Bucharest ranks among Europe’s most affordable logistics markets, with an average prime rent of €4.8 per sq m per month, according to the “Waypoint: Global Industrial Dynamics 2026” report published by Cushman & Wakefield. This rental level places the Romanian capital fourth among the most cost-competitive European logistics markets included in the analysis.

The report, which examines developments across 135 industrial and logistics markets worldwide, indicates that Romania continues to attract companies seeking to reorganize their supply chains while looking for locations that offer a favourable balance between operating costs and access to European markets.

Competitive Costs Strengthen Romania’s Appeal

Rents Remain Below Major European Markets

With annual industrial rental growth of approximately 2% at the end of 2025, Romania’s market has developed broadly in line with the global average, avoiding the sharp fluctuations experienced in previous years. At the same time, rental levels in Bucharest remain below those recorded in major logistics hubs such as London, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt, as well as regional markets including Warsaw and Prague.

This competitive advantage is reinforced by access to major European trade corridors and the availability of modern logistics facilities.

Labour Costs Continue to Provide a Competitive Advantage

According to the report, Bucharest continues to benefit from competitive labour costs in the logistics and industrial sectors, despite wage increases of 7% to 12% over the past 12 months. This balance continues to support investor confidence and encourages international companies to expand their operations in Romania.

Energy Efficiency Is Playing a Growing Role in Investment Decisions

The report highlights that, alongside rental levels, companies are increasingly evaluating the energy performance of buildings, access to renewable energy sources, and the ability to integrate automation technologies.

Although industrial energy costs have increased in Romania, they still represent a smaller share of total occupancy costs than rent and labour expenses. As a result, developers continue investing in green-certified buildings, photovoltaic systems, and energy storage solutions to reduce long-term operating costs.

According to Cushman & Wakefield, as logistics vacancy across Europe gradually declines, Bucharest is well positioned to benefit from regionalization and supply chain diversification strategies adopted by companies operating in logistics, manufacturing, and e-commerce.