The Most Sought-After Neighborhoods for Expatriates in Belgium

Published on April 30, 2026 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Moving to Belgium is attracting a growing number of expats, whether they are diplomats, employees of European institutions, international families, or digital workers. A high quality of life, efficient healthcare system, good schools, overall good security, and openness to foreigners make it a highly sought-after destination. But once the country is chosen, one question always comes up: which neighborhood to live in?

Understanding Belgium’s expat map

Before delving into the details of cities and neighborhoods, it is useful to understand some key features of the country. Belgium is divided into three main regions: the Dutch-speaking Flanders in the north, French-speaking Wallonia in the south (with a small German-speaking area), and the Brussels-Capital Region, officially bilingual. English is widely spoken, especially in large cities and international professional environments.

The majority of expats are concentrated in and around Brussels, the country’s capital but also the seat of many European institutions and NATO. Antwerp, Ghent, Bruges, Leuven, Liège, Waterloo, Tervuren, and Louvain-la-Neuve also regularly appear on the radar of new arrivals.

The cost of living is high on a European scale, but remains on average lower than in the United Kingdom and relatively comparable to other Western European countries. Regarding housing, the highest prices are found in the Brussels-Capital Region, followed by the major Flemish cities, while Wallonia remains generally more affordable.

To quickly gauge some cost benchmarks, here is a summary of average rents in the main Belgian cities (all types of neighborhoods combined):

These averages obviously mask enormous differences between neighborhoods. That is precisely where expats’ choices come into play.

Brussels: European capital and mosaic of neighborhoods

Brussels concentrates the majority of the country’s expat population. Approximately 37% of residents are non-Belgian and some neighborhoods have over 40% foreigners. The city is compact: from most municipalities, reaching the center takes less than 30 minutes. But each municipality — there are 19 — has its own identity, its real estate market, its atmosphere, and its degree of greenery.

Overall, purchase prices in the Brussels Region hover around €3,296 per square meter in 2025, with an annual increase of approximately 3%. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around €1,200. For expats, a few municipalities stand out clearly.

Ixelles: The quintessential “cool” neighborhood

Ixelles (1050) is arguably the name that comes up most often when asking expats settled in Brussels. This large area southeast of the center combines almost all the advantages: cosmopolitan atmosphere, abundant cultural offerings, proximity to European institutions, numerous parks and ponds, and a large international community.

The neighborhood is described as dynamic, green, and high-end. Foreign residents are said to represent about half the population, with a strong presence of French people, young professionals, and students, thanks to the proximity of ULB and VUB universities. It is also home to NGOs, international companies, and offices linked to the EU.

In terms of real estate, Ixelles is among the most expensive areas of the capital. The average purchase price exceeds €4,250 per square meter, with annual growth of about 3.7%. For a rental, a one-bedroom apartment costs on average €1,374 per month, and studios often range between €670 and €900, while two-bedrooms easily reach €1,900 to €3,000.

Iconic sub-neighborhoods include Châtelain (tree-lined streets, Wednesday market, independent shops), Flagey (bars, restaurants, nightlife, ponds), Matongé (lively African quarter), as well as the areas around the Ixelles ponds and the Abbey of La Cambre. Avenue Louise, straddling Ixelles and the City of Brussels, concentrates luxury shops and offices.

For expats, the main attraction lies in this blend of very local neighborhood life (markets, corner cafes) and a density of international services: schools, European offices, specialized stores. The municipality is also considered one of the safest in Brussels.

Uccle: The green and affluent suburb

Uccle (1180) stands out as a magnet for expat families looking for spacious houses and gardens, while remaining within reach of the city. Located south of Brussels, this municipality combines a strong residential character, a relatively low population density, and an extremely green environment, thanks to the proximity of Bois de la Cambre and the Forêt de Soignes.

The downside: limited metro access (residents rejected its extension), frequent traffic jams, and less developed nightlife than in Ixelles or Saint‑Gilles. But for families seeking peace, security (the municipality is among the safest in the capital), and quick access to international schools (British School of Brussels or International School of Brussels nearby), Uccle remains one of the most sought-after addresses.

Woluwe-Saint-Pierre and Woluwe-Saint-Lambert: The very family-friendly “Woluves”

To the east of Brussels, Woluwe-Saint-Pierre (1150) and Woluwe-Saint-Lambert (1200) constitute another major attraction pole for expats, especially those working in European institutions or in company headquarters located along the avenue de Tervuren.

Woluwe-Saint-Pierre is an affluent residential municipality, dotted with villas with gardens, embassies, and large parks like Parc de Woluwe or the Mellaerts Ponds. Security is very high. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranges between €1,300 and €1,600, placing the municipality in the upper tier. It houses or is adjacent to several international schools, including the British School of Brussels and European schools.

Woluwe-Saint-Lambert, its immediate neighbor, offers an equally tranquil and green setting, with a slight advantage in terms of budget. It is home to the large Woluwe Shopping Centre, various sports facilities, and remains well served by the metro. Its population includes a high proportion of foreign residents (nearly 38% across both Woluwe municipalities).

Etterbeek and the European Quarter: Closest to the institutions

Etterbeek (1040) and the European Quarter, which extends over the City of Brussels and part of Etterbeek, form the epicenter of the professional life of many expats. This is where the European Commission, the Council, Parliament, and a myriad of consultancies, NGOs, and lobbies are concentrated.

Etterbeek presents a very residential face, with tree-lined streets, townhouses, and apartment buildings. Expats represent nearly half of the population there. The educational offerings are dense: European schools, international institutions, bilingual public schools. Rents for a one-bedroom are around €1,100–€1,300; purchase prices hover around €3,950 per square meter, with an annual increase close to 3%.

The European Quarter itself, around Schuman and Place du Luxembourg, mainly attracts young professionals: modern buildings, new apartments, overflowing cafes after work, a social life very much paced by the European calendar. It’s not the most authentic area of Brussels, but for those wishing to live a stone’s throw from their office, efficiency prevails.

Saint-Gilles and Forest: The artistic and more affordable option

Just west of Ixelles, Saint‑Gilles (1060) has in recent years become one of the favorite playgrounds for artists, young creatives, and expats looking for a lively neighborhood that’s a bit more affordable than its neighbor. It features remarkable Art Nouveau architecture, unique cafes, restaurants from around the world, and vibrant neighborhood life around the Parvis de Saint‑Gilles.

Rents there are significantly softer than in Ixelles: €900 to €1,100 for a one-bedroom apartment, with a purchase price around €3,700 per square meter. Security is considered average: gentrification has reduced some problems, but areas near the Midi station or certain streets should still be approached with caution at night.

Schaerbeek, Anderlecht, Evere: The “budget” bets

For expats on a tighter budget, several Brussels municipalities still offer interesting opportunities, at the cost of some compromises.

Schaerbeek (1030), to the northeast, is a true cultural mosaic, with over 140 nationalities. Around Parc Josaphat, beautiful Art Nouveau houses, quiet streets, and very appreciated neighborhood life. Rents for a one-bedroom range between €850 and €1,000, with a price per square meter around €3,200. Some areas remain more delicate, but the municipality is undergoing strong renovation and prices are rising quickly (+4.8% per year).

Anderlecht (1070), to the west, is often seen as a “good deal” for those looking to live for less than €1,000 per month for a one-bedroom apartment (around €800–€950). Long perceived as more working-class, the municipality is transforming, with a canal undergoing real estate conversion, co-living spaces, and good transport links. As in Schaerbeek, the perception of security varies greatly from one neighborhood to another.

Evere (1140), to the northeast, remains unknown to many newcomers but is already attracting NATO employees. One can still find smaller houses and more affordable housing: €800–€950 for a one-bedroom, around €3,050 per square meter to buy, with an annual increase of about 3.9%.

The ultra-green municipalities: Watermael-Boitsfort, Auderghem

Another category highly appreciated by expats, especially families: the municipalities directly bordering the Forêt de Soignes, like Watermael‑Boitsfort (1170) and Auderghem (1160). In the former, over half the territory is covered by forests and nature reserves. The population density is the lowest in Brussels, with a village atmosphere just a few minutes by tram from the center.

Rents (€1,100–€1,400 for a one-bedroom) and purchase prices (about €3,800 per square meter) remain high but slightly lower than in Ixelles and Uccle. Crime is among the lowest in the region. Auderghem, its neighbor, shares this semi-urban, semi-forested character, with the advantage of being well-connected and hosting schools like the International Montessori School. Again, the expat clientele is primarily families.

To summarize the Brussels landscape, we can draw up a comparative table of some flagship municipalities among expats:

Antwerp: The creative and port metropolis

Second city of the country, Antwerp (Antwerpen) attracts many expats, notably in the diamond, petrochemical, logistics, and fashion sectors. Nearly 57% of the population has an international background and at least 166 nationalities coexist. The city is reputed to be more affordable than Brussels while offering a very rich cultural and nightlife.

The cost of living remains high on a global scale: Antwerp is among the most expensive cities in Western Europe, even though it remains significantly less costly than London, Amsterdam, or New York. Regarding housing, the average rent for an apartment hovers around €1,000 to €1,500 per month, with a purchase price in the city around €3,100–€3,900 per square meter depending on location.

Several neighborhoods stand out for expats.

Het Eilandje: The trendy docks

North of the historic center, Het Eilandje (“the small island”), a former port district, has transformed into an emblem of urban renewal. Industrial docks have given way to contemporary buildings, lofts and penthouses with water views, museums, galleries, and a myriad of restaurants, often specializing in seafood.

Berchem and Zurenborg: Art Nouveau and family atmosphere

Berchem, south of the center, is one of the sectors most popular with international families. It features many Art Nouveau houses, parks like the Middelheim sculpture park, and strong neighborhood life. The mix of modern housing and family homes, combined with proximity to quality schools (public, private, or international), makes it a safe bet for expats with children.

‘t Zuid and Nieuw Zuid: Art, restaurants, and nightlife

South of the center, ‘t Zuid is the quintessential cultural and festive neighborhood. It is home to major museums (Photo Museum FOMU, museum of contemporary art), galleries, trendy bars, and a very extensive culinary offering. Young expat professionals particularly favor this sector, which combines urban atmosphere, access to services, and proximity to the center.

Nieuw Zuid, just beyond, represents the new wave: an urban development planned around sustainability, with many new buildings, integrated green spaces, and housing sought after by startups and digital executives. For those looking for a modern apartment in a planned environment, this sector is an interesting alternative.

Merksem, Deurne, Hoboken: Greener and more affordable

For more reasonable rents and more space, several outlying districts of Antwerp appeal to expats.

Deurne, to the east, is described as the greenest part of Antwerp, just 15 minutes by bike from the center. Expats looking for a compromise between nature and access to the city often find their place here.

Hoboken, to the south, has retained a village spirit, with a large natural area (the Hobokense Polder) offering extensive hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching possibilities. Sports facilities are numerous, as are local shops and a renowned weekly market.

Central neighborhoods and caution

The historic center of Antwerp, very touristy, is spectacular but not necessarily the most practical for long-term residents: many homes there are geared towards short-term rentals, prices are higher, and the nightlife can bother some. Expats tend to prefer the neighborhoods mentioned above.

Certain sectors, such as the red-light district (Schipperskwartier) or the Seefhoek area around De Coninckplein and Sint‑Jansplein, are reported as less safe, especially at night. Without being “no-go zones,” they require more vigilance.

Ghent: The medieval university city

Ghent combines a remarkably preserved medieval old town, canals, two UNESCO World Heritage sites, and a very dynamic student life (nearly 30% of the population). The historic center is largely pedestrianized and the city is extremely cyclist-friendly, with many car-free zones.

The international community remains more modest than in Brussels or Antwerp (just over 15% non-Belgian residents), but it is growing, driven by the university, research in engineering and life sciences, and the city’s reputation as a quality of life destination.

For expats, several central neighborhoods stand out:

– Muinparkwijk, appreciated for its affordable houses with gardens, often occupied by young families.

– Coupure, along the water, where old houses have been transformed into charming homes.

– Patershol and Prinsenhof, with their cobbled lanes, restaurants, and museums, very popular with those who want to live in the heart of picturesque Ghent.

– Visserij, southeast of the center, calmer, with tree-lined paths along the water and row houses.

Some areas, like Brugse Poort, Nieuw Gent, or even Citadelpark, are advised against late at night, but the city remains overall reassuring.

Bruges: The medieval postcard, from the historic center to family neighborhoods

Bruges (Brugge) is the archetype of the “postcard” city with its medieval center, canals, and cobbled streets. The historic heart is a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts crowds of tourists. But behind this facade, the city is also becoming a small hub for technology and banking services, attracting some digital nomads.

For expats wishing to settle in a calmer environment, several districts beyond the canals attract attention: Sint‑Jozef, Sint‑Pieters, Sint‑Andries, and Sint‑Michiels. These sectors offer larger houses, quieter streets, while remaining a short bike ride from the center. They particularly appeal to families and retirees who appreciate the slower pace, security, and proximity to the sea.

Leuven and Louvain-la-Neuve: The two student cities

Leuven, in Flanders, and Louvain‑la‑Neuve, in Wallonia, embody two complementary faces of Belgian university life.

Leuven: Young, international, and very bikeable

Leuven is home to one of the oldest and most renowned universities in Europe, KU Leuven, ranked in the global top 50. The city has just over 100,000 inhabitants, a large portion of whom are students, with nearly half of the enrolled students being international. The center is compact, ideal for cycling, and the cycling culture is so dominant that owning a car is almost considered atypical.

For expats, Leuven is an excellent option if working in the Brussels–Leuven corridor (25 minutes by train) or for those coming to study. The atmosphere is international, with a growing number of residents of various nationalities.

Louvain-la-Neuve: New and pedestrian town

Louvain‑la‑Neuve, built from scratch to host the French-speaking university UCLouvain, has over the decades become a clean-living hub, with a population mixing students, researchers, young families, and expats. The town, largely pedestrian and organized around neighborhoods like Baraque, Biéreau, Bruyères, Hocaille, and Lauzelle, aims to be sustainable, with lots of green spaces.

Waterloo, Tervuren, Rixensart: The green crown of expats around Brussels

Around Brussels, several Walloon or Flemish towns and municipalities have established themselves as privileged host lands for expat families who want more space, a very green environment, and houses with gardens, while remaining a reasonable distance from European institutions or major corporate headquarters.

Waterloo: Bastion of international families

About twenty minutes south of Brussels, Waterloo is a small Walloon town whose historical fame (the 1815 battle) sometimes masks its current role as an expat bastion. Approximately 20% of the population is non-Belgian, with a strong presence of Americans and Scandinavians.

Waterloo appeals due to its self-sufficiency (good shops, shopping centers, restaurants, significant sports infrastructure) and especially its offering of international schools, notably St. John’s International School or ISF Waterloo. For many expat families, the choice of Waterloo is made first through the choice of school.

Tervuren: Chic countryside at the gates of Brussels

East of Brussels, but officially in Flanders, Tervuren offers an almost rural setting just a few minutes by tram (line 44) from the Brussels metro. Its main assets: a vast park surrounding the AfricaMuseum, large gardens, spacious houses often on large plots, and a very green environment. The municipality is among the wealthiest in the country.

Real estate prices reflect this reputation: houses are often very expensive, but for expat families who can afford it, the compromise is ideal: country air, proximity to the British School of Brussels, and fairly direct access to Brussels. The population is strongly international; English is heard as much as Dutch and French.

Rixensart and Genval: Between lake, train, and calm

Rixensart, in Walloon Brabant, stands as a small Francophone haven within the Flemish belt. Its Genval neighborhood, in particular, on the shore of a lake with water sports facilities, is one of the most sought-after—and expensive—sectors in the region. The lake view and vacation-like atmosphere make it a popular destination for families looking for peace and quiet.

The municipality is very well connected to Brussels by train: about twenty minutes is enough to reach the capital, allowing many expats to work in Brussels while living in a much more relaxed and green environment.

Liège, Namur, Mons: The more affordable Walloon options

While Brussels and the major Flemish cities concentrate most expats, some Walloon cities attract those looking for lower costs, a more French-speaking atmosphere, or more provincial environments.

Namur, capital of Wallonia, is often cited as the cheapest city in Belgium for a single person, with an average monthly cost around €1,226. Its historic center, on the banks of the Meuse, attracts retirees and families who prioritize a quieter life. Mons, another Walloon city, is known for its festivals and dense cultural calendar, with a cost of living also softer than in the northern metropolises.

How to choose your neighborhood as an expat?

Faced with the richness of the Belgian offering, the choice of neighborhood for an expat cannot be reduced to a simple question of price. Several criteria combine, often in a very personal way.

Proximity to employment remains decisive for employees of European institutions or specific companies: living in Etterbeek, Woluwe-Saint-Pierre, or Ixelles when working in the European Quarter drastically shortens daily commutes. Conversely, those who telework can target more distant municipalities — Rixensart, Tervuren, Waterloo, or even cities like Leuven or Mechelen — to benefit from larger gardens and more reasonable rents.

Budget, on the other hand, leads to very different options. In Brussels, the same income level does not allow for the same things in Ixelles as in Schaerbeek or Anderlecht. On a national scale, renting in Charleroi, Namur, or Liège costs significantly less than in Brussels or Antwerp. Additional costs must also be factored in: a security deposit of two to three months’ rent, common charges, mandatory fire insurance, and gas, electricity, water, and internet bills that often reach around €200 per month for a medium-sized apartment.

Finally, there is the question of the desired lifestyle. Some expats will seek above all a vibrant environment, with bars, restaurants, and nightlife — they will then prioritize central Brussels, Ixelles, Saint‑Gilles, ‘t Zuid in Antwerp, or the heart of Ghent. Others will prioritize green spaces and tranquility, and will look more towards Uccle, Watermael‑Boitsfort, Tervuren, Rixensart, Merksem, or Hoboken.

A shifting geography, clear trends

Market data shows that the neighborhoods favored by expats are often those where prices are rising the fastest: Ixelles, Schaerbeek, Saint‑Gilles, Auderghem, Evere all record price increases beyond 3% per year, sometimes close to 5%. The arrival of an international population, often with more comfortable budgets than the local average, mechanically drives rents up, particularly in areas close to institutions and international schools.

For future arrivals, the challenge is to reconcile these trends with their own priorities. The good news is that Belgium, despite the pressure on the rental market (rents have overall increased by more than 18% between 2021 and 2025), remains more accessible than some major Western European metropolises. The diversity of its neighborhoods allows everyone — single person, family, student, retiree — to find a compromise between budget, comfort, and environment.

Cyril Jarnias

Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.

On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.

Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.

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