A Student’s Guide to Living Expenses in Romania

In recent years, Romania has become a magnet for international students, attracting learners from diverse backgrounds. Beyond its captivating landscapes and historical charm, Romania offers a compelling blend of academic excellence and affordability. Romania’s universities have gained global recognition for their rigorous programs. Institutions like the University of Bucharest and the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca—known for engineering and technology—are beacons of high-quality education. The availability of English-taught programs further enhances accessibility for non-native speakers. When it comes to affordability, Romania does stand out, the average tuition fee for an international student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Romania ranges from 3,000 to 5,000 EUR per year. Compare that to the hefty fees charged by universities in the United States or the United Kingdom, and you’ll see why Romania is an attractive choice.  But it’s not just tuition fees. Living Expenses in Romania for students are equally wallet-friendly. Factor in the affordable accommodation, low cost of groceries, transportation, and entertainment, and you’ll find that living here won’t break the bank.

In this article, we delve into the major expenses incurred by international students in Romania, providing valuable insights into the cost of living in this vibrant and student-friendly country.

Living Expenses in Romania: Highlights 

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Living Expenses in Romania: Breakdown of Costs 

The average total monthly living expenses for international students in Romania range from 300 to 600 EUR, covering accommodation, food, transport, medical insurance, and internet costs. Additionally, the total annual budget for international students in Romania can be estimated at around 5500 EUR, which includes living expenses for 10 months, books, and holidays/travel within Romania. The complete budget per year, including tuition fees, is approximately 10,500 EUR for a moderate to comfortable lifestyle. The following is a monthly breakdown of some of the most important living expenses. 

Accommodation 

The most affordable option for international students is a student hostel, with prices around 50 to 100 EUR per month, including all bills. This option provides basic amenities and is cost-effective for students on a budget. Renting a private apartment in Romania can range from 150 to 400 EUR per month. Private apartments offer more privacy and independence but come at a higher cost compared to student hostels. Another option is sharing an apartment with other students, which can help drastically reduce housing costs. The monthly rent for shared apartments typically ranges from 100 to 200 EUR per month, depending on the location and amenities

It’s important to note that many universities in Romania offer on-campus accommodation options, which can be very affordable compared to private housing. These options vary in quality and availability depending on the university and city. Overall, accommodation costs for international students in Romania can range from 50 EUR for a student hostel to 400 EUR for a private apartment per month. Shared apartments provide a balance between cost and privacy, offering an affordable housing option for students looking to save on accommodation expenses.

Food 

 Students can purchase groceries from supermarkets and local markets in Romania. Prices for basic food items like bread, milk, vegetables, eggs, and chicken are relatively affordable, allowing students to prepare meals at home economically. The cost of food items in Romania is relatively inexpensive compared to other European countries, here are some of the prices of common grocery items, according to Numbeo:

• Milk (1 liter): Around 1.25 EUR
• Vegetables (1 kg): Approximately 0.95 EUR
• Eggs (dozen): About 2.50 EUR
• Chicken (1 kg): Around 5.15 EUR
• Bread (loaf): Approximately 0.75 EUR

For those who prefer dining out, an inexpensive meal at a restaurant in Romania costs around 7 EUR. This option allows students to explore local cuisine and enjoy dining experiences outside of their accommodation. As such, the cost of food for international students in Romania is budget-friendly, with options for eating out or cooking at home available at reasonable prices. By budgeting around 150 to 200 EUR per month for food expenses, students can enjoy a diverse and nutritious diet while studying in Romania.

Transportation 

Transportation costs for international students in Romania are relatively affordable, making it convenient for students to travel around. International students can purchase a monthly public transport pass for around 14 EUR. This pass allows unlimited travel on buses, trams, and the metro within the city, making it a cost-effective option for daily commuting. For those who prefer to avoid buying a monthly pass, single tickets for public transport in Romania typically cost around 0.50-0.75 EUR per ride. These tickets are valid for a single journey on any mode of public transport within the city. Taxi services are also available in Romania, with fares varying depending on the distance traveled and the time of day. The starting fare for a taxi ride is around 0.60 EUR, with an additional cost per kilometer.

It’s worth noting that many public transport services in Romania offer discounts for students upon presentation of a valid student ID card. These discounts can significantly reduce transportation costs for international students studying in Romania. Overall students can efficiently navigate the cities and explore the country without breaking the bank on transportation expenses.

Utilities 

On average, international students can expect to pay around 100 EUR per month for utilities, including electricity, water, heating, and garbage disposal. This cost may vary depending on the season, with higher expenses during winter due to increased heating requirements. For students sharing an apartment, these costs are typically divided among the occupants. This arrangement helps reduce individual expenses and makes utilities more affordable for each student. In some cases, utilities may be included in the rent for student accommodations like dormitories or shared apartments. Students need to clarify with their landlords or accommodation providers whether utilities are covered in their rent or if they need to pay separately. Apart from basic utilities, students should also budget for internet costs (around 15 EUR per month) and any other specific services they may require. 

Entertainment 

Romania offers a variety of entertainment options for students, including dining out, visiting cafes, exploring cultural sites, attending events, and enjoying recreational activities. The cost of entertainment can vary depending on the student’s preferences and frequency of activities. Here are some of the popular activities and their associated costs:

• Visiting museums, galleries, historical sites, and cultural events is a great way for students to immerse themselves in the local culture. Entrance fees to cultural sites in Romania typically range from 2 to 10 EUR, making it an affordable leisure option.
• Recreational Activities: Students can engage in recreational activities like sports, fitness classes, hiking, or exploring nature. The cost of these activities can vary but generally range from 5 to 20 EUR per session or activity.
• Events and Festivals: Attending events, concerts, festivals, and performances is another form of student entertainment. Ticket prices for such events in Romania can range from 10 to 50 EUR, depending on the event and venue.
• Nightlife: Exploring the nightlife in Romanian cities by visiting bars, clubs, and social venues is a common leisure activity for students. The cost of a night out can vary but typically ranges from 10 to 30 EUR, including drinks and entrance fees.

Health Insurance 

Health insurance is mandatory for international students in Romania, with costs averaging around 10 EUR per month. This insurance ensures that students have access to necessary healthcare services during their stay in Romania. Some universities may offer health services or discounts for their students, providing additional support for medical needs. Students should inquire about the specific health services available at their university. In addition to health insurance, international students should budget for potential medical expenses such as doctor’s visits, medications, and emergency care. The cost of medical services in Romania can vary, so having a buffer for unexpected healthcare needs is important.

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Living Expenses in Romania: By Cities 

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Tips for Reducing Living Costs in Romania 

To reduce living costs in Romania, consider the following tips:

• Budget Smartly: Romania offers a relatively low cost of living, but budgeting is essential. Average costs include monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment, utilities, public transport pass, meals, and groceries
• Accommodation: Consider sharing a place to stay to reduce rent costs. Many students opt for dorms or shared accommodations provided by the school.
• Cook at Home: Cooking at home is a great way to save money as eating out can be expensive. Grocery prices for essentials like milk, bread, eggs, and vegetables are reasonable
• Use Free Activities: Take advantage of free or inexpensive activities in Romania such as visiting museums, hiking, and sightseeing.
• Public Transport: Opt for public transportation like buses and trains to save on travel expenses within Romania
• Compare Prices: Always compare prices at different stores before making purchases to find the best deals
• Student Discounts: Look out for student discounts when you’re out and about as many companies offer discounts to students

By following these tips like budgeting wisely, cooking at home, utilizing public transport, and seeking discounts, you can effectively reduce your living costs in Romania.

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Conclusion 

In conclusion, the living expenses in Romania for students are indeed quite low. The affordability of Romania as a study destination cannot be overstated. With a lower cost of living compared to many other major educational hubs, Romania offers a unique value proposition for international students. But affordability is only one side of the coin, it is also crucial to carefully review the quality of education offered by the institutions. A degree from a reputable Romanian university can open doors to a wide range of career opportunities both within the country and internationally. Moreover, the future prospects and potential return on investment should also be taken into account. By considering these factors alongside cost, students can make informed decisions that align with their academic and professional goals. For information and guidance regarding studying in Romania or any other country, consider reaching out to our admission experts at Gyanberry. Book your free video call appointment now!