Living in Budapest: 6 reasons internationals choose Budapest

Discover 6 reasons why internationals are choosing to live in Budapest and figure out if Hungary’s capital city is the spot for you.

Ellie

5 minute read

·

4 Oct 2024

·

Living

Budapest has become a popular destination in recent years for internationals looking to explore life in a new country. Located along the banks of the Danube River, this vibrant city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. If you’re considering moving to Hungary, here’re some reasons to live in Budapest that’ll help you see why it’s one of the best places to live in Hungary.

One of the many advantages of living in Budapest is how affordable it is to live there. Especially when compared to other European capital cities, Budapest offers a budget-friendly lifestyle without compromising on your quality of life. On average, you’ll spend about 500,000 Ft (€1,245/$1,380) per month living in Budapest, including rent.

Groceries in Budapest are reasonably priced, and you’ll always have plenty of fresh ingredients available at open markets like Lehel Ter and Fovam Ter. You’ll also have cheap grocery stores like Aldi and Lidl close by to buy your groceries if you want to keep the budget low. Eating out in Budapest is also very cheap, and there’s a wide variety of cuisines to choose from. You can indulge in cheap street food treats for around 1,200 Ft (€3/$3.30) or enjoy a sit-down meal for about 6,000 Ft (€16/$16.50).

Public transportation in Budapest is also super affordable, with monthly passes costing only 8950 Ft (€23/$24.50) and 3450 Ft (€8.75/$9.50) for students. Even taxis in Budapest are cheaper than in most European capital cities.

For those seeking to build a career, Budapest offers great employment opportunities in various sectors.

The job market in Budapest has been expanding in recent years, particularly in industries such as technology, finance, and tourism. Many multinational companies have set up offices in the city, creating a demand for skilled professionals. This growth has increased job availability, making it an attractive destination for young professionals.

While speaking Hungarian can be beneficial, many companies in Budapest operate in English, especially in fields like IT and customer service. Having English as a first language can be a significant advantage when looking for work, and many employers actively seek out expats for their diverse perspectives.

Navigating a new city can be daunting, but Budapest’s public transportation system makes it easy. The city boasts an extensive network that includes buses, trams, and metro lines. All of the public transportation options in Budapest run very frequently, so you’ll never have to wait long to get around.

Budapest also has several public transportation options that help you get home safely at night, even if you live a bit outside the city.

There’s a handy app called BudapestGo that helps you plan your journey in Budapest. Be sure to download it when you arrive!

Compared to many Western European cities, rent in Budapest is considerably lower. If you want to find rental homes in Budapest, you’ll realise that Budapest has many accommodation options. From modern apartments in the city centre to spacious flats in the suburbs of Budapest, there’s something for everyone.

The average cost of rent in Budapest varies a lot depending on what you want to rent, but here’s an idea of what you can expect to pay:

These prices are just an indicator of what rent in Budapest can cost, but you’ll find plenty of even cheaper options a little further away from the centre.

According to HousingAnywhere’s rent index, the cost of renting an apartment in Budapest has been dropping in recent months, making it even more affordable to live comfortably!

Budapest has unique housing options

Budapest’s architecture adds character to the city’s rental market. You’ll find stunning historical buildings with high ceilings and original features, providing a unique living experience. If you decide to search homes for rent in Budapest with HousingAnywhere, you’ll be able to move into a fully furnished apartment, saving you the hassle and cost of buying new furniture.

For many, moving to a new city can feel isolating, but Budapest boasts a thriving expat community that makes settling in much easier. Whether you’re interested in international meetups or language exchange events, Budapest offers numerous opportunities to connect with fellow expats, whether for networking or to make new friends. Many communities are active on social media, hosting events and activities that allow newcomers to integrate quickly.

The expat community in Budapest is also incredibly diverse, with people from all over the world coming to live here. This cultural melting pot means you can find a range of activities, cuisines, and social gatherings that celebrate the different traditions and backgrounds of its international residents. It quickly becomes clear why so many internationals will move to Hungary once you settle into this cultural haven.

There’re various resources available for expats, including forums, blogs, and local services that cater specifically to foreigners. These can help you navigate everything from arranging your residence permit, overcoming language barriers, or even finding the best Goulash in Budapest! Be sure to check out social media sites like Facebook to find groups of fellow internationals.

Life in Budapest is never boring, thanks to the abundance of entertainment options available. Whether you enjoy cultural experiences, outdoor activities, or lively nightlife, Budapest has everything.

Budapest is known for its history and culture. You can explore world-class museums, such as the Hungarian National Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts, showcasing impressive collections from various periods.

When the sun sets, and the museums close, Budapest comes alive with its vibrant nightlife. The city is famous for its ruin bars which are unique venues in abandoned buildings and courtyards. These bars offer an eclectic atmosphere, great drinks, and often live music. You can also find a wide range of clubs and lounges catering to various tastes, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

If you enjoy the outdoors, Budapest won’t disappoint. The city has several parks, such as Margaret Island and City Park, where you can relax, jog, or picnic. Additionally, the Danube River offers opportunities for boating and river cruises, allowing you to enjoy stunning views of the city’s landmarks.

Of course, we can't forget to mention the iconic baths! Budapest's thermal baths are a great place to go to de-stress and enjoys one of the cities most unique perks.

Yes! Budapest is a fantastic place to call home for many reasons. The affordable cost of living, great employment opportunities and excellent public transportation are just the beginning. With a cheap rental market, a vibrant expat community, abundant entertainment options, and, it's no wonder that so many people are drawn to this beautiful city.

Whether you're a student, a young professional, or someone looking to start a new chapter in life, Budapest offers an enticing mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. So, if you’re considering a move, keep Budapest in mind—it might be the perfect place for you!