Cost of Living in Brussels

Download our Moving to Brussels Guide (PDF)

The cost of living in Brussels is fairly high, about in line with other major European capitals. Housing and electricity are particularly expensive, but food and public transport tend to be affordable. In addition, the cost of eating out in Brussels is lower than in many other expat destinations.

Cost of accommodation in Brussels

Housing is usually the most significant expense for expats in Brussels. The cost of apartments and houses in Brussels varies dramatically and depends on size, quality, and proximity to the city centre. Utilities such as heating and electricity are generally steep and for the tenant’s account.

There are many choices for finding a place to live in Brussels, and there is something for every budget. Ixelles, Uccle and Woluwe St Pierre are among the costliest in the city. Further outside the city, in areas such as Waterloo, Tervuren and Overijse, expats can expect to find more family-friendly homes with large gardens, garages and sometimes pools.

Renting Expat Accommodation in Brussels
Best Areas and Suburbs in Brussels

Cost of transport in Brussels

If you work and live in the city centre, public transport is affordable. Metro, bus, and tram connections abound and aren’t usually expensive, especially if you buy multiple-ride cards.

Driving is not recommended in inner-city areas due to high traffic and expensive parking. Owning a car becomes more feasible outside the metropolitan areas.

Getting Around in Brussels

Cost of groceries in Brussels

Groceries in Brussels are similarly priced to those in the US and other EU countries. Fresh produce can be expensive in the winter, but prices are better in season. The leading supermarket chains are Delhaize, Carrefour and Colruyt. These offer everything from meat and fish to laundry detergent and cat food.

There are also dozens of speciality stores in Brussels, catering to a variety of tastes and budgets.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Brussels

Brussels provides no shortage of entertainment options for expats. Excellent street food is abundantly available in the city. The snack stands and food trucks around town sell local specialities such as waffles and the famous Belgian frites in heaped quantities for only a few euros. For more high-end fare, there are many quality restaurants to choose from, ranging from affordable to expensive.

Brussels is a city rich in culture and history, providing a wide array of free and affordable attractions and activities for residents and visitors alike. The iconic Grand Place is a must-visit, renowned for its ornate Baroque buildings and vibrant atmosphere. The city also hosts numerous annual festivals and events celebrating its diverse culture.

Shopping, Entertainment, and Outdoor Activities in Brussels
Best Attractions in Brussels
Top Annual Events in Brussels

Cost of education in Brussels

The cost of education in Brussels varies depending on the type of institution. International schools, often preferred by expats for their world-class curricula, can be pretty costly. Scholarships and financial aid programmes are available at some schools, making them more affordable.

On the other hand, state-funded Belgian schools are free of charge, although additional costs for textbooks, school trips, and extracurricular activities can add up. There are also private schools that follow the Belgian curriculum. These charge a tuition fee, which is typically lower than that of international schools. Bilingual (French-Dutch) education is also widely available in Brussels, offering another option for parents looking for a cost-effective solution.

Education and Schools in Brussels
Best International Schools in Brussels

Cost of healthcare in Brussels

Healthcare in Brussels is of high quality, but the cost can vary. Expats working in Belgium must contribute to the state healthcare system through social security deductions from their salary. Once registered, a large percentage of their medical costs are reimbursed, making out-of-pocket expenses more manageable. Still, medicines and certain procedures can be additional expenses not covered by state healthcare.

Many expats opt for private health insurance to cover the costs not fully reimbursed by the state or for services at private clinics and hospitals. The cost of private insurance depends on a number of factors, but generally, it ensures more comprehensive coverage and quicker access to specialists. Dental care, while not fully covered by the state, is also largely affordable, particularly in comparison to countries like the UK or the US.