Why more and more Germans are relocating to Hungary?

It’s a trend that’s quietly but steadily emerging: more and more Germans are packing their bags, leaving their homeland — and moving to Hungary. Some only stay for a few months each year, others for good. And many even buy themselves a little house there straight away. But what draws so many people to this small country in the heart of Europe?

First, the obvious reason: the price. Anyone who has ever tried to buy a house in Germany knows how absurdly expensive it has become. Even outside the big cities, prices have skyrocketed in recent years. In Hungary, it’s a completely different story. A small country house with a garden, maybe even near Lake Balaton — you can get that there for a fraction of what you’d pay in Bavaria or North Rhine-Westphalia. For many Germans, that’s a real game changer.

But it’s not just about the money. Many say they simply feel more comfortable in Hungary. Life is more relaxed, quieter, sometimes almost a bit nostalgic. The landscape is beautiful — gentle hills, fields, vineyards, rivers, lakes. Lake Balaton in particular, often lovingly called the “Hungarian Sea,” is a real hotspot. There you’ll now find not only Hungarians, but also many German-speaking expats who have made their dream of living in the countryside come true.

Summertime at Lake Balaton

Proximity also plays a role. Hungary really isn’t that far away — many places can be reached by car, and there are cheap flights to Budapest or Debrecen. If you want, you can easily move between two worlds: summer in Hungary, Christmas in Germany — or the other way around.

Another point many people mention: the people. Hungarians are considered warm, down-to-earth, and hospitable. Of course, the language is a challenge — but you get by, and in some regions there are even German-speaking communities that make it easier for newcomers to settle in. Plus, many Hungarians are proud of their culture, their food, their wine — and they’re happy when foreigners take a genuine interest in the country.

And then there are the retirees. For many older Germans, Hungary has become a real insider tip. The cost of living is low, the climate is pleasant, and you get a lot for your pension. Some buy a small house, others rent, but almost all say: “My money simply goes further here.”

In the end, it’s often the combination of everything: lower prices, more nature, less stress — and the chance to start over again. Maybe not for everyone, but for more and more people. And maybe even for you?