10 Best Places to Live in Hungary in 2026
Top cities for expats in Hungary include Budapest, Debrecen, Szeged, Eger, Győr, Veszprém, Sopron, and Pécs. From its stunning architecture to its delicious cuisine, Hungary has plenty to offer those looking to relocate.
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In this Pacific Prime article, we’ve compiled a list of Hungary’s top ten cities, detailing what makes each one appealing for expats. By the end of the article, you will be able to make a more informed decision on where to begin your next journey in Hungary.
If you are planning to relocate to Europe and are still trying to decide which country to move to, check out our complete guide for expats planning to move to Europe.
Budapest—Best City for Expats
The capital city of Hungary, Budapest, is known for its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and vibrant nightlife. It’s a great city for expats who want to be in the heart of the action, offering a great combination of affordability, culture, location, food and drink, and business opportunities.
Why should expats consider moving to Budapest?
- Affordability: Compared to other European cities, Budapest has lower rent. As an expat, Budapest provides a high standard of living without breaking the bank.
- Rich Culture: Budapest is known for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and cultural attractions such as museums, art galleries, and festivals. The city has a unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures and is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites.
- Great Location: Budapest is located in the heart of Europe, making it an excellent base for travel to other European destinations. The city also has a well-connected public transportation system, making it easy to get around.
Debrecen – Haven for English Speakers
Hungary’s second-largest city, Debrecen, is located in the eastern part of the country. It has a large student population, which gives it a lively and youthful vibe. It’s also home to several universities and research centers, making it a great choice for those in education and research.
Debrecen can be a great choice for expats who are looking for a friendly and affordable city with a high quality of life and excellent educational opportunities.
What makes Debrecen a good location for expats?
- Education: Debrecen is home to several prestigious universities, including one of the top universities in Hungary, the University of Debrecen. This makes it a great place for students and academics to pursue their studies and research.
- Central Location: Debrecen is located in the heart of Europe, making it easy to travel to other parts of the continent. The city has an airport with regular flights to other European cities, and it is also well-connected by train and bus.
- Diverse Community: Debrecen has a growing expat community, meaning newcomers can easily connect with others who have moved. The city also has a diverse population, with people from all over the world living and working there.
Szeged – Ideal for Digital Nomads
Located in southern Hungary, Szeged is a picturesque city known for its beautiful architecture, parks, and vibrant cultural scene. It’s a great choice for expats who want to live in a smaller, more laid-back city.
Szeged offers a high quality of life, affordability, convenience, and a diverse community, making it an excellent choice for expats like you.
Here’s why Szeged is good for expats and digital nomads living abroad:
- Economical Cost of Living: Szeged is ideal for expats who want to save money. Szeged has affordable housing, food, transportation, and entertainment, helping expats stretch their budgets.
- Good Quality of Life: Szeged is a charming and peaceful city with a low crime rate, clean streets, and abundant parks and green spaces. The city is also known for its lively cultural scene, with a wide variety of museums, galleries, theaters, and festivals throughout the year.
- Education: Szeged is home to the prestigious University of Szeged, which is highly regarded in Hungary and internationally. The university offers various undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as medicine, science, and humanities.
Pécs – The Peaceful Town
As another charming southern city, Pécs is known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. It’s a great choice for expats interested in art and history, as it’s home to several museums and cultural institutions.
Pécs is the fifth largest city in Hungary and celebrates the title of UNESCO Cities for the Peace Prize. Its diverse culture and rich outdoors attract expats from all over the world.
Why is Pécs a good destination for expats?
- Rich History: Pécs is well-known for its rich history, which is displayed in the beautiful historic buildings’ architecture. If you enjoy immersing yourself in history, Pécs is the ideal destination for you.
- Transportation: From well-connected roads to convenient transportation routes, it is easy for you to go around the city.
- Nightlife: Pécs is packed with rich culture and a thriving nightlife with great music and fun bars and restaurants.
Sopron – A Picturesque Old Town
Located in western Hungary, Sopron is a beautiful city close to Austria and Slovakia. It’s known for its stunning architecture and picturesque old town, making it a great choice for expats who want to live in a charming and historic city.
Sopron is also located in a well-known wine-producing area and is quaint compared to the other cities in Hungary.
Here are some reasons why Sopron is a popular destination for expats:
- Peaceful Town: Sopron is a quiet city and quite different from Budapest’s bustling city. If you love a peaceful vibe, consider moving to Sopron.
- Rich History: From medieval architecture to cobblestone roads, Sopron can be explored on foot. As an expat, you can stroll down to a café for a quick cup of coffee or to a park to read a book in no time.
- Food Scene: You would be surprised to know that Sopron has excellent restaurants that whip up traditional Hungarian food. So, if you are someone who loves a delicious traditional meal, Sopron is your place!
Eger – A Historic Gem in Wine Country
Eger, a charming town nestled in the heart of Hungary’s renowned wine region, is a blend of stunning Baroque architecture and centuries-old history. Its famous castle and intimate wine cellars create a delightful atmosphere for expats seeking a relaxed yet culturally rich lifestyle.
Why should expats consider moving to Eger?
- Rich Heritage: Eger’s historical sites, including its impressive castle and traditional Turkish baths, tell tales of a bygone era.
- Wine Culture: With vineyards stretching across the countryside, wine tasting and local festivals add a unique flavor to everyday living.
- Affordable Living: Eger offers a peaceful lifestyle without the high costs of larger cities, perfect for those seeking quality on a budget.
Győr – A Bustling Hub with Old-World Charm
Győr is a dynamic city located in northwestern Hungary that perfectly balances modern industry with historical elegance. Its well-preserved old town and vibrant business community make it an ideal spot for professionals and families alike.
Why is Győr a great destination for expats?
- Strategic Location: Just a stone’s throw from the Austrian border, Győr serves as a gateway to Western Europe.
- Business Opportunities: A thriving local economy and numerous multinational companies provide excellent career prospects.
- Charming Atmosphere: Győr’s blend of modern amenities with centuries-old architecture creates an engaging urban experience.
Veszprém – The Cultural Retreat
Nestled on the edge of a scenic plateau, Veszprém offers a tranquil escape with a strong artistic and historical pulse. This culturally enriched city, often overshadowed by larger urban centers, is a sanctuary for those who appreciate history and the arts.
What makes Veszprém attractive for expats?
- Artistic Flair: A burgeoning cultural scene with museums, galleries, and festivals, Veszprém welcomes art enthusiasts with open arms.
- Scenic Beauty: Its proximity to nature and peaceful surroundings make it perfect for a balanced lifestyle.
- Community Spirit: A warm and welcoming local community ensures expats quickly feel at home.
Kecskemét – The Emerging City of Innovation
At the heart of the Great Hungarian Plain, Kecskemét is rapidly transforming into a hub for creativity and innovation. Its striking Art Nouveau buildings and lively cultural events signal a bright future for this emerging city.
Why should expats consider Kecskemét?
- Modern Outlook: With an economy on the rise, Kecskemét offers plenty of career and entrepreneurial opportunities.
- Cultural Festivals: Regular art and music festivals add vibrancy to everyday life in this forward-thinking city.
- Cost-Effective Living: The city combines modern amenities with affordable housing and living costs, ideal for young professionals and families.
Nyíregyháza – A Green Oasis for Families
Located in the northeastern region of Hungary, Nyíregyháza is celebrated for its lush parks, family-friendly attractions, and relaxed pace of life. This vibrant city offers a perfect retreat for those who value nature and community.
What makes Nyíregyháza a top choice for expats?
- Abundant Green Spaces: Expansive parks, gardens, and even a renowned zoo create endless opportunities for outdoor fun and relaxation in Nyíregyháza.
- Family-Oriented: With excellent schools and community facilities, Nyíregyháza is ideal for those looking to settle down with their families.
- Affordable Lifestyle: A lower cost of living combined with quality amenities ensures a high standard of living without a hefty price tag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to live in Hungary as an expat?
Debrecen, Hungary, is the most popular and is often considered the best place to live in Hungary for expats. It is the second largest city in Hungary and houses many central cultural hubs, surrounded by beautiful architecture and a vibrant nightlife scene.
Can you buy a property in Hungary as a foreigner?
In most cases, foreigners can purchase a house or property in Hungary with a property acquisition permit from the Land Registry of the district where the property is located. This is a formal procedure that can be completed, typically taking four weeks, with the help of a lawyer.
Which districts in Budapest are best for American expats?
The best districts in Budapest for American expats depend on your needs and lifestyle. In Buda, Districts 2, 11, and 12 are ideal for families, while the action happens in Pest, Districts 5, 6, 7, 9, and 13, making them ideal for singles and younger crowds.
Can expats live in Hungary by only speaking English?
Expats can live in Hungary speaking only English, especially in Budapest. English is widely spoken in multinational companies, universities, and expat communities, but daily tasks like dealing with government offices or smaller local businesses may require some basic Hungarian.
How is the quality of life in Hungary?
The quality of life in Hungary is moderate, according to the Quality of Life Index 2026, scoring 147.6 points. It outperforms the average work-life balance and social connections. The cost of living in Hungary is also relatively low compared to other countries in Europe.
Conclusion
Budapest, Debrecen, Szeged, Eger, Győr, and Pécs are some of the best cities for expats to live in Hungary. From busy cities to quaint towns, you can easily choose a city that meets your requirements, whether you are a student, digital nomad, or relocating for other business purposes.
Also, it is a good time to remind you to explore expat health insurance options; as an expat living abroad, comprehensive health insurance can protect you financially in case of unexpected accidents or critical medical illnesses.
The best part is that as an insurance broker with over 25 years of experience, Pacific Prime can help you find a plan that meets your requirements and budget. We provide free plan comparisons and expert, unbiased advice, and will assist with your coverage throughout your policy terms.
Feel free to contact us to learn more about the health insurance landscape for expats in Hungary and Europe.
If you are not convinced by any of the cities from this article or are still on the lookout, Italy is another great choice for expats to live in, and while you are exploring, we would suggest you check out our latest guide on the best places for Expats in Europe.
With her background as an avid traveler and as an exchange student in Spain, Palida values the benefits of insurance and understands the frustrations that may come with making the best decisions for your health and safety in an unknown environment. Here at Pacific Prime, she aspires to create content that will help expats and travelers understand international health insurance with ease.
In her spare time, Palida enjoys reading short stories as much as binging on sitcoms. She is also a self-proclaimed "foodie" with the goal of trying as many cuisines from all over the world as possible. Combining her passion for writing with her love for food, she is an aspiring Google Local Guide reviewer.
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What are the best ways for expats to handle banking and financial services in Hungary, and are there any banks that cater specifically to foreigners?
Expats in Hungary can handle banking and financial services by opening a local bank account with popular banks such as OTP Bank, K&H Bank, or Erste Bank, many of which offer English-language services and online banking tailored to foreigners. International banks like CitiBank and UniCredit are also available and cater to expats with specialized accounts for managing foreign currencies or international transfers. To find the best options, expats can visit bank branches in major cities like Budapest or Debrecen, consult expat forums, or work with relocation agencies for guidance.
For assistance with health insurance to complement your move, visit our Contact Us page at Pacific Prime to explore tailored expat plans in Hungary.
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