LifeCost Blog
Budapest

Budapest

Hungary

Updated on August 12, 2025

Overview

Budapest has a relatively low cost of living with affordable housing options. The job market is growing, especially in IT and tourism sectors. Healthcare is accessible but quality varies. The climate has hot summers and cold winters. Public transport is extensive and affordable, with good walkability in central areas. The city is generally safe with a rich cultural scene and welcoming community. Living costs are lower than in Western Europe.

Average cost of living€929.13
Quality of Life79/100

Accommodation

Rent room (flat-share)€400.00
1-bed flat (center)€633.57
1-bed flat (outside)€481.03
3-bed flat (center)€1,163.00
3-bed flat (outside)€838.05

Utilities

Basic utilities€127.13
Internet€17.56
Mobile plan€22.47

Transportation

One-way ticket€1.13
Monthly pass€22.55
Taxi start€2.76
Gasoline (1 l)€1.56

Leisure

Cinema ticket€7.77
Fitness club€55.03

Education

Preschool (month)€395.72
Intl. primary (year)€10,489.00

Buying House

sqm in city center€4,141.00
sqm outside center€2,673.00

Advantages

  • Affordable housing and living costs
  • Extensive public transport
  • Growing job market in IT and tourism
  • Rich cultural life
  • Generally safe

Disadvantages

  • × Variable healthcare quality
  • × Cold winters and hot summers
  • × Lower average salaries
  • × Bureaucracy can be slow
  • × Air pollution concerns