59 cities covered · Currency: MDL (L) · Capital: Chisinau
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | L73.17 ($4.13) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | L293 ($16.54) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | L21.95 ($1.24) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | L1,659 ($93.70) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | L268 ($15.16) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | L707 ($39.96) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | L205 ($11.58) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | L205 ($11.58) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | L53.66 ($3.03) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | L2,846 ($161) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | L1,980 ($112) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | L5,940 ($336) | per month |
Chişinău · pop. 567,038
Stînga Nistrului · pop. 133,807
Bălţi · pop. 90,954
Bender · pop. 76,158
Stînga Nistrului · pop. 47,900
Ungheni · pop. 30,804
Cahul · pop. 30,018
Stînga Nistrului · pop. 28,500
Chişinău · pop. 26,308
Orhei · pop. 22,183
Soroca · pop. 21,135
Găgăuzia · pop. 19,947
Chişinău · pop. 18,310
Găgăuzia · pop. 16,035
Ialoveni · pop. 14,665
Stînga Nistrului · pop. 14,618
Străşeni · pop. 14,497
Căuşeni · pop. 13,458
Drochia · pop. 12,939
Edineţ · pop. 12,369
Chişinău · pop. 12,368
Taraclia · pop. 12,355
Făleşti · pop. 11,946
Hînceşti · pop. 11,391
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Moldova
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Moldova
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Moldova
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Moldova
Living costs in Moldova vary significantly depending on city size. Large metropolitan areas with populations over one million typically see housing costs 15–30% above the national average, while smaller towns can be 10–20% below it. The national baseline of L6,858 ($387) per month represents a mid-sized city estimate.
Capital cities and major economic hubs command the highest rents and overall expenses. For budget-conscious residents, mid-sized cities offer a balance of amenities and affordability. Rural and small-town living remains the most economical option, though transport and service access may be limited.