The Best Places To Teach English in Vietnam

Vietnam has become a favorite among ESL teachers — and it’s easy to see why. The country combines strong demand for English teachers, a low cost of living, and a warm, welcoming culture that makes it easy to feel at home. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting your TEFL journey, Vietnam offers something for everyone.

But the experience can vary dramatically depending on where you go. From fast-paced cities to laid-back beach towns, this guide will help you explore the best places to teach English in Vietnam, based on lifestyle, job availability, and the kind of adventure you’re after.

🏙 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) — The Economic Powerhouse

Why Teach Here:

As Vietnam’s largest and most international city, Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon) is the undisputed hub for English teaching jobs. You’ll find opportunities at:

• Language centers (especially for young learners and test prep)
• International schools
• Corporate English training programs

The job market is competitive but wide open, and salaries here tend to be among the highest in the country.

What to Expect:

Life in Saigon moves fast. The city buzzes with energy — from endless motorbikes to 24/7 cafés and street food stalls. You’ll find:

• A thriving expat community
• Western comforts (gyms, malls, international restaurants)
• Plenty of nightlife and social events

While the cost of living is higher than elsewhere in Vietnam, it's still affordable compared to Western cities — and it’s possible to save on a teacher’s salary.

Best For:

• Teachers who want urban life, job variety, and earning potential
• First-time ESL teachers looking for a soft landing and large community
• Career-minded educators seeking long-term opportunities in international schools

🏛 Hanoi — The Cultural and Political Capital

Why Teach Here:

Hanoi offers a very different vibe from Ho Chi Minh City. As the capital of Vietnam, it has a more traditional feel, deeper cultural roots, and strong demand for English teachers across public schools, language centers, and universities. Government initiatives and programs often run out of Hanoi, making it a strategic spot for long-term teaching plans.

What to Expect:

• A slower pace of life compared to Saigon
• A charming blend of French colonial architecture and Vietnamese heritage
• Distinct seasons — from chilly winters to hot, humid summers
• Teaching roles with less nightlife and more community-oriented living

While salaries may be slightly lower than in the south, the cost of living is also lower, especially if you avoid tourist-heavy neighborhoods.

Best For:

• Teachers who value culture, heritage, and a more relaxed lifestyle
• History lovers, photographers, and foodies drawn to Vietnam’s roots
• Educators interested in public school programs and academic institutions

🌊 Da Nang — Coastal Balance Between City and Nature

Why Teach Here:

Da Nang has quietly become one of Vietnam’s rising stars for ESL teachers. It combines urban conveniences with natural beauty, making it a top choice for those who want balance. There’s growing demand for English teachers — particularly in local schools and smaller language centers.

What to Expect:

• A clean, livable city with wide roads and less chaotic traffic
• Access to stunning beaches and nearby mountain getaways
• A smaller but tight-knit expat scene
• Lower cost of living and less pollution than Vietnam’s big cities

While the job market isn’t as saturated, it’s growing steadily, especially as more Vietnamese families invest in English education.

Best For:

• Teachers who want work–life balance and an outdoor lifestyle
• Nature lovers, surfers, and those escaping big city stress
• Digital nomads or online teachers looking for a home base

🎨 Hoi An — Small Town Charm With Big Appeal

Why Teach Here:

Hoi An isn’t a major ESL job hub, but it’s beloved by those who want a slower, more scenic lifestyle. While full-time jobs are limited, it’s a popular spot for:

• Freelance or online teaching
• Short-term contracts
• Volunteer opportunities

Its increasing popularity among expats and digital nomads is slowly creating more teaching options.

What to Expect:

• A UNESCO-listed Old Town with beautiful architecture and lantern-lit streets
• Calm, quiet atmosphere — a big contrast to Vietnam’s cities
• Limited nightlife and job variety, but high livability
• Great home base for remote teachers or those easing into Vietnam

Best For:

• Teachers looking for peaceful living or online/part-time work
• Couples or solo travelers wanting a cultural escape
• Freelancers who value charm over chaos

🌇 Other Notable Cities (Quick Glance)

While HCMC, Hanoi, and Da Nang dominate the ESL market, these cities are also worth considering:

• Can Tho: The heart of the Mekong Delta; an emerging market for teachers interested in southern Vietnamese culture and a slower pace of life.
• Hue: The former imperial capital with deep historical roots. ESL jobs are fewer, but it’s ideal for those focused on cultural immersion.
• Nha Trang: A beach resort city with tourist-driven English demand. Good for part-time or short-term teaching, especially during peak travel season.
• Hai Phong: A gritty industrial port city near Hanoi. Jobs exist in local language schools and private centers, but the expat scene is minimal.

These cities offer something different — especially if you’re already in Vietnam and looking for your next move.

🎯 How to Choose the Right City for You

Choosing where to teach in Vietnam depends on your goals, lifestyle, and teaching preferences. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

• Want more money + options? → Ho Chi Minh City
  Great for first-timers who want fast-paced urban life and lots of job openings.

• Want heritage + community? → Hanoi
  A bit quieter, culturally rich, and ideal for those who prefer traditional surroundings.

• Want nature + balance? → Da Nang
  A coastal city with fewer crowds and more fresh air, plus growing job opportunities.

• Want peace + part-time? → Hoi An or Hue
  Relaxed towns with slower living — better suited for remote teachers or part-time roles.

• Already have remote work? → Anywhere with good Wi-Fi
  Vietnam’s internet is reliable in most cities, so you can live wherever suits your vibe.

🌟 Vietnam Has a City for Every Type of Teacher

Whether you’re chasing high energy in the city or calm mornings by the beach, Vietnam has a place that fits. Each city has its own rhythm, community, and teaching style — so the key is matching your goals to the environment.

The beauty of Vietnam is how easy it is to explore once you're here. Start in one city, and you can always pivot later.

No matter where you begin, teaching in Vietnam is a chance to grow professionally, live affordably, and enjoy Southeast Asia in a deeply rewarding way.