Moving to Saigon with Kids: The Ultimate Family Guide (2025 Update)

Thinking about moving to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) with your family?
Whether you’re relocating for work, adventure, or lifestyle, Vietnam’s largest city offers a vibrant mix of culture, education, and comfort for expat families.
This guide covers what you need to know — from schools and housing to healthcare, fun family activities, and some honest challenges to consider.

Why Saigon Is Great for Families

Ho Chi Minh City (often still called Saigon) is one of Asia’s fastest-growing urban hubs — yet it remains welcoming, friendly, and full of life. Families are drawn by:

• High-quality international schools
• Affordable childcare and domestic help
• Excellent medical care
• Warm weather and family-friendly neighborhoods
• Easy access to beaches and nature escapes

Most expat families settle in District 2 (Thao Dien, An Phu) or District 7 (Phu My Hung) — areas known for international schools, safe housing compounds, and green space.

⚠️ Challenges of Raising Kids in Saigon

While life in Saigon can be exciting and rewarding, it’s important to know what to expect. Not every aspect of city life is ideal for young families.

1. Heat and Humidity

Saigon is hot and humid all year round, often above 30°C (86°F). Outdoor playtime can be limited by heat or heavy rain, especially from May to October.

2. Traffic and Safety

Motorbike traffic dominates the city, and sidewalks can be narrow or uneven. Crossing streets with children requires patience and caution.

3. Cost of Schooling

International schools are excellent but very expensive (USD 15,000–30,000+ per year). Families on tighter budgets may need to look for bilingual or local options.

4. Specialized Healthcare

While day-to-day care is reliable, specialized pediatric services sometimes require travel to Bangkok or Singapore. Always secure comprehensive health insurance.

5. Cultural Adjustments

Kids may need time to adapt to a new culture, climate, and diet. Language barriers can make local friendships harder at first — though children usually adjust quickly.

6. Pollution and Hygiene

Air quality can fluctuate, and dengue fever is an occasional concern. Families often invest in air purifiers, mosquito nets, and bottled or filtered water.

7. Limited Public Play Spaces

There are fewer free public parks or playgrounds than in Western cities, so families often rely on indoor play zones or compound facilities.

8. ✈️ Distance from Home

Long-haul flights, time zone differences, and distance from extended family can be tough — especially for younger kids or first-time expats.

Education: International Schools in HCMC

Saigon has an impressive range of international schools offering British, American, Australian, French, and IB curricula. Some of the most popular include:

Tip: Admission can be competitive. Apply several months in advance, and check whether your housing is within commuting distance of your chosen school.

For a detailed list, see our

Guide to International Schools in HCMC by District

Best Neighborhoods for Families

Thao Dien & An Phu (District 2)

The most popular area for expat families. Tree-lined streets, villas, cafes, and many schools are nearby. Convenient access to the new metro and Saigon Bridge.

Phu My Hung (District 7)

Clean, modern, and organized. Great for younger kids, with wide sidewalks, parks, and international schools like SSIS and RISS.

Binh Thanh District

A rising favorite for families wanting to live closer to downtown. Good mix of local life and comfort.

Thu Thiem (New Urban Area)

A fast-developing zone — think future skyline views and luxury apartments — perfect for families who like modern city living.

Healthcare and Safety

Saigon offers many excellent hospitals and clinics that cater to expats:

• FV Hospital (District 7) – International standards, French-Vietnamese team
• Family Medical Practice (District 1 & 2) – English-speaking doctors
• Vinmec International Hospital (District 2) – Modern facilities, pediatrics department

Emergency numbers:
115 for ambulance
113 for police
114 for fire

Healthcare is generally reliable and affordable, but ensure your family has comprehensive international health insurance.

Daily Life and Groceries

Supermarkets like Annam Gourmet, Aeon Mall, MM Mega Market, and Go! carry international products. Online delivery apps (GrabMart, ShopeeFood, Chopp) make life easy for busy parents.

Domestic help is affordable, and many families hire part-time nannies or cleaners. Most neighborhoods have playgrounds, parks, and indoor play zones — perfect for hot or rainy days.

Fun Activities for Kids in Saigon

• Snow Town Saigon (District 2): Real snow in tropical Vietnam!
• Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens (District 1): Historic and shaded.
• Artinus 3D Museum (District 7): Fun for creative family photos.
• Turtle Lake & Nguyen Hue Boulevard: Popular weekend stroll spots.
• Weekend getaways: Head to Vung Tau (2 hours away) or Mui Ne for beach time.

Cost of Living Snapshot (2025)

Overall, most families find HCMC 30–50% more affordable than major Western cities, while maintaining a comfortable lifestyle.

Adjusting to Life in Vietnam

• Culture shock fades quickly — locals are welcoming and helpful.
• Traffic can be chaotic, but Grab Car and taxis are convenient.
• Weather: Hot year-round with rainy season (May–Oct).
• Community: Join Facebook groups like Expats & Locals in Saigon or HCMC Parents Network for support.

Final Tips Before You Move

1. Visit first if possible. Spend a week exploring districts and schools.
2. Secure schooling early. Some schools have waiting lists.
3. Choose housing near school and work. Commutes can be long.
4. Budget for relocation extras. Visas, deposits, and school fees add up.
5. Stay flexible. Vietnam changes fast — embrace it!

Ready to Move?

Saigon offers adventure, opportunity, and a wonderful childhood environment.
With the right planning — and a realistic view of both the pros and cons — your family can settle in smoothly and thrive in one of Asia’s most exciting cities.