Accommodation in Bucharest

Finding accommodation in Bucharest can be straightforward with proper research and professional assistance when needed. In the right areas, expats will find neighbourhoods with cobbled streets, lively markets selling locally grown vegetables, parks with flowering linden trees and outdoor terrace cafés.

Areas and suburbs in Bucharest

Bucharest is divided into six sectors, each with its own municipal council and mayor responsible for local administration. Each of these sectors has charming neighbourhoods from which expats can choose.

Most expat families live in Bucharest’s northern areas, particularly around Pipera and Voluntari, where several excellent international schools are located alongside some of the city’s best parks. Wealthy and diplomatic families will usually live in areas like Primăverii, Kiseleff, Dorobanți and nearby districts, some of Bucharest’s oldest and most affluent neighbourhoods. Domenii and Cotroceni boast tree-lined streets, green spaces and cultural experiences that make them perfect for expat families.

The Old Town and Bucharest’s central neighbourhoods are best suited for young and single expats looking to be where the action is. Piața Romană, Lipscani and Icoanei have plenty of exciting and chic cafés, bars, pubs and boutiques for expats to enjoy. There is also plenty of Romanian culture and modern amenities to be experienced in central Bucharest.

Best (and Worst) Areas and Suburbs in Bucharest

Types of accommodation in Bucharest

Expats have many options when it comes to housing in Bucharest. Apartments are most common in the city centre, while larger villas are available in some of the neighbourhoods in Bucharest. Expats should note, however, that a ‘three-roomed apartment’ in an advertisement means that there are three rooms in total and not three bedrooms.

Refurbished old townhouses and apartments offer the luxury of living in a beautiful central area with coffee shops, parks, museums and art galleries. Unique architecture can be found in central and northern Bucharest, like Art Deco, Art Nouveau, Brâncovenesc (local design), classic French styles, and renovated communist-era blocks.

Buying or renting accommodation in Bucharest is expensive compared to other Romanian cities, but it is also often cited as being relatively cheap by European standards. Flatsharing and co-living arrangements are increasingly popular options for students, young IT professionals, expat teachers and digital nomads who want to live in the city centre but prefer shared living costs.

Finding accommodation in Bucharest

Although supply is high and there are options for every budget, it’s advisable to use a real estate agent when looking for accommodation in Bucharest. The language skills of real estate agents, along with their market knowledge, can assist you in finding the right property. Agent fees may be charged as a percentage of the buying price when purchasing, or the equivalent of one month’s rent if signing a lease.

Some people moving to Bucharest will be lucky enough to have a relocation company working on their behalf, who will assess their preferences and shortlist properties for them to view. For more information, see our guide to relocation companies in Romania.

Expats who are familiar with the areas in Bucharest and have already decided where and in which type of housing they would like to live can search online for the options available. They can then establish when viewings are available and negotiate rental prices with the landlord or real estate agent.

Useful links

• Imobiliare.ro
• Storia.ro
• Imoradar24

Renting accommodation in Bucharest

Making an application

To apply for a rental home, you may need to provide proof of employment and income. You may also be asked for your visa or residence permit for Romania. Some landlords or rental agencies may request references or recommendations of character. Without a history of renting in the country, references from an employer can be a good substitute.

Leases and deposits

The lease period is usually at least 12 months, but shorter leases may be negotiated. Romanian law requires all lease agreements to be in writing and signed by both parties. In order to secure a lease, you typically pay a deposit equivalent to one or two months’ rent. The deposit must be held at the landlord’s bank. 

Terminating the lease

Leases can be terminated early, if needs be, but this will usually require three months’ written notice from the tenant or two months’ notice from the landlord. Shorter notice may result in one to two months’ rent being deducted. Rent is paid monthly. At the end of the contract, the landlord may deduct expenses from the deposit for repairs to the property and unpaid bills.

Accommodation In Romania

Utilities in Bucharest

Utilities aren’t typically included in the rent, and you’ll need to budget for the extra expense monthly. The landlord or agent should be able to advise when to expect utility bills, what format they will come in, and how to make a payment.

Electricity

Power supply is generally reliable in Bucharest. Multiple suppliers compete in the market, including PPC Energie, Hidroelectrica, Electrica Furnizare, and E.ON Energie Romania, and bills are typically paid monthly via bank transfer or online platforms.

Gas

Natural gas is widely available through piped networks for both heating and cooking. Major suppliers include ENGIE Romania, E.ON Energie Romania, OMV Petrom, and Romgaz. Most residential properties connect to the central gas distribution system.

Water

Apa Nova Bucharest (part of Veolia) supplies water and sewerage services to 92 percent of the city. The water meets 100 percent EU quality standards and is safe to drink directly from the tap, although some residents prefer bottled water for taste preferences. Bills are typically paid monthly.

Bins and recycling

Waste collection services operate throughout Bucharest, with designated collection points for households and apartment buildings. Collection is managed by sector-specific companies, including ROMPREST, SUPERCOM, ROSAL, and other contractors. Recycling programmes are in place, although collection schedules vary by area. Contact your building administrator or landlord for specific local arrangements.

Internet

Bucharest has some of the world’s fastest internet speeds, ranking 7th globally. Major providers include Digi (RCS & RDS), Orange, Vodafone, and Telekom, offering competitive fibre and broadband packages for residential customers.

Keeping in Touch in Romania

Useful links

• Electricity: PPC Energie, Hidroelectrica, Electrica Furnizare, and E.ON Energie Romania
• Gas: ENGIE Romania, E.ON Energie Romania, OMV Petrom, and Romgaz
• Water: Apa Nova Bucharest