Budapest

"Stay clear of the public health system (there are good private alternatives). Stay clear of the police. Do not drink and drive. Enjoy the marvelous weather and the fresh produce," wrote a member in Budapest.

"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," commented one expat who made the move to Budapest.

"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," wrote a member in Budapest.

"-Finding English-language real estate agents can be difficult but they do exist (I work for one) and it is worth it to find one. Mix ups I've experienced in the past include agents who confuse numbers (40 and 60, for example) and some debate over whether or not my landlady would offer a couch. Businesses that seek expat clients (relocation companies, some real estate agencies and also exercise studios, beauty salons) can have very useful information posted on their website. Choosing a neighborhood: Families seeking residential settings should look for houses on the Buda (West) side of the city, in districts 1, 2, 2A (a bit far from the city center but home to the American School) and 12. Residential parks exist with detached homes and lots of yard space. Those looking to live in the center and close to embassies/businesses should live on the Pest (East) side in district 5, 6 or 7. For urban but residential surroundings look at districts 9, 13 and 14. I saved a map of international schools in Budapest which will help those interested in living close to one: http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=113650380662921546661.00048a66a58c714c0c74a&z=11," commented one expat who made the move to Budapest.

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Budapest is to use online rental websites such as Airbnb, HomeAway, and Booking.com. These websites allow you to search for rental properties in Budapest and filter your search by price, location, and amenities. Additionally, you can also search for rental properties on local classifieds websites such as Craigslist and OLX. These websites are a great way to find apartments and other rental properties in Budapest. You can also contact local real estate agents who specialize in rental properties in Budapest. They can help you find the perfect place to live in Budapest," remarked 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," explained one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

"I live in an old apartment with a typical, Budapest courtyard that I love. It is a typical young-person's and there are many foreign students, but it's not a typical expat neighborhood. Expat neigbhorhoods are 5th and 6th district (around the embassies and businesses downtown) or residential Buda side districts like 1, 2, 2A and 12," remarked one expat who made the move to 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," explained one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

"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," said one expat in 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," said one expat in Budapest.

"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," said one expat who made the move to Budapest.

"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," explained one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

"Newcomers should read the Budapest Business Journal to get informed about events - www.bbj.hu," said one expat in Budapest.

"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," remarked one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

"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," wrote one member in Budapest.

"If you’re relocating to Hungary the only things you really need to bring are the things that are irreplaceable to you. Family photos, art, mementos. Despite what you may have heard virtually everything else is available if you know where to look. Jonesing for a Reese’s peanut butter cup? Asian store on Kiraly in the 6th and so on. Anything you pack and ship besides clothes and personal items is probably a waste. I wish I brought half as much as I did. Things not to bring? Furniture and anything with a plug," remarked one expat who made the move to Hungary.

"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," remarked one expat living 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," wrote one member in Budapest.

"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," remarked one expat who made the move to Budapest.

"-Service centers (high-end call centers for major international companies) -Business and conversational English teaching," explained one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

"Budapest is a popular destination for expats and digital nomads due to its vibrant culture, affordable cost of living, and excellent public transportation system. Expats and digital nomads in Budapest can enjoy a wide variety of activities, from exploring the city's many historical sites to taking advantage of its lively nightlife. The city also offers a variety of international cuisines, making it easy for expats and digital nomads to find something to suit their tastes. Additionally, Budapest is home to a large expat community, making it easy to make friends and find support. All in all, Budapest is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for an exciting and affordable place to live," wrote a member in Budapest.

"People are basically kind but not too helpful when you are looking for good customer service in a shop," 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 who made the move to Budapest.

"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," explained one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

"Expats in Budapest often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Many locals speak Hungarian, which is a difficult language to learn for those who are not native speakers. Additionally, the Hungarian culture is quite different from many other cultures, and expats may find it difficult to adjust to the local customs and etiquette. Furthermore, the cost of living in Budapest can be quite high, making it difficult for expats to find affordable housing and other necessities," commented one expat who made the move to Budapest.

"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," remarked one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

"Budapest is generally considered to be a safe city, with crime levels lower than many other European cities. However, there have been reports of pickpocketing and other petty crimes in some areas, particularly in crowded tourist spots. It is advisable to take the usual precautions when travelling in Budapest, such as avoiding carrying large amounts of cash and being aware of your surroundings," said one expat who made the move to Budapest.

"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," explained one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

"There are Hungarians and Gypsies... sometimes they have their differences, but you need to see it from both sides," wrote a member in Budapest.

"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," commented one expat who made the move to Budapest.

"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," said one expat in Budapest with children at .

"Expats and digital nomads generally like the affordable cost of living in Budapest, which allows them to enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank. They appreciate the city's rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, which includes numerous museums, galleries, and theaters. The city's public transportation system is efficient and reliable, making it easy to get around. Budapest also offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, catering to diverse tastes and dietary preferences. The city has a thriving expat community, making it easy for newcomers to make friends and find support. On the other hand, expats and digital nomads may dislike the language barrier, as Hungarian is a difficult language to learn and not everyone speaks English fluently. The bureaucracy can be challenging to navigate, with complex procedures and paperwork for visas, residence permits, and other official matters. Some expats may find the customer service to be lacking in certain establishments, as it may not be as attentive or friendly as they are used to in their home countries. Additionally, the air quality in Budapest can be poor at times, particularly during the winter months when smog levels can rise. Finally, while Budapest is generally safe, petty crime such as pickpocketing can be an issue in crowded tourist areas," said one expat.

"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," 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 in Budapest.

"Expats, retirees, and digital nomads living in Budapest typically enjoy a vibrant and diverse social life. They often connect with fellow expats and locals through various social events, language exchange programs, and meetups. Many also participate in cultural activities, such as attending concerts, festivals, and art exhibitions, to immerse themselves in the local culture. Additionally, they may join sports clubs, fitness classes, or volunteer organizations to meet new people and stay active. Budapest's thriving nightlife, with its numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants, also provides ample opportunities for socializing and networking. Overall, the welcoming atmosphere and rich cultural scene in Budapest make it easy for expats, retirees, and digital nomads to build a fulfilling social life," 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," mentioned an expat living in Budapest.

"The social scene in Budapest, is vibrant, diverse, and lively, offering a mix of traditional Hungarian culture and modern European influences. The city is known for its bustling nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to various tastes and preferences. Ruin bars, unique to Budapest, are popular hangout spots, where locals and tourists alike gather in abandoned buildings transformed into eclectic bars. Budapest is also home to numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Budapest Wine Festival, Budapest International Documentary Festival, and Budapest Opera Ball. These events provide opportunities for socializing and experiencing the rich Hungarian culture. The city has a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and theaters showcasing both local and international talent. The Hungarian State Opera House and the Palace of Arts are popular venues for classical music, ballet, and opera performances. Budapest's public spaces, such as parks and squares, are often filled with people enjoying outdoor activities, picnics, and socializing with friends and family. The Danube River, which runs through the city, is a popular spot for leisurely strolls, boat rides, and riverside dining. The city's thermal baths, a legacy of its Ottoman past, are also popular social hubs where locals and tourists can relax, unwind, and mingle in a unique setting. The Gellért and Széchenyi Baths are among the most famous and frequented thermal baths in Budapest. In summary, the social scene in Budapest is a lively blend of traditional and modern influences, offering a wide range of activities and experiences for both locals and visitors to enjoy," said an expat in Budapest.

"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," said an expat in Budapest.

"Property values are reasonable compared to other European cities so for long term it is better to purchase a property in Hungary," remarked one expat 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," said one expat living in Budapest.

"Medical services in Budapest, are generally of high quality, with well-trained medical professionals and modern facilities. Both public and private healthcare options are available, with public healthcare being more affordable but sometimes facing longer waiting times. Private healthcare facilities offer a wider range of services and shorter waiting times but can be more expensive. Many medical professionals in Budapest speak English, making it easier for tourists and expats to communicate their needs. Pharmacies are widely available throughout the city, and emergency services can be accessed by dialing 112. It is recommended for visitors to have travel health insurance to cover any potential medical expenses during their stay," mentioned one expat inBudapest.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Budapest, can be considered relatively affordable compared to other European countries and the United States. The country has a universal healthcare system, which is funded through taxes and provides coverage for most medical services. However, some residents may choose to purchase private health insurance for faster access to specialists and private facilities. The cost of private health insurance varies depending on the coverage and provider, but it is generally more affordable than in many Western countries. Additionally, the cost of medical treatments and medications in Budapest is typically lower than in other European capitals," mentioned an expat living in Budapest.

"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 an expat in Budapest.

"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," remarked one expat 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," commented one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

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

"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," remarked one expat in Budapest.

"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," wrote one expat living in Budapest.