Finding Housing in Hungary
Budapest's housing market offers good value compared to Western Europe, though prices have been rising. The 2025 short-term rental moratorium is reshaping the market.
Budapest Rental Market
Average Monthly Rents (2026):
| Area | 1BR Apartment | 2-3BR Apartment |
|---|---|---|
| District V (Belváros) | €700-900 | €1,200-1,600 |
| District VI (Terézváros) | €650-800 | €1,100-1,400 |
| District VII (Erzsébetváros) | €600-750 | €1,000-1,300 |
| Buda (I, II, XII) | €600-800 | €1,000-1,500 |
| Outer Pest (XIII, XIV) | €450-600 | €800-1,100 |
District Guide
Best for expats:
- District V: Central, beautiful, expensive, touristy
- District VI: Good balance, cafes, nightlife
- District VII (Jewish Quarter): Trendy, ruin bars, vibrant
- District XIII: Modern, family-friendly, good value
- Buda side (II, XII): Quieter, greener, more residential
Avoid:
- District VIII (Józsefváros): Improving but still has rough areas
- Parts of outer districts lack amenities
Where to Search
Online platforms:
- Ingatlan.com: Largest Hungarian property site
- Albérlet.hu: Rentals focus
- Facebook groups: "Apartments for Rent in Budapest"
- Flatio: Furnished, flexible terms (popular with nomads)
Real estate agents:
- Useful for non-Hungarian speakers
- Typically charge 1 month rent as fee
- Can help navigate contracts
Rental Requirements
Typical landlord requirements:
- Valid passport and visa/residence permit
- Proof of income (3x rent recommended)
- 2-3 months deposit
- First month rent upfront
What to expect:
- Furnished apartments common
- Utilities usually separate (€80-150/month)
- Contracts typically 1 year minimum
- 1-2 month notice period
Utility Costs
| Utility | Monthly Cost (85m²) |
|---|---|
| Electricity | €40-60 |
| Gas/Heating | €30-80 (higher in winter) |
| Water | €15-25 |
| Internet | €15-25 |
| Total | €100-190 |
Note: Winter heating costs can be significant - budget extra for November-March.
Short-Term Rentals
2025-2026 Changes:
- Moratorium on new short-term rental licenses since January 2025
- District VI implementing total ban in 2026
- Airbnb options decreasing
- Monthly rentals on Flatio increasingly popular
Outside Budapest
Much cheaper options in other cities:
- Debrecen: €300-500 for 1BR
- Szeged: €300-450 for 1BR
- Pécs: €300-400 for 1BR
- Győr: €350-500 for 1BR
Buying Property
Foreigners can buy property in Hungary (some restrictions for agricultural land). Typical process:
- No residence permit required for EU citizens
- Non-EU citizens may need permission (usually granted)
- Purchase tax: 4% of property value
- Legal fees: 1-2%
- Budapest prices: €2,000-4,000/m² depending on area
Pro Tips
- •Start searching 4-6 weeks before your move date
- •Facebook groups often have better deals than agencies
- •Verify landlord owns the property (ask for documentation)
- •Heating costs vary significantly - ask about previous bills
- •Districts VII and XIII offer best value for central living
Have questions about housing in Hungary?