BudapestvsMoscow
Overall
đź’°-3.8%
Budapest is 3.8%cheaper
Rent
đźŹ0.0%
Housing is 0.0% same
Dining
🍽️+22.2%
Restaurants 22.2% pricier
Groceries
đź›’-6.3%
Food shopping 6.3% less
Comparing the cost of living between Budapest, Hungary and Moscow, Russia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Budapest is more affordable than Moscow 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 Moscow. A one-bedroom apartment in Budapest's city center costs around HUFÂ 200,000, while the same in Moscow is approximately RUBÂ 80,000.
Dining out in Budapest offers significant savings compared to Moscow. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs HUFÂ 2,000 in Budapest versus RUBÂ 600 in Moscow.
Public transportation in Budapest is more expensive, with monthly passes at HUFÂ 9,500 compared to RUBÂ 2,700 in Moscow.
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 Moscow, the same lifestyle would cost around RUBÂ 23,560. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about HUFÂ 331,100 monthly in Budapest versus RUBÂ 82,460 in Moscow. 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 Moscow 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 Moscow 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
Moscow
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Budapest more expensive than Moscow?
The cost of living in Budapest and Moscow 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 Moscow?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 96% of your Moscow salary when living in Budapest. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Moscow, you'd need about $48,148 in Budapest for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Budapest and Moscow?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 18%, 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?
Budapest 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 earning potential, or Moscow for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Budapest vs Moscow?
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 Moscow, these figures are RUBÂ 68,560 for singles and RUBÂ 167,460 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Budapest and Moscow 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.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Moscow to maintain your lifestyle from Budapest
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