🇦🇹 Cost of Living: Austria vs Hungary — Price Comparison
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameRepublic of Austria
CapitalVienna
Population9.2 million
Area83,871 km² (32,383 sq mi)
LanguagesGerman
Currencyeuro (€)
TimezoneUTC+01:00
RegionEurope / Central Europe
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$73,911 (2024)
Inflation Rate2.9% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$6,739 (2024)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend16.5% (2024)
Education Spend (% GDP)5.3% (2022)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Austria is generally more expensive than Hungary, with a cost of living difference of around 20-30% in many categories.
Quick Facts
Austria GDP per Capita (PPP)53,558
Hungary GDP per Capita (PPP)34,667
Austria Inflation Rate2.2%
Hungary Inflation Rate3.4%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Hungary
Overview: Austria vs Hungary
Austria and Hungary are two neighboring countries in Central Europe, with distinct economic profiles. Austria has a strong and stable economy, with a high standard of living and a GDP per capita of over $53,000. Hungary, on the other hand, has a more mixed economy, with a lower GDP per capita of around $34,000. As a result, the cost of living in Austria is generally higher than in Hungary, with prices for housing, food, and transportation tend to be more expensive. However, both countries offer a high quality of life, with rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
The cost of living difference between Austria and Hungary is significant, with Austria being around 20-30% more expensive in many categories. This is reflected in the prices of everyday items, such as housing, food, and transportation. However, Hungary offers a more affordable lifestyle, with lower prices for accommodation, food, and other living expenses. This makes Hungary an attractive option for expats, students, and retirees looking for a more affordable lifestyle without sacrificing too much in terms of quality of life.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Austria (USD)
Hungary (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
1,200
800
33% cheaper
1BR Apartment (Outside)
900
600
33% cheaper
3BR Apartment (City Center)
2,500
1,800
28% cheaper
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Austria (USD)
Hungary (USD)
Difference
Meal at Restaurant
20
15
25% cheaper
Groceries (monthly)
500
350
30% cheaper
Beer (500ml)
5
3
40% cheaper
Coffee
4
2
50% cheaper
Transport Comparison
Item
Austria (USD)
Hungary (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
80
60
25% cheaper
Taxi (per km)
2
1.50
25% cheaper
Fuel (per liter)
1.50
1.20
20% cheaper
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Austria (USD)
Hungary (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
200
150
25% cheaper
Internet (60 Mbps)
30
25
17% cheaper
Mobile Plan
20
15
25% cheaper
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Austria (USD)
Hungary (USD)
Savings
Budget
2,000
1,500
25%
Mid-Range
3,000
2,200
27%
Comfortable
4,500
3,200
29%
Where Each Country Wins
Austria is cheaper for:
High-end shopping and luxury goods
International flights and travel
Premium education and healthcare services
Hungary is cheaper for:
Accommodation and housing
Food and dining
Transportation and fuel
Everyday living expenses
Bottom Line
Austria and Hungary offer distinct lifestyles and cost of living profiles. Austria is a better fit for those who value a high standard of living, stability, and security, and are willing to pay a premium for it. Hungary, on the other hand, offers a more affordable lifestyle, with lower prices for accommodation, food, and other living expenses, making it an attractive option for expats, students, and retirees looking for a more affordable lifestyle without sacrificing too much in terms of quality of life. Ultimately, the choice between Austria and Hungary depends on individual priorities and preferences. If budget is a concern, Hungary is likely the better choice, but if a high standard of living and stability are top priorities, Austria may be worth the extra cost.