SantiagovsBudapest
Overall
đź’°-5.5%
Santiago is 5.5%cheaper
Rent
đźŹ0.0%
Housing is 0.0% same
Dining
🍽️-10.0%
Restaurants 10.0% cheaper
Groceries
đź›’-12.7%
Food shopping 12.7% less
Comparing the cost of living between Santiago, Chile and Budapest, Hungary reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Santiago is more affordable than Budapest by approximately 5.5%. 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 Santiago are similar than in Budapest. A one-bedroom apartment in Santiago's city center costs around CLPÂ 500,000, while the same in Budapest is approximately HUFÂ 200,000.
Dining out in Santiago is notably more expensive compared to Budapest. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CLPÂ 7,000 in Santiago versus HUFÂ 2,000 in Budapest.
Public transportation in Santiago is more expensive, with monthly passes at CLPÂ 33,000 compared to HUFÂ 9,500 in Budapest.
Grocery shopping in Santiago is more expensive by approximately 15%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Santiago can expect to spend approximately CLPÂ 286,600 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 CLPÂ 1,003,100 monthly in Santiago 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 Budapest to Santiago, 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 Santiago 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
Santiago
Budapest
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Santiago more expensive than Budapest?
No, Santiago is approximately 5.5% cheaper than Budapest. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Santiago compared to Budapest?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 95% of your Budapest salary when living in Santiago. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Budapest, you'd need about $47,414 in Santiago for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Santiago and Budapest?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 15%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. 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, Santiago provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Santiago if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Budapest for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Santiago vs Budapest?
In Santiago, a single person needs approximately CLPÂ 636,600 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about CLPÂ 1,653,100. 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 Santiago and Budapest 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 Budapest to maintain your lifestyle from Santiago
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