Why Bucharest?
Bucharest, Romania’s capital and largest city, is home to over 15,000 expats from around the world. With its blend of Belle Époque architecture, vibrant nightlife, and rapidly growing tech sector, the city offers an exceptional quality of life at a fraction of Western European costs.
Cost of Living
Bucharest remains one of Europe’s most affordable capitals:
- Rent: 1-bedroom apartment: €500-800/month (center), €350-500 (outside center)
- Utilities: €80-120/month (electricity, heating, water, internet)
- Dining: Restaurant meal: €8-15, Coffee: €2-3
- Transport: Monthly pass: €20, Uber/Bolt rides: €3-8
Best Neighborhoods for Expats
Floreasca & Dorobanti
The most popular expat area. Tree-lined streets, excellent restaurants, international schools nearby, and Floreasca Lake for jogging. Premium pricing but worth it for families.
Herastrau
Adjacent to Bucharest’s largest park. Modern apartments, shopping malls, and great outdoor activities. Popular with young professionals and families.
Primaverii
Quiet, residential, embassy district. Large houses and apartments, very safe, but fewer restaurants and nightlife options.
Old Town (Centru Vechi)
For those who want to be in the heart of the action. Historic buildings, countless restaurants and bars, but can be noisy on weekends.
Pipera
The business district. Modern office buildings, newer apartment complexes, good for those working in corporate/tech. Can feel isolated without a car.
Healthcare
Bucharest has Romania’s best healthcare facilities:
- Regina Maria – Largest private healthcare network, English-speaking staff
- MedLife – Comprehensive services, multiple locations
- Sanador Hospital – Full-service private hospital
- Medicover – Popular with expats, corporate packages available
Find English-speaking doctors in our directory →
International Schools
- American International School of Bucharest (AISB) – IB curriculum, largest expat school
- British School of Bucharest – British curriculum, excellent reputation
- International School of Bucharest – Cambridge curriculum
- Lycée Français Anna de Noailles – French curriculum
- German School Bucharest – German curriculum
Getting Around
- Metro: 4 lines covering major areas, €0.50/trip, runs 5am-11pm
- Uber/Bolt: Widely available, affordable, most drivers speak some English
- Buses/Trams: Extensive network, can be crowded during rush hour
- Driving: Traffic is notorious – avoid if possible during rush hours
Expat Communities
- InterNations Bucharest – Regular meetups and events
- Expats in Bucharest (Facebook) – 30,000+ members, very active
- Bucharest Expat Hub – Networking events, workshops
- American Women’s Club – Community and charity events
Essential Services
Find verified professionals in our directory:
- Immigration Lawyers – Visa, residency, work permits
- Real Estate Agents – Apartment hunting help
- Accountants – Tax advice, company formation
- Relocation Services – Full moving support
Bucharest Quick Facts
| Population | 1.8 million (metro: 2.5 million) |
| Time Zone | EET (UTC+2) / EEST (UTC+3) |
| Airport | Henri Coanda (OTP) – 20km from center |
| Language | Romanian (English widely spoken in business) |
| Currency | Romanian Leu (RON) – €1 ≈ 5 RON |
FAQ
Is Bucharest safe for expats?
Yes, Bucharest is generally very safe. Violent crime is rare. Take normal precautions against pickpockets in crowded areas and tourist spots.
Do I need to speak Romanian?
Not necessarily. English is widely spoken in business, restaurants, and services. However, learning basic Romanian will greatly enhance your experience and is appreciated by locals.
How long does it take to find an apartment?
Typically 2-4 weeks if you’re flexible. Start searching on Imobiliare.ro, Storia.ro, or through expat Facebook groups. Consider short-term accommodation first to explore neighborhoods.
What’s the best time to move to Bucharest?
Spring (April-May) or early fall (September-October) offer the best weather. Avoid August when locals are on vacation and many services slow down. Winter can be cold but the city remains active.
