Is Nice more expensive than Budapest.

Yes and no. Yes, in terms of hotel it is more expensive $680 for three nights in Nice France. And only $500 for nights in Budapest although it was less nice.

As per tipping in Friends is not expected we're actually eating pretty well for two people for $50-$100 for dinner total

Lunch is even cheaper. I'm having this beef carpaccio right now for €19 that include free bread and salad.