How Much Does Rent Cost in District 1
The figures below are rough benchmarks for fully furnished apartments targeting foreign tenants. Prices vary significantly depending on location, building age, and whether services are included.
District 1 has some of the highest rents in Ho Chi Minh City. The same size unit will often cost more here than in District 7 or District 2. Serviced residences — which include cleaning and building management — push the price up further. That said, the location premium is real: if you work downtown or city-centre living is your priority, it's worth it.
The standard deposit is two months' rent. Electricity is billed separately. Serviced residences often bundle management fees and housekeeping into the monthly rent. Internet is usually included.
District 1 vs District 7 vs District 2
Here's a quick breakdown of the three main expat districts.
District 1 suits people who work downtown, want to be close to the action, or are living solo with an active lifestyle. It's the most expensive and the most urban.
District 7 – Phú Mỹ Hưng is where most Koreans live. It has the highest concentration of Korean grocery stores, Korean restaurants, Korean real estate agencies, and Korea International School (KIS). It's a planned township — clean, quiet, and family-friendly. Getting to District 1 takes about 20–30 minutes by car.
District 2 – Thảo Điền offers a more international, low-key expat vibe. Riverside luxury living, international schools, and a well-established foreign community. It's also close to District 1.
A simple way to think about it: solo and working downtown → District 1; family and need KIS → District 7; international school and global community → District 2. For more detail on each area, see the dedicated guides below. → Ho Chi Minh District 7 Phú Mỹ Hưng Guide / Ho Chi Minh District 2 Thảo Điền Guide
Things to Know When Apartment Hunting in District 1
There are a few District 1–specific things worth checking. Since it's a busy urban area, noise can be a real issue — visit at night to see how loud the unit actually gets. Higher floors reduce street noise but often carry a city view or river view premium. For serviced residences, ask exactly what's included (cleaning frequency, management fees). The basics — air conditioning, hot water, and internet speed — should be checked in every apartment regardless.
When it comes to the contract, make sure the deposit refund terms are clearly written out (deposits in District 1 tend to be on the larger side). Take photos and video of the unit's condition when you move in. For a full checklist on rental contracts, see this guide. → What to Watch Out for in a Vietnam Rental Contract
BE-JIB's Korean team personally verifies and lists apartments in Ho Chi Minh City — from District 1 city-centre units to serviced residences. We can recommend options based on your budget and work location. If you see something above that interests you, or want to share your requirements, reach out via WhatsApp and we'll put together a shortlist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is District 1 so expensive?
It's the centre of Ho Chi Minh City — land values are among the highest in Vietnam. Everything is here: offices, nightlife, hotels, shopping. You're paying for location. If you work downtown or prioritise city-centre living, the premium is justified.
Is District 1 okay for families?
It's possible, but the noise and bustle of a busy urban district make it less ideal for families. Most families with children tend to look at District 7 or District 2 instead. District 1 is better suited to solo renters or couples who want city life.
What is a serviced residence?
A serviced residence is an apartment that includes hotel-style cleaning and management services. There are quite a few in District 1. They're convenient but cost more than a standard rental. Popular with people on short stays or those who'd rather not deal with maintenance.
Is there Korean infrastructure in District 1?
There are Korean restaurants and Korean-owned shops in District 1, but nothing close to the density of Phú Mỹ Hưng in District 7. District 1 is more of a global mix of cuisines and businesses. If Korean grocery shopping or Korean dining is part of your regular routine, District 7 is more convenient.
Can you get by without a car in District 1?
District 1 is probably the easiest neighbourhood in Ho Chi Minh City to live car-free. Work, food, and shopping are all within walking distance or a short Grab ride.
Also Looking at Other Districts?
If you're comparing District 1 with District 7, District 2, or other areas, check out the full Ho Chi Minh City guide. → Ho Chi Minh City Monthly Rental and Apartment Guide
To browse District 1 listings directly, click on the listing cards above, or send your criteria (budget, size, work location, move-in date) via WhatsApp. The BE-JIB team will put together a tailored shortlist for you.
This guide is based on Q1 2026 market conditions. Prices and availability change, so we update it regularly.
