Recently, in the City Pulse 2025 report by the Gensler Research Institute one of the world’s leading authorities on urban design – Ho Chi Minh City was ranked #2 globally for resident attachment, just after Taipei and ahead of global powerhouses like Singapore, Sydney, Seoul, and Berlin.
In a survey of over 33,000 people across 65 major cities, 61% of HCMC residents said it was “unlikely” or “very unlikely” they would leave the city. This isn’t just about satisfaction it speaks to a deeper emotional bond between people and place.
Ho Chi Minh City might not be dazzling on every corner, but it has a heartbeat of its own. Morning coffee on the sidewalk, sun-drenched afternoons by the canal, and the hum of scooters weaving through traffic at night these little moments form a mosaic of familiarity, connection, and… the desire to stay.
While not the cheapest place to live, HCMC still offers a more affordable lifestyle compared to many global metropolises, especially in North America or Europe. But as the report points out, it’s not just about numbers, it’s about whether life feels meaningful.
83% of locals surveyed reported being satisfied or very satisfied with their quality of life, from job opportunities and friendships to how the city “treats” them. People fall in love with HCMC not because it’s flawless, but because it welcomes imperfection with open arms.
Ho Chi Minh City is constantly in motion. It can be noisy, sometimes chaotic, but that’s the very energy that attracts those seeking a fresh start. Young entrepreneurs open cafés, expats launch startups, and newcomers find community. Each person brings their dream, and HCMC quietly helps shape it piece by piece.
“A city truly becomes ‘home’ when you don’t have to be perfect to be accepted, and you don’t need to stand out to be loved.”
Perhaps that’s what sets HCMC apart it doesn’t try to impress you with polished appearances. Instead, it makes you feel safe being who you are. You don’t need to be a local to call this city “home.” And once you’ve set foot here, you’ll understand why: some cities we pass through but a few walk alongside us for life.