Belgium offers a high quality of life, rich cultural diversity, and an excellent location at the heart of Europe. With world-class healthcare, reliable public transport, and a famously vibrant dining scene, it’s an attractive destination for professionals, students, and families alike.

However, living comfortably in Belgium requires a clear understanding of everyday expenses, especially as prices vary between cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent. This guide provides a complete breakdown of living costs in Belgium for 2026 and offers practical tips for efficient budgeting.

Average Costs of Living in Belgium (Excluding Rent)

In 2026, the average cost of living in Belgium (excluding rent) is approximately €1,100–€1,400 per month for a single person and around €3,500–€4,200 for a family of four.

These figures include groceries, transportation, utilities, insurance, and leisure activities. Costs are highest in Brussels and Antwerp, while Liège, Bruges, and smaller towns tend to be more affordable.

Groceries & Daily Living

Belgium’s supermarkets and markets offer a wide range of local and imported goods, though food prices can be slightly above the European average. Shopping at local markets and discount chains can help keep your grocery bill reasonable.

Average monthly grocery spending: €250–€400 per person.

Typical prices for everyday items:

• Bread (500 g): €2.50–€3.00

• 1 L of milk: €1.30–€1.60

• A dozen eggs: €3.50–€4.50

• 1 kg of rice: €2.50–€3.50

• 1 kg of chicken breast: €10–€13

• 1 kg of cheese: €15–€20

• Apples (1 kg): €2.50–€3.50

• Potatoes (1 kg): €2.00–€2.50

• Bottle of mid-range wine: €8–€12

Tip: Buy fresh produce at local markets (often on weekends) and use discount chains like Aldi, Lidl, or Colruyt for staples to save 10–20 % monthly.

Utilities & Communication

Utility costs in Belgium are moderate compared to Western Europe but can fluctuate with energy prices and consumption, especially during winter.

Average monthly utility costs for a medium-sized apartment: €180–€250
This includes:

• Electricity and heating: €100–€160

• Water and garbage collection: €30–€40

• Internet (high-speed broadband): €40–€60

• Mobile plan: €15–€30

Tip: Choose energy-efficient housing and track consumption, as energy tariffs can vary between regions (Flanders, Wallonia, Brussels).

Insurance & Healthcare

Belgium has one of Europe’s most comprehensive healthcare systems. It operates on a mixed model where residents pay social security contributions and receive subsidized care through mutual health funds (mutuelles / ziekenfondsen).

Key insurance costs:

• Health insurance contribution: often covered through salary; private top-up coverage typically costs €30–€60 per month.

• Car insurance: €400–€800 per year (depending on vehicle and driver profile).

• Home insurance: €150–€350 per year.

Tip: Register with a local health fund as soon as you become a resident. They reimburse a large share of medical costs, making private insurance optional rather than essential.

Transportation

Belgium’s public transport network is excellent and connects all major cities. Many residents combine trains, trams, and bicycles for daily commuting.

Typical transport costs:

• Single metro or tram ticket: €2.50–€3.00

• Monthly public transport pass: €50–€65

• National train pass (commuter): €100–€150 per month (depending on distance)

• Petrol: around €1.80–€2.00 per litre

Tip: Consider a Mobib card for discounted fares on trains, trams, and buses. For cyclists, many cities offer public bike-sharing systems with monthly passes under €20.

Dining & Entertainment

Belgium is renowned for its culinary scene, from fries and waffles to Michelin-starred dining. Eating out can be moderately priced, though regular restaurant visits will raise monthly expenses.

Typical dining and leisure costs:

• Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: €15–€20

• Three-course dinner for two (mid-range): €70–€100

• Coffee or cappuccino: €3–€4.50

• Beer (0.5 L draft): €5–€6

• Cinema ticket: €12–€15

• Gym membership: €30–€50 per month

Tip: Lunchtime “menu du jour” options are common and offer excellent value, typically €15–€20 for a full meal.

Rent Costs in Belgium

Housing in Belgium is relatively affordable compared to neighboring countries like France or the Netherlands, though prices vary greatly between cities.

Average rent prices (2026 estimates):

• 1-bedroom apartment in city center: €900–€1,300

• 1-bedroom apartment outside center: €700–€1,000

• 3-bedroom apartment in city center: €1,600–€2,400

• 3-bedroom apartment outside center: €1,200–€1,800

Tip: Many landlords require a deposit equal to two or three months’ rent. Utilities may not be included, so confirm this when signing the lease.

Essential Tips for Expense Management in Belgium

1. Use public transport: It’s reliable and cheaper than owning a car, especially for city commuting.

2. Buy local and seasonal: Belgian markets offer excellent produce at lower prices than supermarkets.

3. Monitor energy use: Energy costs can rise sharply in winter; efficient heating and insulation matter.

4. Compare insurance rates: Review your car and home insurance annually for better deals.

5. Cook at home: Eating out is wonderful, but preparing meals at home saves significantly each month.

6. Enjoy public amenities: Many museums, parks, and cultural events offer free or discounted entry.

7. Plan for taxes: Income tax and social contributions are higher than the EU average, factor these into your net income planning.

Conclusion

Living in Belgium in 2026 provides an excellent balance between cost, comfort, and quality of life.
A single person excluding rent should budget around €1,100–€1,400 per month, while a family of four should plan for €3,500–€4,200.

With thoughtful budgeting, use of public services, and smart shopping habits, you can enjoy Belgium’s charming cities, rich cuisine, and cultural heritage without overspending.