UnpinnedGlobal City Directory

Bucharest

Romania

Cost of Living in Bucharest

Comprehensive breakdown of living costs, rent prices, and quality of life metrics

Cost of Living Analysis

Bucharest, the capital of Romania, offers an affordable cost of living, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads. Compared to other European capitals, Bucharest provides a comfortable lifestyle without the high expenses typically associated with major cities.

Housing in Bucharest is reasonably priced. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically costs between €400 and €700 per month, while similar accommodations in peripheral areas can be found for under €300 monthly. (bucharest.ro) For shorter stays, co-living spaces and Airbnb rentals are available, offering flexibility and convenience. Utility costs, including electricity, water, and internet, generally range from €50 to €100 per month, depending on usage and apartment size.

Food expenses in Bucharest are also budget-friendly. Dining out at local restaurants is affordable, with meals at mid-range establishments costing about €10 to €15. (bucharest.ro) Grocery shopping is economical, allowing residents to enjoy a variety of fresh produce and local specialties without significant expenditure. Transportation is cost-effective, with a monthly public transport pass priced around €15, providing access to buses, trams, and the metro system. (bucharest.ro) Additionally, ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are widely available and reasonably priced.

Bucharest boasts a vibrant cultural scene, numerous parks, and a lively nightlife, contributing to a high quality of life. The city is generally safe, with a welcoming atmosphere for expatriates and digital nomads. However, some areas may experience traffic congestion and pollution, common in many large urban centers.

For digital nomads, Bucharest offers several coworking spaces equipped with high-speed internet and modern amenities, fostering productivity and networking opportunities. The city's affordability allows for a comfortable lifestyle, enabling individuals to allocate resources towards leisure activities and travel. To maximize the experience, it's advisable to budget between €1,000 and €1,500 per month, covering accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal expenses. (bucharest.ro) Embracing local customs and exploring the diverse cultural offerings can further enrich the stay in this dynamic city.

Overall Ranking

Global Rank
#245
Cost of Living Index
43.7
Quality of Life
132.7

Cost Breakdown

Rent Index
16.1
Groceries Index
40.5
Restaurant Index
49.2
Local Purchasing Power
85.5

Housing & Property

Cost of Living + Rent Index
31.7
Property Price to Income Ratio
10.4

Safety & Healthcare

Safety Index
71.6
Crime Index
28.4
Healthcare Index
55.2

Environment & Transportation

Pollution Index
75.3
Climate Index
75.6
Traffic Index
166.4
Data last updated: 2025-07-07T00:00:00.000Z

Understanding the Indices:

  • Cost indices: Lower values indicate lower costs (better for budget)
  • Quality indices: Higher values indicate better quality/safety
  • Rank: Lower numbers indicate better overall affordability