Bucharest, the vibrant capital of Romania, has steadily gained popularity among digital nomads, expats, and travelers seeking a European city with rich culture, lively nightlife, and affordable living. Compared to other major European capitals, the cost of living in Bucharest remains quite reasonable, making it an attractive choice for those who want to experience city life without breaking the bank.But how much does it really cost to live in Bucharest? Let’s break it down into key expenses like housing, food, transportation, entertainment, and more.

1. Accommodation Costs in Bucharest

The biggest portion of your budget will usually go toward housing. Fortunately, Bucharest offers plenty of affordable options, depending on where you want to live and the type of accommodation you choose.

• 1-bedroom apartment (city center): €400 - €600/month

• 1-bedroom apartment (outside city center): €250 - €450/month

• 3-bedroom apartment (city center): €700 - €1,200/month

• Shared accommodation/rooms: €150 - €300/month

Districts like Sector 1 (Primăverii, Dorobanți) are upscale and more expensive, while areas like Titan, Drumul Taberei, or Berceni are more affordable but still well-connected.

2. Utilities and Internet

Basic utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, generally cost between €70 and €120 per month, depending on apartment size and season. Internet is fast and reliable, averaging around €8 to €12 per month for a good package.

3. Food and Grocery Prices

Romanian food markets and supermarkets offer a wide range of fresh and affordable products. If you shop at local markets and cook at home, you can keep costs low.

• Milk (1 liter): €1

• Bread (500g): €0.70

• Eggs (12): €2.50

• Chicken breast (1kg): €5

• Local cheese (1kg): €7 - €10

• Fruits & vegetables (seasonal): €1 - €2 per kg

For dining out, a meal at an inexpensive local restaurant might cost €7 to €10, while a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant would be around €20 to €30 for two people. Bucharest is home to many affordable cafés, international restaurants, and cozy bars.

4. Transportation Costs

Public transportation in Bucharest is cheap and efficient. The metro system is modern, clean, and widely used by locals.

• Monthly public transport pass: €12

• Single metro ticket: €0.60

• Taxi (per km): €0.50 - €0.70

• Ride-sharing (Uber/Bolt): Widely available, often cheaper than taxis for longer rides.

Bucharest is also quite walkable, especially in the central areas, reducing transportation costs even further.

5. Entertainment and Leisure

Life in Bucharest is lively, with countless entertainment options:

• Cinema ticket: €5 - €7

• Fitness club membership: €25 - €50/month

• Nightclubs/Bars: Entry is often free or around €5; drinks €3 - €6

• Museums and attractions: Most charge between €3 - €8 for entrance.

Cultural events, art exhibitions, concerts, and live shows are frequent, giving you plenty of affordable ways to enjoy the city’s creative vibe.

6. Healthcare Costs

For residents or expats with health insurance, public healthcare is free or low-cost. Private healthcare is more expensive but still affordable compared to Western Europe:

• General consultation (private): €30 - €60

• Dental cleaning (private): €25 - €40

Private clinics offer excellent service with shorter waiting times.

7. Average Monthly Cost for Expats

Here’s an approximate monthly budget for a single person living modestly but comfortably in Bucharest:

Expense	Estimated Cost (€)
Rent	300 - 500
Utilities	80 - 100
Groceries	150 - 250
Transportation	12 - 20
Entertainment	100 - 200
Total	€650 - €1,000

 

Of course, this can vary based on lifestyle choices, area, and spending habits. For couples or families, budgeting between €1,200 and €2,000/month is realistic for a comfortable lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

The cost of living in Bucharest offers a great balance between affordability and quality of life. Whether you’re a remote worker, a student, or just someone looking for a new cultural experience, Bucharest delivers with charm, history, modern infrastructure, and a surprisingly budget-friendly lifestyle.

For many, the city provides an ideal starting point to explore Eastern Europe while enjoying all the benefits of a growing, modern capital.