Bucharest isn’t London or Paris. For many expats, that’s exactly the appeal: a vibrant city with a reasonable cost of living, but one that also demands some adjustment. What does “cheap” or “expensive” really mean for those moving here? We talked to expats settled in the capital to get their take on the economic reality of the city.

Housing – affordable rents, but watch the details

Rents are still below the European average. A studio or one-bedroom apartment in central or semi-central areas costs between 350 and 500 euros per month. Further out, prices can drop below 300 euros. Two-bedroom apartments range from 500 to 700 euros, depending on amenities and location.

However, many expats warn of surprises: some leases come with hidden costs—old utility rates, unclear responsibilities for maintenance fees, or even lack of written contracts. Winter bills can spike considerably due to heating.

Food and groceries – markets make the difference

For those cooking at home, monthly food expenses range from 150 to 300 euros per person. Discount supermarkets and local markets offer fresh products at good prices. Seasonal vegetables, chicken, eggs, and local fruits are affordable. Imported goods, lactose-free dairy, or vegan alternatives can quickly double your grocery bill.

Expats who have learned to shop at places like Obor Market, Domenii Market, or neighborhood stores say this is one of the best ways to save money.

Eating out – affordable if you know where to go

A simple lunch in the city costs around 8–10 euros. Dinner for two at a decent restaurant is about 50–60 euros. Cafes and bars have friendly prices: a coffee costs roughly 2–3 euros, a beer 2.5–4 euros, and cocktails can go up to 6–8 euros in trendier spots.

Many expats say the habit of dining out daily, common in other capitals, doesn’t quite work here. Daily lunch specials remain a practical choice, but cooking at home is still the most efficient option for most meals.

Transport – cheap but not always reliable

Public transport is very affordable: a single ride costs about 0.60 euros, and monthly passes start at around 17–20 euros. The metro is reliable during set hours, but buses and trams depend heavily on luck and timing.

For many expats, ride-sharing apps have become essential. A typical ride costs between 3 and 7 euros, with Bolt and Uber offering more predictable fares than traditional taxis. However, traffic can easily double estimated travel times during rush hours.

Utilities and internet – great deals if you choose wisely

Home internet is fast and cheap: between 6 and 11 euros monthly for a decent package. Mobile phone plans are almost symbolic: 5–8 euros per month for unlimited calls and data. On the other hand, utility bills (electricity, gas, water) can rise to 130–170 euros during the cold season, especially in older apartments with poor insulation.

Healthcare and education – comfort comes at a price

Access to private clinics is one of the biggest perks cited by expats: consultations cost about 30–50 euros, with a generally high standard of care. Many choose monthly subscriptions to private networks, especially families with children.

Private kindergartens cost between 300 and 500 euros monthly, depending on language and facilities. International schools easily exceed 700 euros. Public alternatives are very cheap but often hard to access and inconsistent in quality.

What expats say is worth every euro

• Fully furnished apartments, ready to move in
• Local markets for fruits and vegetables
• Romanian cuisine restaurants outside the old town
• Public transport and ride-sharing apps
• Private healthcare subscriptions

Conclusion: a good life, if you play it smart

Bucharest is still a city where you can live well on a moderate budget. But the key is not just “cheap,” it’s “smart”: choosing your neighborhood carefully, reading contracts thoroughly, shopping strategically, and adapting to local rhythms make all the difference.

For a single person, a budget of 1,200–1,500 euros per month (including rent) ensures a comfortable life. For couples or small families, the figure rises to 2,500–3,500 euros depending on lifestyle. It’s not as cheap as it was twenty years ago, but for what it offers, many say it’s a fair trade-off.

Also recommended Costs of living in Bucharest: a guide for expats