Neighborhood guide · Ho Chi Minh City
District 2 — green, residential, family-friendly
District 2 (now part of Thu Duc City) mixes expat-heavy Thao Dien and An Phu with newer high-rise developments. Green, residential, and a short drive to District 1.
Quick facts
- Now part of Thu Duc City (administrative merger, 2021)
- Covers Thao Dien, An Phu, and Masteri / Gateway high-rises
- Most international schools cluster here or in adjacent An Phu
- Quieter and greener than central HCMC
What's here
Three sub-areas matter to expats: Thao Dien (the established Western anchor), An Phu (slightly newer, more Korean and Japanese families, walking distance to BIS), and the high-rise corridor along the riverfront (Masteri Thao Dien, Gateway, Estella). Each has a distinct rental profile.
Schools
British International School (BIS), Australian International School (AISVN), International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC), and several Montessori options sit inside District 2. Most expat families choose this district specifically to keep the school commute under 15 minutes.
Trade-offs
The commute into District 1 is the main downside — 25 minutes outside rush hour, double that during peak. Metro Line 1 should help once it's running reliably. Expect to spend more time in taxis or on a motorbike than you would living downtown.
Listings in District 2
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