Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Hungary Property Pack
Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Hungary Property Pack
If you're thinking about renting or investing in Hungary, understanding current rent levels is essential.
This article breaks down what you can realistically expect to pay across different property types and neighborhoods as of the first half of 2026.
We constantly update this blog post with fresh data so you always have accurate information.
And if you're planning to buy a property in this place, you may want to download our pack covering the real estate market in Hungary.
Insights
- Budapest studios in Hungary rent for around 210,000 to 240,000 HUF monthly in January 2026, roughly 525 to 600 euros.
- Hungary's rental market operates on two speeds: Budapest commands premium prices while regional cities offer rents 30 to 40 percent lower.
- Rent growth in Hungary has moderated to around 5 to 8 percent year-over-year in 2026, down from double-digit increases in previous years.
- District VI in Budapest (Terezvaros) now has a short-term rental ban, which may push some properties back into long-term rentals.
- Vacancy rates for long-term rentals in Budapest remain tight at around 2 to 4 percent, keeping upward pressure on asking rents.
- Well-priced one-bedroom apartments in central Budapest typically rent within 7 to 21 days.
- Air conditioning adds significant rental value in Hungary because summer heat in top-floor Budapest apartments makes it essential.
- Hungary has no single national property tax; each municipality sets its own building tax and land tax rates.
- Rental income in Hungary is taxed at 15 percent, with landlords choosing between itemized expenses or a simplified cost allowance.
- Peak rental demand in Hungary hits in August and September due to university intake and corporate relocations.
What are typical rents in Hungary as of 2026?
What's the average monthly rent for a studio in Hungary as of 2026?
As of early 2026, the average monthly rent for a studio in Budapest, Hungary is around 225,000 HUF (approximately 560 euros or 590 USD).
Studio rents in Budapest range from about 210,000 HUF (525 euros) in less central areas to 240,000 HUF (600 euros) in prime locations, while regional cities typically cost 140,000 to 180,000 HUF monthly.
The main factors causing studio rents to vary include district location, proximity to metro stations, building condition, and whether the unit includes air conditioning or modern heating.
What's the average monthly rent for a 1-bedroom in Hungary as of 2026?
As of early 2026, the average monthly rent for a 1-bedroom in Budapest, Hungary is around 285,000 HUF (approximately 710 euros or 750 USD).
The range spans from 250,000 HUF (625 euros) to 320,000 HUF (800 euros) in desirable neighborhoods, while 1-bedrooms outside Budapest cost 170,000 to 230,000 HUF monthly.
The cheapest 1-bedrooms are in outer districts like District XV (Rakospalota), while the most expensive cluster in District V (Belvaros-Lipotvaros), District II (Rozsadomb), and District XII (Hegyvidek).
What's the average monthly rent for a 2-bedroom in Hungary as of 2026?
As of early 2026, the average monthly rent for a 2-bedroom in Budapest, Hungary is around 390,000 HUF (approximately 975 euros or 1,025 USD).
The range stretches from 330,000 HUF (825 euros) in transitional neighborhoods to 450,000 HUF (1,125 euros) in premium areas, while regional cities cost 240,000 to 330,000 HUF monthly.
Cheaper 2-bedrooms are in District III (Obuda) or District XIV (Zuglo), while the most expensive are in District V, District I (Castle area), and the Buda hills.
By the way, you will find much more detailed rent ranges in our property pack covering the real estate market in Hungary.
What's the average rent per square meter in Hungary as of 2026?
As of early 2026, the average rent per square meter in Budapest, Hungary is around 6,500 HUF monthly (approximately 16 euros or 17 USD).
The range spans from 5,500 HUF (14 euros) in outer districts to 7,500 HUF (19 euros) in prime locations, while regional cities see 3,500 to 5,000 HUF per square meter.
Budapest's rent per square meter is roughly 40 to 60 percent higher than cities like Debrecen or Szeged, reflecting the capital's concentration of jobs and international demand.
Properties with modern renovations, air conditioning, elevators, balconies, and metro proximity command above-average rates per square meter.
How much have rents changed year-over-year in Hungary in 2026?
As of early 2026, rents in Hungary have increased by approximately 5 to 8 percent year-over-year nationally, with Budapest seeing around 4 to 7 percent growth.
The main drivers include improving economic growth, cooling inflation (projected below 4 percent), tight housing supply, and continued demand from students and professionals.
This represents a notable moderation compared to 2025's double-digit increases, as the market stabilizes after the sharp post-pandemic recovery.
What's the outlook for rent growth in Hungary in 2026?
As of early 2026, projected rent growth in Hungary for the full year is 5 to 8 percent nationally, with Budapest core areas at 5 to 8 percent and outer districts plus regional cities at 3 to 6 percent.
Key influencing factors include real wage growth as inflation cools, stable mortgage conditions, housing supply constraints, and steady student and professional demand.
Neighborhoods expected to see strongest growth include District VI (due to the short-term rental ban), District IX (Ferencvaros) with new developments, and District XI along the M4 metro corridor.
Risks that could alter projections include unexpected inflation spikes, policy changes, foreign investment slowdowns, or economic downturns reducing tenant purchasing power.
We have made this infographic to give you a quick and clear snapshot of the property market in Hungary. It highlights key facts like rental prices, yields, and property costs both in city centers and outside, so you can easily compare opportunities. We’ve done some research and also included useful insights about the country’s economy, like GDP, population, and interest rates, to help you understand the bigger picture.
Which neighborhoods rent best in Hungary as of 2026?
Which neighborhoods have the highest rents in Hungary as of 2026?
As of early 2026, the top three highest-rent neighborhoods in Budapest are District V (Belvaros-Lipotvaros) at 350,000 to 450,000 HUF (875 to 1,125 euros), District II (Rozsadomb) at 320,000 to 420,000 HUF (800 to 1,050 euros), and District XII (Hegyvidek) at 300,000 to 400,000 HUF (750 to 1,000 euros).
These command premiums due to prestigious Buda hill locations with green spaces (Districts II and XII) or central Pest walkability near the Danube and Parliament (District V).
Typical tenants include corporate expats, senior professionals, diplomats, and affluent locals prioritizing location prestige and quality finishes.
By the way, we've written a blog article detailing what are the current best areas to invest in property in Hungary.
Where do young professionals prefer to rent in Hungary right now?
The top three neighborhoods for young professionals in Budapest are District VII (Erzsebetvaros), District IX (Ferencvaros) near Raday utca, and District XIII (Ujlipotvaros and Angyalfold).
Young professionals typically pay 250,000 to 350,000 HUF monthly (625 to 875 euros) for a 1-bedroom in these areas.
These neighborhoods attract young professionals with easy metro access, vibrant cafe and nightlife scenes, nearby coworking spaces, and urban energy without premium prices.
By the way, you will find a detailed tenant analysis in our property pack covering the real estate market in Hungary.
Where do families prefer to rent in Hungary right now?
The top three neighborhoods for families in Budapest are District XI (Ujbuda), District II (Pasaret area), and District XIV (Zuglo).
Families renting 2-3 bedrooms in these areas typically pay 350,000 to 500,000 HUF monthly (875 to 1,250 euros).
These neighborhoods attract families with parks, quieter residential streets, reliable public transport, and proximity to schools.
Top schools nearby include the American International School of Budapest, Budapest British International School, and well-regarded Hungarian public schools in Districts II and XII.
Which areas near transit or universities rent faster in Hungary in 2026?
As of early 2026, the fastest-renting areas near transit or universities in Budapest are the M4 corridor around Moricz Zsigmond korter (near BME/ELTE), Corvin-negyed and Kalvin ter (near Corvinus), and Nyugati palyaudvar/Lehel ter zone (M3 access).
Properties in these areas typically stay listed just 7 to 14 days when priced correctly, versus 14 to 30 days city-wide.
The typical rent premium for properties within walking distance of metro or universities is 10 to 20 percent, roughly 25,000 to 50,000 HUF extra monthly (60 to 125 euros).
Which neighborhoods are most popular with expats in Hungary right now?
The top three neighborhoods for expats in Budapest are District II and XII (Buda hills), District V (Belvaros-Lipotvaros CBD), and District XI (Gellert Hill and riverside).
Expats typically pay 300,000 to 500,000 HUF monthly (750 to 1,250 euros) for quality 1-2 bedroom apartments.
These areas attract expats with English-speaking services, international schools, quality renovated apartments, safe streets, and easy city or airport access.
The most represented nationalities include Germans, Americans, British, Dutch, and increasingly Korean and Chinese expats working for multinationals.
And if you are also an expat, you may want to read our exhaustive guide for expats in Hungary.
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Who rents, and what do tenants want in Hungary right now?
What tenant profiles dominate rentals in Hungary?
The top three tenant profiles in Hungary are students (especially in Budapest and university cities), early-career young professionals, and relocating expats on corporate assignments.
Students represent roughly 30 to 35 percent of active renters, young professionals 35 to 40 percent, and expats plus relocators around 20 to 25 percent.
Students seek affordable studios or shared apartments near universities, young professionals want well-located 1-bedrooms with metro access, and expats prefer quality 1-2 bedrooms in safe neighborhoods.
If you want to optimize your cashflow, you can read our complete guide on how to buy and rent out in Hungary.
Do tenants prefer furnished or unfurnished in Hungary?
In Budapest, roughly 65 to 75 percent of renters prefer furnished apartments, while outside Budapest the split is closer to 50-50.
Furnished apartments command a 10 to 15 percent premium, roughly 25,000 to 45,000 HUF extra monthly (60 to 110 euros).
Students, expats, and young professionals prefer furnished rentals, while families and longer-term locals often prefer unfurnished units they can personalize.
Which amenities increase rent the most in Hungary?
The top five rent-boosting amenities in Hungary are air conditioning, modern heating with good insulation, an elevator (above third floor), a balcony or terrace, and pet-friendly policies.
In Budapest, air conditioning adds 15,000 to 30,000 HUF monthly (40 to 75 euros), modern heating 10,000 to 20,000 HUF, elevators 10,000 to 25,000 HUF, balconies 15,000 to 35,000 HUF, and pet-friendly policies 5,000 to 15,000 HUF.
In our property pack covering the real estate market in Hungary, we cover what are the best investments a landlord can make.
What renovations get the best ROI for rentals in Hungary?
The top five ROI renovations for rentals in Hungary are kitchen refresh, bathroom modernization, window/insulation improvements, adding air conditioning, and flooring updates.
A kitchen refresh costs 800,000 to 1,500,000 HUF (2,000 to 3,750 euros) and adds 20,000 to 40,000 HUF monthly; bathroom modernization costs 600,000 to 1,200,000 HUF and adds 15,000 to 30,000 HUF; windows cost 400,000 to 1,000,000 HUF and add 10,000 to 25,000 HUF; air conditioning costs 300,000 to 600,000 HUF and adds 15,000 to 30,000 HUF; flooring costs 400,000 to 900,000 HUF and adds 10,000 to 20,000 HUF.
Poor-ROI renovations to avoid include overly luxurious finishes exceeding neighborhood standards and highly personalized design choices.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Hungary versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you’re planning to invest there.
How strong is rental demand in Hungary as of 2026?
What's the vacancy rate for rentals in Hungary as of 2026?
As of early 2026, the estimated vacancy rate for long-term rentals in Budapest is around 2 to 4 percent, indicating a tight market.
Vacancy ranges from 1 to 2 percent in high-demand central areas (Districts V, VI, VII) to 4 to 6 percent in outer districts, while regional cities see 3 to 6 percent.
Current vacancy is lower than the historical average of 4 to 6 percent from the early 2020s, reflecting sustained demand and limited new supply.
Finally please note that you will have all the indicators you need in our property pack covering the real estate market in Hungary.
How many days do rentals stay listed in Hungary as of 2026?
As of early 2026, well-priced rentals in Budapest stay listed for around 14 to 21 days on average.
The range spans 7 to 14 days for competitively priced studios and 1-bedrooms in central locations to 30 to 45+ days for overpriced units in less desirable areas.
Current days-on-market is similar to or slightly lower than one year ago, reflecting continued strong demand despite moderating rent growth.
Which months have peak tenant demand in Hungary?
Peak tenant demand in Hungary occurs in August and September (university intake and corporate relocations) and January to February (job changes and new-year moves).
These patterns are driven by the academic calendar, corporate relocation cycles aligned with fiscal years, and a general "fresh start" mentality in January.
Lowest demand months are November to December (holiday slowdown) and parts of July (vacation season).
Buying real estate in Hungary can be risky
An increasing number of foreign investors are showing interest. However, 90% of them will make mistakes. Avoid the pitfalls with our comprehensive guide.
What will my monthly costs be in Hungary as of 2026?
What property taxes should landlords expect in Hungary as of 2026?
As of early 2026, there is no single typical property tax in Hungary because each municipality sets its own rates rather than having a national standard.
Building tax (epitmenyadó) where levied can range from roughly 50,000 to 200,000 HUF (125 to 500 euros) annually for a typical Budapest apartment, though some municipalities may not levy it.
Property taxes are calculated based on Act C of 1990 on Local Taxes, allowing municipalities to levy building tax based on area or value, with each setting its own thresholds.
Please note that, in our property pack covering the real estate market in Hungary, we cover what exemptions or deductions may be available to reduce property taxes for landlords.
What maintenance budget per year is realistic in Hungary right now?
A realistic annual maintenance budget for a rental in Budapest is around 1 percent of property value, roughly 400,000 to 800,000 HUF (1,000 to 2,000 euros) excluding major renovations.
Newer buildings may require 300,000 to 500,000 HUF annually, while older pre-war buildings can need 600,000 to 1,200,000 HUF or more.
Landlords typically set aside 5 to 10 percent of gross rental income for maintenance, with older property owners trending higher.
What utilities do landlords often pay in Hungary right now?
Landlords in Hungary most commonly pay building-level common charges (társasházi közös költség), covering shared maintenance, cleaning, and sometimes heating.
Typical monthly common charges in Budapest run 15,000 to 40,000 HUF (40 to 100 euros), higher in buildings with elevators or concierge services.
Tenants usually pay their own electricity, gas, water, and internet, while landlords either cover common charges directly or build them into rent per the lease agreement.
How is rental income taxed in Hungary as of 2026?
As of early 2026, rental income in Hungary is taxed at a flat 15 percent rate, with landlords choosing between itemized expense accounting or a simplified 10 percent cost allowance.
Main deductions include documented expenses like repairs, maintenance, depreciation, property management fees, and insurance, or alternatively the flat 10 percent allowance.
A common Hungary-specific tax mistake is failing to properly document expenses when using itemized accounting, as NAV requires clear records.
We cover these mistakes, among others, in our list of risks and pitfalls people face when buying property in Hungary.
We made this infographic to show you how property prices in Hungary compare to other big cities across the region. It breaks down the average price per square meter in city centers, so you can see how cities stack up. It’s an easy way to spot where you might get the best value for your money. We hope you like it.
What sources have we used to write this blog article?
Whether it's in our blog articles or the market analyses included in our property pack about Hungary, we always rely on the strongest methodology we can, and we don't throw out numbers at random.
We also aim to be fully transparent, so below we've listed the authoritative sources we used, and explained how we used them and the methods behind our estimates.
| Source | Why it's authoritative | How we used it |
|---|---|---|
| KSH Rent Index - October 2025 | Hungary's national statistics office producing rent data with transparent methodology. | We used it to anchor our 2026 rent-growth assumptions as the most official high-frequency market signal. |
| KSH Rent Index - May 2025 | Official statistics with clear methodology covering Budapest sub-areas. | We used it to cross-check demand patterns across Buda vs Pest neighborhoods. |
| KSH Rent Index - September 2025 | Another official monthly data point for late-2025 trends. | We used it to confirm rent growth cooled going into 2026. |
| Magyar Nemzeti Bank Housing Report - May 2025 | The central bank's flagship housing publication, widely cited in policy. | We used it to frame macro drivers and keep our outlook consistent with housing fundamentals. |
| European Commission Economic Forecast - Hungary | The EU's official macro forecast source for member states. | We used it to set 2026 inflation and growth assumptions affecting rent affordability. |
| Eurostat House Prices and Rents | The EU's statistics authority for cross-country housing data. | We used it to benchmark Hungary against EU trends. |
| ECB Euro Reference Exchange Rates | Official euro reference-rate publisher used by institutions. | We used it to convert HUF figures into euro equivalents. |
| NAV Rental Income Tax Booklet - 2025 | The Hungarian Tax Authority's official taxpayer guidance. | We used it to describe rental income taxation and deduction approaches. |
| Hungarian Law - Act C of 1990 on Local Taxes | Official legal text defining municipal tax authority. | We used it to explain why property tax varies by municipality. |
| Ingatlan.com Budapest | Hungary's biggest property portal and KSH rent index data partner. | We used it as a reality check for current listings and market activity. |
| Duna House via Budapest Business Journal | Listed real estate broker with regular reporting, citing state news wire. | We used it as an anchor for Budapest rent levels in HUF. |
| KSH Weekly Monitor - Energy | National statistics office data referencing the Hungarian energy regulator. | We used it to ground the utilities discussion in Hungary's regulated price context. |
| PwC Tax Summaries - Hungary | Major international tax firm with regularly maintained reference. | We used it to cross-check personal income tax framework. |
| OECD Economic Outlook - Hungary | Major international organization with consistent macro methods. | We used it to cross-check our demand drivers story makes macro sense. |
| IMF Article IV - Hungary 2024 | Top-tier macro institution's standard country surveillance product. | We used it to triangulate macro risks for balanced outlook. |
| Hungary Today - Short-term Rental Ban | Reputable English-language news source covering Hungarian developments. | We used it to note District VI's short-term rental ban impact. |
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