Introduction

Are you looking for rental property in Budapest? The capital of Hungary, Budapest, is famous for its wonderful architecture, lively culture and lower cost of life. If you are a student, someone just beginning your career or a retiree, Budapest provides rental properties that match your requirements. We will discuss how to find and rent a property in Budapest in this guide.

Renting apartments in Budapest

If you’re looking for a one-bedroom place in Budapest, prices at £250–£625 monthly are cheap. This has brought plenty of expats and students to the city. People choose Districts V, VII and XIII for being close to bars, universities and offices. Utilities will set you back 20,000 HUF (£41.67) and internet is another 5,000 HUF (£10.42). The “livable rents” and urban excitement found in r/budapest and expat forums appeal to all the newcomers who will arrive in Budapest in May 2025.

1. How To Set Your Budget

You should figure out your budget upfront, before you begin to look out for a rental place. How much you pay in rent can change based on its location, the property’s size and its condition. Review your monthly earnings, the money you spend each month and don’t forget to note other expenses like utilities or maintenance. Deciding on a practical budget will save you time and mean you can comfortably take on your new home.

Ensure your rent costs less than a third to a fourth of what you make monthly. The price of a studio in District VII is 150,000 HUF (£312.50), but an apartment in District V can be up to 250,000 HUF (£520.83). Add on 30,000 HUF (£62.50) for your monthly energy costs and 10,000 HUF (£20.83) for the condo fee. Renting for three to six months costs more and prices start from 200,000 HUF (£416.67). Conveniently use Wise to get the rate 1 GBP = 480 HUF.

2. Picking the Appropriate Area

Budapest consists of 23 different districts and each one has its own special character. Doing some research on local communities will let you pick one that is right for you. There are many popular places to live in Budapest, including some of these:

District V (Belváros-Lipótváros) is centrally located, surrounded by plenty of shops, nice restaurants and important landmarks.

Young professionals and students like District VII for its lively nightlife and special atmosphere.

This district located on the Danube River, is beloved by families for its beautiful parks and plenty of things to do.

Always remember to consider getting to work or school, access to amenities and safety, as well as being near public transportation, before you choose a neighbourhood in Budapest.

The flats located near Váci Street in District V cost between 200,000 HUF and 350,000 HUF (£416.67–£729.17). District VII includes Szimpla, a famous ruin bar and offers studios for rent between 120,000 and 180,000 HUF (between £250 and £375). Family renters like District XIII, since two-bedroom apartments are available there from HUF 180,000 to HUF 250,000 (£375 to £520.83). M3 and the nearby tram 4/6 are both good for traveling here. The website Expatica.com advises finding accommodation near metro transport.

3. Finding places to rent comes next.

After setting your budget and deciding where you want to live, you should start looking at rental homes. You can find many websites and real estate organizations that focus on helping you rent in Budapest. Consider using these famous websites to begin your journey:

• ingatlan.com
• realestatehungary.hu
• budapest.athome-network.com

Require your search to include just the districts you need, between 100,000 and 200,000 HUF and apartments size up to 60 m² if you wish. The agency Tower International charges 50,000 HUF (£104.17) to take care of the documentation, but you also receive other services. Advertising through WhatsApp groups on Reddit’s r/budapest means you can skip the housing finders’ fees. Use English search since nearly all platforms allow it.

4. Going to see and examine properties

If a property matches your expectations, be sure to visit it to check everything personally. Look for anything wrong or in bad condition with the property. If planning to buy, walk around the neighborhood at several times, day and night, before making a decision. Don’t be afraid to ask what is included in the lease rental which amenities are offered and about extra costs.

Be sure the place is dry, has good heating (important since May weather can be unpredictable) and has a strong and stable internet connection (set to at least 20 Mbps). District VII has aged buildings that might need work; District V’s are brand new. Make sure you include parking and pet policies (both £20.83 per month at the time of writing) in the discussion. Make sure to take photos when you have viewings, according to expat.com’s guidance.

5. How to Read Rental Contracts

Make sure to examine every detail in the rental contract before putting your signature. For the most part, renting in Budapest requires a minimum contract of one year, although other options exist. Confirm what the rent is, when you need to pay and about any extra costs involved. You should either ask a lawyer or a real estate professional to help you understand any parts that are unclear.

Fees for a contract cover rental costs (150,000 HUF, £312.50), deposit (300,000 HUF, £625) and notice periods (1–2 months). Many times, you must notarize your documents (5,000 HUF, £10.42). Have discussions about how utilities will be managed and what is included in maintenance. Reviewing a contract at Lakatos Köves will cost customers 20,000 HUF (£41.67).

6. What Must Be Done: Following the Laws and Filling Out the Paperwork

Before renting in Budapest, you have to meet certain legal and paperwork requirements. Examples are:

• You’ll need to show your passport or ID card.
• A formal document showing your employment or your ability to earn money
• A document showing where in Budapest you live (address card or declaration).
• Usually, the security deposit is the same as two to three months’ rent.
• Make sure you have these papers ready when you submit your application for a rental.

EU residents don’t need a visa; only people from other countries should get a visa or work permit. Receiving payslips demonstrating 500,000 HUF or £1,041.67 each month gives peace of mind to landlords. You can receive an address card at your district office (this service is free). If nothing is damaged, your deposit will be fully returned under Hungarian law.

7. Moving to a New Place

Congratulations! You have discovered your perfect rental place in Budapest. After you finish the contract and pay the fees, you can start moving in and settling down. Don’t pass on signing up for important utilities like electricity, water and internet. Help your adjustment by wandering through your new local area, uncovering interesting spots and becoming involved with the locals.

To get electricity from ELMŰ, you pay 5000 HUF (£10.42) and internet from UPC with the same (5000 HUF, £10.42). In District VII, there are cafes at Gozsdu with drinks costing about 600 HUF (£1.25 each); parks in District XIII do not charge entry. 

Practical Tips for May 2025

• Hire Movers: Local firms like Költöztetés charge 20,000 HUF (£41.67) for small flats.
• Learn Basics: Phrases like “bérlés” (rental) aid negotiations.
• Check Transport: BKK monthly passes (9,500 HUF, £19.79) cover metro/tram.
• Secure Deposits: Use bank transfers for traceability.
• Explore Early: Visit ruin bars or markets to settle in, per Reddit’s r/budapest.

Why Rent in Budapest?

Budapest’s low rents, vibrant nightlife (pints £1.67 vs. £6 in London), and cultural depth (museums 3,000 HUF, £6.25) make it ideal for expats. May’s spring vibe eases transitions, with open-air cafes and festivals.

Conclusion

Remember, renting a property in Budapest is an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture and history. Take the time to research, plan, and explore to find the perfect rental property for your needs. Happy house-hunting!