There are generally four types of accommodations available to the Hanoi expat:

• Rooms: You do not need a large salary to find a room in Vietnam, and it is the cheapest housing option. Rooms typically come furnished and can be found close to the city center.
• Houses: Stand-alone houses can be furnished or unfurnished and are great for families that require space. Most houses have private driveways and are surrounded by a garden and/or a boundary fence.
• Apartments: This accommodation is the most widely available and cheaper than renting a house. However, you will have to coordinate with the landlord to have your utilities connected. Apartments come in different sizes and can be rented furnished or unfurnished.
• Serviced apartments: These are quite expensive and only make sense if your contract is short or your employer is footing the bill. They are generally located within hotels or high rises and offer an array of amenities and services including; furniture, housekeeping, maids, gyms, swimming pools etc. These services are typically included in the rent.