Remote worker life in Budapest is undeniably attractive to those looking for a distinct European experience filled with culture, nightlife and business opportunities. Hungary is a safe country and a major tourist center for Europeans and world travelers alike. This means you can expect to be able to focus on the things that matter here - your work, seeing the country, and meeting other people. Beyond Budapest’s stability, the city’s affordability is also a hugely positive aspect of life here, allowing long-term visitors the disposable income to travel and enjoy the country in full. Safety and affordability are coupled with Budapest’s international outlook to offer remote workers here a truly global experience with a high quality of life and many opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Those looking to choose the Hungarian capital as their next destination can expect remote worker life in Budapest to be safe and stable. The city does suffer from a pick-pocketing and bag-snatching problem but visitors can expect this to happen mostly in crowded touristic areas and during peak hours on public transport. If you exercise the usual caution when visiting crowded spaces, you can expect to feel safe and welcomed. Violent crime and protest in Budapest is rare, and there are no widespread reports of hostility towards foreigners across Hungary.
This city’s vibrant atmosphere also means remote worker life in Budapest is enjoyable with a good work/life balance. After all, the city itself provides two distinct environments - In hilly Buda you can expect quiet afternoons within its charming residential neighborhoods and modern coffee-houses, whereas across the Danube in flat Pest you’ll find bustling activity with the city’s main markets, nightlife districts and tourist attractions. Indeed, Budapest’s nightlife is a hugely attractive aspect of life here - you will certainly enjoy the city’s edgy “ruin bars”, traditional taverns and up-and-coming clubs. Equally, the city works hard and has countless laptop-friendly coffee-houses and coworking spaces ready to welcome you for some hours of productivity.
Without a doubt, remote worker life in Budapest is affordable. In comparison to other major European cities, Budapest and Hungary have excellent cost of living scores but still offer a great quality of life to those looking to stay long-term. You can expect to find a great, modern and central studio apartment in one of Budapest’s best neighborhoods for no more than 400EUR, and a larger 1-bedroom apartment for around 650EUR. Lots of local markets around the city also make eating out and shopping an affordable and excitingly authentic experience.
Well-established as a major city hub for architecture and art in Europe, you can also expect remote worker life in Budapest to be culturally rich and rewarding. One of the most striking things about Budapest will be its imposing architecture - neo-Gothic, and neoclassical structures stand majestic along the Danube, giving the city a feeling of grandeur not easily replicated elsewhere in Europe. Equally, you’ll certainly want to visit the Hungarian National Gallery located in the emblematic Buda Castle, and also visit the eclectic street art murals around Terezvaros. Visit in September to catch the Szines Varos Festival and see street artists in action!
Finally, it has to be mentioned that remote worker life in Budapest will also feel international and progressive. It is important to mention, however, that there have been reports of racism and homophobia from visitors to Hungary in recent years, although this should not overshadow the country’s general trajectory towards a more tolerant and international outlook. Indeed, there already is a huge number of expats and remote workers in Budapest and the city’s many coworking spaces and international communities encourage great networking opportunities for locals and visitors alike. The city is perfectly connected to the rest of Europe by rail and air and, as part of the European Union, Hungary maintains important business and cultural links across the region.
For more information about living in Budapest as a remote worker, check out our complete Budapest guide.