Living in Brussels: the ultimate expat guide

The job market in Brussels is rich with opportunity, especially for professionals in international, multilingual, and policy-related roles. Its role as the center of EU activity and its wide international links makes it an attractive place to build a career in both the public and private sectors.

Key sectors

Major industries include EU administration, finance, technology, and consultancy. The city is experiencing rising demand in the logistics and creative sectors. These areas are regional priorities for future growth, successfully attracting professionals from across Europe

Work permits and procedures

Non-EU nationals need a single permit, usually arranged by their employer. EU and EEA citizens can work freely but must register locally. Full details are available from regional employment offices.

Data correct as of November 2025.

Sources: Statbel, Numbeo

Brussels has several universities and research institutions attracting students from across Europe and beyond. Many programs are available in English, French, and Dutch, and Erasmus+ exchanges are common. The main universities include Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB) and Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB).

Universities and programs

Universities offer bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. EU/EEA students typically pay between €900 and €4,500 per year, while non-EU students and private programs can exceed €12,000. English-taught programs are widely available at the postgraduate level.

Research and innovation

Brussels hosts major research initiatives in policy, technology, and life sciences, including the Interuniversity Microelectronics Centre (imec) and collaborations with European institutions. These partnerships foster international research and innovation across multiple sectors.

Sources: Université libre de Bruxelles, Vrije Universiteit Brussel

Families moving to Brussels find a wide variety of schooling options in several languages. Public education is largely free, while private and international schools charge for tuition based on age and curriculum.

Public and state-supported schools

Public schools follow the curricula of either the French or Flemish communities, depending on the school’s language network. To enroll, parents need to apply through regional portals or local communes, and usually need to provide proof of address and identification. Some schools may request health documentation. Lessons are taught in French or Dutch.

International and bilingual options

Brussels hosts many international schools, such as the International School of Brussels (ISB), the British School of Brussels, and the European Schools (a network of EU-established schools primarily for children of EU institution staff). These offer English or multilingual instruction and follow British, IB, or European curricula. Tuition fees vary widely, so parents should consult each school’s admissions department for up-to-date information.

Sources: ISB, British School of Brussels

From elegant 19th‑century townhouses to modern apartments, Brussels offers a wide variety of housing across its diverse districts. The city’s neighborhoods each have their own character and appeal.

Popular expat neighborhoods

Ixelles and Etterbeek are favorites for their international feel and proximity to EU institutions. Saint-Gilles attracts younger professionals and creatives, while Uccle and Woluwe-Saint-Pierre are greener and more family-friendly. The city center is ideal if you want historic architecture and lively cafés right on your doorstep.

Average rents and rental process

Rents vary by area, with one-bedroom apartments in central neighborhoods typically costing less than in most major Western capitals. To rent, tenants usually provide ID, proof of income, and a security deposit equal to two months’ rent. Leases are written and registered, and rent payments are made by bank transfer.

Data correct as of November 2025.

Source: Numbeo

Brussels combines a rich cultural heritage with a lively arts and food scene. From art galleries and museums to markets and music venues, there’s always something fascinating to see and do in Brussels.

Cultural institutions

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium display works from the Flemish Primitives to Magritte, while BOZAR (Center for Fine Arts) hosts exhibitions, concerts, and performances throughout the year. Comic Strip Center, dedicated to Belgium’s famous illustrators, is a fun stop for all ages. Many institutions offer multilingual tours and community events.

Events and outdoor life

Major events include the Brussels Summer Festival, Couleur Café, and the famous Flower Carpet on Grand-Place. Locals enjoy cycling through the city’s parks, such as Parc du Cinquantenaire and Bois de la Cambre, or taking day trips to Ghent and Bruges. Nightlife is centered around Saint-Géry and Flagey, where bars and live music venues stay open late.

Life in Brussels combines the energy of a European capital with the charm of neighborhood streets. Streets bustle with locals shopping at markets, sampling Belgian specialties, or stopping at artisan shops.

Living like a local

Residents enjoy the city’s outdoor cafés, bustling community markets, and a diverse food scene that ranges from Belgian classics to international cuisine. Participating in a local language course or hobby club is a good way to meet people and integrate into the community. Many expats also join cultural associations connected to their home countries.

Everyday essentials

Public transport is reliable, with the STIB network operating metro, tram, and bus lines across the city. Cycling is becoming more common, and car-sharing options are widely available. Small groceries, bakeries, and pharmacies are scattered through every neighborhood.

While housing and dining costs can be higher than in smaller Belgian cities, the cost of living in Brussels is generally more affordable than Paris or London. Monthly transport passes offer unlimited travel on metro, tram, and bus lines, making commuting straightforward and cost-effective.

Monthly expenses for a single person

Data correct as of November 2025.

Monthly expenses for a family of four

Data correct as of November 2025.

Sources: Numbeo, Relocate Me