Romania remains a popular destination for expats, students, remote workers, and digital nomads due to its low living costs, secure environment, and ongoing infrastructure development. As of 2025, the cost of living in Romania for single person remains well below the European Union average, making it a financially appealing destination. This guide breaks down the typical monthly costs—covering rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, and other essentials—using up-to-date information from cities such as Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Timișoara.
How much is the Cost of Living in Romania for Single Person?
In 2025, Romania continues to offer one of the most budget-friendly living costs for single individuals within the European Union. From Student housing in Romania and utilities to groceries and transportation, this country offers a budget-friendly lifestyle without compromising on quality. For a single person, monthly expenses can vary depending on the city and lifestyle choices, but overall, Romania provides a favorable environment for those looking to live independently on a moderate income.
Whether residing in larger cities like Bucharest or Cluj-Napoca or smaller towns, the cost of living in Romania for single person continues to stay well below Western European standards, making it an attractive destination for expats, students, and remote workers alike.
When calculating the cost of living in Romania for single person, it’s important to consider all typical monthly expenses such as rent, food, transportation, healthcare, and entertainment. Romania’s efficient public transportation system and affordable grocery prices contribute to keeping living costs manageable for singles.
While major urban centers may have higher rent prices, smaller cities and suburban areas offer more budget-friendly housing options, directly impacting the overall cost of living in Romania for single person. Additionally, the availability of fast internet and quality healthcare services ensures that single residents can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without excessive spending.
Housing Costs
Rent is one of the most significant components in the overall cost of living in Romania for single person. Prices can vary greatly depending on the city, building type, and proximity to central areas. In major urban centers like Bucharest, centrally located apartments are the most expensive, with prices reaching premium levels.
In contrast, smaller cities such as Iași, Oradea, or Sibiu offer considerably lower rental costs, making them more attractive for single individuals on a budget. Opting for a studio apartment in the outskirts is a practical way to reduce the cost of living in Romania for single person, even if it means a longer daily commute.
Additionally, furnished apartments and recently renovated units generally command higher rental rates. Budget-conscious individuals often consider sharing an apartment or selecting properties in suburban neighborhoods, which can lower rental costs by 20–40% and significantly impact the total cost of living in Romania for single person:
- Bucharest (central): 2,500–3,500 RON/month for a one-bedroom apartment
- Bucharest (outer districts): 1,800–2,500 RON/month
- Cluj-Napoca, Timișoara, Iași: 1,600–2,500 RON/month
Tenants should also budget for a refundable deposit (usually 1–2 months’ rent) and utilities which may or may not be included.
Utilities and Internet
Utilities in Romania are relatively affordable and play an important role in the overall cost of living in Romania for single person. Typical monthly costs for a single person usually cover electricity, water, heating, garbage collection, internet, and mobile phone bills. These utility costs can fluctuate depending on the apartment size, insulation quality, and seasonal demands—especially during winter when heating can drive costs higher.
In cities with centralized district heating, costs are more predictable, whereas older buildings with individual gas or electric systems often result in higher monthly bills. High-speed internet services, often bundled with TV packages, are both affordable and reliable, reinforcing Romania’s reputation for excellent digital infrastructure.
The cost of living in Romania for single person also benefits from competitively priced mobile plans with generous data allowances, helping individuals stay connected without putting strain on their monthly budget. All of these utility-related factors contribute significantly to shaping the total cost of living in Romania for single person:
- Electricity, water, heating, garbage: 300–600 RON/month depending on season and insulation quality
- Internet (fiber-optic, fast and reliable): 40–80 RON/month
- Mobile phone plan with data: 25–50 RON/month
Heating costs increase significantly during winter, especially in older buildings without central heating.
Food and Groceries
In Romania, grocery expenses for a single individual generally range from 800 to 1,200 RON monthly, influenced by personal shopping preferences and dietary choices. Prices in local markets are lower than in Western Europe:
- Bread (500g): 4–6 RON
- Milk (1 liter): 6–8 RON
- Chicken breast (1kg): 25–30 RON
- Eggs (10): 10–13 RON
- Fruit and vegetables: 4–10 RON/kg for most seasonal produce
Dining out remains affordable:
- Meal at a budget restaurant: 25–40 RON
- Mid-range restaurant for one: 60–100 RON
Transportation
Reliable public transportation networks are available in Romania’s key cities, including Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timișoara, and Iași. The network consists of buses, trams, trolleybuses, and in the case of Bucharest, an extensive metro system. These options are well-integrated and provide frequent service at an affordable price.
Public transport is typically punctual and safe, with smart card and mobile app payment options available in most urban areas. For intercity travel, Romania also has a well-developed train network and several low-cost domestic flight routes, making movement across the country both easy and economical:
- Monthly public transport pass: 70–100 RON
- One-way metro/bus ticket: 2.50–3.00 RON
- Taxi start fare: 3.50 RON/km on average
Healthcare
Romania’s healthcare system consists of both public and private sectors, significantly influencing the overall cost of living in Romania for single person. While public health services are accessible for those who contribute to the national health insurance system, many single residents choose private providers to avoid long wait times and receive faster care.
This preference for private healthcare options can increase the monthly expenses, thus influencing the cost of living in Romania for single person.
- Public health insurance: Included in income tax
- Private health insurance: 100–250 RON/month
- Consultation at private clinic: 150–300 RON
Dental care and specialist services are also affordable compared to EU standards.
Entertainment and Lifestyle
The cost of entertainment and lifestyle activities is moderate: Romania offers a wide variety of affordable leisure options for individuals living alone. From gym memberships and fitness clubs to cultural experiences such as theatre performances, concerts, and art exhibitions, the country provides excellent value.
Local cafés, pubs, and restaurants regularly host live music and themed events, especially in larger cities. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Romania’s national parks, hiking trails, and picturesque landscapes are mostly free to access.
Additionally, hobbies such as photography, dancing, and language courses can be pursued without a significant financial burden, thanks to the availability of community centers and subsidized programs in many cities.
- Gym membership: 150–200 RON/month
- Cinema ticket: 25–35 RON
- Monthly streaming subscriptions (Netflix, Spotify): 40–60 RON
Romania is rich in natural attractions, historical landmarks, and cultural festivals, many of which are either free or low-cost.
Monthly Budget Overview
Understanding your potential monthly expenses is crucial when planning a move or long-term stay in Romania. A single person’s budget can vary based on location, lifestyle, and personal preferences, but overall, Romania remains an accessible country for affordable living.
The following breakdown provides a realistic range of monthly costs based on up-to-date 2025 data collected from Best cities in Romania and verified sources. This overview helps outline the financial commitment needed for housing, utilities, food, transport, and leisure, ensuring better financial planning and peace of mind:
|
Expense Category |
Estimated Monthly Cost (RON) |
|
Rent |
1,800 – 3,500 |
|
Utilities |
300 – 600 |
|
Internet + Mobile |
65 – 130 |
|
Groceries |
800 – 1,200 |
|
Transportation |
70 – 100 |
|
Healthcare |
100 – 250 |
|
Entertainment |
300 – 500 |
|
Total Estimate |
3,435 – 6,280 RON |
Average Salary Context
As of 2025, Romania’s average net salary ranges between 3,000 and 6,000 RON depending on the city and profession. In 2025, Romania’s statutory minimum gross monthly income is set at 4,050 RON. This means that a modest, single-person lifestyle is achievable even on the lower end of the income scale, especially outside of Bucharest.
Student life in Bucharest is vibrant and affordable, offering a great balance between academics and social activities. With numerous universities, lively cafés, and cultural events, the city attracts international students from around the world. Thanks to the low cost of living in Romania for single person, students can comfortably manage their expenses while enjoying all that Bucharest has to offer.
If you’re considering moving to Romania and want personalized advice tailored to your lifestyle and budget, our team at Stinwo is here to help. Whether you’re a student, remote worker, or expat, we offer free consultation sessions to guide you through every step—from budgeting and choosing the right city to understanding visa options and settling in. Book your free consultation today and let us help you make a confident and well-informed move to Romania.
Final Thoughts on Living Costs in Romania
The cost of living in Romania for single person in 2025 remains affordable, especially when compared to other EU countries. Whether you’re relocating for work, study, or simply to enjoy a lower cost lifestyle in a culturally rich environment, Romania offers great value. With efficient public services, low food costs, and improving digital infrastructure, it continues to be a smart choice for independent living in Europe.
