If you’re thinking about moving to Hungary, you’re not alone. Hungary, with its blend of rich history, vibrant cities, and affordable living, is becoming a popular choice for expats and students. This guide will cover essential topics like rents, average salaries, the cost of living, and the benefits of living in Hungary. We’ll also share some useful links to help you plan your move.

Psst… see that magical Donate button down there? It’s your chance to become our instant legend. Click it and help us keep this page going for all the brave souls seeking a new life abroad!

Cost of Living in Hungary

Hungary offers a much lower cost of living compared to Western Europe. However, like everywhere, expenses can vary based on your lifestyle and location. Budapest, the capital, is the most expensive place to live, while smaller towns and rural areas are significantly cheaper.

Housing and Rent

Rent in Hungary is quite affordable compared to cities like Paris or Berlin. Here’s a breakdown of typical rental costs:

• One-bedroom apartment in Budapest city center: €450–€700 per month.
• One-bedroom apartment outside the city center: €300–€500 per month.
• In smaller towns, you can find even cheaper rents, often under €300 for a one-bedroom flat​Expat Exchange.

Utilities like electricity, water, and internet usually cost an additional €100–€150 monthly. If you’re moving with family, a three-bedroom apartment in Budapest might cost €800–€1,300 per month, depending on the neighborhood​.

Groceries and Dining Out

Food prices in Hungary are quite reasonable. Shopping at local markets and preparing your meals can save you a lot of money. Some common costs include:

• Milk: €0.80 per liter.
• Bread: €0.50–€1 per loaf.
• A meal at an inexpensive restaurant: around €6–€10.
• Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: €25–€40​
• Deel – Your forever people platform​ Expat Exchange.

Transportation Costs

Public transportation is efficient and affordable. A monthly pass for unlimited travel in Budapest costs about €30, while single tickets are under €1. If you prefer driving, fuel prices are relatively high compared to Western Europe, and parking in city centers can be costly​

Expat Well.

Salaries and Job Market

The average salary in Hungary may seem low compared to Western European countries, but it’s balanced by the lower cost of living. The average gross salary is around €1,200–€1,500 per month, while the net salary (after taxes) typically ranges from €800–€1,000.

Popular Industries

Information Technology (IT): If you work in IT, you’re in luck. Salaries in this field are well above the national average, often surpassing €2,000 per month, making it one of the most lucrative sectors in Hungary.

Tourism and Hospitality: With Budapest being a major tourist destination, job opportunities are abundant in hotels, bars, and restaurants. The industry is vibrant, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Education: There’s a constant demand for English teachers and language tutors. However, the pay in this sector tends to be on the modest side, and it’s often more suitable for those looking for supplemental income rather than a primary source of earnings.

If you are highly skilled, multinational companies in Budapest or foreign-invested firms may offer competitive salaries. Websites like Profession.hu and LinkedIn are good places to start your job search.

Taxes and Social Security

Hungary has a flat income tax rate of 15%, making it one of the most attractive in the European Union. But there’s a catch: additional deductions are made from your salary for healthcare and social security contributions. Employers typically handle these deductions directly from your paycheck. Despite the appealing tax rate, Hungary’s system can be tricky to navigate, so expats are advised to budget for a tax advisor to avoid any unexpected surprises and ensure compliance with local regulations.

Benefits for Residents

Hungary offers universal healthcare, but the public system can be slow. Many expats opt for private health insurance, which is relatively affordable and ensures quicker access to specialists. If you work in Hungary, your employer will register you for the state healthcare system.

Education is also a big plus. While public schools teach in Hungarian, there are many international schools in Budapest for expatriate families. They are pricey but offer a curriculum in English or other languages.

The Hungarian Way of Life

Hungary is famous for its culture, including thermal baths, vibrant festivals, and historical landmarks. Life here offers a balance of work and leisure. Locals love socializing, whether at one of Budapest’s ruin pubs or a quiet café along the Danube.

Hungarians are proud of their cuisine. Be sure to try dishes like goulash and chimney cake! Cost-wise, a night out in Budapest is far cheaper than in Paris or London. Local wines and pálinka, the national fruit brandy, are must-tries.

Language and Integration

While many younger Hungarians speak English, especially in Budapest, learning Hungarian can significantly improve your experience. It’s a difficult language, but locals appreciate any effort to speak it. There are plenty of language schools and courses tailored to expats.

Useful Links for Your Move

• Real Estate: To browse available rental listings, check Ingatlan.com.
• Job Search: Visit Profession.hu for job opportunities.
• Healthcare and Insurance: Look at Medicover for private health insurance options.
• Public Transport Information: Check out Budapest Transport for routes and ticket prices.

Final Thoughts

Hungary is a unique place to live, blending rich culture with affordability. The cost of living is manageable, but it’s important to plan your finances carefully, especially if you’re moving from a high-income country. Start your journey by researching job prospects and rental options, and prepare to immerse yourself in a country full of history and warm hospitality.

Whether you’re looking to work, study, or just explore, Hungary has something for everyone. Just make sure you budget wisely and learn a bit of the local language to truly enjoy everything this beautiful country has to offer​

Psst… see that magical Donate button down there? It’s your chance to become our instant legend. Click it and help us keep this page going for all the brave souls seeking a new life abroad!

You can see more on our website: metanasteusi.com

---

---