Once viewed primarily as a popular tourist hub, Vietnam is gaining recognition from a fresh perspective: a viable long-term haven for foreign retirees. According to Forbes, the cost of living in Vietnam is roughly one-fourth that of the United States, paired with scenic coastlines, a rich cultural heritage, and increasingly well-regarded healthcare services. As Vietnam marks its debut on the list of top overseas retirement spots for Americans, this shift is already coming to life in the coastal city of Da Nang.
Terry Hawkins initially arrived in Da Nang purely as a tourist. Over time, he chose to make it his permanent retirement home. “I love the culture here. But it is truly the people that make this feel like the right place to live. Everyone is exceptionally friendly,” Hawkins, an American retiree, shared.
Hawkins has since established close friendships with locals, built lasting community connections, and settled into a comfortable daily routine. Vietnam has gradually become a true second home. For other retirees, the quality and accessibility of healthcare serve as another major advantage in Da Nang.
Venkata Bireddy, another American retiree, explained: “Every year, we spend several months in Da Nang. What I appreciate most is how convenient the healthcare services are. I can simply call and secure a same-day appointment. The physicians are highly skilled; many trained abroad and thoroughly understand international medical standards.”
Beyond an estimated cost of living at roughly 25% of US levels, Forbes highlights Vietnam’s pristine beaches, deep cultural appeal, and high safety standards as defining factors. The publication identifies Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hoi An as the most sought-after destinations for overseas retirees.
Nguyen Thi Hoai An, Deputy Director of the Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, noted: “We hope Da Nang evolves into a premier retirement and wellness hub for high-spending international visitors. This represents a strategic development direction we aim to cultivate in the coming years to boost municipal tourism revenue.”
Nevertheless, achieving a permanent retirement in Vietnam still presents an administrative hurdle: visa duration.
Tran Hong Quan, Director of Da Nang Visa Company, observed: “Foreign visitors entering Vietnam on an e-visa are granted a maximum stay of 90 days per entry. Once this period expires, they must exit the country and apply for a new visa before re-entering. For elderly individuals with mobility constraints, these recurring visa runs create notable logistical challenges.”
Forbes‘ inaugural ranking of Vietnam among the world’s top retirement destinations signals significant market potential, providing fresh momentum for specialized healthcare, extended-stay hospitality, wellness facilities, and senior living services tailored for the international community.
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