Moving to Romania
Last updated on Feb 01, 2024
Summary: Many expats and digital nomads move to Romania for its low cost of living, vibrant culture, and beautiful landscapes. People can find a place to live in Romania by searching online for rental properties, or by asking around in the local community. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Romania are Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Brasov.
What do I need to know before moving to Romania?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Romania, they said:
"I enjoy the Obor area, because it has all I need, including the biggest grocery market in the city, but has fair prices for the accommodation. I would suggest searching for a place both next to metro stations and parks. Because public transport is doomed to be trappet in rush hour trafic and parks, such as Herastrau, grant an escape from the busy streets, especially for those who come from smaller cities. The far North of the city, above Herastrau park, has the richest area with new apartments. The rest of the city is filled with communistic buildings with simple flats," remarked one expat in Bucharest, Romania.
"Romania is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history. It is important to research the local customs and laws before moving to Romania. Expats should also be aware of the language barrier, as Romanian is the official language. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the local currency, the Romanian Leu, and to open a local bank account. Additionally, expats should be aware of the cost of living in Romania, which is generally lower than in other European countries. Finally, expats should make sure to obtain the necessary visas and permits before moving to Romania," said one expat in Romania.
How do I find a place to live in Romania?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Romania is to use online resources such as websites and classifieds. Websites such as Imobiliare.ro, OLX.ro, and Ziarul Imobiliar are great resources for finding apartments, houses, and other types of real estate in Romania. Additionally, classifieds such as Craigslist and Gumtree can be used to find rental properties in Romania. Additionally, it is possible to find a place to live in Romania by networking with people in the area, such as friends, family, or colleagues. Finally, it is also possible to find a place to live in Romania by contacting local real estate agents or property management companies," said one expat who made the move to Romania.
"Through aquaintances. Met some international exchange students and kept in contact with them shrough social networks," explained one expat living in Bucharest, Romania.
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Romania?
"Expat homes and apartments in Romania tend to be modern and comfortable, with many featuring modern amenities such as air conditioning, high-speed internet, and cable television. Expats often choose to live in larger cities such as Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Timisoara, where they can find a variety of housing options, from luxury apartments to more affordable options. Many expats also choose to live in smaller towns and villages, where they can enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle and take advantage of the beautiful scenery," commented one expat who made the move to Romania.
"I live in a rented flat on the 9th floor. It's a renovated 3-room apartment in a communistic block and I share it with 2 other expat, one of which is a colleague of mine, the other - a firend of a colleague. It's quite typical to share apartments, because most expats work in a more or less international environment with other expat folks. Also, compared to food prices at a market, for example, I find apartments to be disproportionately expensive. Especially when renting a studio," remarked one expat in Bucharest, Romania.
What is the average cost of housing in Romania?
If you are thinking about moving to Romania, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The average cost of housing in Romania is generally considered to be quite affordable compared to other European countries. Prices vary depending on the location and size of the property, but generally, a one-bedroom apartment in a city centre can cost around €200-300 per month, while a three-bedroom apartment in a suburban area can cost around €400-500 per month," said one expat in Romania.
"The housing costs are a little higher than in Latvia. The cost for a studio is the same. But a multiple room apartment outside the city center in Riga should be a bit cheeper. Even if there isn't a big difference in the price, the salary rates vary a bit more for the disadvantage of Bucharest... We pay a monthly fee of 2100 lei - 470 Euro for rent+utilities for a simple 3 room apartment between the downtown and outskirts. Simple studios are around around 250 - 350 Euro," said one expat who made the move to Bucharest.
Should I buy or rent a home in Romania?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Romania, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"Buying a home in Romania can be a great investment, as the country has a growing economy and real estate market. However, it is important to consider the costs associated with buying a home, such as closing costs, taxes, and maintenance. Renting a home in Romania can be a more cost-effective option, as it allows you to avoid the upfront costs associated with buying a home. Additionally, renting a home can provide more flexibility, as you can move to a different location more easily than if you owned a home. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Romania should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," commented one expat who made the move to Romania.
What should I pack when moving to Romania?
We asked people living in Romania to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:
"When moving to Romania, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Pack clothing that is appropriate for the season, such as a coat and warm clothing for the winter months. Bring comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the city. Make sure to bring any necessary documents, such as a passport and visa. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a few items from home to make your new home feel more familiar. Don't forget to pack any necessary medications and toiletries. Finally, it is important to bring a few items that will help you learn the language, such as a Romanian dictionary or phrasebook," remarked one expat who made the move to Romania.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Romania?
We asked people in Romania if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:
"The word for bread is similar to the word for "butt." I blundered several times with this one. Also time issues. Time, and on time are not such a matter of an actual hour.....more like a round about appointment," replied a member in Cluj Napoca.
"It is important to be aware of cultural differences when visiting Romania. It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Avoid making negative comments about Romania or its people. It is also important to dress modestly and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to be aware of the local etiquette when it comes to dining, such as not starting to eat until the host has invited you to do so. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking English or any other language in public. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local religious customs and to respect them," commented one expat who made the move to Romania.
Why do people move to Romania?
When we asked people why foreigners move to Romania, they responded:
"Romania is an attractive destination for expats due to its low cost of living, vibrant culture, and diverse landscape. The country offers a unique blend of Eastern European charm and modern amenities, making it an ideal place to live and work. Romania also has a strong economy and a well-developed infrastructure, making it an attractive option for those looking to relocate. Additionally, the country is home to a diverse population, with a variety of languages and cultures, making it a great place to meet new people and experience different cultures. Finally, Romania is a safe and welcoming country, with a strong sense of community and a friendly atmosphere," wrote one expat living in Romania.
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How are healthcare services Romania?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Romania, they replied:
"In Romania, healthcare services are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all Romanian citizens and foreign residents. The quality of public healthcare in Romania is generally good, with a wide range of services available, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and emergency services. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for some services. Expats in Romania can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay a fee for some services. Expats may also choose to use private healthcare services, which are generally more expensive but may offer a higher quality of care," said one expat living in Romania.
What are medical services in Romania like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Romania, they replied:
"In Romania, medical services are generally of a high standard. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical facilities and services available. The country has a number of public and private hospitals, as well as a network of primary care clinics and specialist centers. The quality of care is generally good, with a focus on preventive medicine and health promotion. Romania also has a number of highly trained medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals," commented one expat who moved to Romania.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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Digital Nomads in Romania offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Romania.
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