Cost of Living in Belgium

Belgium is an expensive country to live in, with Brussels featuring in the top 50 most expensive cities in the world, but the incredibly high standard of living is thanks to a high macro-economic performance. The Belgian tax and social security systems are well developed and this ensures incomes are distributed fairly evenly.
For many American expatriates though, living in Belgium is expensive due to the disparity between the Euro and the US dollar, yet comparatively speaking, Brussels is, on average, cheaper to live in than more than half of Western Europe’s capitals such as Paris, Stockholm and London.

Rent payments account for a large percentage of a Belgium worker’s monthly expenditure, and with high taxes, net wages are subsequently lower than in abroad. Energy prices in Belgium are very steep and this country is known as having one of the highest utility rates in the world.
 

The cost of a loaf of bread is approximately €2 while a soft drink out at a restaurant will cost around €1,50. A dinner for two will cost roughly €20 to €30 and a litre of petrol will cost €1,50. Service charges and VAT are almost always included in prices, but it is customary to give additional tips for excellent service. Brussels is generally a lot more expensive than other cities in Belgium like Antwerp and Ghent and expats should consider buying items like clothing outside of Brussels.