Pécs, a vibrant university town located in southern Hungary,
is home to a large number of international students due to its historic charm,
affordable living costs, and a diverse academic environment. If you're
considering studying in Pécs, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of
the typical expenses you’ll face during your time there. Below is an overview
of the main categories of expenses that students can expect while living and
studying in Pécs.
Accommodation
Accommodation is one of the largest monthly expenses for students in Pécs. There are several options, from dormitories to private apartments, each with its own price range.
• Student Dormitories: On average, dormitory fees can range from 64,000 HUF to 85,000 HUF per month, depending on the type of room (single or shared) and the location within Pécs.
• Private Apartments: Rent for a private apartment in Pécs typically costs between 120,000 HUF and 200,000 HUF per month for a one-bedroom flat. Sharing an apartment with other students can significantly lower the cost.
• Utilities: Utility costs (water, electricity, gas, internet) usually range from 25,000 HUF to 40,000 HUF per month, depending on the size of the apartment and usage.
Food and Groceries
The cost of food in Pécs is generally lower than in many Western European countries. Students can expect to spend a reasonable amount on groceries, eating out, and coffee breaks with friends.
• Groceries: Monthly grocery bills typically range from 50,000 HUF to 100,000 HUF, depending on your eating habits. Buying in bulk and cooking at home is usually the most cost-effective option. Local supermarkets such as Spar, Lidl, and Aldi offer affordable prices.
• Eating Out: Dining out at inexpensive restaurants or student-friendly cafés will cost around 2,500 HUF to 4,000 HUF per meal. If you prefer more upscale dining, expect to pay between 5,000 HUF to 8,000 HUF per person for a main course.
• Cafés and Snacks: Pécs is home to a number of student cafés, where a coffee or tea typically costs around 1000 HUF to 2,000 HUF. Grab-and-go snacks or bakery items may cost between 500 HUF and 1,200 HUF.
Transportation
Pécs is a compact city, and getting around is fairly affordable. Public transportation is reliable and budget-friendly for students.
• Public Transport: A monthly student public transportation pass costs around 3,900 HUF. Single tickets cost about 400 HUF per ride. Students can also use bicycles, as the city has an increasing number of bike lanes, and renting or buying a second-hand bike is a popular and eco-friendly option.
• Taxis and Ride-Sharing: For occasional taxi or ride-sharing services (such as Bolt or Uber), the base fare is around 500 HUF, with additional costs depending on the distance. A typical ride within the city may cost between 1,500 HUF to 3,500 HUF.
Entertainment and Leisure
Pécs offers a variety of cultural and recreational activities for students. While many activities are free or low-cost, students should budget for occasional outings.
• Cinema: Movie tickets cost between 1,200 HUF and 2,500 HUF. International students often take advantage of discounted student rates.
• Cultural Events and Museums: Pécs is known for its rich cultural scene, including music concerts, theater productions, and art exhibitions. Tickets for most cultural events range from 1,000 HUF to 4,000 HUF.
• Nightlife: If you enjoy nightlife, Pécs has a range of student-friendly bars and clubs. A drink in a local bar typically costs between 1500 HUF and 3000 HUF, depending on the venue. Entry fees for clubs might range from 2000 HUF to 5000 HUF, especially on special nights.
Other Miscellaneous Expenses
In addition to the primary expenses listed above, there are a few other costs you should consider:
• Internet and Mobile Plans: Most students rely on mobile data for communication. Mobile phone plans cost around 5,000 HUF to 10,000 HUF per month, depending on the provider and plan. Home internet costs range between 4,000 HUF and 12,000 HUF per month.
• Gym Memberships: Gym memberships range from 5,000 HUF to 12,000 HUF per month, depending on the gym and its facilities. Some student accommodations may also offer gym access as part of the package.
All in all we, can say that living as a student in Pécs offers a great balance of affordability and quality of life. With careful planning and budgeting, students can comfortably cover their expenses without breaking the bank. Whether you're living in a dormitory or a private apartment, eating out or cooking at home, the cost of living in Pécs is relatively low compared to many other European cities. This allows you to enjoy a fulfilling academic experience while still having room to explore the city's rich history, culture, and social life.