Many expats arrive in Bucharest with a mix of curiosity and hesitation. The city doesn’t always appear on lists of “most desirable destinations,” but those who settle here quickly discover that reality is more nuanced: striking contrasts, affordable living costs, but also challenges such as traffic and bureaucracy.

The city’s unique charm

Matteo Talotta, who lived six months in Bucharest, describes it as full of architectural contrasts and unlike any other European capital:

“Bucharest has this beautiful yet brutal[ist] charm to it.”

He also recalls being surprised by how green the city is, especially in Sector 3 near IOR Park:

“I lived in Sector 3 by Parcul IOR (one of the nicest parks I’ve ever seen, ever).”

Cost of living and housing

For many foreigners, the lower prices compared to other European capitals are a clear advantage. Jennifer Stevens, an American teacher based in Bucharest, says:

“For the most part, Romania is a very inexpensive place to live—especially if you’re coming from the States … expats can expect to pay less than $1,000 USD for a 2-bedroom apartment.”

Still, not everyone confirms the same stability in costs. Jessica, an American expat, points out how quickly the housing market is changing:

“The cost of living in Bucharest is much lower than in America. However, housing costs are increasing really quickly.”

Everyday challenges

Bucharest is not only cozy cafés and big parks. Expats often highlight the downsides too: traffic and bureaucracy are among the most common complaints.

Jessica puts it simply:

“Traffic is really bad during rush hour in Bucharest. I’m so thankful to live near a metro line.”

Between pleasant surprises and harsh realities

Beyond the challenges, many expats talk about the warmth of Romanians and how the city forces you to discover it step by step. The stark differences between neighborhoods, the mix of architectural styles, and the relatively affordable lifestyle make Bucharest unpredictable, yet alive.

Bucharest is not an “easy” city. The traffic, the bureaucracy, and the fast-changing housing market are real issues. But expats who choose to stay here discover an authentic place, with a charm that can’t be captured in tourist clichés. It’s a city that doesn’t reveal itself at first glance but rather over time, through daily life.

Also recommended The cost of living in Bucharest, explained by expats – What’s cheap, what’s expensive, and what’s priceless