What is the Average Salary in Vietnam?
As of 2025, the average annual salary in Vietnam is approximately 207,600,000 VND (around $8,125.74 USD per year). This reflects the country's economic growth and the increasing demand for skilled professionals.
Income levels in Vietnam vary based on factors such as industry, experience, education, and location. Urban centers like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City typically offer higher salaries compared to rural regions.
Comparative Profession Salary Earnings in Vietnam
Here's a general breakdown of monthly and annual salary ranges in Vietnam:
Note: These figures are approximate and can vary based on specific roles, industries, and company policies.
Source: Michael Page, ManpowerGroup
Industry-Specific Salary Earnings
Salaries in Vietnam differ across various industries. Below is an overview of average annual salaries for common professions:
Note: These figures are approximate and can vary based on experience, location, and company size.
Source: Michael Page,Manpower Group Vietnam
Labor Market Overview
Vietnam's labor market has shown resilience and adaptability in recent years. The employment rate is projected to be 71.79% in 2025. In 2023, the services sector employed over 35.79% of the workforce, followed by agriculture at 32.98% and industry at 31.23%.
The country's young and educated population contributes to a dynamic labor force, with a median age of around 35 to 39 years. However, the country continues to face challenges such as underemployment and skill mismatches, which highlight the need for ongoing investment in education and training.
Benefits of Hiring Employees in Vietnam
Hiring in Vietnam offers various advantages:
- Cost-Effective Labor: Competitive salary levels allow businesses to manage operational costs efficiently.
- Skilled Workforce: A growing number of professionals with expertise in various fields.
- Strategic Location: Proximity to major Asian markets facilitates business expansion.
- Government Support: Pro-business policies and incentives for foreign investors.
- Cultural Compatibility: A workforce known for its adaptability and strong work ethics.
- Language Proficiency: Increasing English proficiency among young professionals, which eases cross-border collaboration.
- Economic Stability: A consistently growing economy with a stable political environment.
Factors That Influence Salaries in Vietnam
The salary landscape in Vietnam is shaped by various economic and market-driven factors. Employers should consider these elements to offer competitive compensation packages.
1. Economic Growth
Vietnam's robust economic growth has resulted in rising salary expectations as businesses compete for top talent.
2. Industry Demand
High-demand sectors like technology and finance often offer higher salaries to attract skilled professionals.
3. Education and Experience
Advanced qualifications and extensive experience can significantly impact earning potential.
4. Geographic Location
Urban centers typically provide higher wages due to the elevated cost of living and greater demand for specialized skills.
Hiring Trends & Future Salary Outlook in Vietnam
Technology Sector Expansion
Vietnam's IT industry is experiencing significant growth, with projections indicating a strong demand for professionals in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cybersecurity.
The average monthly salary for IT professionals has risen to approximately $1,820, with sectors like pharmaceuticals offering up to $2,965 per month.
Emphasis on Renewable Energy
The shift towards sustainability has led to increased demand for roles such as environmental engineers and clean energy developers.
This transition is expected to create numerous job opportunities and influence competitive compensation packages in the green energy sector.
Salary Adjustments and Employee Retention
A significant 82% of Vietnamese companies plan to increase salaries in 2025 to attract and retain top talent.
Salary increments are expected to remain steady, ranging between 15% and 25%, depending on the industry and role.
Focus on Upskilling and Training
Employers are investing in comprehensive training and development initiatives, with 67% emphasizing the importance of such programs to enhance employee skills and competencies.
This focus on upskilling is essential to meet the evolving demands of the labor market and technological advancements.
Digital Transformation Across Industries
Digital transformation is a key driver in various sectors, leading to a drastic increase in demand for professionals skilled in data analysis, software development, and digital marketing.
Companies are seeking talent proficient in emerging technologies to stay competitive in the evolving market landscape.
Key Takeaways
Have an in-depth understanding of salary trends in Vietnam is essential for businesses looking to attract top talent and for professionals seeking fair compensation. To make well-informed decisions as a hiring manager, consider industry benchmarks, location, experience, and cost-of-living factors. Look for free resources such as Playroll's salary benchmarking tool and employee cost calculator to easily benchmark your offering across the globe.
If you're planning to hire in Vietnam, make sure to offer competitive salaries, provide benefits that match industry standards, and stay updated on local labor laws to ensure a smooth and successful hiring process.
Want to simplify the process of hiring in Vietnam? Playroll offers leading EOR services to make global hiring a breeze – let us handle legal employment, compliance, payroll, and benefits management, so you can freely explore new markets and focus on team growth.