Moving to Da Nang, Vietnam
Last updated on Jun 09, 2023
Summary: Many expats are drawn to Da Nang, Vietnam for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and low cost of living. The city is known for its stunning beaches, lush mountains, and vibrant nightlife. Da Nang also offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from historical sites to modern shopping malls. The city is also home to a diverse range of international restaurants, making it a great place to sample the local cuisine. Additionally, the city's low cost of living makes it an attractive destination for expats looking to stretch their budget.
What do I need to know before moving to Da Nang?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Da Nang, they said:
"Da Nang is a vibrant and rapidly growing city in Vietnam, and is a great place for expats to live. Before moving to Da Nang, it is important to research the cost of living, as it can be quite high in comparison to other parts of Vietnam. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local culture and customs, as well as the language, as English is not widely spoken in Da Nang. It is also important to research the local healthcare system, as well as the availability of international schools for expat children. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local climate, as Da Nang can be quite hot and humid during the summer months," explained one expat living in Da Nang, Vietnam.
How do I find a place to live in Da Nang?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Da Nang is to use online resources such as websites and social media. Websites such as Craigslist, Expat.com, and Vietnam Real Estate are great resources for finding rental properties in Da Nang. Additionally, social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram can be used to search for rental properties in Da Nang. Additionally, it is also possible to find a place to live in Da Nang by asking around in the local community. Many people in Da Nang are willing to help newcomers find a place to live, and it is possible to find a great place to live by asking around," remarked one expat who made the move to Da Nang.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Da Nang?
"Expat homes and apartments in Da Nang are typically modern and comfortable. Many expats choose to live in high-rise buildings with stunning views of the city and the nearby beach. Apartments are usually well-equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, high-speed internet, and cable TV. Expats can also find a variety of housing options, from luxury villas to more affordable apartments. Most expat homes and apartments are located in the city center, close to restaurants, shops, and other amenities," explained one expat living in Da Nang, Vietnam.
What is the average cost of housing in Da Nang?
If you are thinking about moving to Da Nang, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Da Nang can vary greatly depending on the type of accommodation and location. Generally, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around $400 to $500 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment can cost up to $700 per month. Outside of the city center, the cost of housing can be significantly lower, with one-bedroom apartments costing around $200 to $300 per month and two-bedroom apartments costing around $400 to $500 per month," remarked one expat who made the move to Da Nang.
Should I buy or rent a home in Da Nang?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Da Nang, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"Buying a home in Da Nang can be a great investment, as the city is growing rapidly and property values are increasing. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in the city, as well as the availability of rental properties. Renting a home in Da Nang can be a great option for those who are looking for a more flexible living situation, as it allows for more freedom to move around and explore the city. Additionally, renting can be a more cost-effective option for those who are not ready to commit to a long-term purchase. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Da Nang should be based on individual needs and preferences," said one expat in Da Nang.
What should I pack when moving to Da Nang?
We asked people living in Da Nang to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:
"When moving to Da Nang, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing that is appropriate for the hot and humid weather. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. Bring a raincoat and umbrella in case of rain. Bring comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the city. Additionally, pack any necessary medications, toiletries, and personal items. Don't forget to bring a power adapter for your electronics. Finally, make sure to bring a valid passport and any other important documents," said one expat in Da Nang.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Da Nang?
We asked people in Da Nang if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:
"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Da Nang. It is considered rude to point with your finger, so it is best to gesture with your whole hand. It is also important to dress modestly, as shorts and tank tops are considered inappropriate. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of religious sites and to avoid taking photos without permission. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local customs and to avoid making assumptions about the culture," remarked one expat in Da Nang, Vietnam.
Why do people move to Da Nang?
When we asked people why foreigners move to Da Nang, they responded:
"Da Nang is an attractive destination for expats due to its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and low cost of living. The city is situated on the coast of the South China Sea, offering stunning beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. The city is also home to a variety of cultural attractions, including ancient temples, museums, and galleries. Additionally, the cost of living in Da Nang is significantly lower than in many other cities in the region, making it an attractive option for expats looking to stretch their budget," stated one expat who made the move to Da Nang.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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How are healthcare services Da Nang?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Da Nang, they replied:
"If you have a serious issue, travel to Bangkok or, Singapore for medical care. In Da Nang, there is a woman at the Pasteur Clinic who can treat women's issues but, I would go to BKK for more urgent/serious issues," offered one expat living in Da Nang.
What are medical services in Da Nang like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Da Nang, they replied:
"Medical services in Da Nang, are generally adequate for basic healthcare needs, with several public and private hospitals available in the city. Public hospitals tend to be crowded and may have limited resources, while private hospitals offer better facilities and English-speaking staff. However, for more serious or complex medical issues, it is recommended to seek treatment in larger cities like Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, or even travel to nearby countries with more advanced healthcare systems. It is essential for visitors to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, as local hospitals may not be equipped to handle all emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available in Da Nang, but it is advised to bring a sufficient supply of prescription medications, as the availability of specific drugs may be limited," offered one expat living in Da Nang.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Da Nang?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Da Nang?
- Will I be able to find a job in Da Nang?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Da Nang appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Da Nang?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Da Nang accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Da Nang like?
- How are healthcare services in Da Nang?
- What are medical services in Da Nang like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Da Nang?
- What are emergency services like in Da Nang?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Da Nang?
- How are local medical facilities in Da Nang?
- As a foreigner living in Da Nang, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?