The cost of living in Bucharest can vary depending on your lifestyle and personal preferences. Generally, Bucharest is considered more affordable than many other European capitals, but prices can be higher compared to other cities in Romania.
Housing | The cost of renting an apartment in Bucharest can vary greatly depending on the location, size, and condition of the property. In general, you can find apartments in the city center, which tend to be more expensive, and more affordable options in the suburbs.
On average, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center may cost between EUR 500 to EUR 800 per month, while the same apartment in the suburbs might be slightly cheaper. For example, in the Western part of the city, you can still rent a one-bedroom apartment for less than EUR 400.
Food | The cost of groceries is relatively affordable. You can expect to pay around EUR 200 to EUR 300 per month for groceries if you cook at home. Dining out in restaurants can vary in price, with budget options available for as low as EUR 8-10 for a meal.
Transportation | A monthly public transportation pass on the bus and tram network (STB) or the metro system costs 80 lei (EUR 16). A trip by STB means of transport costs 3 lei (EUR 0,60) for 90 minutes, the same price as one trip with the metro.
Utilities | The cost of utilities (including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage) for a standard apartment can range from EUR 70 to EUR 150 per month, depending on usage and the size of the dwelling.
Healthcare | Romania has a public healthcare system, and residents are entitled to free or low-cost medical services. However, the public system is poorly managed and poorly equipped. Private healthcare options are more reliable, despite being more expensive.
Entertainment and leisure | The cost of entertainment and leisure activities, such as going to the movies, theater, or attending cultural events, can vary but is generally affordable compared to Western European cities.
For example, the price of a standard movie ticket in Bucharest typically ranges from 20 to 30 lei, a standard theater ticket price can range from 20 to 100 lei, while a football game ticket price at Steaua Stadium ranges from 15 to 50 lei.
Numbeo estimates that Bucharest is 57.6% less expensive than New York, almost 50% less expensive than London, and around 30% cheaper than Prague, all estimates being made without the rent cost.
