An interview with Vinny, a UK expat living in Da Nang for four months, reveals a monthly budget under $700. He rents a furnished 35-square-meter studio apartment above a restaurant for £200 ($260) per month, with no long-term contract and only a £30 deposit. Additional costs include a £30 gym membership, £60 motorbike rental, £200 for food and drinks, and £30 combined for water and electricity. Vinny works daily at a free 24-hour coworking space called High, located near his apartment and a 10-minute walk from the beach. He contrasts Da Nang's quieter, more focused environment with Thailand's party scene, noting it is ideal for building a business and maintaining health. Vinny uses 45-day visa runs to Laos via a 5-hour coach and plans to apply for a 5-year visa as a Viet Kieu. Downsides include morning construction noise, but he praises the affordable cost of living, quality of life, and growing expat community.
Key Facts
- Rent is £200 ($260) per month for a furnished studio apartment.
- Total monthly cost of living is under £500 ($650), including rent, food, gym, motorbike, and utilities.
- Gym membership costs £30 per month.
- Motorbike rental is £60 per month.
- Visa runs to Laos take 5 hours by coach and cost minimal fees; a 90-day e-visa costs about $30.