Hanoi tops Vietnam cost of living index in 2025, Vinh Long lowest: data

The index, which measures differences in prices of consumer goods and services across provinces, cities, and regions, showed Hanoi ranked first among 34 localities, followed by Quang Ninh Province, Hai Phong City, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang City.

Vinh Long Province ranked lowest, preceded by Gia Lai Province, Ca Mau Province, Quang Tri Province, and Tay Ninh Province, the report said.

On the index scale, Hanoi was set at 100 while Vinh Long stood at 91.47, indicating a gap of 8.53 percent between the most and least expensive localities.

By region, the Red River Delta remained the most expensive area, followed by the Southeast region, while the Mekong Delta had the lowest cost of living.

The gap between the highest- and lowest-cost regions was 4.89 percent, reflecting relatively modest differences nationwide.

The statistics office said high living costs in Hanoi and the Red River Delta were driven by strong urbanization, high population density, and rising demand for housing, services, and consumption.

Higher spending on housing rents, healthcare, education, and dining out, along with elevated land and labor costs, contributed to higher price levels in major urban centers, it said.

In contrast, lower-cost localities benefited from cheaper prices for essential goods and services, particularly food, housing, and transport, helping keep overall living costs down.