Working in Budapest
Budapest is the capital of Hungary, and with ~1.7 million people it is also the biggest city of the country. It is located in central Hungary and divided by the Danube River. The historic cities of Buda and Pest are nowadays connected by some famous bridges, including the Chain Bridge.
Living and working in Budapest is an enriching experience that combines history, culture, and modernity. The city’s stunning architecture, including the iconic Parliament Building and Buda Castle, creates a unique and picturesque atmosphere. Budapest is also famous for its thermal baths, providing relaxation and health benefits.
Life in Budapest
Budapest is vibrant and offers numerous festivals and events throughout the year. Its gastronomy is delightful, featuring traditional Hungarian dishes and a variety of international cuisines. The city’s affordability makes it an attractive destination for both students and professionals. The cost of living is relatively lower than in other European cities, and public transport is efficient and reasonably priced.
Work in Budapest
- Average working hours per week: 40 hours, 8 hours daily
- Typical working day: Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Number of Vacation days: 20 days / 4 weeks
- Commute: Mostly by train/tram and bus
FAQ
You can move to Budapest by yourself, with a friend or as a couple. There are pros and cons to all of the situations. If you consider moving abroad with any kind of friend it can be a really good idea to sit down and talk through practical and everyday stuff such as economy, bills, cleaning, grocery shopping, cooking vs ordering, going out/staying in, how you deal with potentially going out without each other as well as having friends and family visiting (from near and far and extended visits). Apart from the practical arrangements, life is fun when you can share your new core memories with other people – so it is very recommendable to move abroad together. Moving with a friend can cause you to interact less with new people compared to if you move abroad by yourself. But if this is a good or a bad thing entirely depends on your personal goals and wishes as well as your personality.
Conclusion: communication is key if you and your friend decide to move abroad together
Getting around Budapest is convenient with its well-developed public transport system. The city offers metro, tram, bus, and trolleybus services. Trams are a great way to explore the city’s landmarks. The metro is fast and efficient. The costs for public transport in Budapest will be something like this:
- 24-hour travel card: €6,80
- 72-hour travel card: €13-€14
- Monthly pass: €22
Budapest offers a variety of neighbourhoods to suit different lifestyles and budgets. Districts 13, 14, and 18 are among the most affordable areas, providing a balance of amenities and lower living costs. District 5 is central and vibrant, but might be slightly pricier. For a more laid-back atmosphere, consider Districts 2 and 3, which offer beautiful natural surroundings and a sense of community. Each district has its charm and appeal, making Budapest a diverse and exciting city to call home.
The average renting prices in Budapest:
- 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: €800-€1,500 a month
- 1-bedroom apartment outside the city center: €600-€850
- Room in a shared apartment: €300-€400 a month
In Budapest, the temperatures vary throughout the year:
- Spring: 12–17°C. Mild and gradually warming.
- Summer: 25–28°C. Hot and sunny.
- Autumn: 14–18°C. Pleasant early, cooling later.
- Winter: 0-3°C. Cold and cloudy, with occasional snow.
How expensive is life in Budapest?
If you go for the adventure of living and working in Budapest, you might want to know more about the costs of living in this city. Hungary is relatively cheap in comparison to Northern European cities. Budapest is more expensive than the rest of Hungary, but still affordable. The most common costs:
- Groceries: €200-€300 a month
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: €7-€10
- Coffee in a café: €2-€3
- 0.5L Beer in a bar: €2-€3
- Cinema ticket: €6-€8
- Gym membership: €25-€35 a month
- Thermal bath entry: €15-€35
Still not sure about living and working in Budapest?
Life in Budapest can be a captivating mix of historical charm and vibrant modernity:
- Mornings might start with a stroll along the Danube or a visit to a local cafe for a rich cup of coffee.
- Days can be filled with exploring architectural wonders, relaxing in thermal baths, or enjoying the arts and cultural scene.
- Evenings are perfect for indulging in Hungarian cuisine or experiencing the city’s lively nightlife.
- With a warm community, affordable living, and a variety of activities, Budapest offers an enchanting and fulfilling lifestyle.
- Budapest’s central location allows easy access to other European cities, making it a perfect base for travel.
- Moreover, Budapest boasts excellent educational and healthcare systems, making it an appealing choice for families and individuals seeking a high quality of life.
- The local community is welcoming and diverse, embracing both Hungarian traditions and international influences.
All of this together makes working in Budapest so much more than just a job. It’s an unforgettable experience abroad that will form you in all sorts of ways!
