The Statistics Office has released the Spatial Cost of Living Index covering 34 provinces and cities and six socio-economic regions, measuring price differences for everyday goods and services.
In 2025, Hanoi was used as the benchmark with an index of 100 and ranked as the most expensive location nationwide. Quang Ninh and Haiphong followed, with index levels of 98.56 per cent and 98.43 per cent respectively.
Ho Chi Minh City ranked fourth, with a score of 97.96 per cent. The office said its status as a major economic hub, with rapid urbanisation and strong consumer demand, helps sustain relatively high prices.
However, modern distribution systems, abundant supply and strong competition have kept average prices in Ho Chi Minh City lower than in Hanoi, particularly for household goods at 93.66 per cent, clothing and footwear at 94.33 per cent, and housing, utilities and construction materials at 97.23 per cent.
Danang ranked fifth, with an index of 97.89 per cent. Its geographic position and transport infrastructure support efficient goods circulation, helping contain living costs compared with Hanoi.
At the other end of the scale, the five most affordable localities were Vinh Long, Gia Lai, Ca Mau, Quang Tri and Tay Ninh. Vinh Long recorded the lowest index at 91.47 per cent of Hanoi’s level.
The province benefits from strong agricultural and aquaculture production, ensuring ample food supply, while moderate development in trade and services keeps consumer demand and prices stable. These characteristics are common among lower-cost areas.
Across the 34 localities surveyed, the Statistics Office said differences in living costs were relatively modest, thanks to improved distribution and logistics systems. E-commerce has also enhanced price transparency and competition, narrowing regional gaps.
By region, the Red River Delta, with Hanoi as its core, recorded the highest living costs, driven by stable economic growth, high population density and rapid urbanisation.
Spending patterns in the region are concentrated on housing, healthcare, education and dining out. Limited land supply and strong demand have pushed up property prices, raising rental and living costs. Access to higher-quality education and healthcare has also contributed to higher expenses.
Higher input costs, including rent, labour and services in major cities, have further increased production and business expenses, feeding into consumer prices.
The south-eastern region ranked second with an index of 98.88 per cent, followed by the northern midlands and mountainous region, the central coastal and central highlands regions, and the north central region. The Mekong Delta recorded the lowest level at 95.11 per cent.
The gap between the most and least expensive regions stood at 4.89 percentage points, indicating relatively limited variation nationwide.
