Studying in Hungary is exciting, but before you arrive, there's one thing you should prepare for carefully—accommodation.
For most international students, housing is the largest monthly expense throughout university. Over the last few years, rent prices across Hungary have increased significantly due to inflation and growing demand from international students.
I have been living in Hungary for the last two years, so I've experienced the housing market firsthand. I've lived in a university dormitory, searched for apartments, dealt with landlords and agencies, and learned plenty of tips that could have saved me both money and stress during my first year.
In this guide, I'll explain the average rent in different Hungarian cities, where students usually live, how dormitories work, and the mistakes you should avoid when renting your first accommodation.
Hungary has several internationally recognized universities spread across different cities. The University of Debrecen (where I'm currently studying) is located in Debrecen, while Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) is in Budapest. The University of Pécs, University of Szeged, and Széchenyi István University in Győr are also among the country's most popular destinations for international students.
Since every city has a different cost of living, monthly accommodation costs also vary.
Let's explore each city one by one.
Monthly Rent & Housing Expense in Budapest
Budapest is Hungary's capital and largest city. It welcomes millions of tourists every year and offers the widest range of restaurants, shopping centres, entertainment, and part-time job opportunities.
Because of its popularity, Budapest is also the most expensive city in Hungary for international students.
If you're planning to study here, expect accommodation to take the biggest portion of your monthly budget.
Monthly Rent in Budapest for International Students
If you want to rent a private room in popular student areas such as Blaha Lujza tér, Corvin, Astoria or the city centre, you should expect to pay approximately:
- 120,000–150,000 HUF/month for a single room.
- 70,000–80,000 HUF/month if you share the room with another student.
Entire apartments are considerably more expensive, especially near central districts.
The further you move away from the city centre, the cheaper rent usually becomes. However, always consider transportation costs and travel time before choosing a cheaper apartment.
Dormitory Rent in Budapest
Many international students choose university or private dormitories instead of renting apartments.
A typical dormitory room is shared by 2–3 students, while kitchens are usually shared by the entire floor.
Dormitory fees generally range between:
40,000–60,000 HUF per month
Budapest has both university-operated dormitories and private student residences.
Dorm life is one of the most affordable options available. Besides saving money, it's also much easier to meet students from different countries and make friends during your first semester.
The only downside is reduced privacy compared to renting an apartment.
Best Areas for Students to Rent in Budapest
Most students prefer living near central districts because commuting becomes much easier.
Another important reason is part-time work.
Many international students work in restaurants, cafés, supermarkets or as food delivery riders for companies like Wolt and Foodora. Living close to busy areas means more job opportunities and shorter delivery distances if you work as a courier.
Although central accommodation costs more, many students find the convenience worth the extra rent.
Sharing a Room in Budapest
It is common for two students to share one room to reduce living expenses.
Occasionally, you'll also hear about three students sharing the same room.
However, you should be very careful.
Most landlords officially allow a maximum of two tenants per room. In many cases, only the students listed in the rental contract are legally registered.
If you are not included in the rental agreement, you may face difficulties obtaining your Hungarian Address Card (Lakcímkártya), which is required for many administrative procedures and legal residence in Hungary.
Especially during your first year, always make sure you have a valid rental contract.
| Type | Monthly rent | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single private room | HUF 120,000–150,000 | Standard for one person. Inner districts (V, VI, VII) are pricier. Outer districts (XIV, XV, XVI) cheaper. |
| Shared room (2 people) | HUF 60,000–80,000 per person | Very common among South Asian students. Significantly reduces costs. |
| University dormitory | HUF 50,000–80,000 | Very limited. Demand is the highest in Budapest. |
| Entire studio flat | HUF 200,000–280,000 | Uncommon for students alone. Shared between 2–3 people it becomes manageable. |
Monthly Rent & Housing Expense in Debrecen
Debrecen is Hungary's second-largest city and home to the University of Debrecen, one of the country's most internationally recognized universities.
The university is especially famous for its Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Engineering, Business, Computer Science and Health Science programs. In fact, it hosts one of the largest international student communities in Hungary, with students arriving from more than 120 countries.
Because of this growing international population, finding affordable accommodation in Debrecen has become increasingly difficult each year.
Unlike Budapest, many property owners in Debrecen do not speak English. Instead, they usually hire real estate agencies to manage rentals for international students. Since agencies charge service fees, rental prices have gradually increased over the years.
Monthly Rent in Debrecen for International Students
If you're looking for a private room in Debrecen, you can generally expect the following prices:
- 80,000–120,000 HUF/month for a single room.
- 60,000–80,000 HUF/month for a shared room.
However, sharing rooms is much less common in Debrecen than in Budapest.
Most landlords prefer renting each bedroom to one student only, so finding a shared room can be difficult.
Compared to Budapest, apartments in Debrecen are usually quieter and located in residential neighbourhoods rather than busy commercial areas.
Dormitory Rent in Debrecen
The University of Debrecen has several student dormitories, but unlike Budapest, there are very few private dormitories available.
Dormitory fees usually range between:
40,000–50,000 HUF/month
Most rooms are shared by 2–3 students.
Getting a dormitory place is highly competitive.
For first-year students, applications often fill within seconds after the online system opens.
For senior students, admission depends on a point-based system. Your GPA, participation in university events, conferences and other activities can improve your chances of receiving a dormitory room.
Some of the most popular dormitories include:
- Kossuth Lajos Dormitory (Main Campus)
- Campus Hotel (Informatics Campus)
- Veres Péter Dormitory (Business & Agriculture Campus)
I personally lived in Veres Péter Dormitory during my second year, and honestly, it was one of my best experiences in Hungary.
Dorm life is completely different from apartment life.
When you rent an apartment, you usually live with two or three roommates, and everyone stays inside their own room most of the time.
In a dormitory, you might have twenty students living on the same floor, all coming from different countries, cultures and backgrounds.
Late-night conversations, making tea together at 3 AM before exams, celebrating birthdays, cooking meals from your home country, or simply sitting in the hallway talking for hours—those are memories you'll probably keep long after graduation.
If you're someone who enjoys meeting new people, dorm life is an experience I highly recommend.
Best Areas for Students to Rent in Debrecen
Most international students choose accommodation near:
- University Main Campus
- Kassai Campus
- Böszörményi Campus
- City Centre (Belváros)
Living close to the university saves transportation time, while staying near the city centre gives easier access to supermarkets, restaurants and part-time jobs.
| Type | Monthly rent | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single private room (in shared flat) | HUF 80,000–120,000 | Most common option for international students. Usually includes utilities. |
| University dormitory | HUF 40,000–50,000 | Limited spots. GPA and luck dependent. |
| Entire studio flat (1 person) | HUF 130,000–180,000 | More privacy, higher cost. Rare for first-year students. |
Monthly Rent & Housing Expense in Pécs
Pécs is one of Hungary's most beautiful university cities and home to the University of Pécs, the oldest university in the country. The city is smaller and quieter than Budapest, making it popular among students who prefer a relaxed lifestyle.
Accommodation in Pécs is generally more affordable than in Budapest and slightly cheaper than Debrecen.
Monthly Rent in Pécs for International Students
Typical monthly rents are:
- 70,000–100,000 HUF for a single room.
- 50,000–70,000 HUF for a shared room.
Many apartments are within walking distance or a short bus ride from the university.
Dormitory Rent in Pécs
The University of Pécs offers several dormitories for international students.
Typical dormitory fees range between:
35,000–50,000 HUF/month
Rooms are usually shared by two or three students, making dormitories the most budget-friendly option.
Best Areas for Students in Pécs
Students generally look for accommodation near:
- Medical School
- University Campus
- Downtown Pécs
Since Pécs is relatively compact, commuting is easier than in Budapest.
| Type | Monthly rent | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single private room | HUF 80,000–120,000 | On par with Debrecen. Prices can be slightly lower further from the city centre. |
| University dormitory | HUF 40,000–50,000 | Limited availability. Same constraints as Debrecen. |
Monthly Rent & Housing Expense in Szeged
Szeged is another favourite destination for international students and is home to the University of Szeged, one of Hungary's highest-ranked universities.
The city has a welcoming atmosphere, excellent public transport and many student-friendly cafés.
Monthly Rent in Szeged
Average rental prices include:
- 70,000–100,000 HUF for a private room.
- 50,000–70,000 HUF for a shared room.
Dormitory Rent in Szeged
Dormitory costs generally range between:
35,000–50,000 HUF/month
Most rooms accommodate two or three students.
Best Areas for Students
Students usually rent near:
- University buildings
- City Centre
- Tisza River area
These neighbourhoods provide easy access to classes and daily necessities.
Monthly Rent & Housing Expense in Győr
Győr is a modern city located between Budapest and Vienna and is home to Széchenyi István University.
The city is known for its engineering and automotive industries, making it especially attractive for engineering students.
Accommodation prices are moderate compared to Budapest.
Monthly Rent in Győr
Average monthly rent is:
- 70,000–100,000 HUF for a private room.
- 50,000–70,000 HUF for a shared room.
Dormitory Rent in Győr
Dormitory fees usually range between:
35,000–50,000 HUF/month
University dormitories remain the cheapest housing option for students.
Best Areas for Students
Most students rent close to:
- Széchenyi István University
- Downtown Győr
- Railway station area
These locations offer convenient transportation and easy access to supermarkets, restaurants and student facilities.
How to Find Accommodation in Hungary
Finding accommodation in Hungary is much easier when you know where to look. While there are many rental websites, most international students actually find their rooms through Facebook and WhatsApp groups.
I also found my accommodation this way, and it's still one of the fastest methods because landlords and agencies post new listings every day.
Facebook Groups
Facebook is the easiest place to start because anyone can join these groups for free.
Landlords, agencies and current students regularly post available rooms, apartments and roommates. Since good apartments get rented very quickly (sometimes within a few hours), I recommend turning on notifications for the groups you're interested in.
Popular Facebook Groups for Debrecen:
- Debrecen Albérlet (International Students)
- Debrecen Accommodation Group
If you're studying in Budapest, Pécs, Szeged or Győr, simply search Facebook using keywords such as:
- "Budapest International Students Accommodation"
- "Pécs Accommodation"
- "Szeged Apartments"
- "Győr Rent"
Almost every university city has multiple active student housing groups.
WhatsApp Groups
WhatsApp groups are another excellent place to find accommodation, especially just before each semester starts.
Unlike Facebook groups, you cannot find these groups through search. You usually need someone who is already a member to invite you.
Try asking:
- Senior students from your university
- Students from your country
- Student associations
- Friends who already study in Hungary
Many students post available rooms in WhatsApp groups before listing them publicly on Facebook.
English vs Hungarian Facebook Groups
This is one tip that many new international students don't know.
Most English-language Facebook groups are dominated by real estate agencies. Agencies are helpful if you're arriving from abroad, but apartments listed there are often more expensive because agency commissions are included in the rent.
On the other hand, many Hungarian landlords prefer posting directly in Hungarian Facebook groups, such as "Albérlet Debrecen." These listings are often cheaper because you're communicating directly with the property owner instead of through an agency.
The only challenge is that many landlords don't speak English.
Don't let that stop you.
Simply use Google Translate or another translation app when sending your message. I also recommend leaving a short comment under the landlord's Facebook post in Hungarian, such as:
"Írtam privát üzenetet. Köszönöm!"
This means "I have sent you a private message. Thank you!"
Many landlords don't regularly check their Facebook message requests, but they are much more likely to notice your message after seeing your comment.
If the landlord includes a phone number in the listing, don't hesitate to contact them directly by phone or through WhatsApp. In my experience, this often leads to much faster responses than waiting for Facebook messages.
My Advice
Start searching for accommodation at least one or two months before your arrival in Hungary. The best apartments are rented quickly, especially in August and September when thousands of new international students arrive.
Finally, never send a deposit before verifying that the apartment actually exists and that you'll receive a proper rental contract. If possible, ask for a video tour or have a friend already in Hungary visit the apartment on your behalf. Spending a little extra time checking everything can save you from scams and unnecessary stress later.
Deposits, Contracts & Avoiding Rental Scams
Almost every landlord in Hungary requires a security deposit before you move in. In most cases, the deposit is equal to two months' rent, although some landlords may ask for only one month's deposit.
The good news is that this money is not a fee. As long as you don't damage the apartment and leave it in good condition, the landlord should return your deposit when your contract ends.
If you're searching for accommodation from your home country, be very careful before sending any money online.
Unfortunately, rental scams do exist, especially at the beginning of each academic year when thousands of new international students are looking for housing.
My advice is simple.
If you have a friend, senior student or relative who is already living in Hungary, ask them to visit the apartment on your behalf and pay the deposit in person after confirming everything is genuine.
If you don't know anyone in Hungary, I strongly recommend not sending the deposit online.
Instead, arrive in Hungary first and stay in a hotel, hostel or temporary accommodation for a few days. Many universities can also help new international students find temporary accommodation before they secure permanent housing.
Once you've personally visited the apartment, you can pay the deposit directly to the landlord and move in with peace of mind.
At the same time you pay the deposit, make sure you sign the rental contract immediately. Never hand over a large amount of money without receiving a proper signed agreement.
The contract will also be necessary later when applying for your Hungarian Address Card and completing other official procedures.
10 Tips Before Renting in Hungary
These are the practical, first-hand details that make the difference between a smooth move-in and a stressful one — most of them are questions generic guides never mention.
Final Thoughts
Accommodation is likely to be your biggest monthly expense while studying in Hungary, but with careful planning, you can keep your costs under control.
If your budget is limited, apply for a university dormitory as early as possible. If you plan to rent privately, start searching at least one to two months before arriving, compare multiple listings, and never send money before receiving a proper rental agreement.
Having lived in Hungary myself, one piece of advice I always give new students is this: don't choose the cheapest accommodation just because it saves a little money. Consider the distance to your university, supermarkets, public transport and part-time job opportunities. Paying slightly more for a better location can often save you both time and transportation costs.
No matter which city you choose—Budapest, Debrecen, Pécs, Szeged or Győr—you'll find a welcoming international student community and a place you can eventually call home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is rent in Budapest for international students?
A single private room in Budapest costs approximately HUF 120,000–150,000 per month. Many South Asian students share rooms to reduce costs significantly. Contracts are typically a minimum of 6 months, and landlords usually ask for 1 month advance deposit.
How much is rent in Debrecen for international students?
A single private room in Debrecen costs approximately HUF 80,000–120,000 per month. University dormitories cost HUF 40,000–50,000 per month but require a good GPA and there are limited spots.
How do I find student housing in Hungary?
The best way is through Facebook groups and WhatsApp groups. Facebook groups are easy to find via search. WhatsApp groups are harder — you need to ask a current student to add you. Also check Albérlet.hu for listings. Always visit the room in person or send someone you trust before paying any deposit.
Are there dormitories for Stipendium Hungaricum students?
Yes. Stipendium Hungaricum provides either a free dormitory placement or a HUF 40,000/month housing allowance if no dorm is available. Dormitory spots are limited and usually assigned based on GPA and luck. You cannot guarantee a dorm place.
How long are rental contracts in Hungary?
In Debrecen and Pécs, landlords typically require a minimum 1-year contract and 2 months advance deposit. In Budapest, contracts are usually a minimum of 6 months with 1 month advance. Breaking a contract early means you must find a replacement tenant yourself to recover your deposit — which can be very difficult.
