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Antwerp vs Bilbao

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Antwerp

Antwerp

Belgium

$1,874/mo6.6/10
Bilbao

Bilbao

Spain

$1,664/mo6.4/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor
Antwerp
Bilbao
Winner
Total Monthly Cost
$1,874
$1,664
Bilbao
Rent (1BR)
$1,017
$1,181
Antwerp
Groceries
$402
$360
Bilbao
Transport
$197
$38
Bilbao
Healthcare
$210
$55
Bilbao
Safety Score
6/10
5.1/10
Antwerp
Internet Speed
200 Mbps
170 Mbps
Antwerp
NomadIQ Score
6.6/10
6.4/10
Antwerp

Which city is better for digital nomads?

For digital nomads choosing between Antwerp and Bilbao, the answer depends on your priorities. Here's our analysis:

Best for Budget

Bilbao

$1,664/mo

Best Internet

Antwerp

200 Mbps

Best NomadIQ Score

Antwerp

6.6/10

Our Recommendation: Choose Bilbao if budget is your top priority, or Antwerp if you need the fastest internet for remote work.

Digital Nomad Analysis: Antwerp vs Bilbao

When comparing Antwerp and Bilbao for digital nomads, several factors come into play.

Cost of Living: Bilbao is the more budget-friendly option at $1,664/month versus Antwerp's $1,874/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Antwerp leads with 200 Mbps average internet speed, ideal for video calls and large file transfers. Bilbao offers 170 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 6/10, Antwerp provides a more secure environment than Bilbao (5.1/10).

Overall: Antwerp earns a higher NomadIQ score of 6.6/10, making it slightly more suited for the digital nomad lifestyle.

Cost of Living Comparison

Bilbao is 11% cheaper than Antwerp.

  • • Antwerp rent: $1,017/mo
  • • Bilbao rent: $1,181/mo
  • • Difference: $164/mo

Safety Comparison

Antwerp has a higher safety score (6/10) compared to Bilbao (5.1/10).

6/10

Antwerp

5.1/10

Bilbao

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Antwerp offers faster internet at 200 Mbps vs 170 Mbps.

200 Mbps

Antwerp

170 Mbps

Bilbao

Which City Is Better for Expats?

Both cities are excellent choices for expats, with each having unique strengths.

Antwerp: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Bilbao: Best for budget-conscious expats

Frequently Asked Questions: Antwerp vs Bilbao