Retire in Romania
Last updated on Mar 10, 2025
Summary: Retirees are attracted to Romania for its rich culture, vibrant cities, and stunning natural landscapes. Romania also offers retirees a low cost of living and a relaxed lifestyle. The weather in Romania varies depending on the region, but generally the summers are warm and sunny with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit, while the winters are cold and snowy with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to the mid-30s Fahrenheit.
What is it like to retire in Romania?
"Retirees in Romania and its surroundings can enjoy a variety of activities and attractions. There is an active expat community in Romania, with many retirees taking part in cultural activities such as visiting museums, attending concerts, and exploring the country's rich history. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, and swimming. For those looking for a more active nightlife, there are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore. Romania also offers a variety of cultural attractions, such as traditional festivals, art galleries, and historic sites," said one retiree in living in Romania.
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It's impossible to confuse citizenM with any other hotel. We don't look or sound like anyone else. Bold, vibrant, and artistic - that's us. Our rooms cater to modern travelers - enormous ultra-comfortable beds, unlimited free Wi-Fi and 24/7 food and drinks always waiting at canteenM. And best of all, our ambassadors are every guest's best friend.
CitizenMIt's impossible to confuse citizenM with any other hotel. We don't look or sound like anyone else. Bold, vibrant, and artistic - that's us. Our rooms cater to modern travelers - enormous ultra-comfortable beds, unlimited free Wi-Fi and 24/7 food and drinks always waiting at canteenM. And best of all, our ambassadors are every guest's best friend.
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What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Romania?
"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Romania is the lack of a comprehensive pension system. Many retirees rely on their savings or the support of family members to make ends meet. Additionally, the cost of living in Romania is relatively high, making it difficult for retirees to stretch their pension income. Furthermore, the healthcare system in Romania is not as advanced as in other countries, making it difficult for retirees to access quality medical care. Finally, the language barrier can be a challenge for retirees who do not speak Romanian," said one retiree in Romania.
What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Romania?
"One of the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Romania is the opportunity to explore the country's rich cultural heritage. From the vibrant cities of Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca to the stunning mountain landscapes of Transylvania, Romania offers a wealth of sights and experiences to enjoy. Additionally, the cost of living in Romania is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for retirees on a budget. Furthermore, the country's healthcare system is well-developed and provides excellent care for retirees. Finally, the warm and welcoming people of Romania make it a great place to settle down and enjoy a peaceful retirement," said a retiree who moved to Romania.
What are healthcare services like in Romania?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Romania. They wrote:
"Healthcare services in Romania are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and provides free or low-cost services to citizens. Private healthcare services are also available, but they tend to be more expensive. Romania has a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and emergency services. The country also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as cancer centers, cardiology centers, and fertility clinics. In addition, Romania has a well-developed network of pharmacies and medical laboratories," said a person in Romania.
How do I meet people in Romania?
When we asked people living in Romania about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"There's the American corner, though I've never visited it. Social networking sites can be a great resource also, you'll find many curious Romanians that will seek you out if you're friendly and intelligent," commented one retiree living in Iasi, Romania.
"There are no clubs or anything. It's very hard here to meet Expats and even Romanians. I am alone all day. Some tourists come to Mamaia in Summer but it's so run down, only some Romanians from Bucharest are visiting," explained one retiree living in Constanta.
"The International Women's Association is a great place to meet female expats from all walks of life, including from the host country. IWA is extremely involved in charity work and hosts an annual bazaar in December, which is the highlight of the organization's year. Moms with small children have several baby groups from which to choose, both in the suburbs by the American school and in the city," said one retiree in living in Bucharest, Romania.
"I have met very few Americans, the rare businessman passing through, a few students. You are more likely to encounter Brits or other foreigners," explained a retiree in Iasi.
What is life like in Romania?
When we asked people living in Romania what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Expat and digital nomads in Romania enjoy a vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and a low cost of living. Romania is a great place to explore, with its medieval towns, castles, and churches, as well as its vibrant cities. Expats and digital nomads can find a wide range of accommodation options, from apartments to villas, and the country is well connected with an extensive public transport network. The people of Romania are friendly and welcoming, and the country is a great place to meet new people and make friends. Expats and digital nomads can also take advantage of the country's excellent healthcare system and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from skiing to hiking," explained one retiree living in Romania.

It's impossible to confuse citizenM with any other hotel. We don't look or sound like anyone else. Bold, vibrant, and artistic - that's us. Our rooms cater to modern travelers - enormous ultra-comfortable beds, unlimited free Wi-Fi and 24/7 food and drinks always waiting at canteenM. And best of all, our ambassadors are every guest's best friend.

It's impossible to confuse citizenM with any other hotel. We don't look or sound like anyone else. Bold, vibrant, and artistic - that's us. Our rooms cater to modern travelers - enormous ultra-comfortable beds, unlimited free Wi-Fi and 24/7 food and drinks always waiting at canteenM. And best of all, our ambassadors are every guest's best friend.
What do I need to know before retiring in Romania?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Romania, they said:
"Think very carefully about the move. Ask your company to provide details of their ex-pat support program before you move. Come on a familiarisation visit before you come. Constanta is a lot better developed that I imagined but there is limited ex-pat activity. I spent 3 months before I came here trying to get detailed information on the town and not a lot of information is available," explained a retiree in Constanta.
"1. Expats should research the cost of living in Romania to ensure they can afford to retire there. 2. It is important to understand the local language, as English is not widely spoken in Romania. 3. Expats should familiarize themselves with the healthcare system in Romania, as well as the availability of medical insurance. 4. Expats should research the visa requirements for Romania, as well as any other necessary paperwork for retirement. 5. Expats should also research the local culture and customs to ensure they are prepared for life in Romania. 6. It is important to understand the tax system in Romania, as well as any other financial regulations that may apply to expats," explained one retiree living in Romania.
"My advice would mostly depend upon the person's situation. Most single men I know love Bucharest. Most families with small children like Bucharest because of the affordability of domestic help. Nursery schools are plentiful and inexpensive. But the life in Bucharest can wear on you. I know many people who have spent their life living overseas and are frustrated by this city. The traffic and the blatant disregard of the rules of the road are frustrating. While the traffic here is no worse than any major city (and certainly not worse than WDC or New York City), the drivers seem to care only about where they need to go and what they need to do to get there. Lane patterns, the color of stop lights, pedestrians in the road, tram tracks all mean nothing to most Romanian drivers. Service in restaurants is unbelievably slow. At some point you get used to being ignored. Trying to find someone to help you in a store with a question you have is impossible. The general attitude of seeming to not care is frustrating. Yet Romanians are genuinely nice people, which seems to contradict all of what I have just said. They have big hearts if you have a relationship with them," said one member in Bucharest.
What type of recreational activities are there in Romania?
"In Romania, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, beaches, and outdoor sports facilities. Parks are a popular destination for locals, offering a variety of activities such as walking, jogging, and picnicking. Beaches are also a popular destination, with many offering swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. Outdoor sports facilities are also available, such as tennis courts, soccer fields, and basketball courts. Additionally, Romania has a number of indoor recreational facilities, such as bowling alleys, movie theaters, and arcades," remarked one retiree in Romania.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Romania?
"People living in Romania typically buy groceries from supermarkets, local markets, and convenience stores. Other shopping can be done at malls, department stores, and specialty shops. Online shopping is also becoming increasingly popular in Romania," explained one member in Romania.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat 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.
Additional Information:
- Romania Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Romania
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Romania
- Best Places to Live in Romania
- Guide to Real Estate in Romania
- Pros & Cons of Living in Romania
- Cost of Living in Romania
- Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to Romania (Plus, Itineraries)
- Moving to Romania with a Pet
- Understanding Mental Health in Romania
- Do I need Health Insurance When Moving to Romania?
- 2026 Guide to Living in Romania
- Pros and Cons of Living in Romania 2026
- 2026 Guide to Moving to Romania


