04/04/2026
🤔CONFUSED BY YOUR ELECTRICITY BILL?
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Living in a serviced apartment in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) often comes with a bit of "bill shock" when the first electricity invoice arrives. Unlike back home, Vietnam uses a tiered pricing system that can make high consumption significantly more expensive.
This guide breaks down what's normal, what's a surcharge, and how to keep your costs under control.
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1. THE TIERED SYSTEM (EVN)
The state utility, Electricity Vietnam (EVN), uses a progressive tariff for residential users. The more you use, the higher the rate per kWh. As of May 10, 2025, the official residential rates (excluding 10% VAT) are:
• Tier 1 (0 – 50 kWh): 1,984 VND/kWh
• Tier 2 (51 – 100 kWh): 2,050 VND/kWh
• Tier 3 (101 – 200 kWh): 2,380 VND/kWh
• Tier 4 (201 – 300 kWh): 2,998 VND/kWh
• Tier 5 (301 – 400 kWh): 3,350 VND/kWh
• Tier 6 (401+ kWh): 3,460 VND/kWh
💡 Pro Tip: If you use 500 kWh, you don't pay 3,460 VND for all of it. You pay the Tier 1 rate for the first 50, Tier 2 for the next 50, and so on.
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2. SERVICED APARTMENTS: THE "FIXED RATE" REALITY
In many serviced apartments, landlords don't use the tiered EVN system. Instead, they charge a flat fixed rate.
• EVN Tiered (~2,000 – 3,500 VND): Standard for long-term condos and houses.
• Fixed Rate (4,000 – 5,000 VND): Common in serviced apartments to cover "business" rates and common area costs.
❓ Is 4,000 – 5,000 VND/kWh Normal?
Yes, for a serviced apartment, this is the standard market rate. If your landlord is charging over 5,000 VND/kWh, you might want to negotiate or look elsewhere.
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3. WHAT'S A "NORMAL" MONTHLY BILL?
Your bill is almost entirely driven by Air Conditioning (AC). Here’s a rough estimate for HCMC:
• Studio / 1-Bedroom: 1,000,000 – 2,000,000 VND ($40 – $80)
• 2-Bedroom Apartment: 2,500,000 – 4,500,000 VND ($100 – $180)
• 3-Bedroom / Large Unit: 5,000,000+ VND ($200+)
*Note: These estimates assume moderate AC use. Blasting AC 24/7 can easily double these figures.*
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4. PRACTICAL TIPS TO SAVE MONEY
✅ The "26°C Rule": Every degree lower on your AC increases consumption by 3-5%. Set it to 26°C and use a fan for better circulation.
✅ Check Your Meter: Take a photo of your meter on move-in day and at the end of every month to verify the readings.
✅ AC Maintenance: Ask your landlord to clean the filters every 3-4 months. A dirty AC works harder and uses more power.
✅ Confirm VAT: Always ask if the quoted rate includes the 10% VAT.
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