Best Neighborhoods for Families in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, a vibrant metropolis buzzing with energy, offers a diverse range of neighborhoods catering to the eclectic tastes of expats and digital nomads. For families looking to settle in this dynamic city, certain districts stand out for their amenities, safety, and community feel. From leafy, tranquil streets to bustling, urban hubs, here's a guide to the best neighborhoods in Ho Chi Minh City for families seeking the perfect balance of comfort and convenience.

Thao Dien

Thao Dien in District 2 is a top choice for expat families, known for its serene environment and international vibe. The area boasts numerous international schools, making it a hub for expat families. Weekends in Thao Dien are often spent cycling along the Saigon River or enjoying family-friendly cafes and restaurants. The neighborhood is dotted with playgrounds and parks, such as Thao Dien Park, where children can play and families can relax.

Location: Northeastern part of Ho Chi Minh City, across the Saigon River from District 1.

Real Estate: A 2-bedroom apartment averages around $700-$1,200 per month, while a 3-bedroom can range from $1,000 to $2,000. Purchasing prices vary widely depending on the property's luxury level.

International Schools: British International School and Australian International School offer reputable international curriculums for students from early years to secondary levels.

Where to Eat: Thao Dien is home to a variety of international restaurants such as The Deck Saigon and Mekong Merchant, offering diverse cuisines in family-friendly settings.

Interesting History: Thao Dien was once a quiet, agricultural area but has transformed into an expat-oriented neighborhood while maintaining its green spaces.

Parks: Thao Dien Park is a popular green space for families, providing a peaceful escape from the city's hustle.

Phu My Hung

Located in District 7, Phu My Hung is another expat favorite, designed with wide streets, modern infrastructure, and a high standard of living. It's a planned community with ample green spaces, playgrounds, and sports facilities. Crescent Mall is a popular destination for shopping and entertainment, and the area is known for its cleanliness and safety, making it ideal for family outings.

Location: Southern part of Ho Chi Minh City, in District 7.

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom apartment average $600-$1,000, while a 3-bedroom ranges from $800 to $1,500. Homes here are modern with a variety of options for purchase.

International Schools: Saigon South International School and Canadian International School offer diverse educational programs with a global perspective.

Where to Eat: The area has a plethora of dining options, including Scott and Binh's for comfort food and El Gaucho for Argentinean steaks.

Interesting History: Phu My Hung is a relatively new development, representing the modern growth of Ho Chi Minh City as it expands and internationalizes.

Parks: The area is known for its parks, such as Starlight Bridge and Crescent Park, which are popular for evening walks and weekend picnics.

An Phu

An Phu, also in District 2, is a quiet residential area that has become a sanctuary for expat families. It offers a mix of local culture and expat conveniences, with a variety of international schools and supermarkets catering to Western tastes. The neighborhood is characterized by its villas and gated communities, providing a secure environment for children to play and families to thrive.

Location: Eastern part of Ho Chi Minh City, adjacent to Thao Dien in District 2.

Real Estate: Rent for a 2-bedroom apartment is typically between $500-$900, while a 3-bedroom home can cost between $800 and $1,600 per month.

International Schools: The European International School and International School Ho Chi Minh City are prominent institutions offering quality education.

Where to Eat: An Phu has a variety of dining options, including La Villa French Restaurant for a touch of European cuisine and Snap Café for a casual family meal.

Interesting History: An Phu has evolved from a predominantly local area to a diverse expat community, reflecting the city's rapid development.

Parks: An Phu doesn't have as many parks as Thao Dien, but its proximity allows residents to enjoy the same green spaces.

Binh Thanh District

Binh Thanh District offers a more authentic Vietnamese experience while still providing the amenities expat families appreciate. It's a great place to immerse in local culture with easy access to international schools and healthcare facilities. The neighborhood is also home to several parks and recreational areas, such as Van Thanh Tourist Park, where families can enjoy outdoor activities.

Location: Central part of Ho Chi Minh City, bordering District 1 to the south.

Real Estate: A 2-bedroom apartment rents for about $500-$800, with 3-bedroom homes ranging from $700 to $1,200.

International Schools: Several international schools, including the British Vietnamese International School, serve the area.

Where to Eat: Binh Thanh is known for its street food scene, but also has family-friendly spots like The Snap Café and Cuc Gach Quan for traditional Vietnamese dishes.

Interesting History: Binh Thanh is one of the oldest districts in the city, with a history that can be explored through its traditional markets and colonial architecture.

Parks: Van Thanh Tourist Park is a popular spot for families, offering a range of leisure activities and green space.

Tan Binh District

Tan Binh District is favored by families for its residential feel and proximity to Tan Son Nhat International Airport. It's a bustling area with a mix of local markets, shopping centers, and parks like Hoang Van Thu Park, which provides a green oasis in the city. The district is also known for its reputable local schools and hospitals, making it a convenient choice for families.

Location: Northern part of Ho Chi Minh City, near the airport.

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom apartment average $400-$700, while a 3-bedroom can range from $600 to $1,100.

International Schools: While Tan Binh is more local, it's close to international schools in neighboring districts.

Where to Eat: The area offers a variety of dining options, from local eateries serving pho and banh mi to more upscale restaurants like Sushi Tei.

Interesting History: Tan Binh has a rich history as a residential and commercial hub, with several historic sites and temples to explore.

Parks: Hoang Van Thu Park is a popular spot for families, featuring playgrounds, walking paths, and shaded areas.

District 9

District 9 is an emerging area that's attracting families with its affordable housing and potential for growth. It's further from the city center, offering a quieter lifestyle with less traffic and more space. The district is developing rapidly, with new facilities and international schools being built to cater to the growing community.

Location: Eastern outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City.

Real Estate: Renting a 2-bedroom apartment can cost as low as $300-$600, with 3-bedroom houses around $500-$900.

International Schools: As the district develops, international schools are beginning to establish campuses in the area.

Where to Eat: District 9 offers a mix of local food stalls and upcoming cafes and restaurants catering to diverse tastes.

Interesting History: Once a rural area, District 9 is transforming into a significant part of the city's expansion plans.

Parks: The district is home to several parks and green spaces, which are becoming more popular as the area develops.

District 1

For families who prefer the heart of the city, District 1 is the central business district with historical landmarks, shopping centers, and a wide range of dining options. While it's busier and more crowded, families can find pockets of tranquility in luxury apartment complexes and enjoy the convenience of being close to everything. Tao Dan Park is a central green space where families can enjoy outdoor activities amidst the city buzz.

Location: Central Ho Chi Minh City, encompassing the majority of the city's landmarks.

Real Estate: Renting a 2-bedroom apartment in District 1 can be quite expensive, ranging from $1,000 to $2,500, with 3-bedroom apartments and houses going for $1,500 to $3,500 and above.

International Schools: District 1 is close to several international schools located in neighboring districts, easily accessible for families living in the city center.

Where to Eat: From street food vendors to high-end restaurants, District 1 offers an array of dining experiences, including the famous Ben Thanh Market for local specialties.

Interesting History: District 1 is rich in history, with landmarks like the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica and the Independence Palace telling the story of the city's past.

Parks: Tao Dan Park is a popular urban park in District 1, providing a peaceful retreat with playgrounds and shaded areas for families.

District 3

District 3 is a charming area known for its French colonial architecture, tree-lined streets, and a more laid-back atmosphere compared to District 1. It's a great place for families who appreciate cultural experiences, with several museums and historical sites within walking distance. The neighborhood also features several parks, such as Le Van Tam Park, where families can enjoy leisurely afternoons.

Location: Directly adjacent to District 1, towards the southwest.

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom apartment range from $700 to $1,500, while 3-bedroom homes can cost between $1,000 and $2,500.

International Schools: District 3 is within easy reach of international schools in neighboring districts, offering convenient access for families.

Where to Eat: The district is home to a mix of traditional Vietnamese eateries and international restaurants, providing diverse options for family dining.

Interesting History: District 3 is steeped in history, with the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace nearby, offering educational outings for families.

Parks: Le Van Tam Park is a central feature of District 3, known for its playgrounds and space for family activities.