Balatonfured, Hungary
Last updated on Mar 23, 2023
Summary: People describe Balatonfured, Hungary as a beautiful lakeside town with a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of activities to enjoy. Expats love the relaxed atmosphere, the stunning views of Lake Balaton, and the friendly locals. The weather in Balatonfured is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit (1-24 Celsius). The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000 per month. The cost of a one bedroom apartment is around $400 per month, while a two bedroom apartment is around $600 per month. The approximate population of Balatonfured is around 10,000 people.
What do I need to know about living in Balatonfured?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Balatonfured, they said:
"Before retiring in Balatonfured, it is important to consider the cost of living, health care, taxes, and other legal requirements. Additionally, it is important to research the climate, cultural region and nearby attractions such as the Balaton Lake. Make sure to also familiarize yourself with the local language and customs. Make sure to also plan financially for your retirement and to think ahead in regards to any health issues or medical needs that might arise in the future. Before moving, it is also important to visit the city to get an idea of what life could be like living there, including living costs and recreational activities available," remarked one expat living in Balatonfured, Hungary.

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What do I need to know before moving to Balatonfured?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Balatonfured, they said:
"Balatonfured is a popular resort town located on the north shore of Lake Balaton in Hungary. It's known for its picturesque lakefront promenade, thermal baths, lively festivals, and abundance of cultural attractions. It's also a great place for an active lifestyle, since there are lots of opportunities for biking, sailing, kayaking, and hiking in the area. Before making the move, consider the cost of living in Balatonfured, which is slightly higher than the national average. Also, learn more about the local culture and customs to ensure a smooth transition. Finally, make sure you arrange visa requirements beforehand if you plan to stay longer than 90 days," explained one expat living in Balatonfured, Hungary.
How do I find a place to live in Balatonfured?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"Balatonfured offers a range of accommodation options, from hotels and holiday homes to holiday villages and camping sites. Whether you're looking to stay in a budget-friendly hostel, or a luxury resort, you can be sure to find somewhere comfortable and suitable to your needs. Online rental accommodation and travel websites such as Airbnb, Booking.com, and Tripadvisor are useful for searching for accommodation in Balatonfured. Additionally, you can also contact local real estate agencies and inquire about the availability of properties for rent," wrote one member in Balatonfured.
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Balatonfured?
"Expat homes or apartments in Balatonfured are usually modern and well-equipped. Most have good sized balconies and terraces with fantastic views of Lake Balaton. Inside, the apartments are airy and bright, with large windows, high ceilings, and often lots of natural light. Most come fully furnished with all the necessary appliances and comforts, including washers and dryers, dishwashers, and other necessary household items. Many of the homes feature wooden floors, stucco décor and modern renovations," wrote one member in Balatonfured.
What is the average cost of housing in Balatonfured?
If you are thinking about moving to Balatonfured, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Balatonfured varies greatly depending on location, size and amenities. Prices range from low-end accommodation for a single person or couple starting at about 1000-2000 Hungarian Forint ($35-$70 USD) per night, to more luxurious, resort-style accommodations with lake views ranging up to 16-20,000 Hungarian Forint ($560-$700 USD)," explained one expat living in Balatonfured, Hungary.
How do I meet people in Balatonfured?
When we asked people living in Balatonfured about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Balatonfured can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sailing, tennis, and golf. There are also many cultural activities, such as art classes, language classes, and music lessons. Expats can also join local sports teams, such as football, basketball, and volleyball. Additionally, there are many social clubs and organizations that host events and activities for expats. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals and events, such as the Balatonfured Wine Festival and the Balatonfured Summer Festival. Additionally, expats can join local meetup groups or attend language exchange events. Finally, expats can meet people by simply exploring the city and talking to locals," remarked one expat living in Balatonfured, Hungary.

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What should I bring when moving to Balatonfured?
People living in Balatonfured were asked what three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They wrote:
"Clothing suitable for all seasons, including warm sweaters and a jacket, sunscreen, swimming gear, comfortable shoes, insect repellent, toiletries, first-aid kit, basic kitchen supplies, any prescription medications, bedding, a camera, and personal items," commented one expat who made the move to Balatonfured.
Where should I setup a bank account in Balatonfured?
We asked expats in Balatonfured what banks they use and there advice about banking. They advised:
"In order to setup a bank account in Balatonfured, you will need to visit one of the local banks or a financial services provider, such as an independent brokerage. Depending on the bank or provider you choose, you may need to bring certain documents, such as proof of address, proof of identity, and proof of income. It is also important to make sure that the bank supports the currency of your choice (usually either HUF or EUR)," remarked one expat living in Balatonfured, Hungary.
Will I be able to find a job in Balatonfured?
When we asked people about industries and career opportunities in Balatonfured, they reponded:
"Finding a job in Balatonfured may or may not be possible depending on the individual's qualifications and the current job market. It's always a good idea to do research ahead of time on the local employment situation and to be prepared to apply for available positions. Additionally, networking with locals and reaching out to local employers and recruiters can increase the chances of finding employment in the area," said one expat in Balatonfured.
What is life like in Balatonfured?
When we asked people living in Balatonfured what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Balatonfured is a unique experience. The city is situated on the northern shore of Lake Balaton, the largest lake in Central Europe, and offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding countryside. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's vibrant culture, with its many festivals, restaurants, and nightlife. The city also offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and swimming in the lake. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live and work abroad. The city is also well-connected to other parts of Hungary and Europe, making it easy to explore the region," remarked one expat living in Balatonfured, Hungary.

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What do expats in Balatonfured appreciate most about the local culture?
"Expats in Balatonfured appreciate the laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals and slower pace of life. They enjoy the abundance of fresh local produce and food, as well as the beautiful scenery and numerous activities available in the area, like swimming and water sports in nearby Lake Balaton. Furthermore, expats are often attracted to the relaxed attitude of the local residents and the laidback culture. Lastly, the city's excellent public transportation and easy access to nearby cities, such as Budapest, make it an ideal place to live and explore central Europe," said one expat in Balatonfured.
"The people here have strong family values and very high food quality. As mentioned they patiently line up in cues and are generally very polite and warm. I have not experienced any anti-foreigner sentiment at all. I notice that most workers typically do a good job without requiring heavy supervision," said one expat who made the move to Balatonfured.
What do expats find most challenging?
"Living in a new culture with a different language, managing with a different currency, adapting to different norms and customs, developing a network of friends and contacts, finding reliable and professional services such as medical care and childcare, understanding the local laws and regulations, identifying trustworthy businesses, dealing with different working hours and practices, understanding local housing and employment markets, managing interpersonal and communication challenges, and living with the constant financial pressures of expat life," wrote one member in Balatonfured.
"There is a defeatist feeling in many Hungarians that things are bad and getting worse. But, on the opposite scale there is this overwhelming desire to get back the territories lost following WWI. I also find it a bit disconcerting that most Hungarians do not understand they have constantly been on the wrong side of every war they have fought in. It is weird to have a national day of mourning for Stalingrad for the loss of 200,000 Hungarian soldiers there but not recognizing that they were complicit in the Nazi attempts of Hitler to conquer Europe. The same is true for the attempted and failed revolution against Soviet occupation in 1956 only 11 years after the war ended in a country still being kept under control following the defeat of Germany and the Axis nations. So, they have supported Germany twice and lost heavily but still have this amazing desire for increased nationality even now that they are members of the EU and much of this is angering their neighbors which acquired the territories lost following the wars. I find this nationalism and increased right-wing behavior somewhat disconcerting," remarked one expat who made the move to Balatonfured.
Is there a lot of crime in Balatonfured?
We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:
"No, there is little to no crime reported in Balatonfured. The small, charming lakeside resort town is considered to be a very safe place to visit and live," commented one expat who made the move to Balatonfured.
Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Balatonfured accepting of differences?
"Balatonfured is noted for its diversity and acceptance of difference. The town has a large international community that includes people from many European countries as well as other parts of the world, such as the United States. In addition, Balatonfured is home to a number of retired Hungarians from other parts of the country, as well as many ethnic Hungarians from Romania, Serbia, and Ukraine. Local residents are known for their friendly attitude towards visitors and are indeed quite welcoming of any and all nationalities, as well as cultures and lifestyles. The community is also very accepting of different religions and individuals of any sexual orientation," remarked one expat who made the move to Balatonfured.

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What are the schools in Balatonfured like?
"Balatonf?red has two schools, the Elementary School and the Balatonfuredi Kossuth Lajos Secondary School. The elementary school provides education for pupils from kindergarden through to the fourth grade, while the Balatonfuredi Kossuth Lajos Secondary School provides comprehensive education for students from fifth grade through to graduation. Both schools are officially recognized by the Hungarian Ministry of Education. The curriculum at both schools follows national standards and is supplemented with English-language education and advanced study opportunities at the secondary school. In addition, there is an emphasis on cultural enhancement, including music, visual arts, and physical education," remarked one expat living in Balatonfured with children attending .
What are medical services in Balatonfured like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Balatonfured, they replied:
"Balatonfured offers a wide range of medical services for its residents. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide general medical care, as well as specialized services such as cardiology, neurology, and orthopedics. There are also several pharmacies in the city that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs. Additionally, Balatonfured has a number of private medical practices that offer a variety of services, including family medicine, gynecology, and dermatology," mentioned one expat inBalatonfured.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Balatonfured?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Balatonfured?
- What is the average cost of housing in Balatonfured?
- How do I meet people in Balatonfured?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Balatonfured?
- What should I pack when moving to Balatonfured?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Balatonfured?
- Will I be able to find a job in Balatonfured?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Balatonfured?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Balatonfured?
- What is the social scene like in Balatonfured?
- What advice to expats in Balatonfured have about housing?
- What are medical services in Balatonfured like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Balatonfured?
- Is the cost of living in Balatonfured high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Balatonfured?
- Why do people move to Balatonfured?