Latest news in Hungary - 31 Dec 2024

** Rental challenges in Budapest ** NYE transport schedules ** Budapest public lighting ownership ** Free dogs and bikes on public transport ** New Vocational Training government deputy **

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December 31, 2024

- Rising Rental Challenges in Budapest: Renters in Budapest are facing difficulties as average apartment prices climb to about 249,000 forints, while many are seeking options closer to 215,000 forints. This 16% disparity is notable amid a 4.2% increase in rental prices overall this year, causing renters to spend an average of 57% of their net salary on housing. Read more here

- New Year’s Eve Transportation Changes: For New Year’s Eve, Budapest's public transport (BKK) will adjust schedules to cater to the celebrations, with metro lines and select trams and buses running continuously from December 31 into January 1. Expect more frequent service on tram lines 17 and 47, among other modifications. Details for the operational changes post-New Year’s can be found in the article. Read more here

- Does Budapest Own Its Public Lighting Now?: Budapest has acquired complete ownership of its public lighting for 4.24 billion forints, previously held partially by E.ON. This purchase aims to improve the city’s assets and lead to energy-efficient updates in the lighting infrastructure. The city manages nearly 190,000 fixtures across the urban area. Read more here

- Free Transport for Dogs and Bicycles in Budapest Starting January 2025: From January 1, 2025, holders of valid Budapest passes can transport one dog or bicycle for free on MÁV Group trains, HÉV lines, and select VOLÁN services within Budapest. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, with a vaccination certificate required. Read more here

- Insights on Housing Crisis and Economic Policy: A recent podcast episode highlights how economic policy discussions in Hungary, led by Márton Nagy, acknowledge the persistent housing crisis, despite little action taken. Analyzing the impact of Middle Eastern geopolitics on oil and gas prices will also be discussed, relevant to the economic outlook for expats. Read more here

- New Deputy State Secretary for Vocational Training: Gergely Pálmai has been appointed as the Deputy State Secretary responsible for vocational training at Hungary’s Ministry of Culture and Innovation, effective January 1. His prior experiences could lead to improvements in vocational education, which is of interest to expats involved in education sectors. Read more here

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