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Cost of Living in Belgium | Expat Exchange
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Bruges, Belgium

Cost of Living in Belgium

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jul 18, 2023

Summary: The cost of living in Belgium is generally considered to be quite high. A nice one bedroom apartment in Belgium can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 per month, while a nice two bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Belgium can range from $15 to $30 per person.

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Is the cost of living in Belgium high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Belgium, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Belgium is generally considered to be quite high, especially in the larger cities. Rent prices tend to be quite expensive, with the average one-bedroom apartment in Brussels costing around €800 per month. Groceries and other everyday items can also be quite costly, with prices for basic items such as milk and bread being higher than in many other European countries. Transportation costs are also relatively high, with monthly public transport passes costing around €50," explained one expat.

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William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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Will I save money living in Belgium?

"Living in Belgium can be more affordable than living in the United States in some areas. Generally, the cost of living in Belgium is lower than in the United States, with rent and groceries being particularly cheaper. Additionally, public transportation is more affordable in Belgium than in the United States, making it easier to get around. Healthcare is also more affordable in Belgium than in the United States, with the Belgian government providing free healthcare to all citizens. Overall, living in Belgium can be more cost-effective than living in the United States," said one person in Belgium.

What is the average cost of housing in Belgium?

If you are thinking about moving to Belgium, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"Housing costs: rental, lower; water, sewer, heating, higher; buying a home, higher," explained one expat.

"The average cost of housing in Belgium is generally quite high, with prices varying depending on the location and type of property. In the larger cities such as Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent, the cost of housing is typically higher than in smaller towns and rural areas. Renting a property in Belgium can be expensive, with prices ranging from around €500 to €1,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Buying a property in Belgium can also be costly, with the average price of a house in the country estimated to be around €250,000," said one person in Belgium.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

What are typical rental prices for expats in Belgium?

"Rental prices for 1 bedroom apartments in Belgium can vary greatly depending on the location, size, and amenities of the property. Generally, nice 1 bedroom apartments cost between $900 and $1600 per month in Belgium. Nice 2 bedroom apartments cost between $1400 and $2800 per month in Belgium," remarked one expat in Belgium.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Belgium what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"Rental properties in Belgium typically come equipped with the necessary appliances needed for daily living such as a refrigerator, stove, oven, dishwasher, and washing machine. Additional appliances such as a microwave, television, and furniture may also be included in some properties," said one expat living in Belgium.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Bruges, Belgium

William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

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