Romania ranks 10th among the best European countries for digital nomads in 2026

Romania is making strides as a desirable destination for digital nomads, ranking 10th in a classification of the best European countries for this lifestyle by 2026. This ranking analyzes 40 countries based on 19 criteria, showcasing Romania's appeal in various areas.

Among the highlights, Romania boasts one of the lowest average rents in Europe, with the cost of a one-bedroom apartment in a city center estimated at 440 euros per month. For context, Spain's average rent is 911 euros, while Portugal's is 919 euros, and even the Czech Republic's average is 733 euros. Romania ranks 8th overall for rental prices, making it an affordable option for those looking to relocate.

In addition to housing costs, monthly grocery expenses in Romania are estimated at 173.46 euros. Public transport is also budget-friendly, with an average subscription costing 21.39 euros per month. Internet and mobile phone subscriptions are particularly economical, averaging just 7.20 euros each per month, placing Romania 3rd in terms of communication service costs.

The average download speed in Romania stands at 105.46 Mbps, which, while slightly lower than Spain's 148.63 Mbps and Lithuania's 110.74 Mbps, still offers reliable connectivity for remote work.

Since 2022, Romania has introduced a long-stay visa category for digital nomads, targeting foreign citizens working remotely for companies registered outside the country. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient means of support and provide documentation regarding their professional activities and overseas employers.

Despite its strengths, Romania faces challenges in areas like the number of coworking spaces, availability of Airbnb accommodations, and the number of local events. While Estonia leads the ranking, Romania's combination of low living costs and a supportive visa framework positions it as a competitive option for the growing community of digital nomads.