BudapestvsCalgary
Overall
💰+38.5%
Budapest is 38.5%more expensive
Rent
🏠+42.9%
Housing is 42.9% higher
Dining
🍽️+66.7%
Restaurants 66.7% pricier
Groceries
🛒+66.7%
Food shopping 66.7% more
Comparing the cost of living between Budapest, Hungary and Calgary, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Budapest is more expensive than Calgary by approximately 38.5%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Budapest are lower than in Calgary by 30%. A one-bedroom apartment in Budapest's city center costs around HUF 200,000, while the same in Calgary is approximately CA$1,600.
Dining out in Budapest offers significant savings compared to Calgary. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs HUF 2,000 in Budapest versus CA$20 in Calgary.
Public transportation in Budapest is more expensive, with monthly passes at HUF 9,500 compared to CA$112 in Calgary.
Purchasing power in Calgary is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Budapest.
Grocery shopping in Budapest is more affordable by approximately 40%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Budapest can expect to spend approximately HUF 94,600 per month (excluding rent), while in Calgary, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$730. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about HUF 331,100 monthly in Budapest versus CA$2,555 in Calgary. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Budapest to Calgary, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Calgary to Budapest requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Budapest
Calgary
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Budapest more expensive than Calgary?
Yes, Budapest is approximately 38.5% more expensive than Calgary overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Budapest compared to Calgary?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.4x of your Calgary salary when living in Budapest. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Calgary, you'd need about $69,231 in Budapest for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Budapest and Calgary?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 40%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Calgary offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Calgary provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Budapest if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Calgary for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Budapest vs Calgary?
In Budapest, a single person needs approximately HUF 234,600 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about HUF 581,100. In Calgary, these figures are CA$2,030 for singles and CA$4,755 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Budapest and Calgary in 2025 shows significant differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Calgary to maintain your lifestyle from Budapest
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