Pros & Cons of Living in Hasselt

Thinking about moving to Hasselt? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Hasselt.

Belgium, a country known for its rich history, diverse culture, and mouth-watering cuisine, is home to many beautiful cities. One such city is Hasselt, the capital of the province of Limburg. Hasselt is a charming city that offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. But like any other city, living in Hasselt comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Let's delve into the pros and cons of living in this Belgian city.

Pros of Living in Hasselt

One of the biggest advantages of living in Hasselt is its rich cultural heritage. The city is home to several museums, including the Fashion Museum and the Jenever Museum, which is dedicated to the local gin-like spirit. These museums not only offer a glimpse into the city's history and culture but also host various events and exhibitions throughout the year. For instance, the Fashion Museum regularly organizes fashion shows featuring works by local and international designers.

Another advantage of living in Hasselt is its vibrant culinary scene. The city is famous for its Belgian chocolates, waffles, and fries. There are numerous restaurants and cafes in the city where you can enjoy these delicacies. For instance, the restaurant 'De Kwizien' is known for its innovative dishes that combine traditional Belgian ingredients with modern cooking techniques. Similarly, the 'Cafe Latino' is a popular spot for enjoying a cup of coffee or a glass of Belgian beer.

Hasselt is also known for its beautiful parks and green spaces. The Japanese Garden, the largest of its kind in Europe, is a popular spot for relaxation and meditation. The Kiewit Nature Domain, on the other hand, offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and picnicking. These green spaces not only enhance the city's beauty but also provide residents with opportunities for recreation and relaxation.

Another pro of living in Hasselt is its excellent public transportation system. The city offers free public transportation within the city limits, making it easy for residents to commute to work or school. The city is also well-connected to other major cities in Belgium, such as Brussels and Antwerp, by train and bus services.

Lastly, Hasselt is a safe city with a low crime rate. The local police force is efficient and responsive, ensuring the safety and security of the residents. The city also has a number of volunteer organizations, such as the Red Cross Hasselt, that work towards improving the quality of life for the residents.

Cons of Living in Hasselt, Belgium

Despite its many advantages, living in Hasselt also has its downsides. One of the biggest disadvantages is the high cost of living. The prices of goods and services in Hasselt are higher than the national average. This is particularly true for housing. Renting an apartment in the city center can be quite expensive, making it difficult for people with a low or moderate income to afford a comfortable lifestyle.

Another disadvantage of living in Hasselt is the language barrier. While English is widely spoken in the city, the official language is Dutch. Therefore, if you do not speak Dutch, you may face difficulties in communicating with the locals or understanding official documents. This can be particularly challenging for expats or immigrants who are not familiar with the language.

The weather in Hasselt can also be a downside for some people. The city has a temperate maritime climate, which means it experiences mild summers and cool winters. However, it also receives a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year. This can make the city feel damp and cold, particularly during the winter months.

Another con of living in Hasselt is the lack of diversity. While the city is home to people from different cultural backgrounds, the majority of the population is of Belgian descent. This lack of diversity can make it difficult for people from different ethnic backgrounds to feel at home in the city.

Lastly, while Hasselt has a number of job opportunities, the job market is competitive. The city is home to several multinational companies, such as Nike and Tech Data, which attract a large number of job seekers. Therefore, finding a job in Hasselt can be challenging, particularly for people who do not have a strong professional network in the city.

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We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Belgium. If you're moving to Belgium, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Belgium.

Homelike

We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Belgium. If you're moving to Belgium, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Belgium.
Learn More