The 6 Best Places to Live in Belgium

A country located in Western Europe with a long history and a high standard of living has increasingly attracted foreigners and people who decided to live here for a long time. Being a country consisting of different cities with different living standards, Belgium offers many prospects for practice and living abroad. Whether you think that living in Brussels will give you an opportunity to experience the cosmopolitan lifestyle, you are drawn to the history of Bruges, or you are a student looking for a place to study in Leuven, you will not be disappointed. Here is the list of the six most favorable cities for expat living in Belgium, discussing their peculiarities, quality of life, and the most appropriate neighborhoods for residence.

1. Brussels: The International Hub

Why Brussels is Ideal for Expats

Without a doubt, Brussels is among the best places in Belgium for an expat. This is because it is a capital city and boasts of international organizations, the European Union, among other multinational business entities. Unlike other European cities, Brussels hosts people from all over the globe, making up a great, diversified population group.

Living in Brussels: What to Expect

It is possible to say that living in Brussels is interesting and useful at the same time. Accessibility is well established in the city through the use of buses, trams, and the metro, making it easy for people to commute within the city. However, prices in Brussels can be higher than in other Belgian cities, for example, because of the apartment rental prices.

2. Antwerp: A Hub for Culture and Business

Living in Antwerp: A Thriving City for Expats

Antwerp is one of the fashionable cities of Belgium and is known for its cultural center, fashion, and business environment. This city is so uniquely amazing that you will find both the roots of Europe and the flavor of the twenty-first century; that is why it is one of the most suitable places for expats in Belgium.

Cost of Living and Lifestyle in Antwerp

Although compared to Brussels, Antwerp basically can be cheaper, the price is still quite high, especially in the city center area. There are a number of different types of accommodation that can be rented in Antwerp: the chic and fashionable Zurenborg district provides rather elite apartments; at the same time, the Deurne district can be considered rather cheap.

3. Ghent: A Smaller City with Big Opportunities

Why Ghent is Great for Expats

Ghent really is the best of both worlds—the cozy feel of a small town that is complemented by the career prospects of a large city. Ghent is one of the university cities in Belgium and is buoyant with a youthful population of students and young working people from various parts of the world.

Living in Ghent: A Quaint but Modern City

The quality of life is relatively slower in Ghent than in large metropolitan areas of Belgium, but the expats do like it here. In general, the cost of living in Ghent can be considered as low, at least lower than the cost of living in Brussels. Ghent also has a well-developed public transport system, but many of the expatriates prefer cycling because the city is very cycling friendly.

4. Bruges: Charming and Peaceful

Why Expats Love Bruges

Bruges is one of the most unique cities in Belgium; it has the name Venice of the North due to its’ characteristic canals, small cobblestone streets, and medieval architecture. Although Bruges is much smaller than Brussels or Antwerp, for example, it provides a very calm and relaxing way of life. Expats who are in need of a more laid-back lifestyle, coupled with the beauty of a World Heritage site, will find the city of Bruges appealing.

Living in Bruges: A Relaxed Lifestyle

Compared to many other Belgian cities, such as Brussels, living in Bruges is much cheaper while the quality of life remains high. The rent is cheaper in comparison to Bruges, and different types of apartments and houses—from the city center to the outskirts—are available. There are few public transportation options in Bruges, but the city is small enough that biking is an excellent means of transportation for many tourists.

5. Leuven: Perfect for Academics and Young Professionals

Why Leuven is One of the Best Places in Belgium for Expats

Leuven is the city with one of the oldest universities in Europe, and due to that, it has a numerous student atmosphere and appeal to young people. The city is recognized for its academic potential, a developing technological basis, and the passion of its inhabitants for innovations.

Living in Leuven: The Benefits of a College Town

Leuven is probably one of the best places to live for people who want to be surrounded by the atmosphere of a student and academic city. Compared to Brussels, the cost of living is not very high; when it comes to housing, there are many student residences and larger family apartments.

6. Liège: A Hidden Gem for Expats

Why Liège is Growing as an Expat Destination

Liège is sitting in the French-speaking part of the country called Wallonia, and although it is not a very well-known city, it is rapidly becoming an attractive city for expats. Economically, Liège offers a lower cost of living in comparison with other major Belgian cities and a wide range of new job vacancies and a burgeoning cultural life. It is also well known for its beautiful architecture and an active cultural life in the city.

Living in Liège: A Comfortable and Affordable Lifestyle

Liège allows having a good quality of life with lower prices in comparison with such examples as Brussels and Antwerp. The city is very cheap when it comes to accommodation, and people living in the city show great cohesion. Like most cities, Liège has a well-developed public transportation network and is easily accessible from other cities in Belgium, which is why Liège is perfect for anyone wishing to travel around Belgium.

Conclusion

Belgium offers a diverse range of cities for expats, each with its unique appeal and lifestyle. Whether you're drawn to the international energy of Brussels, the creative buzz of Antwerp, the historic charm of Bruges, or the youthful atmosphere of Leuven, there’s a city in Belgium that suits every type of expat. By considering factors such as cost of living, work opportunities, and lifestyle preferences, you can find the perfect city to call home.