ðŸ‡ðŸ‡º Cost of Living in Hungary - Prices & Budget Guide
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameHungary
CapitalBudapest
Population9.5 million
Area93,028 km² (35,918 sq mi)
LanguagesHungarian
CurrencyHungarian forint (Ft)
TimezoneUTC+01:00
RegionEurope / Central Europe
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$48,552 (2024)
Inflation Rate3.7% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$1,420 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend23.1% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)3.8% (2022)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Quick Facts
Cost LevelAffordable
Daily Budget (Backpacker)$30-50 USD
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)$60-100 USD
Daily Budget (Comfort)$120-200 USD
CurrencyHUF
Tipping Customexpected (5-10%)
How Expensive Is Hungary?
Hungary is considered an affordable country to visit or live in, with a cost of living that is lower compared to other European countries. The country's capital, Budapest, is a popular tourist destination, and its prices are slightly higher than in other parts of the country. However, overall, Hungary offers great value for money, with a wide range of accommodation options, dining experiences, and activities available at reasonable prices. Compared to its neighbors, Hungary is generally cheaper than Austria and Slovenia, but more expensive than Ukraine and Romania.
In terms of global averages, Hungary's cost of living is lower than in Western European countries, but higher than in many Eastern European countries. The country's economy is growing, and tourism is a significant contributor to its GDP, which has led to an increase in prices in recent years. However, Hungary still remains an affordable destination for travelers and expats, with a great balance of quality and price.
Accommodation Prices
Type
Price Range (USD/night)
Notes
Hostel/Budget
$10-20
Shared rooms, basic facilities
Mid-Range Hotel
$40-70
Private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, breakfast included
Luxury/Resort
$100-200
High-end amenities, city center locations
Apartment Rent (monthly)
$200-500
City center: $300-500, outside city center: $200-300
Food & Dining Prices
Meal Type
Price Range (USD)
Street Food / Local Eatery
$3-6
Casual Restaurant
$10-15
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)
$25-40
Fine Dining
$50-100
Beer (local)
$2-4
Coffee
$1-3
Water (1.5L bottle)
$1-2
Transport Costs
Transport
Cost (USD)
Local bus/metro ride
$1-2
Taxi (per km)
$1-2
Domestic flight
$50-100
Fuel (per liter)
$1-2
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Category
Budget ($)
Mid-Range ($)
Comfortable ($)
Rent
200
400
600
Food
300
500
800
Transport
50
100
150
Utilities
100
150
200
Entertainment
100
200
300
Total
750
1350
2050
Money-Saving Tips
Consider staying in a hostel or budget hotel, which can be significantly cheaper than mid-range or luxury hotels.
Eat at local eateries or street food stalls, which offer a wide range of traditional Hungarian dishes at affordable prices.
Use public transport, which is efficient and cheap, instead of taxis or rental cars.
Buy a Budapest Card, which offers discounts and free entry to many attractions and public transport.
Shop at local markets or supermarkets, which offer fresh produce and other essentials at lower prices than tourist areas.
Learn some basic Hungarian phrases, which can help you navigate the country and get better deals from locals.