What Are People From Ho Chi Minh City Called?

Southeast Asia, Vietnam

The demonym for people from Ho Chi Minh City is:

Saigonese

Pronunciation:

/hoʊ tʃiː mɪn/

Ends in -ese — see how this suffix works

Ho Chi Minh City in Viet Nam
Image via Wikimedia CommonsCC BY-SA 4.0

About Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam and the country's leading economic hub. Formerly known as Saigon until 1976, it retains a distinctive character shaped by its French colonial past and its modern rise. Visitors can admire French colonial architecture, such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, set alongside gleaming modern skyscrapers. The city is known for its vibrant street life, bustling markets, and cuisine, with busy sidewalk cafes serving pho, banh mi, and fresh coffee. As a major center for commerce, finance, and culture, Ho Chi Minh City attracts business travelers, artists, and entrepreneurs from around the world. Its energy, food scene, and historical sites make it one of Southeast Asia's most engaging urban destinations.

Quick Facts about Ho Chi Minh City
Population:
9,321,000 (2024 est.)
Country:
Vietnam
Region:
Southeast Asia

Recommended Geography Resources

Want to explore where Saigoneses live? Here's the atlas that does it best:

National Geographic Atlas of the World

Highly detailed, stunning visuals

▶See more options

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Etymology of the Ho Chi Minh City Demonym

Named after Ho Chi Minh. Formerly Saigon. The demonym 'Saigonese' or 'Saigoner' is still commonly used.

Top Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Actions

Test Your Knowledge

Challenge yourself with our demonym quizzes and see how many you can get right!

Take a Quiz →