Kossuth Lajos utca 7-9, Budapest, Hungary, 1053
23 January, 2025
Reading Time: 13 min

Cost of living in Hungary explained: prices and comparisons

Olivia Morgan — author of the article

On average, living in Hungary is significantly cheaper than in other European nations, even in major cities like Budapest. Low prices make Hungary an attractive destination for foreigners who want to try European lifestyle for a reasonable price. But how affordable is it for someone planning to relocate? 

This article provides an in-depth look at the average monthly cost of living in Hungary, comparing expenses across cities, including Budapest. From housing and utilities to groceries, healthcare, and entertainment, we explore how living costs here compare to those in the US and other popular expat destinations.

cost of living in hungary per month

How much does it cost to live in Hungary?

With the relaunch of Hungary’s Golden Visa program in 2024, the country is seeing a rise in interest from expats looking to relocate. Understanding the cost of living is a critical step in planning a smooth and budget-conscious move to Hungary.

A single person’s average monthly expense in Hungary is around €640, while a family of four may spend approximately €2,300 on essentials. These costs include daily expenses, utilities, transportation, and food but exclude rent, which varies by city and neighbourhood.

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Comparing Hungary’s costs to familiar benchmarks highlights its affordability. The overall cost of living in Hungary is roughly 40–50% lower than in the US, with rent prices up to 72% lower. 

Budapest, the capital, is Hungary’s most expensive city but it remains affordable compared to other European capitals. According to Numbeo, living costs in Budapest are 36% lower than in Berlin, 44% below those in Paris, and 50% less than in London. Smaller cities like Debrecen or Szeged offer even more affordable costs, allowing for an economical lifestyle with similar amenities.

Common monthly expenses in Hungary are as follows:

  • €200—300 for groceries and food;
  • €20—25 for a monthly pass on public transportation;
  • €80—120 for utilities like electricity, water, and heating, depending on usage;
  • €30—40 for mobile phone plan and Internet.

Cost of living in Hungary for one person and a family of four

Monthly expense categorySingle person Family of four
Groceries and food€200—300€700—800
Utilities€80—120€120—180
Mobile phone plan and Internet€30—40€60—80
Public transport monthly pass€20—25€80—100
Dining out, 8 meals per month€80—360€150—600
Leisure€20—65€100—250
Clothing, 4 items per month€30—55€110—135
Private preschool for a child€200—800
Total€460—840€1,500—3,000

Housing prices in Hungary

Housing in Hungary varies significantly by city, with Budapest as the most expensive. 

Rental costs in Budapest are as follows:

  • €615 per month for one-bedroom apartment in the city centre;
  • €443 per month for one-bedroom apartment outside the city centre;
  • €1,040 per month for three-bedroom apartment in city centre; 
  • €750 per month for a three-bedroom apartment outside the city centre.

Outside of Budapest, cities like Debrecen or Pécs offer one-bedroom apartments for approximately €400—500 in central areas, allowing residents to live comfortably at a lower cost.​

Purchasing property in Hungary remains popular for expats and investors, who can access both newer builds and resale properties without limitations on ownership, except for some rural and historic areas. Prices vary based on the building’s age, location, and amenities:

  • €2,800 per square metre for an apartment in the city centre;
  • €2,100 per per square metre for an apartment outside the city centre;
  • €3,700 per square metre for an apartment in the centre of Budapest;
  • €2,400 per square metre for an apartment outside the centre of Budapest. 

Property maintenance costs range from €100 to €230 monthly, covering utilities and upkeep depending on the property’s size and location​.

Monthly utilities expenses in Hungary

Monthly utility costs in Hungary can vary based on apartment size, location, season, and the building’s energy efficiency class. For a standard 85-square-metre apartment, basic utilities — including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage collection — typically range from €80 to €120 per month. In Budapest, costs often reach the higher end of this range, especially in winter due to increased heating demands.

Internet plans generally cost €15—30 monthly, and mobile plans with calls and data average around €10—20 per month. Together, these make connectivity expenses relatively affordable in Hungary.

How affordable is transportation in Hungary?

Transportation in Hungary offers efficient and affordable options, particularly in urban areas. Public transport is widely used and highly integrated, making it convenient for both expats and locals.

Public transportation. Budapest stands out for its well-connected public transport network, with a one-way ticket costing around €1, and a monthly pass for unlimited travel priced at approximately €22. The system includes buses, trams, metros, and suburban trains, all integrated and accessible with a single ticket or pass.

Car rental. Renting a car in Hungary is a practical option for short-term or occasional use. Prices start at around €25—30 per day for a standard vehicle, depending on the rental company, season, and location. Discounts are often available for weekly or monthly rentals, making it a cost-effective choice for travellers or those without a personal vehicle.

Driving and vehicle ownership. A new mid-range vehicle like a Toyota Corolla or Volkswagen Golf costs approximately €25,000—30,000, depending on specifications and dealership offers​. 

Car insurance premiums range widely depending on coverage level, driver’s age, and vehicle type, but a basic liability policy costs about €150—200 per year. Comprehensive insurance for higher-end models or additional coverage can cost between €600 and €1,200 annually​.

Additional vehicle costs. Initial registration fees depend on the vehicle’s specifications and are determined by the customs authority. Annual vehicle tax is based on the car’s age and kilowatt output. Routine maintenance costs, such as oil changes, average around €150 per year, but larger repairs, like brake replacements or engine fixes, can be more costly. Budgeting €300—600 annually for maintenance is reasonable.

With gasoline prices at about €1.50 per litre, or €6 per gallon, monthly fuel costs will vary based on driving frequency. A typical driver might spend around €100—200 monthly on fuel​. 

Urban parking permits or garage spaces can add to the cost, especially in Budapest, where monthly parking fees in central areas range from €70 to €150 depending on the location.

Taxis are also reasonably priced, with an initial fare around €2.7 and per kilometre rates averaging €1.

Prices of food in Hungary

Food prices in Hungary are generally affordable compared to those in Western Europe. Here is an overview of common grocery and dining costs to help expats estimate their monthly food budgets.

Grocery costs:

  • €1.00 for a litre of milk;
  • €1.30 for a loaf of fresh white bread;
  • €1.70 for a kilogram of rice;
  • €2.40 for a dozen of eggs;
  • €4.80 for a kilogram of chicken fillets;
  • €10.00 for a kilogram of beef;
  • €1—2.50 for a kilogram​ of fruits and vegetables like apples, bananas, and tomatoes.

Costs for dining out:

  • €10 for a typical meal at a local, inexpensive restaurant;
  • €45 for a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant;
  • €7 for a combo meal at fast-food chains like McDonald’s.

Overall, monthly grocery expenses for a single person are around €200—300, depending on personal preferences, while a family might spend €700—800. Monthly restaurant spending can be about €80—360 for individuals and €150—600 for families.

Cost of healthcare for expats in Hungary

Expats in Hungary can access healthcare services through public or private systems. Public healthcare requires participation in Hungary’s social security system, while private care involves direct payment or private insurance. Below is an overview of healthcare costs and contributions for expats in Hungary.

Basic health insurance. Expats employed in Hungary with valid residence permits contribute to the public healthcare system via social security payments. This grants access to free or low-cost public health services, but it might not cover all treatments and often involves longer wait times for specialists. 

Employees in Hungary contribute 18.5% of their gross income to the social security system. Employers pay an additional 13% social tax. Contributions are automatically deducted from salaries for employees of Hungarian employers. Uninsured persons must pay HUF 11,300 or €28 monthly to access public healthcare services.

For individuals earning the minimum wage of HUF 266,800 or €650 per month, the employee’s contribution is HUF 49,358 or €120. Those earning the guaranteed minimum wage of HUF 326,000 or €794 for skilled workers contribute HUF 60,310 or €147.

Private health insurance. Many expats choose private health insurance to access English-speaking doctors and quicker service. Private insurance plans for a single adult range from €20 to €300 per month, depending on coverage and provider. Family plans can cost higher, between €80 and €500 monthly​.

Doctor visits. A typical visit to a general practitioner in a private clinic costs about €30—50. Specialist visits start around €40 and can go up to €100 in Budapest, depending on the doctor’s expertise​.

Emergency services. Emergency treatment in Hungary is generally free for citizens and residents with valid health insurance. Non-residents may be required to pay for treatment out-of-pocket or have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. If paid out-of-pocket, emergency visits can cost upwards of €100, though costs vary by treatment and hospital​.

Prescription medication. Individuals contributing to the social security system are entitled to discounts on medications and prescription charges. However, for those without insurance, the prices are still reasonable. Basic medications such as antibiotics cost approximately €5—20, though more specialised medications may be priced higher.

How expensive is education in Hungary?

Hungary offers affordable and diverse education options for expats, ranging from free public schooling to private and international schools.

Public education. For children up to the age of 16, public education in Hungary is free for both locals and expats, covering the standard Hungarian curriculum. However, classes are generally taught in Hungarian, which can be a barrier for non-Hungarian-speaking families​.

Public schools in Hungary are available not only to Hungarian citizens but also to children of expat families if at least one parent holds a residence permit. Families with permanent residency or refugee status also qualify for free public education.

Private and international schools. Expats often choose private or international schools, where English or other languages are used as the medium of instruction. Tuition for private schools typically ranges from €2,000 to €6,000 per year, depending on factors like school reputation and curriculum. 

International schools, especially in Budapest, offer globally recognised curricula, including the International Baccalaureate or British and American systems. These schools can cost from €5,000 to €20,000 per year per child​.

Higher education. Hungary also has affordable and high-quality higher education options, with many universities offering English-language programs. Residence permit holders may be eligible for the same tuition fees as Hungarian or EU students. This depends on the university’s specific policies. Many Hungarian universities offer reduced fees or local tuition rates to students with permanent or long-term residence permits. 

However, non-EU students without permanent or long-term permits typically pay higher tuition fees. For non-EU students, undergraduate programs costs range from €1,500 to €6,000 per year, depending on the program and institution.

Hungarian universities have strong international recognition, enabling graduates to pursue careers across the EU and beyond.

Budapest University of Technology and Economics | Cost of living in Hungary
Budapest University of Technology and Economics ranks among the world’s top 1,000 universities in the QS World University Rankings 2025.

Public childcare. Public nurseries for children up to the age of 3 and kindergartens for ages 3 to 6 are typically state-funded, making them a cost-effective choice. These institutions may, however, have limited spots, especially in high-demand areas like Budapest, and may be usually conducted in Hungarian​.

Private childcare. For families seeking flexibility or English-speaking environments, private and international childcare facilities are available, primarily in Budapest. Private daycare costs range from €200 to €400 per month, depending on location and services offered. 

International nurseries and kindergartens that cater to expats can cost between €400 and €1,000 monthly. Many of these institutions provide bilingual programs or internationally recognised curricula, tailored to expatriate needs​. 

Prices for leisure and entertainment in Hungary

Hungary offers an affordable range of leisure and entertainment options, appealing to both residents and expats. Fitness enthusiasts can expect to pay €35—50 per month for a gym membership, depending on the location and facilities. For recreational sports, renting a tennis court on weekends is around €13—16 per hour, making it a reasonably priced way to stay active​.

Movie tickets are similarly affordable, costing about €5.50—7.50 for standard international releases. Theatre tickets for local productions often start around €8, with higher prices for premium shows and seats, offering an accessible cultural outing​.

Dining out provides excellent value in Hungary. A domestic beer costs approximately €2 in bars and restaurants, while a cappuccino ranges between €2 and 2.50 at local cafés. For a night out, a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant is about €45—50, making dining accessible for various budgets​.

For cultural experiences, museums and galleries charge modest entry fees, usually €4—8, with discounts for students and families. Cities like Budapest and Szeged frequently host festivals and concerts, many of which are free, adding to the rich cultural experience without additional costs​.

5 benefits of living in Hungary as an expat

1. Life in the EU with affordable costs. Hungary offers a significantly lower cost of living than many Western European countries. Housing, food, and transportation costs are much more affordable. For example, rent in Budapest is 50—60% cheaper than in Berlin or Paris, and dining out can cost half as much as in Copenhagen.

2. High quality of life. Hungary offers a high quality of life supported by affordable social services, accessible healthcare, and a safe environment. According to Numbeo, crime rates in Hungary are low and the safety of walking alone during daylight or night is high. 

Five of Hungary’s universities are in the top-1000 of QS World University Ranking 2025. Public spaces are clean, and there is a growing emphasis on sustainability and green initiatives. For those who enjoy an active lifestyle, Hungary provides easy access to parks, hiking trails, and wellness facilities, including thermal baths.

3. Expat-friendly laws. Hungary is attractive for expats planning a longer-term move. Certain types of residence permits in Hungary can lead to permanent residency after three years, and Hungarian citizenship is attainable after eight years of permanent residency.

Hungary has expat-friendly regulations that make living and working in the country straightforward. Foreign residents with valid permits can access public healthcare, enrol their children in public schools, and enjoy the same legal protections as locals in areas like housing and employment. 

4. Business and employment opportunities. Hungary has a favourable tax environment, with one of the lowest corporate tax rates in Europe at 9%. The personal income tax is also low at a flat 15%, making it attractive for professionals. Special residence permits are available for business owners, investors, and digital nomads, making Hungary a practical destination for work and investment in Europe.

For job seekers, Hungary has a growing demand for skilled professionals in sectors like IT, healthcare, engineering, and education. Employers often recognise international qualifications, and there are increasing opportunities for English-speaking professionals in multinational companies based in Hungary.

5. Easy and accessible travel across Europe. Hungary’s central location in Europe makes it easy to travel to nearby countries, and residents can enjoy visa-free travel within the Schengen Area. 

Budapest is a major transportation hub, with an international airport offering budget-friendly flights to destinations across Europe. Additionally, the country’s well-connected rail and road networks make neighbouring countries like Austria, Slovakia, and Croatia easily accessible for short trips.

Cost of living in Hungary | Keleti railway station
From the Keleti railway station in Budapest, residents can hop on to fast trains to Munich, Zurich, Vienna, Brasov, Graz, and other European cities 

The most expensive vs affordable cities in Hungary

Budapest, the capital, is the most expensive city in Hungary, with monthly costs for a single person averaging around €645, excluding rent. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre typically costs about €615. Dining, transportation, and entertainment expenses are also higher compared to other cities.

Debrecen, Hungary’s second-largest city, is also the second most expensive. Monthly costs for a single person are around €560, and renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs about €400. Debrecen is home to a large university and is known for its cultural and academic opportunities. The city offers a variety of cultural events and festivals.

Szeged, often called the “City of Sunshine” due to its favourable weather, combines affordable living with plenty of cultural activities. Monthly costs for a single person are approximately €450, and city-centre rents average €350 for a one-bedroom apartment. Szeged has a youthful vibe thanks to its universities and is known for its annual festivals.

Pécs is a historic city in southern Hungary that offers an affordable lifestyle with monthly costs around €440 for a single person. Central apartments rent for about €400. Pécs is renowned for its Roman history, art scene, mild climate, and relaxed pace, appealing to retirees and remote workers.

Miskolc is one of Hungary’s most budget-friendly cities, with monthly costs for a single person averaging €400. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from €250 to €300. Located near the Bükk Mountains, the city provides easy access to outdoor activities, such as hiking and thermal baths, making it a great choice for nature enthusiasts. 

Cost of living in Miskolc, Hungary
Formerly an industrial hub known as the “steel city,” Miskolc has transitioned to focus on sustainability and environmental protection, now branding itself as the “green city”

How to move to Hungary

Moving to Hungary as an expat offers several pathways depending on personal circumstances and goals. Non-EU nationals can apply for a residence permit, either for work, family reunification, studies, or investment. EU citizens can freely move to Hungary but must register with local authorities if they plan to stay longer than three months.

The Hungary Golden Visa program is an attractive option for non-EU investors seeking residency. Launched in 2024, this program allows applicants to gain residency by making one of the following investments:

  • at least €250,000 in a designated Hungarian real estate fund;
  • donation of €1,000,000 or more to a Hungarian institution of higher learning, supporting areas such as scientific research or the arts.

Each of these investment options grants applicants a residence permit valid for ten years, allowing visa-free travel across the Schengen Area. Family members of the main applicant may join them. No minimum stay requirement is attached to this permit, making it ideal for investors who may not reside in Hungary full-time.

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Work permit. Non-EU nationals can also move to Hungary for employment by obtaining a work permit. There are eight types of work residence permits available, depending on the type of job and required qualifications. The duration of these permits ranges from 6 months to several years.

Applicants need a job offer from a Hungarian employer, who must first secure work authorisation from local authorities. Required documents include an employment contract, proof of qualifications, and accommodation arrangements.

Residence permit for entrepreneurs. Entrepreneurs in Hungary can establish a legal entity, such as a limited liability company, LLC, or a joint-stock company, JSC, to apply for one of two residence permits: the standard residence permit for business owners or the National card. The minimum share capital requirement is €7,700 for a limited liability company and €12,700 for a joint-stock company.

Residence permit for business owners is initially valid for one year and can be extended for two more years. After three years, the permit can be renewed with the same company, but the applicant must leave Hungary and apply for a new visa through the consulate.

The National card is available to citizens of eight countries: Ukraine, Serbia, Belarus, Montenegro, Russia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Moldova, and North Macedonia. It is valid for three years and can be extended for the same period. The card is renewed if the holder spends at least 183 days a year in Hungary.

Digital Nomad Visa, or White Card. The White Card allows non-EU nationals to live in Hungary while working remotely for employers or clients based outside the country. Applicants need to demonstrate a minimum monthly income of €3,000. The White Card provides a two-year residency without the possibility of family reunification, making it suited for solo remote workers rather than families​.

Student visa. International students accepted into Hungarian universities can apply for a student residence permit, valid for the duration of their studies — up to two years initially, with extensions available. Applicants must show proof of enrollment in a recognised program, financial means for living expenses, health insurance, and housing arrangements.

Family reunification permit. Hungary’s family reunification program allows non-EU family members to join a Hungarian resident or citizen. Eligible family members include spouses, dependent children, and parents. The application requires proof of family ties, adequate housing, and financial means to support family members. This permit is aligned with the validity of the primary resident’s permit.

Main takeaways about cost of living in Hungary

  1. Monthly expenses in Hungary for a single person average around €640, excluding rent, while a family of four can expect to spend approximately €2,300 per month on essentials​.
  2. Rent prices vary widely, with a one-bedroom apartment in Budapest’s city centre costing about €650, while similar apartments in smaller cities like Pécs or Miskolc can be as low as €250—300​.
  3. Monthly public transport passes cost around €25, making commuting economical, particularly in Budapest.
  4. Utilities for an average apartment typically range between €100 and €150 monthly, depending on location and usage.
  5. Food costs are affordable, with groceries and dining out costing less than in many European countries, making €250 per month sufficient for a single person​.
  6. Families can choose from public, private, and international schools, with international tuition fees starting around €5,000 annually.
  7. Hungary provides affordable public healthcare services, with private options also available for expats seeking additional coverage.
  8. Hungary’s Golden Visa offers a path to residency through investment, starting from €250,000, providing long-term stability for investors and their families.

Frequently asked questions

Hungary is considered an affordable place to live in, with costs about 40% lower than in the United States. A single person’s monthly expenses, excluding rent, average around €640, while a family of four typically spends about €2,300.

Yes, €1,000 can cover basic expenses in Hungary, especially in cities outside Budapest. For budget-conscious individuals, this amount can cover essentials like groceries, utilities, and transportation, though it might be tight if rent is included.

A monthly salary of €1,500—2,000 allows a single person to live comfortably in Hungary. For a family of four, €3,500—4,500 is sufficient outside Budapest. In Budapest, higher salaries of €2,500—3,000 for individuals and €5,000—6,000 for families offer greater flexibility and financial security.

Living expenses in Hungary vary by city. On average, a single person spends around €640 monthly, while a family of four typically needs about €2,300. These estimates do not include rent, which can add €250—650, depending on the location and property type.

Cities like Pécs and Miskolc are among the most affordable, with lower rent and overall costs compared to Budapest. 

Rent varies widely: in Budapest, a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs about €650 per month, while similar apartments in smaller cities like Debrecen or Pécs range from €250 to €400 monthly.

Living in Budapest is more expensive than in other Hungarian cities. A single person’s monthly costs, excluding rent, are around €700, while a family of four may spend closer to €3,000 in total monthly expenses.

Hungary offers several residency options, including work and student permits, family reunification, and residency by investment. The latter is called Golden Visa and requires a minimum investment of €250,000.

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