compared to the previous year.
What is the average salary for an English teacher in Vietnam?
English teachers in Vietnam typically earn between VND 18 million and 35 million (US$690 – 1,340) per month, depending on experience, qualifications, and the type of employer. Teachers at international schools or well-known language centers usually earn more than those working in smaller centers or private tutoring. Senior teachers with TEFL or TESOL certifications can command higher salaries, especially in major cities.
What is the average pay difference between multinational companies (MNCs) and local Vietnamese firms?
Employees at multinational companies often earn 20 to 50 percent more than those at local companies, depending on the industry and job position. Multinationals also provide benefits such as performance bonuses, health insurance, and training opportunities. Local firms may offer lower base salaries but sometimes include allowances and faster promotion paths for specific roles.
Do employees in Vietnam typically receive housing, meal, or transportation allowances on top of salary?
Yes, it is common for employees in Vietnam, particularly in professional and managerial roles, to receive various allowances on top of their base salary. These can include housing allowances, meal allowances, transportation allowances, and sometimes even mobile phone allowances. These allowances can add 10 to 30 percent or more to monthly compensation and help employees manage higher living costs in big cities.
How much do blue-collar workers (construction, drivers, security) typically earn in Vietnam?
Blue-collar jobs significantly influence the average salary Vietnam reports across different sectors. They generally earn less than office-based roles. Average monthly pay ranges from VND 5 million to 8 million (US$190 – 300), depending on the industry, experience, and location.
terra’s all-in-one payroll service in Vietnam for FDI companies
Managing payroll in Vietnam can be complex, especially for FDI companies dealing with local labor laws, taxes, and social insurance regulations. terra provides payroll service that helps businesses automate salary calculations, handle statutory deductions, and maintain compliance with Vietnamese labor laws.
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Conclusion
Average salary in Vietnam have been growing steadily, but your actual pay depends a lot on the city you work in, the industry, and your level of experience. For employees and expats, being aware of typical salary ranges, benefits, and labor rules makes it easier to negotiate pay and plan ahead.
For companies, keeping track of these trends is important to attract and keep good talent. Many businesses are turning to outsourced payroll services to manage compliance, streamline salary processes, and ensure accuracy.
