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 wondering what you can actually buy in Hungary at different price points, this guide breaks it down clearly from $100k all the way up to luxury territory.
We cover current housing prices in Hungary and update this blog post regularly so the numbers stay fresh and reliable.
Whether you're looking for a small apartment in Budapest or a family home in the countryside, you'll find realistic expectations here.
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.
What can I realistically buy with $100k in Hungary right now?
Are there any decent properties for $100k in Hungary, or is it all scams?
Yes, you can find decent properties for around $100,000 (about HUF 32.5 million) in Hungary, but you need to be flexible on location and willing to look outside prime Budapest neighborhoods.
The best value for a $100k budget in Hungary comes from outer Budapest districts like Kőbánya (District X), Kispest (District XIX), Csepel (District XXI), and Zugló's outer parts (District XIV), or from regional cities like Pécs, Miskolc, and Szeged where your money stretches much further.
Buying in popular or upscale areas of Budapest like District V (Belváros-Lipótváros) or District II (Rózsadomb) for $100k is very difficult, and you would only find extremely small units, properties needing major renovation, or listings with legal complications at this price point.
The main "scam-shaped" risk in Hungary is not fake listings but misunderstood property types like agricultural land or properties with unclear titles, and non-EU foreigners also need to account for the permit process which adds time to any purchase.
What property types can I afford for $100k in Hungary (studio, land, old house)?
With $100,000 (HUF 32.5 million) in Hungary, you can typically afford a small studio or one-room apartment of 20 to 35 square meters in Budapest's outer districts, a 45 to 70 square meter older brick apartment in regional cities like Debrecen or Győr, or a small detached house of 70 to 110 square meters in smaller towns and the countryside.
At this price level in Hungary, buyers should expect properties that need cosmetic-to-medium renovation, including kitchen and bathroom updates, electrical checks, and possibly heating or window upgrades, because "cheap" in Hungary often means older systems rather than just outdated decor.
For long-term value at the $100k level in Hungary, small apartments in regional university cities like Szeged or Debrecen tend to offer better appreciation potential and rental demand than rural houses, which can be harder to resell later.
Land is technically possible at this budget, but foreigners must be very careful about classification (agricultural versus buildable) since restrictions on farmland purchases make this one of the easiest places to make an expensive mistake in Hungary.
What's a realistic budget to get a comfortable property in Hungary as of 2026?
As of early 2026, the realistic minimum budget to get a comfortable property in Hungary without major compromises is around HUF 65 million ($200,000 or €170,000) for Budapest, and around HUF 40 to 50 million ($120,000 to $150,000 or €100,000 to €130,000) for regional cities.
Most buyers in Hungary who want a comfortable standard typically need between HUF 65 million and HUF 100 million ($200,000 to $300,000 or €170,000 to €255,000) in Budapest, while regional cities like Győr, Debrecen, or Szeged offer similar comfort levels for HUF 40 million to HUF 65 million ($120,000 to $200,000).
"Comfortable" in Hungary generally means a well-maintained apartment of at least 50 to 65 square meters with updated kitchen and bathroom, good heating, proximity to public transport, and no major renovation needed upon move-in.
The required budget in Hungary varies significantly by neighborhood, with inner Buda districts like Rózsadomb or Pasarét requiring 30 to 50 percent more than outer Pest districts like Zugló or Angyalföld for similar comfort levels.
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What can I get with a $200k budget in Hungary as of 2026?
What "normal" homes become available at $200k in Hungary as of 2026?
As of early 2026, a $200,000 budget (about HUF 65 million) in Hungary opens the door to "normal person housing," meaning a standard apartment where a typical local family would live comfortably without feeling squeezed or compromised.
In Budapest, $200k typically gets you a 45 to 65 square meter apartment in good-but-not-top areas, while in regional cities like Debrecen, Szeged, or Győr, the same budget often delivers 70 to 100 square meters or even a small house in solid neighborhoods.
By the way, we have much more granular data about housing prices in our property pack about Hungary.
What places are the smartest $200k buys in Hungary as of 2026?
As of early 2026, the smartest $200k buys in Hungary are typically found in Budapest's "inner-but-not-prime" districts like Ferencváros (District IX), Angyalföld (District XIII), Újbuda (District XI), and parts of Józsefváros (District VIII near Palotanegyed), as well as commuter towns with strong demand like Dunakeszi and Érd.
These areas offer smarter value because they combine good public transport connections, improving infrastructure, and growing local amenities without the premium pricing of central Buda or District V, giving buyers more space for their money while staying well-connected.
The main growth factor driving value in these smart-buy areas of Hungary is urban renewal and metro accessibility, particularly in Ferencváros and Angyalföld where ongoing development projects and strong rental demand from young professionals support both livability and future appreciation.
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.
What can I buy with $300k in Hungary in 2026?
What quality upgrade do I get at $300k in Hungary in 2026?
As of early 2026, moving from $200k to $300k (about HUF 97.5 million) in Hungary typically upgrades you to a better micro-location with nicer streets and closer transit, a true two-bedroom layout with fewer compromises, or a newer building with renovated condition instead of "needs work."
Yes, $300k can often buy a property in a newer building in Hungary, especially outside the most expensive central Budapest and Buda Hills areas, though the MNB reported new-build prices around HUF 1.68 million per square meter in Budapest by late 2025, so expect a smaller modern unit rather than a large one.
At this budget in Hungary, you start seeing specific features like modern kitchens with built-in appliances, updated bathrooms, better insulation and energy efficiency, balconies or small terraces, and sometimes building amenities like elevators or secure entry systems.
Can $300k buy a 2-bedroom in [VARIABLE PLACE] in 2026 in good areas?
As of early 2026, yes, $300,000 (HUF 97.5 million) can commonly buy a two-bedroom apartment in good areas of Hungary, especially in Budapest districts that are desirable but not ultra-premium.
Specific good areas in Hungary where $300k buys a two-bedroom include Újbuda (District XI), Angyalföld (District XIII), Ferencváros (District IX), Óbuda (District III), and Zugló (District XIV), all of which offer strong livability without the top-tier price tags of District V or the Buda Hills.
A $300k two-bedroom in these good Budapest areas typically offers 55 to 75 square meters, which is enough for a comfortable living room, two proper bedrooms, a separate kitchen or open kitchen layout, and often a small balcony.
Which places become "accessible" at $300k in Hungary as of 2026?
At $300,000 in Hungary, Buda-side lifestyle districts start to open up more realistically, including parts of District II (though not the elite Rózsadomb hillside streets) and parts of District XII (outside the very top Svábhegy addresses), as well as premium agglomeration towns like Budaörs and Budakeszi.
These newly accessible areas are desirable because they offer greener surroundings, lower density, better air quality, and a more residential feel compared to the busier Pest-side districts available at lower budgets, which is why many families specifically target Buda once their budget allows.
For $300k in these newly accessible Buda areas of Hungary, buyers can typically expect a well-maintained two-bedroom apartment of 60 to 80 square meters, or in the agglomeration towns, sometimes a small townhouse or a larger apartment with parking and outdoor space.
By the way, we've written a blog article detailing what are the current best areas to invest in property in Hungary.
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What does a $500k budget unlock in Hungary in 2026?
What's the typical size and location for $500k in Hungary in 2026?
As of early 2026, a $500,000 budget (about HUF 163 million) in Hungary typically gets you 90 to 140 square meters in premium Budapest locations, with the exact size depending heavily on the specific district, building quality, terrace availability, and parking.
Yes, $500k can buy a family home with outdoor space in Hungary, especially in District XI (areas like Sasad), District XXII (Budafok-Tétény), or Buda-adjacent towns like Budaörs and Budakeszi, though the absolute top Buda Hills addresses may offer outdoor space but not necessarily a large house with a big garden at this price.
At $500k in Hungary, the typical configuration is a three-bedroom apartment or a small family house, usually with two bathrooms, a living area of at least 25 to 30 square meters, and often extras like a terrace, storage unit, or parking space.
Finally, please note that we cover all the housing price data in Hungary here.
Which "premium" neighborhoods open up at $500k in Hungary in 2026?
At $500,000 in Hungary, genuinely premium Budapest neighborhoods open up including Rózsadomb and Pasarét in District II, Svábhegy in District XII, the Castle District (Várnegyed) and Víziváros in District I, and prime addresses in Belváros-Lipótváros (District V).
These neighborhoods are considered premium in Hungary because they combine historic architecture, green surroundings or Danube views, excellent schools and services, low crime, and prestige addresses that have been desirable for generations, making them the consistent choice for diplomats, executives, and wealthy local families.
For $500k in these premium Budapest neighborhoods, buyers can realistically expect a high-quality renovated apartment of 80 to 110 square meters with period details, modern systems, and often a balcony or small terrace, though the very best penthouses or large family units will still exceed this budget.
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.
What counts as "luxury" in Hungary in 2026?
At what amount does "luxury" start in Hungary right now?
In Hungary, "luxury" real estate typically starts at around HUF 195 million ($600,000 or €510,000), which is the price point where you begin combining prime district, prime micro-location, and either high-end renovation or new-build premium quality with extras like terraces, views, or concierge services.
The entry point to luxury in Hungary is defined by features like designer finishes, smart home systems, premium building materials, secure parking, wellness amenities in the building, Danube or city views, and addresses in historically prestigious streets of District II, District I, or District V.
Compared to Western European capitals like Vienna or Munich, Hungary's luxury threshold is significantly lower in absolute terms, making Budapest attractive for international buyers seeking high-end living at a fraction of the cost they would pay in comparable cities.
Mid-tier luxury in Hungary ranges from HUF 195 million to HUF 325 million ($600,000 to $1 million or €510,000 to €850,000), while top-tier luxury penthouses, villas, and trophy properties in Budapest typically start above HUF 325 million ($1 million) and can reach HUF 650 million to HUF 1.3 billion ($2 million to $4 million) for the most exceptional addresses.
Which areas are truly high-end in Hungary right now?
The truly high-end neighborhoods in Hungary are concentrated in Budapest and include Rózsadomb and Pasarét in District II, Svábhegy in District XII, Várnegyed (Castle District) and Víziváros in District I, and the most prestigious blocks of Belváros-Lipótváros in District V.
These areas are considered truly high-end because they offer a combination of architectural heritage (19th-century villas, historic townhouses), panoramic Danube or city views, mature trees and green spaces, excellent international schools nearby, and an established community of diplomats, business leaders, and old-money Hungarian families.
The typical buyer profile for these high-end areas in Hungary includes senior executives of multinational companies, successful Hungarian entrepreneurs, diplomats and embassy staff, wealthy retirees from Western Europe, and international investors seeking a Budapest base, with many transactions involving cash purchases or minimal financing.
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How much does it really cost to buy, beyond the price, in Hungary in 2026?
What are the total closing costs in Hungary in 2026 as a percentage?
As of early 2026, the total closing costs when buying property in Hungary typically range from about 5.5% to 7.5% of the purchase price, excluding renovation and furniture expenses.
For most standard transactions in Hungary, buyers should realistically budget 5% to 6% as a baseline, with costs potentially reaching 7% to 8% if additional services like extensive legal work, translations, or complex permit applications are needed.
The main fee categories that make up this total in Hungary include the transfer duty (typically 4% of the purchase price), lawyer fees (usually 0.5% to 1%), land registry fees (a fixed HUF 10,600), and smaller costs for document translations, notarization, and administrative processing.
To avoid hidden costs and bad surprises, you can check our our pack covering the property buying process in Hungary.
How much are notary, registration, and legal fees in Hungary in 2026?
As of early 2026, the combined notary, registration, and legal fees in Hungary typically cost between HUF 500,000 and HUF 1,500,000 ($1,500 to $4,600 or €1,300 to €3,900) depending on the property price and complexity of the transaction.
These fees together usually represent about 0.5% to 1.5% of the property price in Hungary, with the percentage being higher for lower-priced properties due to minimum fee thresholds and fixed costs.
In Hungary, the legal (lawyer) fee is typically the most expensive of these three categories at around 0.5% to 1% of the purchase price plus VAT, while the land registry procedural fee is a fixed HUF 10,600 and notary involvement is generally limited compared to some other European countries where notaries play a larger transactional role.
What annual property taxes should I expect in Hungary in 2026?
As of early 2026, Hungary does not have a single uniform national annual property tax, and many owner-occupied residential properties pay little to nothing in annual property tax because the local building tax varies by municipality and is often set at zero or minimal levels.
Where building tax does apply in Hungary, it is typically calculated based on floor area or adjusted market value, with legal maximum caps that keep the effective rate generally under 0.5% of property value annually, and often much lower.
Annual property taxes in Hungary vary significantly by municipality, with Budapest districts and larger cities more likely to levy some building tax (potentially HUF 50,000 to HUF 200,000 or $150 to $600 annually for a typical apartment) while smaller towns may charge nothing at all.
Hungary does offer various exemptions and reductions, and buyers should check the specific municipality's rules for their target property, as first-time buyers, pensioners, and certain property types may qualify for reduced rates or full exemptions in some localities.
You can find the list of all property taxes, costs and fees when buying in Hungary here.
Is mortgage a viable option for foreigners in Hungary right now?
Yes, mortgage financing is sometimes viable for foreigners in Hungary, but it is significantly easier if you have Hungarian residency and documented local income, while non-resident foreigners face stricter requirements and higher down payment expectations.
Foreign buyers in Hungary can typically access loan-to-value ratios of 50% to 70% (compared to up to 80% for residents), with market-based housing loan interest rates around the mid-6% range as of late 2025 according to MNB data.
To qualify for a mortgage in Hungary, foreign buyers typically need a valid residence permit (for non-EU citizens), proof of stable income (ideally Hungarian or EU-based), bank statements, employment contracts, and for non-EU buyers, the property acquisition permit must often be resolved before financing can close.
To avoid hidden costs and bad surprises, you can check our our pack covering the property buying process 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 should I predict for resale and growth in Hungary in 2026?
What property types resell fastest in Hungary in 2026?
As of early 2026, the property types that resell fastest in Hungary are smaller, liquid apartments of 30 to 60 square meters located near public transport in Budapest districts with broad renter and buyer demand, such as Districts XI, XIII, IX, VIII, and XIV.
The typical time on market to sell a well-priced property in Hungary is around 2 to 4 months for liquid Budapest apartments, though hot segments can move faster, and broker reports have noted Budapest selling times tightening significantly during strong-demand periods.
Properties sell faster in Hungary when they have straightforward legal status, good building maintenance, flexible layouts that work for both owner-occupiers and renters, and locations near metro stations or tram lines, because these factors attract the widest pool of potential buyers.
The slowest properties to resell in Hungary tend to be large family houses in the countryside requiring significant modernization, "zártkert" (garden-plot) properties with unclear building rights, apartments in buildings with deferred maintenance or problematic common-area management, and units in districts with weaker rental demand like some outer-Pest areas far from transit.
If you're interested, we cover all the best exit strategies in our real estate pack about Hungary.
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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 |
|---|---|---|
| Magyar Nemzeti Bank (MNB) Housing Market Report | Hungary's central bank and the most cited official source on housing market conditions. | We used it to anchor recent price-growth, bargaining power, and mortgage-market conditions going into early 2026. We prioritized their transaction-based indicators over listing prices. |
| Hungarian Central Statistical Office (KSH) | Hungary's official statistics agency and the baseline for national housing data. | We used it to triangulate the national housing-price index and regional context including Budapest agglomeration trends. We ensured our estimates were not overfitted to Budapest-only data. |
| European Central Bank (ECB) Reference Rates | The official source for reference exchange rates used across Europe. | We used it to convert USD budgets into EUR and HUF consistently for January 2026. We avoided hand-wavy currency assumptions by using official snapshots. |
| RE/MAX Hungary Housing Market Report | One of the largest international brokerages with transparent transaction commentary. | We used it to anchor used-home Budapest price-per-square-meter ballparks and submarket differences. We estimated realistic apartment sizes by budget using their data. |
| National Tax and Customs Administration (NAV) | The government authority that administers taxes and duties in Hungary. | We used it to anchor the acquisition duty rate structure including the 4% rule and thresholds. We avoided relying on unofficial sources for tax information. |
| DLA Piper REALWORLD | A well-known international law firm with jurisdiction-by-jurisdiction legal references. | We used it to cross-check the practical statement of transfer tax rates and caps. We used it as confirmation alongside NAV official documentation. |
| PwC Tax Summaries | A major global advisory firm with one of the most referenced tax explainers online. | We used it as a second cross-check that the 4%/2% rule and cap are described consistently. We reduced single-source risk on tax information. |
| Herdon Law Firm | A legal explainer citing the underlying decree and permit logic for non-EU buyers. | We used it to describe the permit reality for foreigners in simple terms. We flagged timing and category traps like farmland restrictions. |
| Duna House Barometer | One of the largest broker networks in Hungary with regular market commentary. | We used it as a triangulation point for market temperature and transaction speed. We kept our narrative aligned with on-the-ground brokerage signals. |
| Global Property Guide | A long-running cross-country property data publisher with consistent methodology. | We used it to explain ongoing annual local tax reality including municipal building tax variations. We used it as a cross-check rather than a single source of truth. |
We created this infographic to give you a simple idea of how much it costs to buy property in different parts of Hungary. As you can see, it breaks down price ranges and property types for popular cities in the country. We hope this makes it easier to explore your options and understand the market.