235 cities covered · Currency: RON (lei) · Capital: Bucharest
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | lei27.79 ($6.04) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | lei111 ($24.17) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | lei8.34 ($1.81) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | lei630 ($137) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | lei102 ($22.15) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | lei269 ($58.41) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | lei77.82 ($16.92) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | lei77.82 ($16.92) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | lei20.38 ($4.43) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | lei1,252 ($272) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | lei871 ($189) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | lei2,612 ($568) | per month |
Bucureşti · pop. 2,412,530
Cluj · pop. 286,598
Iaşi · pop. 271,692
Constanţa · pop. 263,707
Timiş · pop. 250,849
Braşov · pop. 237,589
Dolj · pop. 234,140
Galaţi · pop. 217,851
Bihor · pop. 183,105
Prahova · pop. 180,539
Brăila · pop. 154,686
Arad · pop. 145,078
Argeş · pop. 141,275
Bacău · pop. 136,087
Sibiu · pop. 134,308
Suceava · pop. 119,694
Mureş · pop. 116,033
Maramureş · pop. 108,759
Buzău · pop. 103,481
Vâlcea · pop. 93,151
Satu Mare · pop. 91,520
Botoşani · pop. 90,010
Mehedinţi · pop. 79,865
Neamţ · pop. 79,679
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Romania
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Romania
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Romania
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Romania
Living costs in Romania 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 lei2,724 ($592) 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.