Software Development Romania: Market Overview for 2026

Nikoloz Khotcholava

Last updated on December 26, 2025 | 17 min read

• Romania excels in technical expertise, innovation, and cost efficiency.
• The article explores Romania’s software market and strategic advantages.

In an era where global tech companies face mounting challenges in securing qualified talent amid rising costs, Romania has emerged as an important hub in the software development market. Romania counts more than 200,000 skilled developers, making it one of the strongest talent pools in Central and Eastern Europe. Multinational companies are drawn by the combination of large-scale expertise and comparatively low costs. Time-zone alignment with Western Europe gives teams operational convenience. Membership in the European Union provides legal stability for long-term projects. These conditions have encouraged global firms such as Adobe, Ericsson, and Hewlett-Packard to build major operations in the country.

“Romania is projected to see technology exports pass $9 billion by 2026. The growth is driven by a large pool of engineers, competitive operating costs, and close integration with European markets.”

This market report equips executives with vital knowledge about Romania’s technology advancement, helping them assess investment potential, reduce recruitment risks, and identify reliable partners for sustainable growth in 2025. Such preparation matters because rapid sector growth can strain delivery capacity, drive rate inflation, and widen gaps in quality. Executives also face compliance risks when scaling operations across borders. In this environment, selecting the right partner becomes a safeguard against volatility while still allowing firms to benefit from the expansion, which is expected to reach a market volume of $509.74 million by 2030. This article examines the Romanian software development market, outlines what to expect in 2025, and reviews the key benefits of building software solutions in Romania.

Romanian software development market overview

The Romanian software development sector has evolved into a dynamic ecosystem with diverse technical specializations and innovative approaches. Romanian developers excel particularly in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and machine learning applications, with the country’s technical talent consistently ranking among Europe’s top performers in international programming competitions.

“Romania’s entrepreneurial sector has experienced a remarkable transformation, now hosting approximately 1500 tech companies.”

The vibrant startup ecosystem, comprising over 1500 startups, scale-ups, incubators, and accelerators, has produced notable success stories such as UiPath, FintechOS, and TypingDNA. This thriving environment has earned Romania the 48th position in the global Startup Ecosystem Report, reflecting the market’s growing international recognition and investment attractiveness.

The market’s strength lies in its specialized industry expertise, particularly in FinTech, automotive software, and IoT development. Romanian development teams have established strong reputations in these sectors, delivering complex solutions for global clients. The country’s software development companies demonstrate particular prowess in data protection, cloud computing, and cross-platform development, with many achieving international quality certifications and maintaining long-term partnerships with Fortune 500 companies.

What’s next in 2026?

Romania’s digital transformation is set to accelerate significantly in 2026, driven by substantial government initiatives. Under the leadership of Digitization Minister Bogdan Ivan, the nation will launch a comprehensive government cloud services, supported by a €20 million investment in data processing automation across eighteen ministries and agencies. This strategic modernization of public sector IT infrastructure signals Romania’s commitment to technological advancement and creates new opportunities for software development companies specializing in government digital solutions.

“The Cluj Innovation City is a prime example, representing a planned high-technology business area that concentrates intellectual capital from the entire country while fostering innovation and value-added products.”

The Transilvania Digital Innovation Hub in Brașov has established itself as a crucial center for digital transformation, offering specialized services in AI consulting, machine learning solutions, and IoT applications. Meanwhile, Genpact’s AI Innovation Center in Bucharest has joined the company’s global network of AI innovation centers, focusing on developing solutions in artificial intelligence and machine learning. These technology clusters have proven instrumental in fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government institutions, creating robust ecosystems that drive innovation and attract international investment.

Benefits of software development in Romania

Romania’s emergence as a leading software development destination is backed by several compelling advantages, making it an attractive choice for global companies. From its extensive talent pool to favorable business conditions, here are the key benefits that set Romania apart in the global tech landscape:

A large technical talent pool

Romania’s ICT sector demonstrates remarkable growth, with over 240000 professionals working in information, technology, and communications. This represents a 20.9 percent increase since 2020, highlighting the sector’s rapid expansion.

“The country has established itself as a regional powerhouse, maintaining its position as the second-largest pool of developers in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE).“

This substantial technical workforce continues to position Romania as a prime destination for companies seeking robust development talent in the region.

Strategic business environment

The country offers significant advantages for international companies, including tax incentives for R&D activities and streamlined business setup processes. Companies can establish operations in Romania within 10 working days, depending on the pace of document preparation and registration, benefiting from various tax deductions and potential grants for IT projects. Romania’s EU membership ensures GDPR compliance and alignment with European business standards, making it particularly attractive for companies requiring strict data protection measures.

Cost-effective development solutions

While maintaining high-quality standards, Romanian software development services offer competitive rates compared to Western markets. With Romanian developers’ average hourly rates around €50, compared to €100-150 in the United States, companies can access top-tier development talent at a significant cost advantage. This cost efficiency, combined with high-quality deliverables and strong technical expertise, makes Romania an attractive destination for companies seeking to optimize their development budgets without compromising on quality.

DevsData LLC: Expert software development solutions in Romania

DevsData LLC, with offices in Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca, has established itself as a front-runner in Romania’s software development market since 2016. With over 8 years of market presence, the company combines local Romanian expertise with US-based specialists, creating a unique blend of talent serving global corporations and innovative startups from the US and Israel. Their team includes Google-level engineers with extensive experience in Big Data, Machine Learning, and advanced software solutions.

The company’s portfolio encompasses over 100 successfully delivered projects with over 80 clients across diverse industries, earning them a perfect 5/5 rating on Clutch and GoodFirms. This exceptional track record, backed by numerous client testimonials, demonstrates DevsData LLC’s commitment to excellence and its ability to exceed client expectations consistently. Their development teams, led by specialists with over 10 years of experience, have established the company as a trusted partner for organizations seeking premium software development services.

Operating from Romania’s primary tech hubs, DevsData LLC leverages the country’s rich technical talent pool while maintaining Silicon Valley standards. Their approach combines deep technical expertise with cost-effective development solutions, making them a preferred partner for companies seeking high-quality software development services in Eastern Europe.

A notable example of DevsData LLC’s technical capabilities, particularly relevant to Romania’s growing defense technology sector, is their work with a military sector client, where they developed sophisticated Computer Vision software for real-time human detection in video streams. The project, which demonstrates the kind of advanced technological solutions increasingly sought after in Romania’s expanding defense modernization initiatives, showcased their expertise in performance optimization, resulting in an OpenCV-based algorithm that achieved minimal latency while maintaining high accuracy. This case exemplifies their ability to handle complex technical challenges while delivering practical, real-world solutions that meet strict industry requirements – capabilities that align well with Romania’s emerging position as a regional hub for advanced military technology development.

DevsData LLC maintains a streamlined operational model across its Romanian offices, enabling the delivery of premium software development services at competitive market rates. Their comprehensive service package includes employer of record (EoR) solutions, handling all legal and administrative aspects of hiring in Romania, from payroll management to regulatory compliance. This full-service approach, combined with their deep understanding of both Romanian and global markets, positions DevsData LLC as a trusted partner for companies seeking to leverage Romania’s technical expertise.

Looking for software developers in Romania? Reach out to DevsData LLC at www.devsdata.com, or write an email at general@devsdata.com

Address:
DevsData IT Recruitment Agency Bucharest
Splaiul Unirii 160,
030133, Bucharest, Romania
romania@devsdata.com

Interesting to know

Romania’s strong academic tradition supports a tech education system with 32 engineering universities graduating 70000 specialists each year. These institutions rigorously teach computer science by blending theory with practice, especially in their specialized cybersecurity programs.

The country’s accessible education costs, with the lowest tuition fees in Europe, attract 100000 international students yearly and create a diverse talent pool that enriches the local tech community.

As we examine Romania’s leading technical institutions, let’s explore the top three universities that exemplify this educational excellence and continue to fuel the nation’s thriving software development sector.

Top 3 tech universities in Romania

Politehnica University of Bucharest

A leading force in software development education, Politehnica University of Bucharest specializes in advanced programming and systems engineering. The university produces over 5000 IT students annually. Their graduates, who gain practical experience through partnerships with tech giants like Oracle and Microsoft, are highly sought after for their expertise in emerging technologies like AI and cybersecurity.

Technical University of Cluj-Napoca

Ranked 5th (2025) among Romania’s 79 technical institutions, the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca stands out for its innovative approach to software engineering and computer science education. The university is a key talent provider in Cluj’s ecosystem, emphasizing hands-on experience through strategic partnerships with major tech companies. Their graduates are particularly valued for their expertise in embedded systems, IoT development, and full-stack programming.

Politehnica University of Timisoara

Consistently ranked 8th among Romania’s 79 technical institutions, the Politehnica University of Timisoara excels in software architecture and systems development education. Their strong industry connections, including collaborations with regional automotive and technology companies, provide students with practical experience in industrial software development, automation systems, and digital transformation solutions. The institution is particularly noted for its strengths in automotive software development and industrial IoT applications.

Major software development destinations in Romania

Three distinct technology centers define Romania’s thriving software development sector, offering strategic advantages for international firms seeking development talent. Major enterprises and startups leverage these regional hubs to tap into specialized expertise, establish R&D facilities, or scale their development operations.

Each zone has developed unique capabilities and talent concentrations as the market matures, creating natural centers of excellence across the country. Let’s explore Romania’s three primary software development destinations that have emerged as the country’s leading tech hubs.

Bucharest

Romania’s capital stands as the country’s premier software development hub, generating 63% of the nation’s IT revenue.

“Home to over 53000 software developers and ranked as the 16th largest tech center in Europe, Bucharest attracts major players like Microsoft, Google, and Adobe.”

The city’s robust technical infrastructure, combined with its strategic location and two leading technical universities, makes it a natural choice for companies seeking established talent pools and sophisticated development capabilities.

Cluj-Napoca

Known as Eastern Europe’s Silicon Valley, Cluj-Napoca has emerged as a powerhouse in software development innovation. The city is home to approximately 15000 software developers and 1300 tech companies, with its startup ecosystem attracting over 11.3 million USD in investments in 2021. Major tech players like Microsoft, Siemens, and Accenture have established their R&D centers in the city, attracted by its vibrant tech community.

Timișoara

As Romania’s Western gateway to Europe, Timișoara has positioned itself as a strategic software development destination, particularly appealing to Western European companies. The city’s competitive advantage lies in its combination of high talent availability, competitive developer rates, and excellent connectivity. Its growing startup ecosystem, supported by initiatives like smart city and digital transformation strategy, and a strong technical education foundation, makes it an increasingly attractive option for companies seeking to establish development teams.

Time zone differences

Bucharest’s location in the Eastern European Time Zone (EET/UTC+2) creates ideal conditions for collaboration with European and North American tech companies. This strategic positioning allows Romanian development teams to work effectively across multiple time zones, enabling productive overlaps with Western Europe and US clients. Here’s how Bucharest’s working hours (9 AM – 6 PM) align with major global tech hubs:

You can find more time zone comparisons on this website.

How to call Romania

You’ll need to follow these steps to call Romania from:

US

You need to dial the international access code (011), followed by the country code for Romania (40), and then dial the Romanian phone number, excluding the leading zero. For example, if the Romanian number is 0761 234 589, you would dial 011 40 761 234 589.

UK

Dial the international access code (00), followed by the country code for Romania (40), then dial the Romanian phone number excluding the leading zero. For instance, if the Romanian number is 0761 234 788, you would dial 00 40 761 234 788.

Canada

Start with the international access code (011), followed by the country code for Romania (40), then dial the Romanian phone number excluding the leading zero. So if the Romanian number is 0761 567 911, you would dial 011 40 761 567 911.

Australia

The international access code (0011) should be followed by the country code for Romania (40). Then, dial the Romanian phone number excluding the leading zero. If the Romanian number is 0761 122 747, you would dial 0011 40 761 122 747.

It is also recommended to use Skype, as it is a very popular and cost-effective option. In addition, many Romanians use WhatsApp for international communication.

Tech salaries in Romania

Romania’s technology sector offers competitive compensation packages, attracting local and international talent. The salary ranges vary significantly based on experience level, technical expertise, and specific roles within the industry. From entry-level positions to senior specialists, Romanian tech professionals can expect earnings that reflect their skills and contributions to their organizations.

Here’s what tech workers typically earn in Romania. For more current salary data, check Levels.

How to pay contractors from Romania

The complexities of hiring Romanian talent can be effectively managed through specialized Employer of Record (EoR) services. Leading platforms in this space, including Deel, Remote, Plane, and Oyster HR, take charge of payment administration while ensuring adherence to Romanian employment regulations, whereas DevsData LLC differentiates itself by combining these services with on-the-ground expertise in Romania’s tech sector and tailored support for building dedicated software teams.

Among these providers, DevsData LLC has established itself as a key player in Romania’s expanding technology and innovation landscape. Their comprehensive employment management solutions cater to organizations seeking to build talented teams within Romania. By acting as the official employer, DevsData LLC shoulders all administrative responsibilities – from legal compliance and payroll management to human resources functions. This setup enables international companies to maintain Romanian teams without establishing their own local business entity. The company’s thorough familiarity with Romania’s professional environment translates into smooth onboarding and ongoing team management.

International payments to Romanian contractors have become more accessible through modern financial technology platforms. Services like Wise and Payoneer offer practical solutions for cross-border transactions. These platforms distinguish themselves through their cost-effective exchange rates and transparent fee structures while significantly reducing the administrative burden typically associated with international payments. Their streamlined processes make financial operations between countries more efficient and straightforward for all parties involved.

Final thoughts

Software development in Romania represents a strategic opportunity that combines technical excellence with operational efficiency. The country’s robust technical education system, growing talent pool, and established IT infrastructure create an ideal environment for companies seeking to expand their development capabilities while maintaining high quality standards.

DevsData LLC exemplifies the potential of Romania’s software development landscape, offering a bridge between global business needs and local technical expertise. Their presence in key Romanian tech hubs, combined with comprehensive support services and deep market understanding, enables companies to effectively tap into one of Europe’s most dynamic IT markets. Their proven track record demonstrates how businesses can successfully leverage Romania’s technical talent to drive innovation and maintain competitive advantage.

As the global demand for software development talent continues to rise, Romania’s position as a premier technology destination has become increasingly significant. Companies partnering with established firms like DevsData LLC gain access not just to technical talent but to a mature ecosystem that supports long-term growth and innovation. This combination of factors makes Romania an optimal choice for organizations looking to build sustainable, high-performing development teams in 2025 and beyond.

Any questions or comments? Let me know on Twitter/X.

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Nikoloz Khotcholava Copywriter and Marketer

Nika Khotcholava is a dedicated copywriter with four years of experience crafting engaging content across various platforms. His background in social media management has sharpened his ability to communicate ideas effectively and collaborate closely with designers to bring creative visions to life. Nika thrives in fast-paced environments and enjoys learning something new every day.

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