Housing, daily expenses, childcare and lifestyle costs compared with Antwerp and surrounding communes
Brussels remains one of Europe’s most international cities. It attracts EU professionals, diplomats, entrepreneurs, and families from around the world. Yet one question dominates every relocation conversation in 2026: how expensive is life in Brussels really?
The short answer is that Brussels is not cheap. However, it is still more affordable than cities like Paris, London or Amsterdam. What matters most is where and how you live.
Here is what expats and families actually pay today.
Housing: Renting vs Buying in Brussels
Housing remains the biggest expense.
In 2026, renting in Brussels looks roughly like this:
- One-bedroom apartment (city centre): €900–€1,200
- One-bedroom (outside centre): €750–€950
- Family apartment or house (3 bedrooms): €1,400–€2,200
Neighbourhood matters enormously. Areas such as Ixelles, Etterbeek and Woluwe remain popular with expats and command higher prices.
Buying property is still common among long-term residents. Average prices in Brussels range between €3,200 and €4,500 per square metre, depending on location and energy rating. New EPC regulations also influence prices, with energy-efficient homes commanding a premium.
Utilities and Energy: A New Reality
Energy prices stabilised compared to the crisis years, but costs remain high.
A typical monthly utility bill for a family apartment includes:
- Electricity and gas: €180–€250
- Water: €25–€40
- Internet and TV: €60–€90
Poorly insulated homes can easily push energy bills higher. Many families now prioritise EPC ratings over location.
Food and Groceries: From Supermarkets to Local Markets
Food costs in Brussels sit slightly above the European average.
Monthly grocery spending typically falls between:
- Single person: €250–€350
- Family of four: €600–€850
Supermarkets like Delhaize, Carrefour and Colruyt dominate daily shopping. Local markets offer quality produce but are not always cheaper.
Eating out remains accessible. A casual lunch costs around €15–€20. A mid-range dinner for two averages €60–€90.
Transport: One of Brussels’ Advantages
Public transport is still one of Brussels’ strongest points.
A yearly STIB/MIVB pass costs roughly €550–€600. Many employers subsidise this.
Owning a car, however, is expensive. Parking, low-emission zones, insurance and fuel quickly add up. Increasingly, families combine public transport with car-sharing services.
Childcare and Education: A Major Budget Item
For families, childcare is often the biggest surprise.
Crèche costs vary widely:
- Subsidised crèches: €400–€700 per month
- Private crèches: €800–€1,200 per month
International schools can cost €15,000–€30,000 per year per child. European Schools offer a more affordable alternative for eligible families.
Brussels vs Antwerp vs Surrounding Communes
How does Brussels compare?
In Antwerp, rent is typically 10–20% lower. However, international schooling options are fewer.
Surrounding communes like Waterloo, Tervuren, or Lasne offer more space and greenery. Costs vary, but commuting and car dependence increase monthly expenses.
What Surprises Most Newcomers
Several things catch people off guard:
- Energy efficiency matters more than size
- Childcare fills up quickly
- Healthcare is affordable but administrative
- Public transport works better than expected
- Lifestyle quality often outweighs cost concerns
Many expats report that while Brussels feels expensive at first, costs become predictable once routines settle.
So, Is Brussels Worth the Cost in 2026?
For many, yes.
Brussels offers international careers, cultural diversity, excellent healthcare, and a family-friendly rhythm of life. It is not the cheapest European capital, but it remains one of the most liveable.
The real key is not income alone. It is choosing the right neighbourhood, housing type, and daily habits.
Get those right, and Brussels can still offer exceptional value in 2026.
Find out more about Belgium here
Check out the visit Brussels website here
