Living Costs in Hungary
Hungary is affordable by Western European standards, but on a EUR 110 a month stipend you'll still face a significant funding gap. Use the city cost calculator to plan your budget realistically.
ScholarshipUnion Editorial
2 min read
Updated Oct 5, 2026
City Cost Calculator
Pick a city to see a typical monthly student budget (shared room, cooking mostly at home).
Monthly budget: Budapest
| EUR / month | Budapest | Debrecen | Szeged | Pécs | Miskolc |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (shared room) | 300 | 180 | 160 | 150 | 130 |
| Food & groceries | 200 | 170 | 160 | 150 | 140 |
| Transport | 15 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8 |
| Phone & internet | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
| Utilities (if not in dorm) | 50 | 40 | 35 | 35 | 30 |
| Personal & misc. | 80 | 60 | 55 | 50 | 45 |
| Total | 655 | 470 | 430 | 405 | 363 |
| Gap vs EUR 110 stipend | −545 | −360 | −320 | −295 | −253 |
Tempus also points applicants to the official cost-of-living calculator on Study in Hungary.
How to Survive on EUR 110 a Month
Part-time work
SH scholars can work up to 30 hours/week during term time (and full-time for up to 90 days a year outside term). Common student jobs: tutoring, restaurant work, delivery services. The 2026 minimum wage is HUF 1,856 an hour gross (about EUR 4.70).
Bring savings
We suggest arriving with at least EUR 2,000–3,000 in savings. This covers the first few months while you settle in and potentially find part-time work.
Cook at home
Eating out in Hungary averages EUR 5–10 per meal. Cooking at home can reduce food costs to EUR 100–150/month. Shop at Lidl, Aldi or local markets for the best prices.
Use student discounts
Student transport passes are heavily discounted: in Budapest a monthly student pass costs HUF 3,450 (about EUR 9) with a Hungarian student ID and address. Museums, cinemas and some restaurants offer student rates. Get your student card immediately upon arrival.
Related: Scholarship amount · Housing guide