Buenos AiresvsBudapest
Overall
đź’°+30.0%
Buenos Aires is 30.0%more expensive
Rent
đźŹ+40.0%
Housing is 40.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+28.6%
Restaurants 28.6% pricier
Groceries
đź›’+26.3%
Food shopping 26.3% more
Comparing the cost of living between Buenos Aires, Argentina and Budapest, Hungary reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Buenos Aires is more expensive than Budapest by approximately 30.0%. 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 Buenos Aires are lower than in Budapest by 29%. A one-bedroom apartment in Buenos Aires's city center costs around ARSÂ 400,000, while the same in Budapest is approximately HUFÂ 200,000.
Dining out in Buenos Aires offers significant savings compared to Budapest. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ARSÂ 4,000 in Buenos Aires versus HUFÂ 2,000 in Budapest.
Public transportation in Buenos Aires is more affordable, with monthly passes at ARSÂ 2,500 compared to HUFÂ 9,500 in Budapest.
Purchasing power in Budapest is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Buenos Aires.
Grocery shopping in Buenos Aires is more affordable by approximately 21%. 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 Buenos Aires can expect to spend approximately ARSÂ 101,900 per month (excluding rent), while in Budapest, the same lifestyle would cost around HUFÂ 94,600. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ARSÂ 356,650 monthly in Buenos Aires versus HUFÂ 331,100 in Budapest. 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 Buenos Aires 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 Buenos Aires 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
Buenos Aires
Budapest
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Buenos Aires more expensive than Budapest?
Yes, Buenos Aires is approximately 30.0% more expensive than Budapest overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Buenos Aires compared to Budapest?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.3x of your Budapest salary when living in Buenos Aires. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Budapest, you'd need about $65,000 in Buenos Aires for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Buenos Aires and Budapest?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 29%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. 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 Buenos Aires if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Budapest for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Buenos Aires vs Budapest?
In Buenos Aires, a single person needs approximately ARSÂ 401,900 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ARSÂ 956,650. In Budapest, these figures are HUFÂ 234,600 for singles and HUFÂ 581,100 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Buenos Aires and Budapest 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 Budapest to maintain your lifestyle from Buenos Aires
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