Cost of living in Hungary 2025: Prices, salaries, and daily life

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Hungary in 2025 remains one of Central Europe’s most affordable and culturally vibrant countries. Whether you are a local, an expat, a foreign student, or a Hungarian living abroad, understanding the real cost of daily life is crucial for planning your finances and lifestyle. This article offers a comprehensive look at current prices, salary trends, and what to expect from everyday living in Hungary.

Monthly costs of living in Hungary: An overview

  • Single person: Estimated monthly costs range from HUF 250,000–350,000 (approx. EUR 616–863), depending on lifestyle and housing choices.
  • Family of 4: Monthly expenses are about HUF 1,090,000 (approx. EUR 2,700), including rent, in some calculations.

Hungary’s cost of living is significantly lower than in Western Europe – about 40–50% less than countries like Germany, France, or the UK. Budapest, the capital, is more expensive than smaller cities and villages, but still more affordable than many European capitals.

Living in Hungary: Breakdown of typical expenses

CategoryAverage monthly cost (HUF/EUR)Notes
Rent (1-bed, city)197,000–220,000
486–543		Budapest, furnished, normal to expensive area
Rent (1-bed, smaller city)120,000–180,000
296–444		Cheaper outside Budapest
Utilities (1 person)32,000–46,000
80–113		Heating, electricity, gas
Groceries50,000–80,000
123–197		Basic food basket
Public transport8,950 (full), 3,450 (student)
22, 8.5		Monthly Budapest pass
Eating out (meal)3,000–4,800
7.4–11.8		Cheap menu or main dish
Gym membership10,000–20,000
25–50		Per month

Sample grocery prices:

  • Bread (1 loaf): HUF 500 (EUR 1.23)
  • Milk (1 liter): HUF 400–466 (EUR 1–1.15)
  • Chicken breast (1 kg): HUF 1,089–2,800 (EUR 2.7–7)
  • Eggs (12): HUF 1,252 (EUR 3)
  • Apples (1 kg): HUF 700 (EUR 1.73)
  • Beer (0.5 l, supermarket): HUF 376 (EUR 0.93)

Entertainment:

  • Cinema ticket: HUF 2,800–3,100 (EUR 7–7.7)
  • Theatre ticket: HUF 2,700–8,000 (EUR 6.7–19.75)
  • Dinner for two (mid-range): HUF 12,000–18,000 (EUR 29.6–44.4)

Salaries and economic trends in 2025

  • Average salaries: Vary by sector and region. While salaries in Hungary are lower than Western Europe, they have been gradually increasing. The Reed 2025 Hungary Salary Guide highlights that economic turbulence in recent years has led to cautious hiring, but optimism is growing, especially in the industrial sector.
  • Labour market: Inflation has eased, but consumer confidence is still recovering. Many companies focus on cost efficiency and workforce retention, but delayed investments are expected to materialise as the year progresses.

Housing: Renting and buying

  • Renting: Budapest is the most expensive city, with rents for a furnished one-bedroom flat in the city centre averaging HUF 197,000–220,000 (EUR 486–543) per month. In smaller cities, rents can be significantly lower.
  • Utilities: Expect to pay HUF 32,000–46,000 (EUR 80–113) per month for a standard apartment.
  • Buying property: Foreigners can buy property, and the Hungary Golden Visa program (reintroduced in 2024) offers residency through investment in real estate funds (minimum EUR 250,000, more details HERE).

Living in Hungary: Quality, culture, and community

  • Affordability: Hungary is attractive for expats and students due to its low costs, high quality of life, and rich culture. Public healthcare and education meet EU standards, and private options are available at lower prices than in Western Europe.
  • Cities: Budapest offers modern amenities, vibrant nightlife, and a large expat community. Cities like Debrecen, Szeged and Pécs provide a quieter pace and strong academic environments.
  • Language: English is widely spoken in tourist areas and among younger people, but learning Hungarian is recommended for daily life, especially outside major cities.
  • Transportation: Public transport is reliable and affordable, with monthly passes under HUF 9,000 (EUR 22.2) for adults and even cheaper for students.
  • Community: Hungarians value family and social connections. The country is known for its hospitality, festivals, and relaxed pace of life.

Pros and cons of living in Hungary

Pros:

  • Low cost of living compared to Western Europe
  • High quality of life, vibrant culture, and beautiful cities
  • Favourable tax rates (15% income tax, 9% corporate tax)
  • Residency and citizenship pathways for expats and investors

Cons:

  • Salaries are lower than Western European averages
  • Inflation and bureaucracy can be challenges
  • Hungarian language is considered difficult for newcomers

Outlook for 2025

Hungarians are cautiously optimistic about the future, with many expecting improvements in living standards and economic stability. Government initiatives, such as expanded family benefits and housing support, are set to boost confidence and quality of life. For expats and students, Hungary remains a smart choice for affordable European living with access to quality services and a rich cultural scene.

Whether you’re considering a move, planning your studies, or simply curious about life in Hungary, 2025 promises a blend of affordability, opportunity, and tradition that continues to attract people from all over the world.

For more sources for expats in Hungary, click HERE.

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