The cost of living in Hungary is much lower than in other European countries. In fact, the stunning capital, Budapest, was ranked 180th out of 227 cities in the Mercer Cost of Living Survey for 2022, making it far cheaper than the likes of London and Paris but more expensive than Wrocław and Minsk.
Another plus is that expats tend to earn higher salaries than their Hungarian counterparts, which affords them a better quality of life. However, as with anywhere, there are certain aspects of life that can be expensive and expats should adjust their budgets accordingly.
Cost of accommodation in Hungary
The primary expense facing expats in Hungary is accommodation. This is especially the case for those living in urban areas, such as Budapest.
Naturally, the cost of accommodation in Hungary will largely depend on the location, size and condition of the property. That said, it is not unheard of for Budapest residents to spend more than half their monthly salary on the combined cost of rent, mandatory household maintenance fees and utilities.
Cost of groceries in Hungary
After accommodation, the next biggest expense for most people in Hungary is food, which accounts for approximately a quarter of the average Hungarian's monthly salary. Expats longing for a taste of home may well find something to satiate their cravings at a Hungarian supermarket, but imported goods can be expensive. Ideally, expats should only buy local goods to bring the final grocery bill down drastically, as can shopping for fresh produce at local markets.
Cost of eating out and entertainment in Hungary
There are many good restaurants in Hungary tailored to a variety of budgets, so the amount spent on eating out really depends on an expat's preferences. It's entirely possible to eat out on a small budget, though this will, of course, cost more than cooking at home. Meanwhile, there are also fine-dining options for those looking to splurge – but most expats will only be able to afford to treat themselves to this kind of indulgence occasionally. Remember that tipping is mandatory in Hungary and should be taken into account when budgeting for the cost of eating out.
Imported wine and beer are pricey, but expats fond of a drink or two will be pleased to know that Hungarian wine and beer are of excellent quality and are much friendlier on the wallet.
Cost of transport in Hungary
Hungary's well-developed public transport system is not only convenient, but also extremely affordable. For a reasonable price, a monthly ticket can be purchased which provides access to an unlimited number of trips on trams, buses, boats and, in Budapest, the metro.
Cost of education in Hungary
Expats with children who can speak Hungarian or are young enough to pick up the language as they go can benefit from the free public school system, which will eliminate a substantial expense. Those who are keen on international schooling for their young ones, however, will have to deal with the predictably high fees charged by these schools.
Cost of healthcare in Hungary
Healthcare should not be too much of an expense for expats in Hungary, as anyone employed in the country can make use of its free or highly subsidised healthcare services. The quality of healthcare in Hungary is on par with most countries in Western Europe, and it is even making a name for itself as a prominent medical tourism destination. Private healthcare in Hungary is of a high standard and is relatively cheap compared to that of Western countries.
Cost of living in Hungary chart
Prices may vary depending on product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for Budapest for November 2022.
Accommodation (monthly) |
|
One-bedroom apartment in city centre |
HUF 185,000 |
One-bedroom apartment outside of city centre |
HUF 144,000 |
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre |
HUF 345,000 |
Three-bedroom apartment outside of city centre |
HUF 248,000 |
Shopping |
|
Dozen eggs |
HUF 1,052 |
Milk (1 litre) |
HUF 414 |
Rice (1 kg) |
HUF 638 |
Loaf of white bread |
HUF 519 |
Chicken breasts (1kg) |
HUF 1,869 |
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) |
HUF 2,000 |
Eating out |
|
Big Mac Meal |
HUF 2,200 |
Coca-Cola (330ml) |
HUF 426 |
Cappuccino |
HUF 699 |
Bottle of beer (local) |
HUF 750 |
Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant |
HUF 15,000 |
Utilities/household |
|
Mobile call rate (per minute – mobile to mobile) |
HUF 29.59 |
Internet (uncapped ADSL or cable – average per month) |
HUF 4,945 |
Basic utilities (average per month for standard household) |
HUF 51,270 |
Transport |
|
Taxi rate/km |
HUF 400 |
Bus fare in the city centre |
HUF 350 |
Gasoline (per litre) |
HUF 595 |
Further reading
►For more on managing your finances in Hungary, see Banking, Money and Taxes in Hungary
Expat Experiences
"It’s a lot cheaper here than in America. Especially in terms of real estate. In Budapest, things are getting expensive but everything in Miskolc is still very affordable. Compared with America, groceries are cheaper in Hungary, but the salaries are low. Relative to salaries in Miskolc, food should be more affordable. At a dollar or two for a beer in a bar, compared with a minimum of five dollars back home in America, alcohol is also much cheaper in Hungary."
Read more about Irish-American expat Colm Fitzgerald's experiences in Hungary.
Are you an expat living in Hungary?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Hungary. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global
If you’re thinking about taking out private health insurance, our trusted partner Cigna Global is very aware of all the difficulties that expats can face when it comes to healthcare in a new location, so they have created a range of international health insurance plans specifically designed for expats, which you can tailor exactly to the needs and ensure access to quality care for you and your family.
Moving Companies
Moving Internationally?
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.