I’ll be honest—Romania surprised the hell out of me. Everyone back home thought I was crazy for spending so much time here, but they have no idea what they’re missing. Between the ridiculously fast internet (seriously, it’s faster than most US cities), the incredible food scene, and the fact that you can actually afford to live well, I get why more people are catching on.
Having bounced between different Romanian cities, I can tell you firsthand that the best places in Romania offer something special. Take Cluj-Napoca—this city just clicks. Beautiful streets, amazing cafes, and a young energy that’s infectious. Ready to discover where you could actually see yourself living? These are my favorite spots after months of exploring this fascinating country.
Best Places to Live in Romania
Looking for the best places to live in Romania? Bucharest offers a dynamic urban lifestyle with career opportunities and entertainment. Cluj-Napoca is a thriving tech and academic hub with a youthful atmosphere. Brașov combines medieval charm with stunning mountain views, perfect for outdoor lovers. Timișoara stands out with its rich cultural scene, historical architecture, and strong economy. Whether you seek city life, history, or nature, these are some of the best places to call home in Romania.
- Best for expats: Bucharest
- Best for English speakers: Cluj-Napoca
- Best for digital nomads: Timișoara
- Best for solo travelers: Brașov
- Best for couples: Sibiu
- Best for groups: Alba Iulia
- Best for history buffs: Iași
- Best for art and culture enthusiasts: Oradea
- Best for sea lovers: Constanța
- Best for peace and quiet: Craiova
- Best for medieval charm: Sighișoara
- Best for vibrant urban life: Ploiești
1. Bucharest
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,200 – $2,800
- 🌟 Unique Features: Vibrant nightlife, historical landmarks, growing tech scene
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring & fall 🌷🍂
- 🏆 Perfect For: Young professionals 💼, digital nomads 🌍, culture lovers 🎭
Bucharest is where old-world charm meets modern energy, making it one of the most exciting cities to live in Romania. Think Parisian-style boulevards, hip cafés, and a nightlife scene that rivals any European capital—all at a fraction of the cost.
The city’s contrasts are what make it fascinating. One moment, you’re admiring the grandeur of the Palace of the Parliament, and the next, you’re sipping craft cocktails in a hidden rooftop bar. Neighborhoods like Dorobanți and Herastrau offer a more upscale, green escape, while the Old Town keeps things buzzing with its restaurants and live music spots.
Fast internet, a booming start-up culture, and endless entertainment make Bucharest a hotspot for expats, digital nomads, and ambitious professionals. If you want big-city convenience, a rich cultural scene, and affordability all in one, Bucharest is the place to be.
2. Cluj-Napoca
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,100 – $2,500
- 🌟 Unique Features: University city, booming IT sector, lively arts scene
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🎓
- 🏆 Perfect For: Students 📚, tech professionals 💻, creatives 🎨
Cluj-Napoca has a vibe that’s equal parts historic and cutting-edge, making it one of Romania’s most livable cities. With its gorgeous architecture, creative energy, and buzzing café culture, it’s no wonder Cluj is often called Romania’s Silicon Valley.
The city is home to a thriving tech and start-up scene, plus some of the country’s best universities, meaning the energy here is young, innovative, and forward-thinking. By day, you can work from stylish coworking spaces or explore the Central Park, and by night, catch a concert at Untold Festival, one of Europe’s biggest music festivals.
Cluj also has a strong international community, tons of cool bars and art spaces, and is surrounded by stunning nature—perfect for weekend hikes. If you’re after a dynamic, student-friendly city with endless opportunities, Cluj-Napoca might just be for you.
3. Sibiu
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,000 – $2,300
- 🌟 Unique Features: Medieval charm, cultural festivals, scenic landscapes
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring & summer 🌞
- 🏆 Perfect For: Expats 🏡, history enthusiasts 🏰, retirees 🌄
Imagine living in a storybook town surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains—that’s Sibiu. With its cobblestone streets, pastel-colored buildings, and medieval squares, it’s one of Romania’s most beautiful cities and a dream for those who love history, culture, and a slower pace of life.
Beyond its postcard-worthy looks, Sibiu is a cultural powerhouse. The city hosts world-class festivals, from theatre and jazz to film and Christmas markets, and its museums, boutique shops, and café culture make it feel both sophisticated and cozy. The surrounding Transylvanian countryside is perfect for weekend hikes, castle-hopping, and exploring charming Saxon villages.
Sibiu also boasts a high quality of life, with safe streets, affordable living costs, and a welcoming international community. Whether you’re a remote worker, retiree, or creative looking for inspiration, Sibiu offers a fairytale setting with all the modern comforts—without the tourist crowds of bigger cities.
4. Timișoara
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,100 – $2,600
- 🌟 Unique Features: Western-style city, strong economy, cultural diversity
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring & fall 🍃
- 🏆 Perfect For: Entrepreneurs 🚀, students 📖, artists 🎭
A city of bright pastel buildings, artistic energy, and a rich history, Timișoara is often called “Little Vienna”—but with its own unique twist. It’s a place where culture thrives, with an amazing arts scene, open-air concerts, and a reputation for being Romania’s most progressive city.
Timișoara is known for its laid-back lifestyle, stunning baroque architecture, and walkable streets lined with trendy cafés and beer gardens. Plus, it’s one of Romania’s greenest cities, with huge parks and tree-lined squares that make daily life feel more relaxed.
With its strong economy, modern infrastructure, and one of the best public transport systems in the country, it’s an excellent choice for digital nomads, expats, and entrepreneurs. If you’re looking for a European city with culture, beauty, and a growing economy, Timișoara should be at the top of your list.
5. Brașov
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,000 – $2,400
- 🌟 Unique Features: Picturesque old town, mountain views, outdoor activities
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Winter & summer ❄️🏔️
- 🏆 Perfect For: Nature lovers 🌲, skiers 🎿, photographers 📷
Ever dreamed of living in a medieval town surrounded by mountains? Brașov is the place to be. Nestled in the heart of Transylvania, this city is a paradise for nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone who enjoys a high-quality lifestyle without the big-city stress.
The Old Town looks like something out of a fairytale, with Gothic churches, pastel-colored buildings, and cobblestone streets leading to cozy cafés. The famous Black Church and Piața Sfatului give the city its rich historic character, while the nearby Tampa Mountain offers incredible hiking trails and panoramic views.
Brașov also has great infrastructure, a growing expat community, and easy access to ski resorts like Poiana Brașov, making it an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts and remote workers. With its charming atmosphere, affordable cost of living, and endless adventures right outside your door, it’s obvious why Brașov is one of the best places to live in Romania.
6. Constanța
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,100 – $2,500
- 🌟 Unique Features: Coastal city, Black Sea beaches, ancient ruins
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Summer ☀️🏖️
- 🏆 Perfect For: Beach lovers 🏝️, history buffs 🏺, expats 🌍
If seaside living with a mix of history and modern energy sounds appealing, then Constanța should be at the top of your list. As Romania’s largest coastal city, Constanța offers beautiful beaches, a lively summer scene, and a rich cultural heritage dating back to ancient times.
Home to the Black Sea’s best nightlife, seafood restaurants, and historic landmarks, Constanța has a unique mix of relaxation and vibrancy. You can spend your mornings by the sea, explore ancient ruins in the afternoon, and enjoy live music at a beachside bar by night. The city’s famous Constanța Casino, even in its abandoned state, is an architectural gem worth seeing.W
hile summers bring an influx of tourists, the rest of the year offers a peaceful, affordable coastal lifestyle. If you love beach life, seafood, and a laid-back atmosphere with urban conveniences, Constanța is an unbeatable choice.
- Read next: 13 Cheapest Places To Live in Europe
7. Iași
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,000 – $2,200
- 🌟 Unique Features: Prestigious universities, historic sites, green parks
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring & fall 🌳
- 🏆 Perfect For: Students 🎓, researchers 🔬, families 👨👩👦
As the cultural and academic heart of Romania, Iași is perfect for those who love history, intellectual energy, and a strong sense of tradition. This city, often called “Romania’s hidden gem”, is packed with stunning architecture, world-class universities, and a thriving arts scene.
With its elegant palaces, old churches, and grand boulevards, Iași feels like a city that has seen centuries of history unfold. The Palace of Culture stands as the city’s most iconic landmark, while the Botanical Garden offers a lush escape in the middle of urban life.
Despite its deep historical roots, Iași has a youthful, energetic vibe, thanks to its large student population and growing tech industry. Affordable living, great cafés, and a warm community make it one of Romania’s most livable cities. If you’re looking for a place that blends intellectual depth with artistic soul, Iași is a perfect match.
8. Oradea
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,000 – $2,300
- 🌟 Unique Features: Beautiful architecture, thermal spas, relaxed atmosphere
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🏡
- 🏆 Perfect For: Retirees 🌅, spa lovers 🛁, history fans 🏰
One of Romania’s most underrated cities, Oradea is a hidden treasure of Art Nouveau architecture, thermal spas, and a relaxed way of life. Located near the Hungarian border, Oradea has a European feel, with colorful historic buildings, well-preserved squares, and a growing expat community.
Unlike busier Romanian cities, Oradea offers a peaceful, high-quality lifestyle. The city’s pedestrian-friendly center is filled with cafés, boutique shops, and cultural events, while the nearby Baile Felix thermal baths provide the ultimate relaxation experience.
Oradea is also one of the cleanest and most well-maintained cities in Romania, making it a great choice for those looking for beauty, comfort, and affordability. If you want a city with charm, elegance, and an easygoing atmosphere, Oradea is one of the best-kept secrets in Romania that you should check out.
9. Sighișoara
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $900 – $2,100
- 🌟 Unique Features: Fairytale-like medieval town, birthplace of Vlad the Impaler
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Summer & fall 🍁
- 🏆 Perfect For: History lovers 🏯, tourists 🌎, remote workers 💻
Living in Sighișoara feels like stepping into a real-life fairytale. This UNESCO-listed medieval town is one of the best-preserved citadels in Europe, with cobbled streets, colorful houses, and centuries-old watchtowers. If you love history, charm, and a quiet, picturesque lifestyle, this is the place for you.
Best known as the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler (aka Dracula’s inspiration), Sighișoara is more than just a tourist attraction—it’s a peaceful, close-knit community with a strong artistic spirit. Its cozy cafés, local craft shops, and charming piazzas make daily life feel like a scene from another era.
While it doesn’t have the fast-paced energy of bigger cities, Sighișoara offers a unique, slow-living experience with stunning surroundings. If you want to wake up to castle views and soak in history every day, this is one of Romania’s most magical places to live.
10. Alba Iulia
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $900 – $2,000
- 🌟 Unique Features: Historic citadel, peaceful environment, Roman heritage
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring & fall 🌷🍂
- 🏆 Perfect For: History buffs 📜, families 🏡, retirees 🌄
Often overlooked, Alba Iulia is a hidden gem for those who love history, community, and a laid-back lifestyle. Home to Romania’s largest citadel, this city has been a key site in the country’s history, making it a dream for history lovers and culture enthusiasts.
The star attraction is the Alba Carolina Citadel, a massive, well-preserved fortress filled with museums, historic buildings, and lively cafés. The city itself is peaceful, affordable, and rich in local traditions, offering a high quality of life without the rush of bigger urban centers.
Beyond history, Alba Iulia is surrounded by beautiful nature, with easy access to the Apuseni Mountains and the Transylvanian countryside. If you’re looking for a quiet, culturally rich city that blends history with modern comforts, Alba Iulia might just be your perfect match.
11. Craiova
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $900 – $2,100
- 🌟 Unique Features: Emerging economy, growing job market, artistic culture
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🏙️
- 🏆 Perfect For: Business professionals 💼, artists 🎭, budget-conscious expats
If you love big-city energy without the big-city price tag, Craiova is a fantastic option. Often overshadowed by Romania’s more famous cities, Craiova is a growing cultural and economic hub with a vibrant arts scene and a strong local identity.
Home to some of Romania’s best universities and museums, the city is filled with historic buildings, lively squares, and green parks like Nicolae Romanescu Park, one of the largest and most beautiful parks in Romania. The city’s economy is also booming, with plenty of job opportunities in industry and tech.
Craiova offers a lower cost of living than Bucharest or Cluj-Napoca, making it an attractive option for young professionals, students, and families. If you’re looking for affordability, culture, and a city that’s on the rise, Craiova is worth a serious look.
12. Ploiești
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $900 – $2,000
- 🌟 Unique Features: Oil industry hub, commuter-friendly, affordable living
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🚆
- 🏆 Perfect For: Workers 🏢, families 🏡, commuters 🚗
Just an hour’s drive from Bucharest, Ploiești is the perfect spot for those who want a more relaxed lifestyle while staying close to the capital. Known as Romania’s oil capital, the city has a strong industrial background but is quickly evolving into a modern, livable city with growing opportunities.
Ploiești’s parks, cultural centers, and affordable housing make it a great choice for families and professionals looking for a quieter alternative to Bucharest. It has a lower cost of living, less traffic, and a strong local economy, with many residents commuting to the capital for work.
For wine lovers, Ploiești is also the gateway to Romania’s famous Dealu Mare wine region, meaning weekend trips to scenic vineyards are always an option. If you want a budget-friendly city with great connectivity and a laid-back feel, Ploiești might be your perfect home base.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Best Places to Live in Romania
Want to deepen your understanding of Romania’s prime living locations? Here’s a compilation of frequently asked questions I often encounter regarding the top living destinations in Romania.
Where is the safest place to live in Romania?
Oradea is often cited as one of the safest places to live in Romania. This city is known for its low crime rates and high-quality living standards. Oradea’s commitment to safety is evident in its well-maintained public spaces and effective local governance. Residents enjoy a peaceful lifestyle with a strong sense of community, making it an ideal choice for those prioritizing safety.
Is Romania a good place to live for foreigners?
Yes, Romania is a great place for foreigners to live. It offers a blend of rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and affordable living costs. Cities like Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca are particularly popular among expatriates due to their vibrant urban life and diverse communities. Additionally, Romania’s fast internet speeds and growing economy make it appealing for digital nomads and professionals. The friendly locals and the ease of finding English-speaking communities further enhance its attractiveness as a destination for foreigners.
What are the pros and cons of living in Romania?
Pros and Cons of Living in Romania
Pros:
- Affordable Cost of Living: Romania offers a lower cost of living compared to many Western countries.
- Rich Culture and History: From medieval towns to vibrant festivals, there’s always something to explore.
- Natural Beauty: Stunning landscapes, including the Carpathian Mountains and the Black Sea coast.
- Friendly Locals: Romanians are known for their hospitality and warmth.
Cons:
- Infrastructure: Some areas have underdeveloped infrastructure and public services.
- Healthcare System: Challenges with healthcare quality and accessibility, especially in rural areas.
- Employment Opportunities: Limited job options in certain sectors, and wages can be lower compared to Western standards.
- Language Barrier: While many younger Romanians speak English, navigating daily life can be a challenge without Romanian language skills.
What is the best city to live in Romania?
Determining the best city to live in Romania depends on personal preferences and lifestyle. However, Cluj-Napoca is often highlighted as one of the best cities to live in Romania for its vibrant cultural scene, dynamic community, and strong educational institutions. It’s particularly appealing to students, young professionals, and expats. Bucharest, as the capital, offers diverse opportunities and a lively urban experience, making it another top choice.
Is it a good idea to live in Romania?
Living in Romania can be a great idea, particularly for those seeking a blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and affordability. Romania offers a unique European experience with its diverse landscapes, historic cities, and friendly communities. The country’s growing economy and opportunities for outdoor activities add to its appeal. However, like any country, it’s important to consider individual needs and preferences, such as career opportunities, lifestyle, and comfort with cultural differences.
Where is the richest city in Romania?
The richest city in Romania, in terms of economic output and living standards, is Bucharest. As the capital city, it boasts the highest GDP per capita in the country and is the center of Romania’s economy. Bucharest attracts a diverse array of businesses and offers the most substantial economic opportunities, making it a hub for both national and international companies.
Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Live in Romania
Romania, a country of diverse beauty and rich history, offers a variety of living experiences. From the bustling streets of Bucharest to the serene beauty of Sibiu, each city presents its own unique charm. Whether you’re seeking the dynamic urban life of Cluj-Napoca or the coastal tranquility of Constanța, Romania has a place for everyone.
For those seeking affordability and culture, cities like Iași and Craiova are hidden gems. They demonstrate that Romania can be both cost-effective and culturally rich. Larger cities, on the other hand, offer a wealth of opportunities for career and cultural exploration.
Remember, happiness and livability are key. Places like Brașov and Oradea are often regarded as some of the most livable cities in Romania, offering a perfect mix of nature and city life.
So, in the quest for the best places to move in Romania, the answer varies as much as the country’s landscapes. It all comes down to what you prioritize in your ideal living space. Whether it’s job opportunities, natural splendor, or cultural vibrancy, Romania is more than a country—it’s a way of life.
Need help planning your trip? Check out these helpful links:
- Cheap flights
- Savings on accommodation from hostels to luxury hotels
- Affordable car rental options
- Affordable sightseeing tours and day trips
- SIM Cards – My go-to phone plan I've used in 50+ countries
