Starting a New Life in Hungary: What to Consider Before Committing
In 2025, more than a quarter of a million foreigners were living in Hungary, more than ever before. Some come for the country’s central European location, others for the high level of public safety, or access to state-funded healthcare and education. Whatever the reason, Hungary has clearly become a popular choice for people looking to start a new chapter abroad. At the same time, relocating is a big step, and daily life can feel very different once the excitement fades. We went through dozens of expat groups and forums to see what foreigners wish they had known before moving, and this article walks you through those points.
5 things you should consider before moving to Hungary
Many of us have had moments when we wished we could send a message back to our earlier selves with a bit of advice. This feeling is especially strong when it comes to decisions that can shape our entire lives. Moving to another country is very much one of those moments. Hungary can be a great choice if you are looking for a calm, safe, and predictable European country where it is easy to settle in. Still, before you apply for a Hungarian residence permit and fully commit to the move, there are a few important things worth thinking through, and below we show what they are.
The language barrier and everyday communication
According to data from the Hungarian Central Statistical Office, around 35.4% of Hungarians do not speak any foreign language. In larger cities, it is usually possible to get by in English, especially in offices, restaurants, and international environments. However, in smaller towns this can quickly become more difficult. Even in everyday situations like visiting a doctor, dealing with paperwork, or talking to a ticket inspector on public transport, English may not always be an option. If you plan to stay long term, making an effort to learn some Hungarian can make daily life much smoother.
Lower living costs, but also lower average salaries
Hungary is often described as affordable, and in many ways that is true. According to Numbeo, the estimated monthly cost for a family of four is about 908,000 HUF excluding rent, which is far lower than in cities like Paris, Madrid, or many places in North America. At the same time, local salaries are also lower. As of late 2025, the average gross monthly salary in Hungary is around 700,000–756,400 HUF, roughly €1,800–€1,900. Living comfortably is possible, especially in bigger cities, but it is important to look at income and expenses together, not just prices.
Job opportunities and how the local market works
Job opportunities can vary a lot depending on where you live. In smaller cities, options for foreigners are often limited, especially without Hungarian language skills. Larger cities, particularly Budapest, offer far more possibilities. Many international companies operate there, and English-speaking roles are common in areas like IT, finance, and shared service centers. Understanding how the local job market works before moving can save a lot of frustration later.
Housing options and what to expect from the rental market
Housing is one of the biggest challenges for newcomers. Property prices and rents have risen sharply in recent years, with Hungary seeing some of the highest increases in Europe. Based on data from Ingatlan.com, the average monthly rent in Budapest was around 250,000 HUF last year, and after further increases it is now closer to 270,000 HUF. This is considered high when compared to local average salaries. Finding a good apartment often takes time, patience, and realistic expectations.
How accessible healthcare and public services really are
Hungary has state-funded healthcare and public education, which is reassuring for many people moving from abroad. In practice, however, access can be slower than what some foreigners are used to in Western Europe. Waiting times for specialist appointments are often longer, and navigating the system can feel confusing at first. Many expats choose private healthcare for faster access, especially for non-emergency care. You can visit influencer gone wild for more trending posts.
