Side-by-side numbers for the things that matter most when picking where to retire: monthly cost, healthcare, climate, visa rules, safety, and the strength of the expat community.
| Metric | Chiang Mai | Da Nang |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly cost (single) | $1,200 | $1,000 |
| Monthly cost (couple) | $1,800 | $1,500 |
| 2-bedroom rent | $500 | $400 |
| Healthcare / month | $100 | $80 |
| Healthcare quality | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Safety | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Expat community | 5/5 | 3/5 |
| Overall rating | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Climate | tropical | tropical |
| Avg temperature | 79°F | 79°F |
| Primary language | Thai | Vietnamese |
| English proficiency | moderate | low |
| Visa min income | $1,800 | $800 |
Thailand's northern cultural capital offers unbeatable value, world-class medical tourism, and a welcoming Buddhist culture. The large expat community makes settling in easy.
Non-O Retirement Visa (50+): ~$22,000 bank deposit OR $1,800/mo income. 1-year renewable. 90-day reporting required. Health insurance mandatory.
Vietnam's most livable city offers stunning beaches, affordable living, and a rapidly developing infrastructure. No formal retirement visa exists, but many expats find workarounds.
Retirement Visa (age 50+): $800/mo income OR $20,000 savings. 1-year renewable. Very affordable. Multiple entry permitted.
Cost is only half the story. Use the International Retirement Tax Estimator to see how Thailand and Vietnam would tax your retirement income.