Hungary is one of Central Europe’s most appealing destinations for expats seeking a balance between affordability, quality of life, and rich culture.
From the cosmopolitan energy of Budapest to the historic charm of Eger and the lakeside serenity of Balatonfüred, Hungary offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re a professional looking for career opportunities, a retiree seeking tranquility, or a digital nomad drawn to affordability and beautiful landscapes, Hungary provides a wide range of options.
In this guide you will learn about:
Top 9 Places to Live in Hungary
Hungary is a top European destination for those looking for an affordable cost of living, high quality of life, and thriving investment opportunities. Based on our Global Passport Index, Hungary ranks 32nd out 199, placing it within the top 16%, offering visa-free access to 181 countries. Additionally, Hungary ranks 57th for quality of living and 17th for enhanced mobility, overall, offering those looking to live in Hungary fantastic opportunities.
01/ Budapest
- Population: 1.78 million
- Average salary: €1,299
- Average home prices: €4,435 (Price per Square Meter)
Budapest is the capital city of Hungary, offering a world of historic architecture, a thriving tech scene, and fantastic business opportunities. For those looking for a cosmopolitan lifestyle along with hustle and bustle, Budapest is the place for you.
For families looking at moving to Hungary, the city offers some fantastic international schools and universities, including Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, the American International School Budapest, and the British International School Budapest.
Some popular areas for expats in Budapest include:
- District V (Belváros-Lipótváros): Central Budapest, close to the Danube and Parliament in the city center. Ideal for professionals seeking a cosmopolitan lifestyle with plenty of restaurants, cafés, and cultural attractions.
- District VI (Terézváros): Known for Andrássy Avenue, theaters, and nightlife. Popular with young expats, creatives, and students.
- District VII (Erzsébetváros): Trendy area with pubs and boutique shops. Attracts young professionals and those who enjoy a lively social scene.
- District II (Rózsadomb): Upscale residential area with quiet streets and green spaces. Favored by families and diplomats seeking safety and tranquility.
- District XI (Újbuda): Mix of residential and commercial areas near universities and tech companies. Popular among students and professionals.
The cost of living in Budapest is on the higher end when compared with smaller areas in Hungary. However, when looking at the cost of living in Hungary vs the UK, Hungary is significantly cheaper, costing 63% less.
You will find the widest range of job opportunities in Budapest, with growing IT, finance, and business sectors. The automotive and mechanical engineering industries are also growing rapidly with strong need for employees.
Healthcare is also readily available in the city, with public and private options available. Healthcare in Hungary is accessible, with the universal healthcare system available to those with Hungarian citizenship. For expats and foreign nationals, private healthcare is available, with a range of insurance options.
02/ Debrecen
- Population: 202,000
- Average salary: €916
- Average home prices: €2,424 (Price per Square Meter)
Debrecen is Hungary’s second-largest city. It is a cultural and educational hub, well known for the University of Debrecen. The city offers a balanced, family-friendly lifestyle with a relaxed pace and colorful cultural events such as the Flower Carnival.
Housing and daily expenses are more affordable than in Budapest. Job opportunities are strong in healthcare, education, and the growing tech and manufacturing sectors, supported by BMW’s new manufacturing plant.
Debrecen experiences warm summers and cool winters, and residents have access to excellent schools, healthcare, and direct rail connections to the capital, taking just over two hours.
Foreign nationals love the city as it offers a large expat community. While not as big as Budapest, it still has a big city feel while not being overwhelming. You can enjoy life here through the Hungary Golden Visa, which offers residency by investment to non-EU/EEA citizens. This program is one of the most affordable in Europe, with a minimum investment of €250,000.
03/ Győr
- Population: 130,000
- Average salary: €1,095
- Average home prices: €2,770 (Price per Square Meter)
Situated halfway between Budapest and Vienna, Győr blends modern industry with antique charm. The city offers a comfortable lifestyle that balances city conveniences with a small-town atmosphere, making it ideal for professionals and families.
The cost of living is lower than in Budapest but slightly higher than in smaller towns. Employment is strong, particularly in automotive and industrial sectors, including Audi’s largest European plant for drives, employing nearly 12,000 people.
Győr residents benefit from excellent healthcare, education, and convenient transport links, including easy access to Vienna via train, bus, or car in just over an hour. For those moving to Hungary to gain access to other European countries, Győr is a top option.
04/ Pécs
- Population: 141,000
- Average salary: €740
- Average home prices: €2,812 (Price per Square Meter)
Nestled near the Mecsek Mountains in southern Hungary, Pécs is known for its mild climate, Mediterranean ambiance, and rich cultural heritage. Its relaxed and artistic atmosphere attracts a large student population.
The city is very affordable, especially for housing and dining, and job opportunities focus on education, healthcare, and creative industries.
Winters are mild, and summers warm, with residents enjoying good healthcare and local transport options, as well as international schooling through the University of Pécs. Based on our Global Education Report, Hungary ranks 43rd, placing the country in the top 60% globally.
05/ Szeged
- Population: 158,000
- Average salary: €1,083
- Average home prices: €2,685 (Price per Square Meter)
Known as the “City of Sunshine,” Szeged is a lively university town with beautiful architecture and a welcoming community. The mix of energetic atmosphere combined with a laid-back lifestyle is the main draw to this part of Hungary.
The city offers affordable living, with lower rent and groceries than the capital. Szeged is the third largest city in Hungary, and is well known for the University of Szeged, one of the most distinguished universities in Hungary.
Szeged boasts one of Hungary’s sunniest climates, with warm, dry summers. Residents also benefit from excellent healthcare, with both public and private options available and reliable local transport, with trams, buses, and trolleys available throughout the city.
06/ Eger
- Population: 56,000
- Average salary: €1,175
- Average home prices: €2,557 (Price per Square Meter)
Eger is ideal for those who appreciate rich history, culture, and a relaxed lifestyle. The town is famous for Eger Castle, where you can explore medieval history, and the Bazilika of Eger, a stunning baroque cathedral.
Wine enthusiasts will enjoy the Valley of the Beautiful Woman (Szépasszonyvölgy), home to hundreds of traditional wine cellars offering tastings of the region’s renowned Egri Bikavér (Bull’s Blood) red wine.
Families benefit from reputable educational options, such as Neumann János Primary School and the Eszterházy Károly University, which offers international programs. Healthcare is covered by modern facilities providing comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services.
With affordable housing and utilities, plus local cafés, festivals, and charming cobblestone streets, Eger offers a tranquil lifestyle without sacrificing access to modern conveniences.
07/ Sopron
- Population: 63,000
- Average salary: €1,159
- Average home prices: €2,493 (Price per Square Meter)
Sopron combines historic charm with a relaxed, high-quality lifestyle near the Austrian border. Expats can explore the Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and medieval architecture, climb the Firewatch Tower for panoramic views, or enjoy nearby vineyards and wine festivals.
Families have excellent educational options such as Sopron International School and bilingual Hungarian Austrian programs. Healthcare is covered by Sopron Hospital and private clinics.
Many residents commute to Austria for work, benefiting from the one-hour train journey while enjoying a scenic view. Sopron is a popular option for digital nomads in Hungary that seek convenience, a laid-back atmosphere, with everything needed for a high quality of life. Based on our Digital Nomad Report, Hungary ranks 16th, with a score of 88.04 out of 100.
08/ Kecskemét
- Population: 110,000
- Average salary: €912
- Average home prices: €1,956 (Price per Square Meter)
Located in Central Hungary, Kecskemét is a vibrant city known for its striking Cifra Palace, art nouveau architecture, museums, and lively local festivals such as the Kecskemét Autumn Festival.
Families can choose from Kecskemét International School and bilingual programs, while healthcare is provided by Kecskemét Hospital and modern private clinics. Overall, living in Kecskemét is lovely for families, with a host of parks, including Pihenő Park and Guba Park.
The city also offers an affordable lifestyle compared to Budapest. Plus, it has a strong economy thanks to big employers like Mercedes Benz hiring over 4,000 people.
If you want to head to Budapest, there are trains throughout the day, with a travel time of one hour. Alternatively, you can drive, taking just over an hour.
09/ Balatonfüred
- Population: 13,000
- Average salary: €2,000
- Average home prices: €2,216 (Price per Square Meter)
Located on the northern shore of Lake Balaton, Balatonfüred is a charming resort town known for its lakeside promenades, historic villas, and relaxed atmosphere. The town’s Tagore Promenade is a popular spot for leisurely walks.
Families benefit from Balatonfüred Primary School and nearby bilingual institutions, while healthcare is well-supported by Balatonfüred Hospital and several private clinics.
Outdoor lovers can enjoy water sports, hiking trails in the Balaton Uplands National Park, and the town’s wellness centers and spas.
Living in Balatonfüred offers a slower pace compared to Budapest, making it perfect for those looking to retire in Hungary. The town also offers affordable property options and a friendly expat community, making it ideal for those looking to buy property in Hungary.
Balatonfüred is also well-connected, you can reach the capital in around 1.5 hours by car or train, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful lakeside lifestyle without being too far from the city.
Comparison Table for Hungarian Places to Live
To make things more convenient, here is a comparison table for the best places to live in Hungary:
| City | Population | Average Salary (per month) | Average Home Price (per m²) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budapest | 1,780,000 | €1,299 ($1,416) | €4,435 ($4,833) |
| Debrecen | 202,000 | €916 ($998) | €2,424 ($2,641) |
| Győr | 130,000 | €1,095 ($1,194) | €2,770 ($3,020) |
| Pécs | 141,000 | €740 ($807) | €2,812 ($3,065) |
| Szeged | 158,000 | €1,083 ($1,181) | €2,685 ($2,927) |
| Eger | 56,000 | €1,175 ($1,280) | €2,557 ($2,787) |
| Sopron | 63,000 | €1,159 ($1,264) | €2,493 ($2,717) |
| Kecskemét | 110,000 | €912 ($994) | €1,956 ($2,131) |
| Balatonfüred | 13,000 | €2,000 ($2,180) | €2,216 ($2,416) |
