LimavsBudapest
Overall
đź’°+23.8%
Lima is 23.8%more expensive
Rent
đźŹ+25.0%
Housing is 25.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+28.6%
Restaurants 28.6% pricier
Groceries
đź›’+6.7%
Food shopping 6.7% more
Comparing the cost of living between Lima, Peru and Budapest, Hungary reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Lima is more expensive than Budapest by approximately 23.8%. 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 Lima are lower than in Budapest by 20%. A one-bedroom apartment in Lima's city center costs around PENÂ 2,000, while the same in Budapest is approximately HUFÂ 200,000.
Dining out in Lima offers significant savings compared to Budapest. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs PENÂ 15 in Lima versus HUFÂ 2,000 in Budapest.
Public transportation in Lima is more affordable, with monthly passes at PENÂ 100 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 Lima.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Lima can expect to spend approximately PENÂ 867 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 PENÂ 3,035 monthly in Lima 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 Lima 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 Lima 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
Lima
Budapest
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lima more expensive than Budapest?
Yes, Lima is approximately 23.8% more expensive than Budapest overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Lima compared to Budapest?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Budapest salary when living in Lima. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Budapest, you'd need about $61,905 in Lima for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Lima and Budapest?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 22%, 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 Lima if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Budapest for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Lima vs Budapest?
In Lima, a single person needs approximately PENÂ 2,067 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about PENÂ 5,235. 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 Lima 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 Lima
Calculate Salary Equivalence