Romania is increasingly becoming a popular destination for both tourists and expatriates. With its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and burgeoning job market, it’s no surprise that people from all over the world are considering making Romania their home. One of the most common questions potential expats and students have is: what is the cost of living in Romania? In this article, we’ll break down the cost of living in Romania, focusing on various factors such as housing, food, transportation, and more.
What is the Cost of Living in Romania?
The cost of living in Romania varies depending on the city, lifestyle, and personal habits. In general, Romania offers a relatively low cost of living compared to Western European countries, making it an attractive option for expatriates, students, and digital nomads. Major cities like Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca tend to be more expensive than smaller towns or rural areas, but even in these cities, the cost of living remains affordable compared to other European capitals.
Housing, transportation, and food are typically the largest expenses, but they are all considerably cheaper than in countries like France, Germany, or the UK. For example, rent in the city center of Bucharest is much lower than in major Western cities, and transportation costs for both public transit and private vehicles are also quite economical. Utilities and internet services are affordable, and many people can live comfortably on a modest budget.
Additionally, Romania’s healthcare, entertainment, and education systems are accessible without straining your finances. Let’s take a closer look at different aspects of daily life in Romania, from housing and utilities to dining and entertainment, to see how each contributes to the overall living cost in the country. Whether you’re planning to live long-term or just for a few years, Romania’s affordable cost of living makes it a compelling choice for anyone seeking to enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank.
Cost of Living in Romania in US Dollars
For those planning to move to Romania from the United States, it’s helpful to know how much the cost of living in Romania in US dollars compares to your home country:
|
Expense Category |
Monthly Cost (in USD) |
Monthly Cost (in EUR) |
|
Rent (1-bedroom in city center) |
$350 – $500 |
€300 – €450 |
|
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet) |
$50 – $100 |
€40 – €90 |
|
Groceries |
$150 – $250 |
€130 – €220 |
|
Dining Out (Cheap meal) |
$10 – $20 |
€8 – €18 |
|
Public Transport (Monthly) |
$15 – $30 |
€12 – €25 |
As shown, the cost of living in Romania in US dollars is significantly lower than in many Western countries, especially in terms of housing and food.
Cost of Living in Romania for Single Person
For single persons, Romania is an affordable destination to live. Whether you’re living in the capital, Bucharest, or a smaller city like Cluj-Napoca or Timișoara, the cost of living in Romania for single person will depend on personal preferences.
Average Rent for Single Person in Romania, has been mentioned below:
| City | Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment (Monthly) |
| Bucharest | $400 – $600 |
| Cluj-Napoca | $350 – $500 |
| Timișoara | $300 – $450 |
| Brașov | $250 – $400 |
Apart from rent, the monthly cost of living in Romania for a single person will include utilities, food, transportation, and leisure. Let’s break down these expenses.
Average Cost of Living in Romania
On average, a single person can expect to spend between $700 and $1,200 per month in Romania, depending on the city and lifestyle. The cost of living can vary widely from city to city, with Bucharest, the capital, being the most expensive. However, even in Bucharest, living costs are still much lower than in major Western cities. Breakdown of Monthly Costs (Single Person) is as followed:
- Rent (1-Bedroom): $300 – $600
- Groceries: $150 – $250
- Utilities: $50 – $100
- Dining Out: $100 – $150
- Transportation: $30 – $50
- Entertainment: $50 – $100
Cost of Living in Romania per Month
The cost of living in Romania per month can vary depending on lifestyle choices. If you are a student or a budget traveler, you can keep costs down by opting for public transportation, cooking at home, and living in shared accommodation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more luxurious lifestyle with private transportation, fine dining, and entertainment, your monthly expenses will be higher:
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost |
| Rent | $350 – $600 |
| Utilities | $50 – $100 |
| Groceries | $150 – $250 |
| Dining Out | $100 – $200 |
| Transportation | $30 – $50 |
| Entertainment | $50 – $100 |
In general, living in Romania is quite affordable when compared to Western countries.
Cost of Living in Romania in Euros
For those coming from the Eurozone, understanding the cost of living in Romania in euros is essential for proper budgeting. Romania uses the Romanian Leu (RON), but it’s common to convert and compare costs in euros. As previously mentioned, a single person can expect to spend approximately €600 – €1,000 per month.
Monthly Cost of Living in Romania for International Students
International students looking to study in Romania will be pleased to know that Romania is one of the most affordable countries in Europe. The living cost in Romania for international students is significantly lower compared to countries like Germany, France, or the UK, making it an attractive destination for those seeking quality education at an affordable price.
In addition to the lower tuition fees, Romania offers a cost-effective lifestyle with relatively inexpensive housing, food, transportation, and entertainment. This affordability, combined with Romania’s rich history, vibrant culture, and welcoming atmosphere, makes it an ideal place for students from around the world. Breakdown of Living Costs for International Students is illustrated in the table below:
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost |
| Rent (Shared) | $150 – $300 |
| Utilities | $30 – $60 |
| Groceries | $100 – $200 |
| Public Transport | $10 – $25 |
| Study Materials | $10 – $20 |
As an international student, your main expenses will be rent, food, transportation, and educational materials. Romania offers various scholarships and affordable student housing options, which makes it an attractive destination for those pursuing higher education.
How Much is the Cost of Living in Romania?
So, how much is the cost of living in Romania overall? The answer depends on the city, type of accommodation, and lifestyle. However, compared to other countries in EU, Romania remains one of the most budget-friendly options. in comparison with Other European Countries, the cost of living in Romania will be far less:
| Country | Average Monthly Rent (1-Bedroom) | Cost of Living (per person) |
| Romania | $300 – $600 | $700 – $1,200 |
| Germany | $800 – $1,200 | $1,200 – $2,000 |
| France | $900 – $1,400 | $1,300 – $2,200 |
| Spain | $600 – $1,000 | $1,000 – $1,500 |
As shown in the table, Romania offers a significantly lower cost of living compared to countries like Germany, France, and Spain, especially for those living on a tight budget.
Food Prices in Romania
One of the most important aspects of the cost of living in Romania is food prices. The average Romanian grocery bill is relatively low, especially if you stick to local markets and traditional foods. Fresh produce, meats, and dairy products are all widely available at affordable prices, allowing you to eat healthily without spending a fortune. For those on a tight budget, shopping at local farmers’ markets or discount grocery stores can help keep costs even lower.
Grocery Prices in Romania
| Food Item | Price (in RON) | Price (in USD) |
| 1 liter of milk | 4.5 RON | $1.0 |
| 1 loaf of bread | 2.0 RON | $0.45 |
| 1 kg of rice | 5.0 RON | $1.1 |
| 1 kg of chicken breast | 20.0 RON | $4.4 |
| 1 kg of apples | 4.5 RON | $1.0 |
| 1 kg of potatoes | 3.0 RON | $0.65 |
Dining Out in Romania
Romania has a vibrant dining culture, and dining out is relatively affordable, making it a popular option for both locals and visitors. From casual cafés to traditional Romanian restaurants and international dining options, there is a wide range of choices to suit all tastes and budgets.
A typical meal at a local restaurant or a bistro can cost as little as $5 to $10, with larger meals at mid-range restaurants for two people typically falling between $20 and $30. In the table below, we have discussed about the cost of living in Romania while dining out:
| Meal Type | Price (in RON) | Price (in USD) |
| Cheap meal (local restaurant) | 25 RON | $5.5 |
| Mid-range meal (for two) | 90 RON | $20 |
| Coffee | 7 RON | $1.5 |
Whether you prefer cooking at home or dining out, food prices in Romania are very budget-friendly compared to many other European countries.
How much is cost of living in Romania?
The cost of living in Romania is one of the most attractive aspects of living in the country. Whether you’re moving to Romania for work, studies, or leisure, you’ll find that your money goes much further here than in many other European destinations. From affordable housing and food to cheap public transport and entertainment, Romania offers a great balance of quality of life and budget-friendliness. For students and expats alike, Romania is a fantastic option for those seeking a European experience without the hefty price tag. By understanding the average cost of living in Romania, you can better plan your move and make the most of your time in this beautiful and affordable country.
