If you’re considering moving to Romania, it’s important to have a good understanding of the cost of living in the country. In this article, we’ll cover the local currency, compare the cost of living in Romania to the UK and the USA, break down costs for singles, couples, and families of 4 in different categories, and explain the most common forms of payment in Romania.
Local Currency in Romania
The local currency in Romania is the Romanian leu (RON). One Romanian leu is divided into 100 bani. The Romanian leu is widely accepted throughout the country, and you can exchange your currency at banks or exchange offices.
Cost of Living in Romania Compared to the UK and USA
According to the Numbeo cost of living index, the cost of living in Romania is generally lower than in the UK and the USA. The index takes into account factors such as housing, food, utilities, transportation, and entertainment.
As of February 2023, the index shows that the cost of living in Bucharest, the capital city of Romania, is about 56.41% lower than in London and 54.23% lower than in New York. While the cost of living in Romania is generally lower than in the UK and the USA, salaries in Romania are also lower, making it an affordable destination for expats on a budget.
Breakdown of Costs in Romania
To give you an idea of what you can expect to pay for different expenses in Romania, let’s break down costs for singles, couples, and families of 4 in different categories.
Housing
Housing is generally affordable in Romania, and the cost of living in this category is relatively low compared to other countries. The cost of housing varies depending on where you live and the type of housing you choose. According to Numbeo, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around RON 2,000 per month. A three-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around RON 4,000 per month.
If you’re on a tight budget, you may be able to find a room to rent for around RON 1,000 per month. However, keep in mind that housing in Romania can be challenging to find, especially if you’re looking for a specific type of accommodation.
Food
The cost of food in Romania is generally lower than in the UK and the USA, and it’s possible to eat on a budget. You can expect to pay around RON 20-30 for a meal at an inexpensive restaurant and around RON 60-100 for a meal at a mid-range restaurant.
If you’re on a tight budget, you can save money by shopping at markets and cooking your meals. A week’s worth of groceries for one person costs around RON 200-300.
Utilities
The cost of utilities in Romania varies depending on the size of your home and your usage. On average, you can expect to pay around RON 500-700 per month for utilities such as electricity, water, and gas.
Leisure
The cost of leisure activities in Romania varies widely depending on what you enjoy doing. A movie ticket costs around RON 20-30, and a fitness club membership costs around RON 150-200 per month.
If you enjoy going out, expect to pay around RON 10-15 for a beer in a bar or around RON 30-40 for a cocktail. Entrance fees for museums and other attractions vary widely but usually range from RON 10-40.
Transport
The cost of transport in Romania is relatively low, and the country’s public transportation system is well-developed. A single ride on the bus or metro costs around RON 2.50, and a monthly pass costs around RON 70-100, depending on the city.
If you prefer to drive, gasoline is relatively inexpensive in Romania, with an average price of around RON 5 per liter.
Clothing
The cost of clothing in Romania varies depending on the brand and quality of the product. A pair of jeans can cost around RON 150-250, while a shirt can cost around RON 80-150.
If you’re looking for affordable clothing options, there are several chain stores in Romania that offer reasonably priced clothing, such as H&M and Zara.
Household Goods
The cost of household goods in Romania varies depending on the item and brand. For example, a new television can cost anywhere from RON 1,000 to RON 5,000 depending on the size and features. A washing machine can cost around RON 1,500-2,500, while a refrigerator can cost around RON 1,500-3,000.
If you’re on a tight budget, you may be able to find used household goods on websites such as OLX and lajumate.ro. Many people sell their used items at a fraction of the cost of new items.
Forms of Payment in Romania
The most common forms of payment in Romania are cash and debit or credit cards. Most stores and restaurants accept credit and debit cards, especially in larger cities like Bucharest.
Mobile payments and contactless payments are becoming more popular in Romania, and many stores now offer these payment options. Some banks offer mobile payment services, but these services are not yet widely used.
In addition to cash and cards, some stores in Romania accept payment through popular mobile apps like Google Pay and Apple Pay.
The cost of living in Romania is generally lower than in the UK and the USA, making it an affordable destination for expats on a budget. While salaries in Romania are also lower, the country offers affordable housing, food, utilities, and transport.
When it comes to payment methods, Romania primarily relies on cash and debit/credit cards, but mobile payment services and contactless payments are becoming more popular.
Before you move to Romania, it’s important to research the cost of living in your desired location and create a budget that takes into account your income and expenses. By doing so, you can ensure that you can live comfortably in Romania without breaking the bank.