BudapestvsCape Town
Overall
đź’°-3.8%
Budapest is 3.8%cheaper
Rent
đźŹ0.0%
Housing is 0.0% same
Dining
🍽️+11.1%
Restaurants 11.1% pricier
Groceries
đź›’-6.3%
Food shopping 6.3% less
Comparing the cost of living between Budapest, Hungary and Cape Town, South Africa reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Budapest is more affordable than Cape Town by approximately 3.8%. 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 similar than in Cape Town. A one-bedroom apartment in Budapest's city center costs around HUFÂ 200,000, while the same in Cape Town is approximately ZARÂ 12,000.
Dining out in Budapest costs about the same compared to Cape Town. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs HUFÂ 2,000 in Budapest versus ZARÂ 150 in Cape Town.
Public transportation in Budapest is more expensive, with monthly passes at HUFÂ 9,500 compared to ZARÂ 800 in Cape Town.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Budapest can expect to spend approximately HUFÂ 94,600 per month (excluding rent), while in Cape Town, the same lifestyle would cost around ZARÂ 5,890. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about HUFÂ 331,100 monthly in Budapest versus ZARÂ 20,615 in Cape Town. 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
đź›’ Groceries
🚌 Transportation
đź’ˇ Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Cape Town to Budapest, 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 Budapest to Cape Town 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
Cape Town
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Budapest more expensive than Cape Town?
The cost of living in Budapest and Cape Town is relatively similar, with only minor differences in specific categories. Your actual expenses will depend on your lifestyle choices.
How much salary do I need in Budapest compared to Cape Town?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 96% of your Cape Town salary when living in Budapest. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Cape Town, you'd need about $48,148 in Budapest for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Budapest and Cape Town?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 10%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Cape Town offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Budapest provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Budapest if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Cape Town for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Budapest vs Cape Town?
In Budapest, a single person needs approximately HUFÂ 234,600 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about HUFÂ 581,100. In Cape Town, these figures are ZARÂ 13,890 for singles and ZARÂ 38,615 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Budapest and Cape Town in 2025 shows moderate 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 Cape Town to maintain your lifestyle from Budapest
Calculate Salary Equivalence