Moving from Ho Chi Minh City to St. Paul (2026)

St. Paul has a COL index of 97 vs 38 for Ho Chi Minh City (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 155% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$1,619 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
38 โ†’ 97
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$500 โ†’ $1,500
per month
State tax
None โ†’ 9.9%
income tax
COL difference
38 โ†’ 97
155% more expensive

Salary needed in St. Paul to match your Ho Chi Minh City lifestyle

Based on the 155% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in Ho Chi Minh CityEquivalent in St. Paul
$40K$102,105
$50K$127,632
$60K$153,158
$75K$191,447
$80K$204,211
$100K$255,263
$120K$306,316
$150K$382,895

Adjust your salary

Pay ~$1,142/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Ho Chi Minh City vs St. Paul

ExpenseHo Chi Minh CitySt. Paul
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,122
1BR rent$500$1,500
Groceries$380$384
Transport$150$95
Utilities$50$195
Internet$15$63
Left after essentials$3,646$1,885

Frequently asked questions

Is St. Paul cheaper than Ho Chi Minh City?

No. St. Paul has a cost of living index of 97 vs 38 for Ho Chi Minh City (100 = US average). That's about 155% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Ho Chi Minh City to St. Paul?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in St. Paul run about $1,619/month more than Ho Chi Minh City. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in St. Paul 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 $191,447/year in St. Paul. 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