Thinking about moving to Kecskemet? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Kecskemet.
Located in the heart of Hungary, Kecskemét is a city that offers a unique blend of traditional Hungarian culture and modern amenities. Known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful architecture, and rich history, Kecskemét is a city that has something for everyone. But like any city, living in Kecskemét comes with its own set of pros and cons. In this article, we will delve into the advantages and disadvantages of living in this charming Hungarian city.
Pros of Living in Kecskemét, Hungary
One of the biggest advantages of living in Kecskemét is its rich cultural scene. The city is home to several museums and galleries, such as the Kecskemét Art Museum and the Cifrapalota, which showcase the city’s artistic heritage. The city also hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year, including the International Folklore Festival and the Kecskemét Animation Film Festival, providing residents with ample opportunities to immerse themselves in the arts.
Another advantage of living in Kecskemét is its affordability. Compared to other European cities, the cost of living in Kecskemét is relatively low. This includes housing, groceries, and transportation. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around 120,000 HUF per month, which is significantly cheaper than in Budapest or other Western European cities.
Kecskemét is also known for its beautiful architecture. The city is home to several Art Nouveau buildings, such as the City Hall and the Old Church, which add to its charm and appeal. Walking through the city is like stepping back in time, with its cobblestone streets and historic buildings.
Furthermore, Kecskemét is located in the heart of Hungary, making it an ideal base for exploring the rest of the country. The city is just an hour’s drive from Budapest and is also close to other popular destinations such as Szeged and Debrecen. This central location makes it easy for residents to travel and explore Hungary’s diverse landscapes and attractions.
Finally, Kecskemét offers a high quality of life. The city has a low crime rate, excellent healthcare facilities, and a good education system. There are several schools and universities in the city, including the Kecskemét College and the John von Neumann University, providing residents with access to quality education. The city also has several parks and green spaces, such as the Kecskemét Arboretum and the Kecskemét Zoo and Botanical Garden, where residents can enjoy outdoor activities and connect with nature.
Cons of Living in Kecskemét, Hungary
Despite its many advantages, living in Kecskemét also has its drawbacks. One of the main disadvantages is the language barrier. While English is taught in schools, many locals, especially the older generation, do not speak it fluently. This can make everyday tasks such as shopping or visiting the doctor challenging for expats who do not speak Hungarian.
Another disadvantage of living in Kecskemét is the lack of diversity. While the city is home to a variety of cultures and nationalities, it is predominantly Hungarian. This lack of diversity can make it difficult for expats to integrate and feel at home in the city.
While Kecskemét has a vibrant arts scene, it lacks the nightlife and entertainment options of larger cities. There are a few bars and clubs in the city, but they are not as numerous or as diverse as in Budapest or other major European cities. This can be a disadvantage for those who enjoy a vibrant nightlife.
Another drawback of living in Kecskemét is the weather. The city has a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The summer months can be particularly uncomfortable, with temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. On the other hand, winters can be harsh, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and occasional snowfall.
Finally, while Kecskemét is centrally located, it is not as well-connected as other Hungarian cities. The city has a train station, but the service is not as frequent or as reliable as in Budapest. This can make traveling to other parts of the country or Europe more challenging and time-consuming.
