How Much Does It Cost to Live in Brussels?

If you’re considering relocating to Brussels, you might be wondering how much it costs to live there. Well, the cost of living in Brussels can vary significantly depending on your budget and lifestyle.

Brussels is one of the most expensive cities in Europe, but it doesn’t have to be so costly – there are plenty of options for reducing your living expenses and making the most out of your money. In this guide, we’ll explore the cost of living in Brussels, what factors impact it, and how you can save money.

Average Cost of Living in Brussels

Overall, the cost of living in Brussels is among the highest in Europe. The average pricing for basic needs (housing, food, transportation and other necessities) is around €1550 per month. But that number can vary significantly depending on your lifestyle and budget.

A good way to assess the cost of living in a city is to compare the prices to those in other cities across the world. According to the Economist Intelligence Unit, the cost of living in Brussels is about 42% higher than it is in New York City. However, it’s important to keep in mind that salaries in Brussels tend to reflect its higher cost of living – they’re also significantly higher than they are in New York City. So while you may pay more to live in Brussels, you could also get paid more for your work.

Housing

Housing is one of the biggest expenses when it comes to living in Brussels. The average cost of a one-bedroom apartment can range from €700-1,000 in the city center and €600-800 for an apartment outside of the city center. If you share an apartment with someone, you can save some money on rent.

It’s important to remember that housing costs in Brussels tend to be higher on the outskirts of the city and lower within the Cité de Bruxelles (or inner city). Additionally, rents can vary greatly depending on the location and whether it’s furnished or unfurnished.

Utilities

Utilities are also a significant expense when it comes to living in Brussels. On average, utilities will cost around €125-150 per person per month, depending on your usage. Prices can also vary greatly depending on a number of factors such as the size of your home and how many people are sharing it.

Transportation

Transportation is surprisingly affordable in Brussels. A single journey of up to 1.5 km costs €2.20 and there is a monthly pass for €64.50 which offers unlimited travel for 31 days. Otherwise, you can opt for a car-sharing service or purchase a car and use public transportation occasionally to save money.

Food

The cost of food in Brussels varies depending on your tastes and preferences. For basic groceries, the average cost is around €200 per month, while buying organic produce can cost significantly more. Additionally, restaurants can be quite pricey in Brussels, with meals averaging around €25-30 at mid-range establishments.

Entertainment

When budgeting for life in Brussels, you’ll also want to factor in entertainment expenses. Going out to movies and theatre shows typically costs around €15-20 per person and gym membership prices average around €30-50 per month, depending on the gym.

Taxes

Taxes can have a significant impact on your overall cost of living in Brussels. You may be liable for personal income tax and capital gains tax if you’re a resident of Belgium or you earn income in Belgium. Additionally, there is a VAT (Value Added Tax) of 21%. The exact amount you pay depends on your income level and other factors.

You can learn more about taxes in Belgium on the Belgium Tax website.

Conclusion

In short, the cost of living in Brussels depends on your individual budget and lifestyle. Generally speaking, you should expect to pay around €1550 per month for basic needs like housing, food and transportation – and more if you want additional luxuries like organic food and entertainment. However, with careful budgeting and some research, it’s quite possible to live comfortably in Brussels, even if your budget is not as high as it could be elsewhere in Europe.

Unveiling the Best of Brussels: An Insider’s Guide

Are you ready to experience Brussels like a local? Here is an insider’s guide that will take you off the beaten path and uncover the city’s hidden gems.

Local Attractions

While Brussels offers plenty of popular tourist destinations like the Grand Place and Atomium, it’s the lesser-known spots that make the city so captivating. Visit the free-to-enter Brussels Museum of Industry and Labor to learn about the city’s industrial history, or discover the hidden garden of Egmont Palace, one of the few green spaces in the city centre. For a unique experience that blends culture and nature, explore the Sonian Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the Halle Gate, a medieval fortress.

Dining Spots

Besides being the heart of the European Union, Brussels is also known as the capital of food. Experience a traditional Belgian breakfast at Pain Quotidien, where you can sample delicious freshly-baked croissants and bread, or enjoy some fries from Frit Flagey, a legendary spot known for serving crispy golden fries since 1945. For an exceptional culinary experience, try Dansaert, a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers seasonal menus featuring unique combinations of ingredients.

Cultural Experiences

The city is rich in arts, history and tradition. If you are exploring Brussels in August, don’t miss the celebrations of Brussels Flower Carpet, which takes place every two years in front of the Grand Place. If music is your thing, visit Ancienne Belgique, a legendary concert venue that has hosted a range of famous artists such as Nirvana and Queen. Art lovers cannot miss the Magritte Museum, dedicated to the works of Belgian painter René Magritte.

Local History

Many centuries of history are embedded in the city’s buildings, streets, and museums. Experience the city’s ancient history by visiting the Halle Gate, the last surviving gate from the medieval times, or stroll through the Sablon area, an elegant neighborhood lined with cafes and antique dealers. The Royal Palace of Brussels, one of the most magnificent palaces in Europe, opens its doors to visitors in the summer months and offers a glimpse into the life of Belgium’s monarchy.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

For those looking for unconventional experiences, Brussels offers plenty of options. Check out the comic book murals which adorn many of the city’s buildings, or explore the underground world of Brussels on a guided tour of the city’s ancient sewers. Take a stroll through the Marolles neighborhood, known for its vibrant vintage market and charming cafes. Take the lift to the top floor of the Musical Instrument Museum and enjoy stunning views of the city while sipping a cup of coffee.

Now that you know Brussels’ insider’s tips, it’s time to explore the city like a local and make unforgettable memories. Happy travels!