If you’re planning to make Romania your home, you are looking at a very different country than it was several years ago. It’s not just getting more expensive (although it does that at an incredible pace), but it also becomes an even more amazing country to live in.
Even more so, since full Schengen membership became a reality in 2025, living here has become infinitely more attractive for expats and travelers.
You can now drive from Timisoara to Vienna or take drive from Brasov to the Bulgarian seaside without a single border check. That freedom of movement improves things a lot.
But not every city has kept pace with this growth. While infrastructure has exploded in some regions, with new highways finally crossing the Carpathians, others are struggling with pollution, construction fatigue and an overall “outdated” feel.
This is where I come to the rescue with my updated list of the best cities to live in Romania. Here’s the shortlist, in case you don’t care about the details (you can click a city’s name to jump right to it):
The Reality of Living in Romania in 2026
Before I get into all the details, I want to talk about money first. Until relatively recently, the cost of living was mostly the same across Romania. Starting a few years ago, that is no longer true.
The larger cities in the country (like Bucharest, Cluj Napoca, Timisoara, Brasov or Constanta) differentiate themselves from the others by demanding a premium of 30-40% on rent and services (and usually eating out or entertainment) compared to the rest of this list.
You also need to weigh infrastructure heavily. Do you need an international airport nearby, or are you okay with driving two hours to catch a flight? Are high-speed roads a must for you, or you don’t care too much about driving? Do you need top-tier private healthcare? These are the factors that shaped this list.
I am taking everything into account when I recommend the top cities below (including additional things like air quality, safety, work opportunities and more), so let’s jump right in!
1. Timisoara
- Best For: Frequent Travelers, Entrepreneurs, Students.
- Connectivity: Excellent (Top-tier Airport + Highway border crossings).
- Vibe: Multicultural, academic, spacious.
Selected as the European Capital of Culture in 2023, Timisoara has capitalized on that momentum and is thriving in 2026, climbing up to position #1 on my list for the first time.
I must say that 15 years ago, Timisoara was one of my least favorite cities. It felt dirty, poorly maintained, and seemingly dead. How much things have changed!
Timisoara is now a lively city with opportunities for students, entrepreneurs, and retirees.
The new airport terminal is fully operational, making it arguably the most comfortable flying experience outside of Bucharest. Plus, it’s the easiest city to drive out of; you can be on the highway and into Hungary in less than an hour, but also drive to nearby Serbia.
The job market is diverse, with big automotive and manufacturing companies, plus a promising IT sector. For families, there are international schools and a solid healthcare system.
One “Con” to keep in mind is the climate. Summers here are humid and hot compared to the mountain cities. If you hate heat, August in Timisoara will be a challenge.
Learn more about the city:
- Best neighborhoods to live in Timisoara.
- Pros & Cons of living in Timisoara.
- Things to do in Timisoara.
- Best restaurants in the city.
- Where to stay (short term).
2. Oradea
- Best For: Families, Remote Workers, Slow Living.
- Connectivity: Decent (Airport + Highway to West).
- Vibe: Art Nouveau, calm, green.
Oradea drops to second this year not because something bad happened with the city… but simply because Timisoara has a lot more to offer now (in my opinion). Oradea remains one of my favorite cities in the country and I would move there tomorrow given the opportunity.
You won’t find as many expats here as in Cluj, and property prices haven’t gone crazy (yet). Even so, there are plenty of job opportunities in services, small-scale tech, and manufacturing.
It’s also fairly easy to get around. You can walk to most places in the central area, and the public transportation system is efficient.
A massive bonus for living here is the heating system. Oradea utilizes geothermal water for district heating, which is cleaner and cheaper than the gas-reliant systems in other cities.
If you’re a remote worker, internet speeds are top-notch (this is the case throughout Romania, not a city-specific thing, though).
However, there is one downside to consider: The Airport (OMR). While modern, it has significantly fewer connections than Cluj or Timisoara at the moment.
but all in all, I can say from experience that it’s friendly, calm, and great for families who want safe neighborhoods.
Learn more about Oradea:
3. Constanta
- Best For: Sea lovers, Digital Nomads.
- Connectivity: Good (Highway to Bucharest is fast).
- Vibe: Relaxed in winter, chaotic fun in summer.
I lived in Constanta for two years with my family, and I can say it’s one of the best cities in Romania, despite having its share of problems. No place is perfect, but overall, I loved it here and I am sure you will to
One huge plus is the climate. Winters are milder and summers are cooled down by the Black Sea’s breeze. Because it’s so popular in the summertime, Constanta has great restaurants, events, and a huge number of foreign visitors.
And one thing I wasn’t aware of until I left is the air quality: probably because of the breeze, the air is fresh and clean and amazing, unlike what you get in most of the other towns in Romania, especially during the winter.
However, you must be prepared for the seasonality. From November to March, the city feels a bit empty (at least compared to the summer crowds). Also, the wind is damp and bone-chilling, and snow is not very common.
On the flip side, the A2 highway connection to Bucharest is excellent, allowing you to reach the capital in about two hours. Even better, since 2024, the newly renovated central area has been open to the public and looks amazing.
Learn more about the city:
- Cost of living in Constanta.
- Pros and Cons of living in Constanta.
- Best Restaurants in Constanta (or the best coffee places & best pizza here)
- Things to do in Constanta.
- Best areas to live in.
4. Brasov
- Best For: Nature lovers, Hikers, Active families.
- Connectivity: Great (New International Airport).
- Vibe: Historic, touristic, mountain city.
Brasov is located in the heart of the Carpathian Mountains, surrounded by lush forests and majestic peaks.
Living here, you’ll never run out of hiking trails, skiing slopes, or stunning landscapes to explore (but also cold winters). Beyond the scenery, Brasov has a strong cultural scene and a large expat community.
The biggest game-changer for Brasov is the International Airport (GHV), which is now fully operational. For years, the lack of an airport was the main reason people avoided moving here.
Now, you can fly directly to major European hubs like London or Dortmund without dragging yourself to Bucharest first.
Keep in mind the climate is cooler and winters are longer. Air quality is generally better due to the mountain location, though traffic from the booming “Tractorul” residential district can get heavy.
Families will be happy to find English-speaking kindergartens and schools here as well.
Learn more about the city:
5. Cluj Napoca
- Best For: IT Professionals, Students, Nightlife.
- Connectivity: Great Airport, difficult traffic.
- Vibe: “Silicon Valley of Eastern Europe,” crowded, expensive.
I usually say Cluj Napoca today is what Oradea might become in a few years. Cluj is now one of the trendiest, coolest (but also most expensive) cities in Romania – and the incredible rising costs, as well as the pressure on its IT hub are the main reasons why it dropped two spots on my list.
Its population has grown, and traffic can be frustrating during peak hours. Currently, this is compounded by the construction of the Cluj Metro. While this project will eventually improve the city’s appeal a lot, right now it means dust, noise, and major traffic diversions in Floresti and the city entrance. Expect this chaos to last a few more years.
It’s pricier in terms of rent, restaurants, and nightlife compared to most Romanian cities. But salaries, especially in IT or creative fields, are generally higher as well.
Learn more about the city:
- Best neighborhoods to live in Cluj Napoca.
- Pros and Cons about living in Cluj.
- Top things to do in Cluj Napoca.
- Best restaurants in Cluj.
6. Sibiu
- Best For: Culture buffs, those seeking order and cleanliness.
- Connectivity: Good (International Airport).
- Vibe: Germanic, polite, walkable.
Sibiu had a big boost after becoming Europe’s Capital of Culture several years ago. Though its growth has slowed a bit recently, it still ranks high in many quality-of-life surveys.
Contrary to what you might hear, Sibiu is actually well-connected. Its international airport offers direct flights to hubs like Munich, Vienna, and London, although local connections are iffy.
Sibiu is known for beautiful architecture and is arguably the cleanest, most “civilized” feeling city on this list. Rents are moderate, but you’ll find a handful of pricier spots near the city center. It’s a good place for those who like smaller cities without giving up cultural variety.
Learn more about the city:
7. Bucharest
- Best For: Career climbers, Nightlife lovers, Medical needs.
- Connectivity: Best in country (Metro + OTP Airport).
- Vibe: Chaotic, energetic, loud.
Romania’s capital is a love-it-or-hate-it type of place. It has the highest levels of traffic-related pollution in the country, though projects are aiming to reduce that.
Some people love the energy and possibilities you find in Bucharest. It’s huge, it’s constantly growing, and there’s always something new to do.
It is also the only city in Romania with a subway system (Metro) – at least until the Cluj metro is finished. For day-to-day living, this is a massive advantage that lets you skip the surface-level traffic jams.
However, the air quality is a problem, and the sheer size and fast-paced life can be a nightmare for some.
A critical safety note: Seismic Risk. If you are renting in the city center or Old Town, be very careful about “Bulina Rosie” (Red Dot) buildings, which are at high risk during an earthquake. Always inspect the building’s safety rating before moving in.
In the end, it comes up to personal preferences, in the end: check it out and see if it is for you. For example, I don’t like it, but my wife loves it. So… visit Bucharest and see how you feel.
Learn more about the city:
- Top Things to Do in Bucharest.
- Pros & Cons of Living in Bucharest.
- Living in Bucharest as an Expat.
- Short History of Bucharest.
- Guide to Bucharest’s Old Town.
- Bucharest Public Transport Guide.
8. Iasi
- Best For: Students, IT professionals looking for lower costs.
- Connectivity: Greatly Improved (New A7 Highway segments).
- Vibe: Academic, spiritual, bustling.
While you’ll see mostly Western and Central Romanian cities on the list, Iasi deserves a spot here as the major hub in Eastern Romania and a popular (and affordable) university center buzzing with life.
The biggest news for Iasi in 2026 is the infrastructure. The A7 Highway (Autostrada Moldovei) has opened major segments, finally starting to connect the region to the resto of the country. The isolation that used to plague Iasi is fading, making road travel to Bucharest much faster and safer.
Public transportation is decent, but traffic can be heavy. There’s also a growing expat presence, though smaller than in Cluj.
A serious note on Air Quality: Iasi tends to struggle with pollution, especially in the winter, due to geography and traffic. It can be as bad as it is in Bucharest, so if you have respiratory issues, check the air quality index before committing to a long-term lease.
Fun fact: Iasi was, for a very short while, Romania’s capital city… so you know that you’re up for a treat if you choose it as your next home. Read more fun facts about Romania here.
Learn more about the city:
9. Alba Iulia
Best For: Retirees, Families with young kids.
Connectivity: Moderate.
Vibe: Historic, very quiet, safe.
It might shock a few people to see Alba Iulia on this list, but lately, this city has grown a lot. If I say that Oradea is now what Cluj was 10 years ago (in terms of development), Alba Iulia is the new Oradea.
However, be warned: It is quiet. If you are single, under 35, and looking for nightlife or a dating scene, you will likely be bored here. It lacks the social buzz of Timisoara or Cluj.
It is also the place where the modern state of Romania was born, with impressive celebrations being held here every December 1st. If you appreciate history and a slow-paced lifestyle, you will like it here.
All in all, I believe Alba Iulia to be one of the biggest opportunities in Romania for those looking to secure their spot while the city is still in “hidden gem” mode.
You probably know little about it, but it’s one of the best cities to visit in Romania, so definitely check it out!
10. Targu Mures
- Best For: Medical professionals, Students, Families.
- Connectivity: Moderate (Small airport).
- Vibe: Quiet, multicultural
Targu Mures is an impressive place where multiple cultures blend nicely. The Romanian and Hungarian communities have shared this city for centuries, offering a unique living experience.
The city offers a quieter pace compared to Cluj or Bucharest. Housing costs are moderate, while jobs are not aplenty (with a few exceptions). However, remote workers are settling here for the lower cost of living and straightforward day-to-day life.
You can check out the top things to do in Targu Mures here.
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How to decide upon the best city for YOU
Keep in mind that when it comes to listing “best cities,” the rankings are highly subjective.
Sure, safety, air quality and infrastructure are easier to measure, but it depends who does the measuring. Results will vary if the person ranking cities has lived in a single city their entire life vs. one who has traveled and seen multiple ones, both large and small, both local and foreign.
Second, it’s all about the things that you want. Better paid jobs? Go to Bucharest or Cluj. Clean air? Brasov or Constanta. A quiet place to raise kids? Alba Iulia. And so on.
Romania is a safe country, with low crime rates compared to many parts of Europe. Healthcare in major cities is adequate, but I strongly recommend getting a private health subscription (like Regina Maria or MedLife) for peace of mind and faster access to specialists. The growing medical tourism here also proves that things are at least decent in this area.
But all in all, I hope that this list helps paint a better, clearer picture of the country and what it has to offer.
Have you lived in or visited other Romanian cities that you believe deserve a spot on this list? Share your experiences and recommendations in the comments below to help others make better decisions!
I am a journalist and local expert who has been documenting life in Romania since 2013. Based in Constanta (after living in Bucharest and Drobeta Turnu Severin), I provide up-to-date, on-the-ground advice for expats and travelers. My articles are based on real life experiences and plenty of research – from paying Romanian bills to exploring the wild “Rawmania” countryside.
I’ve only been to Bucharest and Brasov, both places that l really, really liked. I think to live, I would prefer Bucharest to be honest. Brasov is so pretty, but l think after a while, I would be bored, at least l think so..but who knows. There are so many other places I would like to visit in Romania. Hopefully someday soon.
I also believe that there’s no other city better than Bucharest when it comes to entertainment and options to spend your free time. There’s always some sort of an event happening somewhere in Bucharest and the entire place is so huge!
Next time you visit, you should choose the Moldova area (if you want to add some more monasteries to the list of places you’ve seen) or the Ardeal area, with beautiful cities and important attractions nearby.
Hi Calin,
Very interesting article, and I agree with your assessment that the top four are spot on, especially for most people’s priorities. Also, as you say, foreigners coming in are more blown away by the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside of the Transylvania area, and no surprise, three of those cities are close to it. From the time I first started considering retiring overseas, it was Romania that quickly rose to the top of my searches, and to this day, both Sibiu & Brasov are still my favorites there, though based strictly on research, as I still haven’t physically made the trip yet. Cluj has appeal too, but may be too busy & modern, and is definitely more expensive, as far as cost of living by Romanian standards. For me, Bucharest, the capital, is too far from the mountains for one thing, and has too much pollution for another, as that’s a major problem for me and my chronic bronchitis.
Sorry I haven’t posted in a while, but I do read most of the articles here Calin, and still enjoy the site. My plans have been delayed several times, and now looks like spring of 2019, that I’ll be coming over to that area. Still haven’t decided exactly what I’ll do, but it’s pretty likely I’ll travel between Romania & Ukraine every 90 days for a while, to put off filing for long term residency until I’m more certain what I’d like to do long term. Hope you are well Calin, and you’re doing a fine job here on the site! Take care, John C.
Thank you, John! There’s no rush here – Romania won’t change much in the next few years, most likely. Probably taking your time and visiting multiple places before making your decision is the best thing you can do. There’s no such thing as “too much research” when deciding where to live.
I have visited Calarasi as I have a friend who moved back there from the U.S.. I would say it is placed in the correct spot at 38.
Haha, thanks for confirming that, Timothy! That’s one of the cities that I haven’t visited, although it’s relatively close to where I live. It seems that I shouldn’t be in a rush to check it out.
I really disagree when you mention that Oradea is one of the best cities of Romania. I visited it thanks to you, but I can’t recommend it.
Yeah, there are beautiful buildings, but there are also A LOT of communist buildings which are SO ugly and they TOTALLY ruin the beauty of the city.
Just an example is the famous Oradea fortress : it is almost hided behind ugly communist buildings (if I had not looked on Gmaps, I would not have find it). There are also various communist buildings around some churches. I totally NOT recommend Oradea for this reason.
However, a BEAUTIFUL city which is very overlooked is the medieval city of Sighișoara, even on your website you don’t mention it which I find it very curious, since the city is very beautiful (I don’t even saw communist buildings, actually). You should give it a try !
I’m sorry you didn’t like Oradea as much as I do, Daivy. Sighisoara is indeed a beautiful town (the only Medieval town in this side of Europe that’s still inhabited), but for long-term living, it might get boring quickly, as it is tiny. That’s just my opinion though – it’s great to have as many as possible, so people will find it easier to choose.
Also, defending Oradea – the same communist buildings unfortunately ruin most of the other cities too, including central areas. They are everywhere in Romania, and actually more in numbers in other cities than in Oradea.
But for these rankings, I always looked at longer-term living there – for shorter visits, there might indeed be other more charming places.
Four years now in Ploiesti as an American…Not claiming it deserves a spot on the list: industrial city, boring, bad air quality, most high school kids want out when they graduate…
But…..I can get to the OTP airport or American embassy or the north side in general quicker than people in many parts of Bucharest can…Quiet, peaceful and the rent can half of Bucharest…easier acess tot he mountainess areas too…
That is true, Jeff! The highway is extremely useful and I don’t think there’s a huge difference for regular, day to day life, between it and Bucharest.