Szombathely, Hungary Hero Image
Wikipedia Contributor, CC BY-SA

Szombathely, Hungary

Data updated Oct 9, 2026

Follows Hungary Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →

📊 Scores

85
FIRE
74
Retiree
70
Digital Nomad

Best fit: FIRE / Geoarbitrage (score: 85)

Szombathely sits in western Hungary at 209 m above sea level, in the Europe/Budapest timezone, with a temperate climate that brings four distinct seasons to a city of 77 thousand people. Expats who settle here overwhelmingly choose Belváros, the historic center, where daily errands, cafes, and the main squares are all within walking distance. The city is compact enough that even addresses outside the center stay close to the action, and the flat terrain makes cycling and long walks easy in every season.

Housing is the headline. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center rents for $460/mo, while the same outside the center drops to $338/mo. Three-bedroom units run $460/mo in the center and $368/mo outside it. Utilities average $170/mo, internet $21/mo, and a mobile phone plan $21/mo. A monthly public transport pass costs $19/mo and a gym membership $49/mo. An inexpensive restaurant meal is $12 per person, a mid-range three-course meal for two is $54, and a cappuccino is $2. Excluding rent, a single person spends about $750/mo and a family of four about $2,500/mo. Budget, mid-range, and comfortable lifestyles for a single adult come to $584/mo, $887/mo, and $1,138/mo with rent included. Against an average monthly net salary of $1,171/mo, the cost of living index of 47/100 against New York City keeps daily life affordable, though local wages mean many residents budget carefully.

Safety is a strong point, with a safety index of 82/100 and a crime index of 18/100, where lower is safer. Air quality sits at 45 on an index where lower is better, and healthcare quality is rated excellent. Internet averages 80 Mbps, fast enough for remote work, streaming, and video calls. The expat community is very few in number, and English proficiency is limited, so everyday interactions reward even basic Hungarian.

For remote workers, Hungary offers the White Card (Digital Nomad Visa), which requires a minimum monthly income of $3,362/mo. Reaching Szombathely overland from larger hubs is straightforward by rail and road, and the city rewards those who prefer a quiet, walkable base over a capital. With an overall expat score of 85/100, a FIRE score of 85/100, a retiree score of 74/100, and a digital nomad score of 70/100, it suits budget-conscious savers, early retirees, and remote professionals who value low rents, excellent healthcare, and a calm pace, and who do not mind a small expat scene or learning some Hungarian to feel at home.

Estimate the cost of moving to Szombathely, Hungary

Get a free moving cost estimate for moving to Szombathely, Hungary. Takes 10 seconds.

How much are you shipping?

When are you moving?

Powered by Sirelo. Free quotes from international movers.

🏚️ Cost of Living

💰 Budgets and Costs

$926/mo, one person, rent included
Selected: mid-range lifestyle

Szombathely on a mid-range budget comes to about $926 a month for one adult, with $338 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $154 on groceries, $115 on dining out, $88.00 on entertainment and lifestyle, $212 on utilities and connectivity and $19.00 on transport.

Rent

$338/mo

1BR outside the centre

Groceries

$154/mo

Staples basket scaled to a full month

Dining out

$115/mo

10 inexpensive meals

Entertainment & lifestyle

$88.00/mo

gym, 2 cinema trips, 12 cappuccinos

Utilities & connectivity

$212/mo

utilities, mobile, internet

Transport

$19.00/mo

Monthly pass

Budgets (excl. rent)

Single person$588/mo

Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.

Estimates for one adult, built from this city's average prices and the usage shown for each tier. Your spending will differ with how often you eat out and where you live.

A 1BR in the center runs about $460.34/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.

See low-fee transfers

We may earn a commission at no cost to you.

See how Szombathely's cost of living compares with Szeged

Be the first to report costs in Szombathely

Share

🛡️ Safety & Crime

82
Safety Index

(Higher is safer)

18
Crime Index

(Lower is safer)

Szombathely is a genuinely safe mid-sized Hungarian city with low violent crime and a relaxed, walkable atmosphere. Petty theft and pickpocketing occur occasionally in crowded areas, but serious crime affecting residents is rare. The main practical concerns are standard European precautions: avoid displaying valuables, be cautious with drinks in bars, and use registered taxis. As a regional hub in western Hungary near the Austrian border, it offers stability without the tourist-targeted scams of Budapest. For an American seeking a quiet, secure retirement or remote work base, this is a solid choice with minimal safety concerns.

🏥 Healthcare

Excellent
Public Hospitals
Yes
Private Clinics
Yes
English-Speaking Doctors
Available

See how Szombathely's healthcare compares with Szeged

🌤️ Climate

Climate Zones
Temperate
Summer Temp
21°C
Winter Temp
1°C
Humidity
72%
Air Quality Index
45
Annual Rainfall
884 mm

Best Months

AprMaySepOct

Climate Notes

Szombathely has a temperate continental climate with warm summers (June–August around 21°C) and cold winters (December–February around 1°C), featuring moderate rainfall year-round and distinct seasonal changes.

💻 Digital Nomad

Avg Internet Speed
80 Mbps
Internet (monthly)
$21/mo
Coworking Availability
Abundant
Coworking Spaces Nearby
0
Digital Nomad Score
70/100

Community Notes

Szombathely combines digital amenities with cultural venues attracting nomads.

Coworking Spaces

NameNotes
iCont Business CenterLocated in the heart of Szombathely, iCont offers a professional environment with modern amenities, including high-speed internet and meeting rooms. It's a good option for those seeking a central location and a more formal business setting.
Regus SzombathelyAs part of the Regus network, this location provides reliable services and a professional atmosphere. It's situated in a convenient area of Szombathely, offering easy access to transportation and local amenities, making it suitable for expats.

Names, locations and hours can change. Check each space's website before you visit. Places from © OpenStreetMap contributors and Foursquare Open Source Places (Apache 2.0).

Planning to live in Szombathely long-term? Hungary White Card (Digital Nomad Visa) lets remote workers live legally with a minimum income of $3,362/month.

View full requirements →

Working remotely from Szombathely? Nomad health insurance covers you across borders, month to month.

See nomad insurance

We may earn a commission at no cost to you.

See how Szombathely's digital nomad life compares with Szeged

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Very Few
Top Neighborhoods
Belváros
Banks Nearby
14
ATMs Nearby
17

Expat Life Notes

A historic city near the Austrian border. Expats are usually working in regional industry or commuting cross-border.

Pros

  • ✓ Proximity to Austria
  • ✓ Safe and quiet
  • ✓ Low cost of living

Cons

  • ✗ Language barrier
  • ✗ Quiet social life

🏘️ Neighborhoods in Szombathely

Areas of Szombathely that expats often consider.

Conditions can change from one block to the next, and these descriptions are general guides, not safety assessments. Before choosing where to stay or live, check current travel advisories, talk to people who live there, and visit in person if you can.

Belváros (City Center)

Historic, vibrant, central location

The heart of Szombathely, Belváros offers easy access to shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. It's walkable and well-connected by public transport. Expect higher prices and more tourist activity, especially during events.

Oladi

Quiet, residential, family-friendly

A peaceful residential area with parks and green spaces, Oladi is ideal for those seeking a quieter lifestyle. It's further from the city center, requiring reliance on buses or cars. Language barriers might be more pronounced here.

Kámon

Suburban, green, relaxed living

Located on the outskirts, Kámon offers a more suburban feel with houses and gardens. It's close to the Kámon Arboretum, a beautiful botanical garden. Transportation is essential, and English proficiency is less common.

Szőlőhegy

Vineyards, scenic, peaceful retreat

Known for its vineyards and rolling hills, Szőlőhegy provides a tranquil escape from the city. It's ideal for those seeking nature and a slower pace of life. A car is almost essential, and services are limited.

Page 1 of 2

Could living/working in Szombathely cut years off your work life?

With a 1-bedroom in the center at $460/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.

Calculate My FIRE Date →

🛂 Visa Options for Hungary

Hungary Sole Proprietor (Egyéni Vállalkozó) Residency· From $3,426/mo income requiredHungary Guest Investor VisaHungary Golden Visa· From $1,592/mo income requiredHungary White Card (Digital Nomad Visa)· From $3,362/mo income required

Many long-stay visas require proof of health insurance. Compare international health plans before you apply.

Compare health insurance

We may earn a commission at no cost to you.

🛂

Earning over $1,592/mo? You may qualify for a Hungary visa.

Answer 11 questions and get a personalized match in under 2 minutes.

Find My Visa →

More Cities to Consider instead of Szombathely

Szeged, Hungary↔ Compare with Szombathely
Eger, Hungary↔ Compare with Szombathely
Sibiu, Romania↔ Compare with Szombathely
Sunny Beach, Bulgaria↔ Compare with Szombathely
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Szombathely

Click any question to expand the answer.

Szombathely has a population of approximately 76,918 people.
A single person can expect to spend around $1,151 per month in Szombathely, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $460/month.
Szombathely is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 82.0. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.
Szombathely has an average internet speed of 80 Mbps. It is considered a well-established digital nomad destination.
Yes, but not easily. Public healthcare doctors rarely speak English; private clinics (Medicover, Sanitas) have English speakers but cost more. Register with a local GP early and use Google Translate or a Hungarian friend for appointments. Serious issues warrant a trip to Budapest or Vienna.
EU citizens: straightforward, 4–6 weeks. Non-EU: requires visa sponsorship (work, student, or family ties). Rental contracts and proof of income help. The local immigration office (Kormányhivatal) is slow but predictable. Budget time and patience, not money—fees are low.
You can find decent one-bedroom apartments in Szombathely for around 120,000-180,000 HUF per month, depending on the location and amenities. Expect to pay more in newer buildings or closer to the city center, like near Fő tér.
Internet connectivity in Szombathely is generally quite reliable, with speeds suitable for video conferencing and other remote work tasks. Most apartments and homes have access to broadband internet, and you can expect download speeds of 50-100 Mbps or higher.
Szombathely has a smaller expat community compared to Budapest or other major European cities. While you might not find a large, organized expat group, you'll likely connect with other foreigners through language exchanges or online forums.
Szombathely experiences a continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. Expect temperatures to range from -5°C to 5°C in winter and 20°C to 30°C in summer, with occasional heat waves. Spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant.
Szombathely is a relatively compact city, making it easy to get around by public transport or bicycle. The local bus network is efficient and affordable, and there are also plenty of bike lanes throughout the city.
As a US citizen, you're still required to file US taxes even while living in Szombathely. You may be able to exclude a significant portion of your income using the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) or claim the Foreign Tax Credit (FTC) to avoid double taxation; consult a tax professional specializing in expat taxes.
Groceries in Szombathely are generally cheaper than in the US. Expect to spend around 40,000-60,000 HUF per month on groceries for one person, depending on your dietary habits. Local markets like the one near the train station offer fresh produce at reasonable prices.
Szombathely has a variety of restaurants offering Hungarian and international cuisine. A meal at a mid-range restaurant will cost around 3,000-6,000 HUF per person. Try local favorites like Király Street Bistro or Palatinus Restaurant.
For budget-conscious expats, consider neighborhoods like Joskar-Ola or Herény, which offer more affordable housing options. These areas are still well-connected to the city center by public transport.
Szombathely has a public healthcare system, but expats may prefer private healthcare for shorter wait times and more personalized care. The Markusovszky University Teaching Hospital is a major medical facility in the city.
Opening a bank account in Szombathely typically requires your passport, proof of address (like a rental agreement), and a Hungarian tax identification number (if you have one). Major banks like OTP Bank and Erste Bank have branches in Szombathely.
Szombathely could be a viable option for early retirement on a $2,000 USD monthly budget, especially if you're comfortable with a simpler lifestyle. Careful budgeting and choosing affordable housing are key to making it work.
While Szombathely doesn't have a plethora of dedicated coworking spaces like larger cities, some cafes and libraries offer suitable environments for remote work. Check local listings for shared office options or consider creating a dedicated workspace at home.
You can use international money transfer services like Wise (formerly TransferWise) or Remitly to send money to and from Szombathely. These services often offer better exchange rates and lower fees compared to traditional bank transfers.

Share This Guide

Compare visa routesIncome, fees, and residency paths for Hungary.