Budapest housing market reshuffled: Here are the newest targets
Budapest’s housing market has undergone a noticeable reshuffle over the past year, according to fresh data from Duna House.
Houses won’t get cheaper in Budapest, but whole areas can stay reasonably priced
The Otthon Start (Home Start) support scheme, combined with newly tightened rules on short-term rentals, has significantly influenced where first-time buyers are now looking for homes.
Young people searching for their first property are increasingly turning towards more affordable and liveable areas, where supply is steadier and prices remain within reach.
There are two big winners in Budapest
The clear frontrunner continues to be District XIII, selected as the target location by 22.6 per cent of interested buyers. Modern developments, strong transport links and a wide range of services make this part of the city particularly attractive to younger generations.
According to HVG’s article, Zugló (District XIV) and Újbuda (District XI) follow in joint second place with 18.5 per cent each, underlining the growing appeal of districts that offer solid value for money.
More districts the youth can target
Mid-range central districts on the Pest side have also seen a resurgence. In Terézváros (District VI), interest has risen from 12.5 to 15.4 per cent within a year, while Erzsébetváros (District VII) climbed from 14 to 16 per cent.
These districts offer central locations at prices still below the premium inner-city level, combined with excellent transport and urban conveniences—an increasingly compelling mix for first-time buyers.
In contrast, traditionally expensive areas on the Buda side have experienced a slight decline. District II dropped from 18.6 to 15.2 per cent, while District XII fell from 16 to 14 per cent.
People want to keep their living standards, but are open to financially managable alternatives
Although demand for premium locations has by no means disappeared, many buyers are clearly redirecting their attention towards better-priced alternatives. District I has remained stable at 8.4 per cent, showing that the historic setting and proximity to the Danube still maintain a loyal base of interest.
Meanwhile, outer districts have recorded a marked increase in demand. In District XIX, interest has risen from 6.6 to 9 per cent; in District XX from 5 to 7 per cent; and Soroksár (District XXIII) has moved up from 2 to 3.4 per cent. These neighbourhoods attract young families in particular, thanks to more moderate prices and a calmer suburban atmosphere.
Airbnb also affected in Budapest
According to Duna House, the tightening of short-term rental regulations has also contributed to the market shift. Following Terézváros, Erzsébetváros introduced stricter rules in September, effectively preventing new Airbnb permits in residential buildings.
Existing permits remain valid, but no new ones can be issued, meaning the supply of such properties will no longer expand. In Terézváros, where similar restrictions were introduced earlier, property prices began to fall soon after; this approach was later upheld by the Supreme Court, emphasising the need to protect residents’ peace and wellbeing.
As a result, investor-driven purchases may decline in these heavily affected districts, improving opportunities for young buyers aiming to secure a home for their own use.
These trends all point to a new chapter in Budapest’s property market—one where young home-seekers prioritise long-term affordability, liveability and stability when choosing where to settle.
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