The latest data published by the National Institute of Statistics (INS) show that, in the first half of 2025, approximately 9,200 new homes were completed in rural areas, representing 34.5% of total deliveries across the entire country. Although the share remains consistent compared to previous years, the geographical distribution highlights pronounced regional disparities.

The North-East and South-Muntenia regions account for over 50% of all new rural housing, while the West and South-West Oltenia regions show visible stagnation, with fewer than 400 units each. These differences reflect both the level of economic development and unequal access to financing or public infrastructure.

Support programs such as “New Rural Home” or the measures under the National Program for Local Development (PNDL) have contributed to maintaining a minimum development pace in some counties, but experts warn of an urgent need to recalibrate housing policies.

For the rural housing stock to meet real needs, a differentiated county-level approach is required, along with integrating housing planning with the development of public services and transport infrastructure. Modern rural living cannot be separated from access to utilities, digital connectivity, and the architectural quality of new constructions.

(Photo: Freepik)