Living in Brasov: the ultimate expat guide

Brasov has a diversified economy with strong industrial roots and a growing services sector. The city is a key employment hub in the Central Region of Romania, ranking among the top five counties for job postings nationally. Expats with skills in manufacturing, IT, and tourism will find the most opportunities here.

Key Industries and Employers

The industrial profile of Brasov is dominated by automotive, aeronautics, pharmaceuticals, metalworking, and the IT sector. Major international companies operate manufacturing facilities in the region, including Benchmark Electronics, which recently expanded its operations. The services sector is growing rapidly, particularly in telecommunications, financial services, and tourism. With the inauguration of Brasov International Airport in 2023, transportation and logistics sectors are also expanding.

Work Permits and Employment Conditions

Citizens of EU/EEA countries enjoy full labor rights equal to Romanian citizens and do not require a work permit. Non-EU nationals must obtain a work permit through their employer, followed by a long-stay visa (D-type). Processing typically takes 30 days for the work permit and an additional 10-15 days for the visa. The employer must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by Romanian or EU citizens.

The following table provides key employment indicators for the region:

Sources: EURES, National Institute of Statistics Romania

Brasov is home to one of Romania's largest and most respected universities, making it an attractive destination for international students. The city offers a vibrant academic environment with programs taught in English across various disciplines.

Transilvania University of Brasov

Transilvania University of Brasov (UTBv) is the largest public university in the Central Region of Romania, with approximately 19,300 students and 760 full-time academic staff. The university offers over 100 bachelor's programs, 60+ master's programs, and 18 doctoral programs across 18 faculties. Programs span engineering, social sciences, humanities, arts, medicine, mathematics, and sports. Several programs are offered entirely in English, particularly in engineering, business, computer science, and international studies.

Tuition Fees and Admission

Tuition fees at UTBv are considerably lower than in Western Europe or North America. For EU citizens, undergraduate fees start from approximately USD 800/year. For non-EU international students, tuition ranges from USD 2,500 to USD 3,500/year for most programs, with medicine programs costing around USD 5,000-6,000/year. The university provides on-campus dormitory accommodation at USD 50-150/month. Admission requires proof of English proficiency, typically a TOEFL score of 90 or equivalent. Romanian government scholarships are available for non-EU students, covering tuition, accommodation, and a monthly stipend.

For detailed program information and applications, visit Transilvania University Official Website.

Sources: UTBv Tuition Fees, QS Top Universities

Families relocating to Brasov will find educational options for children of all ages, though international schooling choices are more limited compared to Bucharest. The Romanian public education system is free for residents, with compulsory schooling from age 4 to Grade 12.

International and Private Schools

The primary international option in Brasov is Greater Grace International School (GGIS), which offers an American curriculum from kindergarten through high school. The school provides full English immersion and is popular among expat families seeking an internationally recognized education. GGIS emphasizes character development alongside academics and offers small class sizes. For families requiring other international curricula such as British (IGCSE/A-Levels) or International Baccalaureate, the nearest options are in Bucharest, approximately 2.5 hours away. Schools like the International British School of Bucharest, American International School of Bucharest, and International School of Bucharest offer comprehensive international programs with tuition ranging from EUR 5,000 to EUR 13,000/year.

Public Education System

Romanian public schools teach in Romanian, though the Ministry of Education provides language introductory courses for foreign children. Education follows the French-influenced model with primary school (Grades 1-4), gymnasium (Grades 5-8), and high school (Grades 9-12). Foreign languages, typically English and French or German, are taught from primary school onwards. Transylvania, including Brasov, has historically strong German educational influences.

Sources: Greater Grace International School, Eurydice - Romania Education

The Brasov housing market offers a range of options from historic apartments in the medieval center to modern developments in newer districts. Rental prices have been rising but remain significantly lower than in Western European cities.

Average Rental Prices

Rental costs in Brasov are approximately 21% lower than in Bucharest. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically costs between EUR 350-500/month, while similar accommodation outside the center ranges from EUR 250-350/month. For a three-bedroom apartment, expect to pay EUR 500-700/month in central areas. Most rentals require a one-month deposit and are unfurnished unless otherwise specified. Utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage) add approximately EUR 100-150/month.

Best Neighborhoods for Expats

The Old Town (Centrul Vechi) is ideal for those who want to live amid medieval architecture with restaurants, cafes, and cultural attractions at their doorstep. Blumana/New Center offers modern amenities and is popular with professionals. Schei is a quieter, traditional neighborhood close to the center. Astra features modern apartment buildings with good public transport connections and green spaces. Noua and Valea Cetatii are peaceful areas on the outskirts offering larger properties and mountain views, ideal for families. Tractorul has transformed from an industrial area into a trendy business district with ongoing development.

Sources: Numbeo, Romania Experience

Brasov offers a rich cultural scene and abundant outdoor activities. The city's medieval heritage, proximity to mountains, and lively events calendar ensure there is always something to explore.

Cultural Attractions

The Black Church (Biserica Neagră) is Brasov's most iconic landmark—the largest Gothic church between Constantinople and Vienna, built between 1383 and 1480. Council Square (Piața Sfatului) forms the heart of the Old Town, surrounded by colorful Baroque buildings and home to the History Museum in the Old Town Hall. The First Romanian School Museum and St. Nicholas Church in the Schei neighborhood showcase the city's rich Orthodox heritage. Climb or take the cable car up Tampa Mountain for panoramic city views beneath the famous Brasov sign.

Day Trips and Outdoor Activities

Bran Castle, popularly known as "Dracula's Castle," is just 30 km away and is Romania's most visited attraction. Peles Castle in Sinaia, a stunning Neo-Renaissance royal residence, lies about 40 km south. For winter sports, Poiana Brasov is Romania's premier ski resort, only 12 km from the city center, offering skiing, snowboarding, and year-round hiking. Wildlife enthusiasts can visit the Zarnesti Bear Sanctuary or join guided brown bear watching tours. The surrounding Carpathian Mountains offer extensive hiking trails, including paths starting directly from the Old Town.

Events and Nightlife

Brasov hosts the Golden Stag Festival, an international music competition, along with numerous cultural events throughout the year. The Old Town features cozy cafes, traditional Romanian restaurants, and a selection of bars and pubs. While nightlife is more relaxed than in Bucharest, the atmosphere is welcoming and social.

Sources: Romania Tourism, Romanian Friend

Daily life in Brasov combines the convenience of a modern European city with the charm of a medieval town. The compact city center is highly walkable, and the overall pace of life is more relaxed than in Bucharest.

Getting Around

Public transportation in Brasov is operated by RATBV and consists of buses covering urban and metropolitan routes. A single ticket costs 5 RON (approximately EUR 1), and a monthly pass costs 87 RON (approximately EUR 17). Tickets can be purchased at kiosks, vending machines, via the 24Pay mobile app, or with contactless bank cards directly on buses. Bus services run from approximately 5:00 AM to 11:55 PM; there are no night buses. The Old Town is largely pedestrian-friendly with many cobblestone streets closed to traffic. Taxis are affordable at 1.39-1.79 RON/km (EUR 0.30-0.40/km). Brasov International Airport, opened in 2023, provides growing connectivity for regional travel.

Lifestyle and Culture

Romanians are known for their warmth and hospitality. Family values are strong, and social gatherings often center around food and celebrations. The official religion is Romanian Orthodox, though Brasov has significant Catholic and Protestant communities due to its German and Hungarian heritage. English is widely spoken by younger generations and in tourist areas. Winters are cold and snowy, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts, while summers are mild and ideal for hiking. Grocery shopping is convenient with supermarkets like Kaufland, Lidl, Carrefour, and local markets offering fresh produce.

Sources: RATBV, Brasov Tourism

Brasov offers an affordable cost of living by European standards, making it attractive for expats, remote workers, and retirees. The average monthly expenditure is approximately USD 1,060, though actual costs vary based on lifestyle choices.

Monthly Budget for a Single Person

The following table provides estimated monthly expenses for a single person living in Brasov:

Monthly Budget for a Family of Four

Families with children should budget for larger accommodation and education costs:

Sources: Numbeo, LivingCost.org