Romania faces education funding gaps and rising living costs

Recent economic and social data highlight significant challenges regarding education funding and the cost of living in Romania. According to the Education at a Glance 2026 report, Romania allocates 2.6% of its GDP to education, which is below the OECD average of 4.2%. Furthermore, education accounts for only 6.4% of total government spending, compared to the OECD average of 9.8%. Per-student spending is also notably lower, with primary education costs at $3,783 compared to the OECD average of $12,893.

Regarding household finances, a decent monthly income for a family of four (two adults and two children) is estimated at approximately 11,370 lei. This figure is intended to cover essential needs including food, healthcare, education, transport, and leisure.

Data from the National Institute of Statistics for the first quarter of 2026 shows that average monthly household income stood at 9,444 lei. Consumption patterns reveal that Romanians spend nearly 13 times more on tobacco and alcoholic beverages than on education. Total average monthly household expenditures were 8,015 lei, representing 84.9% of total income.