Expat Topics
Cost of Living in Bucharest (2026)
Monthly budget breakdown for expats living in Bucharest, Romania
Last updated: March 2026
The cost of living in Bucharest, Romania for an expat in 2026 averages €510–€700 per month for 1-br apt (city centre). Key costs include 1-br apt (city centre) (€510–€700), 1-br apt (outside centre) (€370–€470), groceries (kaufland, lidl, carrefour) (€180–€260).
Bucharest is a popular destination for expats relocating to Romania. Bucharest is a city of enormous contradictions that somehow work. Calea Victoriei's ornate 19th-century palaces sit next to Soviet apartment blocks. Below is a detailed monthly budget breakdown based on real expat spending data.
Monthly Expenses Breakdown
| Expense | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 1-BR apt (city centre) | €510–€700 |
| 1-BR apt (outside centre) | €370–€470 |
| Groceries (Kaufland, Lidl, Carrefour) | €180–€260 |
| Dining out (3–4x/week) | €80–€150 |
| Utilities (electricity, heating, water) | ~€130 |
| Fibre internet (100–500 Mbps) | €10–€20 |
| Mobile SIM | €5–€15 |
| Public transport (metro + bus pass) | ~€15 |
| Health insurance (private) | €25–€80 |
| Gym membership | €20–€40 |
| Total (comfortable) | €1,000–€1,400 |
Bucharest Quick Facts
English Level
Good
Best For
Tech professionals, entrepreneurs, remote workers, EU-base seekers
Monthly Budget
€1,000–€1,400
1-BR Centre Rent
€510–€700/mo
1-BR Outside Centre
€370–€470/mo
Internet Speed
100–500 Mbps fibre (€10–20/mo)
EU Status
Full EU + Schengen member (Schengen since Jan 2025)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Bucharest per month?
Monthly costs in Bucharest depend on your lifestyle. Key expenses include 1-br apt (city centre) (€510–€700), 1-br apt (outside centre) (€370–€470), groceries (kaufland, lidl, carrefour) (€180–€260). See the full breakdown above for a complete picture.
Is Bucharest affordable for expats?
Bucharest is a popular expat destination with costs that vary by neighborhood and lifestyle. Many expats find they can live comfortably on a mid-range budget.
What is the average rent in Bucharest?
Rental prices vary by neighborhood and apartment type. Check the table above for current rates.