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Expat Exchange - Cost of Living in Pecs 2024
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Cost of Living in Pecs

By Betsy Burlingame

Universal Tax Professionals
Universal Tax Professionals

Summary: Understanding the the cost of living in Pecs helps a newcomer what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.

Cost of Living in Pecs - Cost of Living in Pecs

Category Cost
Apartment Rental (1 bedroom in City Centre) Approximately 120,000 HUF to 150,000 HUF per month
Apartment Rental (1 bedroom Outside of Centre) Approximately 90,000 HUF to 120,000 HUF per month
Apartment Purchase Price (City Centre) Approximately 400,000 HUF to 500,000 HUF per square meter
Apartment Purchase Price (Outside of Centre) Approximately 300,000 HUF to 400,000 HUF per square meter
Public Transportation (Monthly Pass) Approximately 10,000 HUF
Gasoline (1 liter) Approximately 400 HUF
Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) Approximately 30,000 HUF to 40,000 HUF per month
Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) Approximately 5,000 HUF to 7,000 HUF per month
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant Approximately 1,500 HUF to 2,500 HUF
Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course Approximately 10,000 HUF to 15,000 HUF
Basic (Milk, Bread, Eggs, Fruits, Cheese, Chicken, Beef, etc.) Monthly Groceries for 2 People Approximately 60,000 HUF to 80,000 HUF
Private Preschool (or Kindergarten), Full Day, Monthly for 1 Child Approximately 150,000 HUF to 200,000 HUF
Private Elementary School, Monthly for 1 Child Approximately 200,000 HUF to 250,000 HUF
Private Middle School, Monthly for 1 Child Approximately 250,000 HUF to 300,000 HUF
Private High School, Monthly for 1 Child Approximately 300,000 HUF to 350,000 HUF
Please note that these are average costs and actual costs may vary based on specific locations, quality, and personal consumption habits. The currency used is Hungarian Forint (HUF). The exchange rate as of the time of writing is approximately 1 USD = 300 HUF, but this can fluctuate. It's always a good idea to check the current exchange rate when planning expenses. In general, the cost of living in Pecs is relatively affordable compared to many Western European cities. However, private school tuition can be a significant expense for families with children. As with any city, living in the city centre tends to be more expensive than living outside of the centre. Public transportation in Pecs is reliable and affordable, making it a good option for daily commuting.

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Pecs

"The cost of living in Pecs is considered to be relatively affordable compared to other European cities. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is quite reasonable, while outside the city center, it is even cheaper. The cost of utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage is also quite low. Groceries in Pecs are also affordable, with prices for items such as bread, milk, eggs, fruits, and vegetables being quite low. Eating out at an inexpensive restaurant is also reasonably priced, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant is slightly more expensive but still affordable. Public transportation in Pecs is also quite cheap, with a monthly pass costing less than what you would pay in many other European cities. Gasoline prices are on par with the European average. Healthcare in Pecs is also affordable, especially if you are covered by the national health insurance. However, private healthcare can be more expensive. In terms of leisure activities, a monthly gym membership is quite cheap, while cinema tickets are reasonably priced. Overall, the cost of living in Pecs is quite low, making it an attractive option for those looking to live in a European city on a budget," said one expat living in Pecs.

Can I live in Pecs on $1,500 a month?

"I've been living in Pecs for a few years now and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $1,500 a month, even if you're used to modern amenities. However, you'll need to be smart about your spending and make some sacrifices. For instance, you might not be able to dine out at high-end restaurants every night or live in the most luxurious apartment, but you can still enjoy a good quality of life. Pecs is a beautiful city with a low cost of living compared to many other European cities. Rent is quite affordable, especially if you choose to live in neighborhoods like Vasas or Uránváros. These areas are a bit further from the city center, but they're still nice places to live and you can find a decent apartment for around $300-$400 a month. On the other hand, if you're looking at neighborhoods like Belváros or Tettye, you should be prepared to pay a bit more. These are some of the most desirable areas in Pecs, close to the city center with lots of shops, restaurants, and cultural sites. Rent here can easily go up to $600 or more a month. Groceries are also quite affordable in Pecs. You can expect to spend around $200-$300 a month on food if you cook at home most of the time. Eating out is also not too expensive if you stick to local, less touristy places. As for utilities, including internet, electricity, water, and heating, you're looking at around $100-$150 a month. Public transportation is also quite cheap, with a monthly pass costing around $30. However, you'll need to be careful with discretionary spending. Things like clothes, electronics, and entertainment can be more expensive in Hungary than in other countries. But if you're careful with your spending and stick to a budget, you should be able to live quite comfortably on $1,500 a month. Of course, everyone's lifestyle and spending habits are different, so what works for me might not work for you. But in general, I'd say that Pecs is a great place for expats looking for a low cost of living without sacrificing too much in terms of quality of life," commented an expat living in Pecs.

Can I live in Pecs on $3,500 a month?

"I've been living in Pecs for a few years now and I can tell you that living on $3,000 a month is not only possible, but you can live quite comfortably. The cost of living here is significantly lower than in many Western countries. For instance, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center would cost you around $400 a month, while outside the city center, it would be even cheaper, around $300. If you're looking for more upscale neighborhoods, consider Belvaros or Tettye. They are a bit pricier but still affordable compared to what you're used to. However, if you're on a tighter budget, areas like Uránváros or Hird are more affordable and still offer a decent quality of life. When it comes to utilities like electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, you're looking at around $150 a month. Internet and mobile services are quite cheap too, around $20 a month. Groceries won't set you back much either. You can get a week's worth of groceries for around $50. Eating out is also quite affordable. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant would cost you around $6, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant would be around $30. Public transportation is efficient and affordable. A monthly pass costs around $30. However, if you prefer driving, gasoline costs around $1.30 per liter. As for entertainment, there are plenty of affordable options. A movie ticket costs around $6, while a monthly gym membership is around $30. There are also plenty of free or low-cost activities, like hiking in the Mecsek mountains or exploring the city's many museums and historical sites. The main sacrifice you might have to make is adjusting to a slower pace of life. Pecs is a small city and things don't move as fast as in bigger cities. But once you get used to it, you might find it quite refreshing. Also, while most young people speak English, older generations might not, so learning some basic Hungarian would be beneficial. Overall, living in Pecs on $3,000 a month is not only doable, but you can live quite comfortably without making too many sacrifices," said one expat living in Pecs.

Can I live in Pecs on $5,000 a month?

"I've been living in Pecs for a few years now and I can tell you that living on $5,000 a month is not only possible, but you can live quite comfortably. The cost of living here is significantly lower than in many other European cities. For instance, you can rent a nice apartment in the city center for around $500-$600 a month. If you prefer to live in a quieter, more residential area, I would recommend the neighborhood of Vasas. It's a bit further from the city center, but it's peaceful, green, and you can find a good apartment for around $400 a month. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more upscale neighborhood, you might want to consider Tettye. It's one of the most expensive areas in Pecs, but even there, you can find a nice place for around $800-$900 a month. However, considering your budget, I would advise against it as you can find equally comfortable accommodations in less expensive areas. When it comes to utilities, including internet, electricity, water, and heating, you're looking at around $150-$200 a month. Groceries will cost you about $200-$300 a month, depending on your eating habits. Eating out at a mid-range restaurant will cost you around $20-$30 for a three-course meal. Public transportation is quite affordable, with a monthly pass costing around $30. However, Pecs is a compact city and it's quite walkable, so you might not even need to use public transportation that often. Healthcare is also affordable. If you're employed, you'll be covered by the national health insurance. If not, you can get private health insurance for around $50-$100 a month. As for entertainment, there are plenty of affordable options. You can go to the movies for around $6, or visit one of the many museums or galleries for less than $10. All in all, I would say that you can live comfortably in Pecs on $5,000 a month without having to make any significant sacrifices. You'll be able to enjoy modern amenities, eat out regularly, and participate in various leisure activities," commented an expat living in Pecs.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame 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.


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