Cost of Living in Belgium

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Although the cost of living in Belgium is far from cheap, it’s generally not as pricey as in other prominent European destinations. The Belgian tax and social security systems are well developed, ensuring that incomes are distributed evenly across most industries.

In Brussels, accommodation, groceries, and eating out can be expensive, while living in smaller towns can be significantly cheaper but less convenient.

Cost of accommodation in Belgium

Rent payments typically account for a large percentage of an expat’s monthly expenditure in Belgium. Accommodation in Belgium’s cities can be quite costly, whereas rental costs outside major urban centres tend to be significantly lower.

Utilities are usually not included in the price of rent, and energy prices in Belgium are steep, so expats should budget carefully, especially during the colder winter months.

Renting Expat Accommodation in Belgium

Cost of transport in Belgium

The public transport system in Belgium is efficient and affordable. Its extensive network of bus, tram, and metro routes makes getting around major cities a relatively hassle-free experience. There are also several bicycle hire schemes available for those who prefer to get around on two wheels. Transport between major urban centres is often available at a relatively low cost.

If you live in a larger city or town with easy access to public transport, owning a car isn’t necessary. If you do opt to buy a car, it is likely to be a significant expense, as the cost of insurance, maintenance, and fuel can be rather high.

Getting Around in Belgium

Cost of groceries in Belgium

Grocery shopping in Belgium can be pricey, particularly for imported goods. If you prefer organic food, there are various specialist shops available, although prices tend to be higher than in regular supermarkets. The local produce in Belgium tends to be of good quality, so it’s possible to find affordable and nutritious options without breaking the bank.

Expats can save money by purchasing locally sourced products at supermarkets or visiting markets for fresh produce, tailoring their menus to seasonal fruits and vegetables. Shopping at discount stores such as Aldi and Lidl and choosing store-brand items can also help reduce grocery bills.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Belgium

There are numerous entertainment options in Belgium to suit every budget. Museum and gallery entrance fees are generally low, while parks and historic buildings are free to enter.

High-end clubs and restaurants are available in all major urban centres, as are smaller bars and cafés. Brussels is significantly pricier than other cities in Belgium, such as Antwerp and Ghent.

Cost of education in Belgium

Education in Belgium is of a high standard. Public schools are free, but there are some costs involved, such as books and other school materials.

If you want your children to follow a foreign curriculum, there are numerous international schools available, particularly in Brussels. These schools offer education in English or other languages and follow various curricula, such as the globally recognised International Baccalaureate.

To match the world-class education they offer, international schools tend to have high tuition fees, which can be a significant expense for expat families. Those on a tight budget may consider enrolling their children in local public schools or negotiating school allowances with their employers.

Education and Schools in Belgium

Cost of healthcare in Belgium

Healthcare in Belgium is renowned for its high quality, and the country has a comprehensive social security system that includes public healthcare coverage. Expats working in Belgium are required to contribute to the social security system and will therefore have access to public healthcare services.

Many expat-friendly doctors and medical professionals in Belgium are proficient in English, ensuring that language barriers do not hinder access to quality healthcare.

There may be waiting lists for certain treatments, and not all services are completely free. Many residents opt to take out private health insurance to cover additional costs and access faster care.

Expats should consider investing in a private health insurance policy, particularly if they have specific healthcare needs or want to access private facilities.

Healthcare in Belgium