Budapest, Hungary: Cost of Living, Healthcare, Local Clubs and Activities, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Budapest

Summary: People often describe Budapest, Hungary as a vibrant and beautiful city, with a unique mix of old and new. Expats love the city's rich culture, its stunning architecture, its lively nightlife, and its affordability. The weather in Budapest is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit throughout the year. The average cost of living for an expat is estimated to be around $1,500 per month. The cost of a one bedroom apartment in Budapest is around $500-700 per month, while a two bedroom apartment can cost around $800-1,000 per month. The approximate population of Budapest is 1.75 million.

What do I need to know about living in Budapest?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Budapest, they said:

"Be patient! While not strangling, there is still bureaucracy. Hungarians are friendly though and eager to help. Ask for help and/or employ people (like Hire A Hungarian .com) to help during the transition. Life is easy after the initial transition. Also, learn some basic Hungarian words before coming and continue your learning once here. But unlike the way it was in the 1990's, enough English is spoken in Budapest for you to feel comfortable. But make no mistake, it is a difficult language," explained one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

"Hungary is quite cheap compared to Western Europe and the United States, therefore visitors can enjoy buying food, beverages and souvenirs without feeling a pinch. That said, cost of living is high when local salaries are taken into consideration. When calculated as a percentage of salary, items like clothing, shoes, accessories, baby equipment, furniture, bedding and electronics can feel expensive. Try to bring these with you," said one expat in Budapest.

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What do I need to know before moving to Budapest?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Budapest, they said:

"I would recommend hiring a good lawyer or finding a real good real estate agent who can guide you into the best building, if you plan to rent. I purchased my flat and I could not be happier. Even though prices have gone up lately, one of the best things is the lack of property tax, which in the US can be thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars a year. I rented for the first year before I decided to buy, and there are many nice apartments in Budapest. Most of the rental apartments here are fully furnished. Also, be aware that they do not distinguish "bedrooms" from other "rooms." So, if you want a two bedroom apartment you need to look for an apartment with three rooms (two bedrooms and a living room). The kitchen and bathrooms do not count in that calculation. In Budapest there are a lot of Airbnb apartments, so it would be good to stay away from buildings. Also, there doesn't seem to be regulations regarding businesses verses residents, so you might find a business in one of the upper floors of a building. But again, a good real estate agent or lawyer can help you figure that out," commented one expat who made the move to Budapest.

"Budapest is a vibrant and exciting city with a rich cultural heritage. Expats should be aware that the cost of living in Budapest is relatively low compared to other European cities, making it an attractive destination for those looking to relocate. Expats should also be aware that the Hungarian language is the official language of the country, so it is important to learn some basic phrases before moving. Additionally, expats should research the local customs and culture to ensure they are respectful of the local people and their traditions. Finally, expats should make sure to obtain the necessary visas and permits before moving to Budapest," remarked one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

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How do I find a place to live in Budapest?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"We looked online and found it on a Ingatlan (Realtor) Hungarian/English site. Wasn't very hard to look through the pictures. You can also use sites like xpatloop.com to help locate the Realtors. Housing in Budapest is expensive right now for anything above 900 sq ft. and hard to find," commented one expat who made the move to Budapest.

"I already knew the neighborhood from spending a summer here working as an intern. Found my apartment by asking friends & looking for apartments with roommates," remarked one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Budapest?

"Expat homes and apartments in Budapest are typically modern and spacious, with high ceilings and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many of the apartments have balconies or terraces, offering stunning views of the city. The interiors are often decorated with contemporary furnishings and feature modern amenities such as air conditioning, dishwashers, and washing machines. Expat homes and apartments in Budapest are typically located in the city center, close to public transportation, shops, restaurants, and other amenities," commented one expat who made the move to Budapest.

"We live in an apartment and is quite common for expats. But, expect them to be small at the lower prices. Better deals can be found outside the city like a house for example but the drive into the city can be terrible at times," remarked one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

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What is the average cost of housing in Budapest?

If you are thinking about moving to Budapest, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Budapest can vary greatly depending on the area and type of accommodation. Generally, the average cost of renting an apartment in Budapest is around €500-€700 per month, while the average cost of buying a property is around €1,500-€2,000 per square meter," remarked one expat who made the move to Budapest.

"I would say outside the city lower but inside the city normal for most US cities and lower for cities like NYC and DC. The average cost for a 1200 square ft. apartment is around the same price usds. If you get a good deal that would include utilities. We pay 720. usds on the average for a 1 bedroom apartment including utilities. We were lucky," explained one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

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How do I meet people in Budapest?

When we asked people living in Budapest about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Budapest often join clubs and activities such as language exchange groups, sports teams, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining meetup groups, or attending networking events. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests. This can be a great way to connect with other expats and locals in the city," remarked one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

"Chamber of Commerce events, Houses of Worship gatherings. Refer to www.xpatloop.com," wrote one member in Budapest.

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What should I bring when moving to Budapest?

People living in Budapest were asked what three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They wrote:

"Most of the items you will need here in Budapest are available. Things that you will want if you are American are certainly related to food. Mexican Chili is very hard to find. Candy, like Payday, Butterfinger etc. are not here at all. You can find Milkyways, Snickers and Castlebury chocolates but that's about it. You will have to choose from local and European candies. Bring Candy. I wish I had brought my specialty tools. They are hard to find here - like - Dremel bits, cobalt drills, special hammers, drivers and bits. For fishing you have lots to choose from. Dont' worry unless you have a special lure bring plenty because carp fishing is king here. Predator fishing is just starting. Cooking - bring everything you want to cook with if you are a chef. Utinsels are hard to find. Basics are here but specialty items are expensive. Knives - bring good sharpening equipment like Lansky. None here but are available on Ebay UK and expensive. Don't bring anything that is 110 Power unless it is dual power. The systems for converting usually cause a huge draw on the power systems. Normal amp breakers are 25 amps. The wiring is old. and will not draw above that even if you change the breakers. Clothes - better choice of clothes here and not very expensive not much use in bringing a bunch of clothing unless you just love Levis. they are expensive. Bring your important papers or at least a scanned copy. Car - leave it at home and buy a local car. The inspection system is hard to get through and if it is a US car maybe the parts and service will be hard to find," said one expat in Budapest.

"Wish I'd brought: -Fall clothing (raincoats, light jackets, closed toed shoes) as summer and fall can be quite chilly -Skype Phone (hand-held device that works with Skype on your computer) -ipad/kindle or other portable electronic reader & internet device," said one expat who made the move to Budapest.

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Where should I setup a bank account in Budapest?

We asked expats in Budapest what banks they use and there advice about banking. They advised:

"Banking in Hungary is quite different from other places in the world. But, if you check carefully, you can mitigate some of those charges which makes it a bit more tolerable. I use OTP Bank, which is one of the largest banks in Hungary. And, as a previous reply indicated, they (along with all other banks here) charge you for almost everything. The bank recommends using a debit card for all purchases because withdrawing cash costs you money. If you have a resident permit with address card you are entitled to withdraw 150,000 forint (about $400 USD) in cash a month from the ATM machines for free, but anything over that will cost you. And withdrawing from the branch will cost you even more. If you have a regular deposit, like a paycheck or retirement payment coming in, you can get premium service which offers some savings. But overall, my average cost of banking in Hungary is less than $10 a month, which is really not all that bad. One important thing to remember, whenever you go into a bank here in Hungary, if you are a foreigner, alwasy bring your passport, no matter what you are doing. I have on several occasions not had it with me and was denied service for certain things," wrote one member in Hungary.

"Before retiring in Budapest, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, Hungarian, as it is the official language of the country. Expats should also research the cost of living in Budapest, as it is generally lower than in other European cities. Additionally, expats should research the healthcare system in Hungary, as it is a public system and may require additional private insurance. Finally, expats should research the visa requirements for retirement in Hungary, as there are specific requirements for those wishing to retire in the country," remarked one expat who made the move to Budapest.

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Will I be able to find a job in Budapest?

When we asked people about industries and career opportunities in Budapest, they reponded:

"Foreigners often find work in Budapest in a variety of industries, such as hospitality, tourism, IT, finance, and education. Many foreigners also work as English language teachers, translators, and interpreters. Additionally, there are opportunities for foreigners to work in the creative industries, such as graphic design, web development, and video production," explained one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

"Most opportunities exist in the service sector. To have a chance to be hired and for career advancement, fluency in IT and foreign languages is a big plus," said one expat in Budapest.

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What is life like in Budapest?

When we asked people living in Budapest what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"People are basically kind but not too helpful when you are looking for good customer service in a shop," wrote a member in Budapest.

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What do expats in Budapest appreciate most about the local culture?

"Expatriates in Budapest appreciate the city's vibrant cultural life, with its many museums, galleries, and theatres. They also enjoy the city's rich history, with its many historical sites and monuments. Expats also appreciate the city's diverse cuisine, with its traditional Hungarian dishes as well as international fare. Additionally, expats enjoy the city's friendly and welcoming people, who are always willing to help out newcomers. Finally, expats appreciate the city's affordable cost of living, which makes it a great place to live and work," commented one expat who made the move to Budapest.

"Family values, being able to patiently stand in cue, that man and women still can be man and women (as opposed to Dutch culture where everybody is almost forced to be the same), clean streets and well behaved," remarked one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

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What do expats find most challenging?

"Corruption, decades of communist rule have influenced the work ethos, the way the government let's the country run into deeper trouble, lack of truly free press and objective reporting, shady party financing," wrote a member in Budapest.

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Is there a lot of crime in Budapest?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Like any capital cities crime is a definite issue. Two years ago I got pickpocketed on the bus. It was Romanian gypsies. There are also lot of homeless who appeared to be able to camp out pretty much everywhere (except maybe at the Parliament building, LOL!) Mainly at metro and railroad stations. There are the occasional car thefts but having said that things are fairly save," said one expat who made the move to Budapest.

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Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Budapest accepting of differences?

"Budapest is a diverse city, with a population that is made up of people from many different backgrounds. The city is home to a variety of ethnicities, religions, and cultures, and people from all walks of life are welcomed and accepted. Budapest is a city that celebrates its diversity, and people of all backgrounds are respected and embraced," remarked one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

"The residents of Budapest are very accepting of all types of people though I'm sure the relatively few Roma dwelling in Budapest would beg to differ. In the past 10 years I have witnessed more acceptance of foreigners and more languages spoken. Outside Budapest this is not always the case," wrote one member in Budapest.

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What are the schools in Budapest like?

"The British International School Budapest (BISB) is one of the best international schools in Budapest. It is a co-educational, non-denominational school that offers a British-style education to students from over 50 countries. BISB offers a wide range of courses, from Early Years to A-Levels, and is accredited by the Council of British International Schools (COBIS). The school also offers a range of extra-curricular activities, such as sports, music, and drama. The International School of Budapest (ISB) is another excellent international school in Budapest. It is a co-educational, non-denominational school that offers a comprehensive international curriculum to students from over 40 countries. ISB offers a wide range of courses, from Early Years to A-Levels, and is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS). The school also offers a range of extra-curricular activities, such as sports, music, and drama. The American International School of Budapest (AISB) is a top-rated bilingual school in Budapest. It is a co-educational, non-denominational school that offers an American-style education to students from over 40 countries. AISB offers a wide range of courses, from Early Years to A-Levels, and is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS). The school also offers a range of extra-curricular activities, such as sports, music, and drama," explained one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

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What are the pros and cons of living in Budapest?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Budapest responded:

"Every city has its plusses and minusses. Budapest is no different. But, after living here for more than 7 years, I think that Budapest is one of the best places that I have ever lived (Phoenix, Chicago and New York City). The streets are relatively clean, overall crime is significantly lower than in many US big cities, and the the public transit is clean, frequent, efficient and very affordable. I don't own a car and really have no need for one in Budapest. I am a city person and enjoy living in the central city. It may not be as quiet as other parts of the city, but I don't mind that and I prefer the convenience of walking or taking transit everywhere I need to go. I have found that my overall cost of living is about 1/3 of what it was in New York and Chicago and about 1/2 of living in Phoenix in the US. I am so happy that I settled here in Budapest. It is a lovely city and I recommend it highly," mentioned an expat living in Budapest.

"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the low cost of living in Budapest, as well as the vibrant cultural scene and the city's rich history. They also enjoy the city's excellent public transportation system, which makes it easy to get around. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the language barrier to be a challenge, as Hungarian is not widely spoken outside of Hungary. Additionally, the city's nightlife can be quite expensive, which can be a deterrent for some," said an expat in Budapest.

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What type of social life can someone expect in Budapest?

When we asked expats and global nomads about their social experiences in Budapest, they replied:

"Expats, retirees and digital nomads living in Budapest typically have an active social life. There are many opportunities to meet people from all over the world, as well as locals, through various activities such as language exchanges, meet-ups, and social events. Expats often join local clubs and organizations to meet people with similar interests, while retirees and digital nomads often take advantage of the city's vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions. Additionally, Budapest is home to a large expat community, making it easy to find like-minded people to socialize with," commented one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

"It is a matter of attitude. If you are looking for a place 'just like home' you should have stayed at home. Discover, adapt, enjoy," remarked one expat living in Budapest.

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"Budapest is a vibrant city with a lively social scene. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore, as well as a variety of cultural events and activities to enjoy. The city is known for its lively nightlife, with many venues offering live music, DJs, and other entertainment. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as cycling, walking, and exploring the city's many parks and gardens. Budapest is also home to a diverse range of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and theatres. With its vibrant atmosphere and friendly locals, Budapest is a great place to socialize and make new friends," wrote one expat living in Budapest.

":) If you are a happy, curious individual - you will be happy no matter where you live. Making this move 23 years ago was one of the best decisions I've ever made," commented one expat who moved to Budapest.

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What advice to expats in Budapest have about housing?

"When looking for housing in Budapest, it is important to research the area thoroughly and make sure it is safe and secure. It is also important to consider the cost of living in the area, as well as the availability of public transportation. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding renting and leasing. It is also helpful to ask other expats in the area for advice and recommendations. Finally, it is important to be aware of the potential for scams and to be sure to use a reputable real estate agent," remarked one expat in Budapest.

"I've owned my home for 20 years now, added a country house - but yes, you would want to rent first to experience the area you are looking at," wrote one expat living in Budapest.

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What are medical services in Budapest like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Budapest, they replied:

"Budapest offers a wide range of medical services for both locals and visitors. The city has a number of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of treatments and services, including general medical care, emergency services, and specialized care. Many of the hospitals and clinics are equipped with the latest medical technology and staffed by highly trained professionals. Additionally, there are a number of pharmacies located throughout the city that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies. For those seeking alternative treatments, Budapest also has a number of spas and wellness centers that offer a variety of therapies and treatments," said one expat living in Budapest.

"There may not be the same new offices but the quality of care is as good if not better than in the USA. Had several surgeries (hip replacement, cataract, breast, hernia) with excellent care, all included in the insurance, after care in a rehab center as I live alone with no help - all included. People are people - sometimes they have a bad day - so do I. You live in the real world," mentioned one expat inBudapest.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Budapest?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Budapest can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, public healthcare is available at a lower cost than private healthcare, but the quality of care may not be as high. Private health insurance can be expensive, but it can provide more comprehensive coverage and access to higher quality care. Additionally, some employers may offer health insurance plans to their employees, which can help to reduce the cost of coverage," remarked one expat in Budapest.

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Is the cost of living in Budapest high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Budapest, they wrote:

"I have found that my overall cost of living is about 1/3 of what it was in New York and Chicago and about 1/2 of living in Phoenix in the US," said one expat.

"The cost of living in Budapest is generally considered to be quite affordable. Rental prices for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Budapest, Hungary range from around $400 to $800 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from around $600 to $1,200 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Budapest, Hungary can cost around $10 to $20 USD per person," commented one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

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What are the visa & residency requirements in Budapest?

"In order to visit Budapest, a valid passport and a visa are required. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, providing a valid passport, and paying the applicable visa fee. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Budapest, Hungary, an individual must submit an application to the Immigration Office. The application must include a valid passport, proof of financial means, proof of accommodation, and a valid health insurance policy. Depending on the purpose of the residency, additional documents may be required. After the application is submitted, the Immigration Office will review the documents and make a decision," remarked one expat in Budapest.

"The process is quite straight forward although it can take a few weeks for residency cards to be processed," wrote one expat living in Budapest.

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Why do people move to Budapest?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Budapest, they responded:

"Budapest is an attractive destination for expats due to its vibrant culture, rich history, and affordable cost of living. The city is known for its stunning architecture, lively nightlife, and delicious cuisine. Additionally, Budapest is home to a diverse population, making it a great place to meet people from all over the world. With its excellent public transportation system, expats can easily explore the city and its surrounding areas. Finally, the city offers a variety of job opportunities, making it an ideal place for expats to start a new life," commented one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

"Budapest is a beautiful, historic city with a reasonable cost of living. The architecture is stunning, the restaurants and cafes are plentiful and there are lots of things to see and do. It also has its fair share of green spaces, not to mention the scenic Buda hills," remarked one expat living in Budapest.

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Budapest

What do I need to know about living in Budapest?

What do I need to know before moving to Budapest?

How do I find a place to live in Budapest?

What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Budapest?

What is the average cost of housing in Budapest?

How do I meet people in Budapest?

What should I bring when moving to Budapest?

Where should I setup a bank account in Budapest?

Will I be able to find a job in Budapest?

What is life like in Budapest?

What do expats in Budapest appreciate most about the local culture?

What do expats find most challenging?

Is there a lot of crime in Budapest?

Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Budapest accepting of differences?

What are the schools in Budapest like?

What are the pros and cons of living in Budapest?

What type of social life can someone expect in Budapest?

What advice to expats in Budapest have about housing?

What are medical services in Budapest like?

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Budapest?

Is the cost of living in Budapest high?

What are the visa & residency requirements in Budapest?

Why do people move to Budapest?

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