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Living in Hungary: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Hungary | Expat Exchange
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Liberty Bridge in Budapest

Living in Hungary

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Mar 08, 2024

Summary: The approximate population of Hungary is 9.7 million people. The largest cities in Hungary are Budapest (1.7 million people), Debrecen (204,000 people), Miskolc (172,000 people), Szeged (163,000 people), and Pécs (161,000 people). Expats love living in Hungary for its rich culture, beautiful architecture, and vibrant nightlife. People describe life in Hungary as relaxed and laid-back, with a strong sense of community. Popular foods in Hungary include goulash, paprikash, and langos. The cons of living in Hungary include the language barrier, the lack of job opportunities, and the high cost of living. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,500 to $2,000 per month. This includes rent, utilities, food, transportation, and entertainment.

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What do I need to know about living in Hungary?

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

"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," said one expat in Budapest.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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How do I meet people in Hungary?

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

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

"Expats in Hungary often join clubs and activities such as language exchange groups, book clubs, and sports teams. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests, as well as to attend networking events and meetups," explained one expat living in Hungary.

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William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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What is life like in Hungary?

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

"We are both retired out here,property is reasonably cheap,the expense of living here we find to be very economical. We have become friends with some of the locals.Work is not the be all and end all.It is a very healthy area, lovely clean fresh air. Family & socialising is a priority here. There are the thermal waters around and about," wrote a member in Tarnazsadany.

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Is there a lot of crime in Hungary?

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

"Crime is not a major problem in Hungary. The country has a relatively low crime rate compared to other European countries. However, there have been reports of pickpocketing and other petty crimes in some areas, particularly in tourist areas. Violent crime is rare, but it does occur in some parts of the country," commented one expat who made the move to Hungary.

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

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

"Yes, there is a lot of diversity in Hungary. The country is home to a variety of ethnic and religious groups, including Hungarians, Roma, Germans, Slovaks, Croats, Serbs, and Jews. People in Hungary are generally accepting of differences and are tolerant of different cultures and beliefs," remarked one expat living in Hungary.

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

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What are the schools in Hungary like?

"The British International School Budapest is one of the best international schools in Hungary. It is a co-educational school offering the National Curriculum of England and Wales, as well as the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. The school has a strong emphasis on academic excellence, and provides a wide range of extra-curricular activities. The International School of Budapest is another excellent international school in Hungary. It is a co-educational school offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, as well as the International Primary Curriculum. The school has a strong focus on developing the whole child, and provides a wide range of extra-curricular activities. The American International School of Budapest is a bilingual school offering an American-style curriculum. The school has a strong emphasis on academic excellence, and provides a wide range of extra-curricular activities. The French International School of Budapest is a bilingual school offering the French National Curriculum. The school has a strong emphasis on academic excellence, and provides a wide range of extra-curricular activities. The German International School of Budapest is a bilingual school offering the German National Curriculum. The school has a strong emphasis on academic excellence, and provides a wide range of extra-curricular activities," explained one expat living in Hungary.

"It's a small, growing school. The class sizes are small, which appealed to us. It's been wonderful meeting students, parents and teachers from all over the world. We considered the American School and the British School when looking at schools in Budapest in 2000. We chose ISB for its bilingual program, the international atmosphere and curriculum and its peaceful location. It just felt right! We haven't regretted our choice," said one parent with children at International School of Budapest in Budapest.

Is the cost of living in Hungary high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Hungary, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Hungary is generally considered to be quite affordable. Prices for basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are generally lower than in other European countries. Eating out in restaurants is also relatively inexpensive, and there are plenty of affordable options for entertainment. Overall, Hungary is a great place to live if you are looking for a budget-friendly destination," remarked one expat who made the move to Hungary.

"$2000 USD will do it but be mindful it doesn't cover major medical or other expenses," explained one expat living in Budapest, Hungary.

"Well that depends on your life style. Approximately on the average 1,500 euros - 2,000 euros per month on the high end including lots of travel. This monthly living expense is after a property purchase," said one expat in Budapest.

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"The cost of living in Hungary is generally considered to be quite affordable. Prices for basic necessities such as food, transportation, and utilities are generally lower than in other European countries. However, the cost of living in the capital city of Budapest is higher than in other parts of the country. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Hungary is typically around $500 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is usually around $700 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Hungary typically costs around $15 USD per person," remarked one expat in Hungary.

"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," wrote one expat living in Budapest.

What type of recreational facilities are in Hungary?

When we asked people living in Hungary about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In Hungary, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, swimming pools, sports fields, and playgrounds. There are also many outdoor activities available, such as hiking, biking, and fishing. For those who prefer indoor activities, there are bowling alleys, movie theaters, and arcades. Additionally, Hungary is home to a number of cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and historic sites. Finally, Hungary is known for its thermal baths, which offer a relaxing and therapeutic experience," commented one expat living in Hungary.

"The Buda hills are home to many hiking trails with beautiful lookout points. Budapest is also famous for it's many incredible thermal baths," remarked one expat living in Budapest.

What is the weather like in Hungary?

"The weather in Hungary is generally mild, with warm summers and cold winters. In the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 30 degrees Celsius, while in the winter months temperatures can drop to below zero. Rainfall is fairly common throughout the year, with the most rain occurring in the spring and autumn months," remarked one expat living in Hungary.

"Budapest has excellent, very hot Summers and very cold, but generally dry winters," said one expat living in Budapest.

Are there good restaurants in Hungary?

"One of Hungary's most beloved restaurants is Bock Bistro, located in Budapest. Bock Bistro is known for its traditional Hungarian cuisine, such as goulash, paprikash, and stuffed cabbage. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of international dishes, such as steak and pasta. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Another popular restaurant in Hungary is Kádár Étterem, located in the city of Szeged. This restaurant is known for its traditional Hungarian dishes, such as stuffed peppers, beef stew, and chicken paprikash. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of international dishes, such as pizza and burgers. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the staff is friendly and helpful. Finally, the restaurant Kiskakukk, located in Budapest, is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. This restaurant is known for its traditional Hungarian dishes, such as stuffed cabbage, beef goulash, and chicken paprikash. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of international dishes, such as steak and pasta. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive," said one expat living in Hungary.

"Budapest has an excellent nightlife, famous for it's stag parties and it's colourful and eclectic ruin bars. In Pest you can find restaurants of all types. The food scene in Budapest is continually growing and adapting to accommodate new trends and tastes," mentioned one expat inBudapest.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Hungary?

"The main shopping spots are located in Pest's City Center. Vaci street is perhaps the most famous of these, which actually designated as a pedestrian precinct. The Great Market Hall in Budapest is the most beautiful and largest of all Budapest market halls," said one expat.

"People living in Hungary typically buy groceries from supermarkets, local markets, and convenience stores. Other shopping can be done at department stores, malls, and specialty shops. Online shopping is also becoming increasingly popular in Hungary," commented one expat living in Hungary.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Hungary?

"In order to visit Hungary, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Hungary, foreign nationals must submit an application to the Immigration Office. The application must include a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay, and proof of employment or other legal source of income. Depending on the purpose of the stay, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, the foreign national will be issued a residence permit," remarked one expat living in Hungary.

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

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Hungary?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Hungary can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Public healthcare is generally more affordable than private healthcare, but it may not cover all medical needs. Private health insurance can be expensive, but it can provide more comprehensive coverage. Additionally, many employers offer health insurance plans to their employees, which can help to reduce the cost of healthcare," remarked one expat in Hungary.

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William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

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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