How Much Does an English Teacher Make in Vietnam

Curious about the salary of English teachers in Vietnam?

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about teaching English in Vietnam, from average monthly pay and savings potential to the key factors that affect your TEFL income. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to maximize your earnings abroad, discover how much money you can make teaching English in Vietnam.

If you’re thinking about earning your TEFL certification and heading to Southeast Asia, Vietnam likely stands out for its abundance of English teaching opportunities. With its vibrant culture, welcoming communities, and breathtaking scenery, it is also a home to one of the fastest-growing markets for teaching English abroad. As the country continues to grow economically and build stronger international partnerships, the demand for fluent English speakers is steadily increasing, especially among younger generations. That means more English teaching jobs in Vietnam and a strong need for certified educators. Of course, when choosing where to teach, your potential income matters. So, how much does an English teacher make in Vietnam? The answer depends on a few key things, including your experience, the type of school you work for, and even which city you live in.  Understanding these factors can help you make the most of the professional opportunities and financial benefits available in this exciting destination.

Average Salary of English Teachers in Vietnam

The salary of English teachers in Vietnam generally ranges from around $1,200 to $2,000 USD per month, depending on your experience, qualifications, job type, and location. Entry-level teachers working at private language centers or public schools usually earn on the lower end of this range, while positions at international schools and universities tend to offer more competitive compensation.

For TEFL-certified teachers with some classroom experience, earning approximately $1,500 USD per month is quite common. This serves as a solid benchmark for standard teaching roles in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Teachers in more competitive positions, such as those in international schools, may earn higher salaries, especially if they hold a teaching license or a degree in education.

3 Key Factors That Impact Your Salary as an English Teacher in Vietnam

To understand the full picture, it’s important to look at the main factors that affect English teacher salaries in Vietnam. Everything from the type of school to the city you live in can shape your earning potential and day-to-day experience.

1. Type of Employer

 The institution that hires you plays a major role in determining your monthly income.

• Private Language Centers are the most common employers, especially for first-time teachers. Salaries typically range from $1,200 to $1,600 USD per month. Hours are often evenings and weekends, and class sizes can vary widely.
• Public Schools offer a more traditional Monday-to-Friday schedule with holidays and less demanding hours. Pay usually falls between $1,200 and $1,800 USD per month.
• International Schools and Universities pay the highest, but they come with stricter requirements. Teachers in these institutions often earn $2,000 to $2,300 USD per month, particularly if they hold a degree in education or a teaching license.
• Private Tutoring is a flexible and high-demand income stream. Rates range from $20 to $35 USD per hour, and many teachers supplement their income by offering lessons in the evenings or weekends.

2. Qualifications: TEFL, Degrees, and Teaching Experience

Most schools in Vietnam require at least a TEFL certificate, which is considered the basic entry-level qualification for teaching jobs. With only a TEFL certificate, you can expect starting salaries to fall around $1,200 USD per month. If you also hold a bachelor’s degree, your chances of landing a better-paying position increase significantly, with salaries typically ranging between $1,500 and $1,800 USD per month. Teachers who combine a TEFL certification with a degree and previous ESL teaching experience are often eligible for the highest-paying roles, especially at international schools and universities, where monthly earnings can reach up to $2,300 USD.

3. Location: Cities vs. Smaller Towns

Your salary also depends heavily on where you teach. In Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, where demand is high and the ESL market is competitive, salaries are generally higher. Teachers here often earn $1,500 to $2,200 USD per month, especially if they take on private tutoring or online classes on the side.

In smaller cities like Da Nang, Hue, or rural areas, salaries might range from $1,000 to $1,400 USD per month, but the cost of living is significantly lower. Many teachers in these areas still manage to save well each month due to lower housing and daily expenses.

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6 Tips to Boost Your Earnings While Teaching in Vietnam

If you’re looking to increase your income while teaching in Vietnam, it pays to think long-term and be strategic with your opportunities. Here are a few effective ways to grow your earning potential.

1. Earn advanced credentials. Upgrading your TEFL certification or adding specializations—like Business English or Teaching Young Learners—can qualify you for higher-paying roles and more competitive schools.
2. Build classroom experience. The more experience you gain, the stronger your job prospects become. Teachers with a year or more under their belt often move into better positions with improved pay and benefits.
3. Pursue a degree or license. While not always required, having a bachelor’s degree or teaching license gives you a clear advantage in salary negotiations, especially with international schools or universities.
4. Offer private lessons. Tutoring on the side is a popular way to earn more, often bringing in $25 an hour or more, especially in larger cities where demand is strong.
5. Teach online part-time. Remote teaching is a flexible way to supplement your income. Many teachers combine online classes with their in-person schedules to maintain a steady second income.
6. Stay longer and grow your reputation. Teachers who complete their contracts and renew often receive bonuses or raises. Staying with one school also builds trust and opens doors to higher-paying roles over time.

Can You Save Money Teaching English in Vietnam?

Yes, and many teachers do. With low daily expenses, many English teachers in Vietnam live well and still save a solid portion of their salary. Rent in major cities for a shared apartment usually falls between $200 and $400 per month. Local meals cost around $1 to $3, and a motorbike rental averages just $40 monthly.

Living like a local helps your money stretch even further. Shop at street markets instead of international supermarkets, eat at family-run restaurants, and rent a local apartment—ideally shared with another teacher or expat. Some teachers even buy a motorbike instead of renting to cut long-term transport costs.

If you also take on private lessons or teach online part-time, saving $500 or more per month is very achievable, even after covering all your living expenses. 

Teach, Earn, and Save While Living in Vietnam

While it’s natural to ask how much an English teacher makes in Vietnam, salary is only part of the bigger picture. Teaching here offers the chance to earn a reliable income while becoming part of a culture that’s as warm and engaging as it is complex and inspiring. From your time in the classroom to everyday life in bustling cities or quiet towns, you’ll gain more than just work experience — you’ll gain perspective, purpose, and personal growth.

With growing demand for qualified teachers, affordable living, and a supportive teaching community, Vietnam stands out as a destination where you can truly make it work — financially, professionally, and personally.