The cost of living in Vietnam is generally low compared to Western standards. Essentials such as food, housing, and transportation are quite affordable, making it a popular destination for expatriates and retirees.

Vietnam experiences a tropical climate in the south and a monsoonal climate in the north with a hot, rainy season from May to September and a warm, dry season from October to March. Northern areas can be cooler during the winter months, while the central region can experience typhoons and heavy rains between August and November. The southern part is generally hot and humid throughout the year.

The educational system in Vietnam is known for its rigorous curriculum and competitive nature. Education is highly valued, and the system is structured into five levels: preschool, primary school, secondary school, high school, and higher education. Children typically start their formal education at the age of six, beginning with five years of primary education. This is followed by four years of secondary education and three years of high school education. The academic year in Vietnam usually starts in September and ends in May or June, with students graduating from high school around the age of 18. The Vietnamese government mandates that all children attend school until they complete the secondary level. The quality of education can vary significantly between urban and rural areas, with urban schools often having better facilities and resources. Public schools are free, though there are additional fees for things like maintenance and extra-curricular activities. Private and international schools are also available, offering different curricula and often higher quality education, but at a cost. These schools are popular among expatriates and affluent families. The grading system in Vietnam is based on a 10-point scale, with a score of 5 usually being the minimum passing grade. The education system places a strong emphasis on mathematics, sciences, and moral education. Students are also required to learn English, which is considered a key subject for their future career prospects.

Vietnam's healthcare system is a mix of public and private services. The public healthcare system is under the management of the Ministry of Health and provides services at three levels: central, provincial, and district. The quality of public healthcare varies, with urban areas typically having better facilities and more skilled medical staff than rural areas. Private healthcare in Vietnam has been growing, offering higher quality services with more modern facilities and shorter waiting times, but at a higher cost. Public healthcare is generally affordable for locals, but can still be a significant expense for those without insurance. Private healthcare is more expensive, but still affordable by Western standards. Expats and digital nomads can access public healthcare, but it is recommended that they have health insurance to cover the costs. Many expats choose private healthcare due to the higher standard of care and the language barrier in public hospitals.