If you need discount housing in Budapest, read on. Thanks to its history, beautiful architecture and active atmosphere, Budapest is an amazing place to call home. Discovering the right home makes a difference for students, professionals, ex-pats and anyone moving to Budapest. In this guide, we will review the different ways to find cheap apartments in Budapest, so you can choose wisely and enjoy the city using your budget.

1. Neighborhoods

You should explore the neighborhoods in Budapest first, before starting your apartment search. Each district in Rome has a special feel, benefits and varies in terms of cost.

District V (Belváros): This region, in the city’s center, is ideal for anyone wanting a quality neighborhood, lots of options for dining and shopping and nearby attractions. Because of its main location, lovely roads and rich culture, many people want to live here. Despite the high prices charged by most districts, laid-back older properties come in handy for budget-conscious people.

In District VIII (Józsefváros), you can find deals and find out why it’s becoming a top pick for tourists. Recently, Józsefváros has seen major improvement thanks to updated buildings, shopping centers, more modern public spaces and better infrastructure. You can find both old architecture and new constructions in this area, so it’s always developing.

This district, found adjacent to the Danube, is noted for its inexpensive properties and lovely views of the water. Angyalföld provides a quieter atmosphere than the very busy central area in Buda. The river offers a great opportunity for outdoor fans, as bikes and pedestrian paths line its banks. At the same time, you have easy access to various parts of the city by public transport.

Ferencváros (District IX) is a developing district that is appealing to students and young people because rents are reasonable. With many universities and colleges here, the area is young and lively. There are older houses as well as new construction in the district and it’s simple to rent affordable apartments close to the city center.

2. Rental Websites

When you’re done finding suitable neighborhoods that fit your needs and budget, you need to start browsing rental listings. It’s good news that there are several solid websites in Budapest where you can search for properties.

Ingatlan.com is recognized as one of the most complete real estate sites in the country. You can find rental ads from various parts of Budapest and beyond on the website. It’s possible to search for rentals by price, area, number of bedrooms and the type of property. Listings are regularly refreshed and plenty come with good descriptions, floor plans and images to guide your decision.

If you’re looking for reasonably priced apartments, try RealEstateHungary.hu. You can find detailed descriptions, clear pictures and easy contact information for the agents or landlords listed here. The website also has information for foreigners, making it easier if you’ve never rented in Hungary.

Alberlet.hu is dedicated to rental listings and you can browse for apartments using your budget and preferences. If you need an individual studio, a shared apartment or housing for your family, Alberlet.hu is easy to use. Lots of listings here fit young workers and students, so you’ll have good options when trying to find an affordable place.

3. Renting Tips

It’s important to remember these tips before you rent somewhere. They help you avoid the usual issues and are sure you are on the right track.

It’s important to set a budget so you can stick to your plans.

Make a plan for your monthly costs of rent and utilities. You should also remember to include your food, transport, internet and entertainment expenses, so your income covers rent as well. Selecting a budget in advance narrows your search and helps you choose better.

3.2 Location

Check the distance between the apartment and grocery stores, bus stops, schools, workplace buildings and hospitals. When daily transport is required, living close to public transit will save you both effort and money. Make sure to check if the area is peaceful, busy, best for families or designed for students.

The size of the apartment and what amenities are included have a major effect on rent.

Choose what size house you need and what features you expect. Think about your space needs: would you like a space for a bedroom, a place to work or your own balcony? You should check to see if the unit has a washing machine, is already furnished or has air conditioning. Being clear about your needs and wants helps you find a place you can afford and still use needed items.

Care for maintenance and utility fees is usually set up with the landlord.

Make sure you know whose responsibility maintenance and utility costs will be. In particular situations, utility bills are included in the rent, but sometimes they are the responsibility of the tenant. If you pay attention to these details at the start, you’ll have an easier time budgeting your money each month.

Review carefully what is in the lease agreement.

Make sure you know what the lease says and all the terms before you sign your name. Give importance to the length of the lease, how much the deposit is, any extra expenses and the terms used to end the deal. Should your agreement be written in Hungarian and you cannot read it, request a version in English or ask someone to translate for you.

4. Alternative Options

If you find traditional rental ads either scarce or beyond reach, you can use these tips to reduce your expenses:

4.1 Roommates

Living with roommates makes your living expenses a lot less costly. MBA is commonly selected by students and young workers. Not only is rent lower but you also have to pay less for internet, utilities and other expenses because you share them with someone else. In addition, living with roommates can help you get to know people in your neighborhood

4.2 Short-term Rentals

Opting for a short-term rental through platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com can provide flexibility and potentially lower costs for shorter stays. Some landlords offer discounts for longer stays on these platforms, and it allows you to explore different neighborhoods before committing to a long-term rental.

4.3 Local Communities

Joining local Facebook groups, housing forums, or expat communities can help you connect with locals or other foreigners who may know of available apartments that are not listed on popular rental websites. These networks often have insider tips and word-of-mouth referrals that can lead to great deals.

5. Conclusion

When searching for cheap apartments in Budapest, thorough research and understanding of the neighborhoods, rental websites, and renting tips can be immensely helpful. Take your time to explore various areas, set realistic expectations, and use online resources and local communities to expand your search. It’s essential to budget wisely and consider alternative options like shared living or short-term rentals if needed. With patience and persistence, you’ll find a budget-friendly apartment that meets your needs and allows you to fully enjoy the beautiful city of Budapest, one of Europe’s most charming and livable capitals.