Is Cluj-Napoca a good place to live?
Cluj-Napoca is considered an excellent place to live. According to a recent European Union report, it ranks 10th among the most livable cities in Europe. An impressive 94% of residents reported satisfaction with living in the city. Cluj-Napoca offers a high quality of life, with a very high Quality of Life Index of 164.46 as of March 2025. The city boasts a strong job market, particularly in the tech sector, with 73% of residents saying it’s easy to find good employment opportunities.
Is it worth going to Cluj-Napoca?
Cluj-Napoca is definitely worth visiting. The city offers a rich blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. Key attractions include:
- Union Square with St. Michael’s Church and the Matthias Corvinus monument
- The botanical garden, founded in 1872, showcasing around 10,000 plant species
- “Romulus Vuia” Ethnographic Park, featuring 18th and 19th-century buildings from Transylvania
- A vibrant art scene with numerous galleries and museums
- Beautiful architecture mixing various styles throughout the city
What is the difference between Cluj and Cluj-Napoca?
There is no difference between Cluj and Cluj-Napoca. “Cluj-Napoca” is the official name of the city, while “Cluj” is simply a shortened version commonly used in everyday speech. The full name “Cluj-Napoca” was adopted in 1974 to emphasize the city’s Dacian roots (Napoca) alongside its medieval name (Cluj).
What are the cons of moving to Romania?
Some potential drawbacks of moving to Romania include:
- Lower average salaries compared to Western European countries
- Potential language barriers, especially outside major cities
- Bureaucratic processes can be challenging for foreigners
- Some areas may have less developed infrastructure
- High emigration rates suggest ongoing economic challenges
- Finding affordable housing can be difficult in some cities
Why are so many people leaving Romania?
Several factors contribute to Romania’s high emigration rates:
- Economic opportunities: Many Romanians seek higher-paying jobs abroad
- Poor job prospects: Especially for young people and those with higher education
- Low satisfaction with current employment and income levels
- Desire for better quality of life and public services
- High emigration intentions among youth: Nearly half of 15-24 year-olds express a desire to leave
- Ongoing challenges with poverty and cost of living crises
As of 2025, more than 4 million Romanians have emigrated since the 1989 Revolution, representing almost 20% of those born in the country.
