Moving from Ho Chi Minh City to Memphis (2026)

Memphis has a COL index of 83 vs 38 for Ho Chi Minh City (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 118% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$600 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
38 โ†’ 83
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$500 โ†’ $1,100
per month
State tax
None โ†’ None
income tax
COL difference
38 โ†’ 83
118% more expensive

Salary needed in Memphis to match your Ho Chi Minh City lifestyle

Based on the 118% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in Ho Chi Minh CityEquivalent in Memphis
$40K$87,368
$50K$109,211
$60K$131,053
$75K$163,816
$80K$174,737
$100K$218,421
$120K$262,105
$150K$327,632

Adjust your salary

Pay ~$642/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Ho Chi Minh City vs Memphis

ExpenseHo Chi Minh CityMemphis
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,741
1BR rent$500$1,100
Groceries$380$357
Transport$150$55
Utilities$50$170
Internet$15$55
Left after essentials$3,646$3,004

Frequently asked questions

Is Memphis cheaper than Ho Chi Minh City?

No. Memphis has a cost of living index of 83 vs 38 for Ho Chi Minh City (100 = US average). That's about 118% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Ho Chi Minh City to Memphis?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Memphis run about $600/month more than Ho Chi Minh City. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Memphis to match my Ho Chi Minh City lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Ho Chi Minh City, you'd need roughly $163,816/year in Memphis. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only