Is Brussels or Gent cheaper to live in?

Gent is 6% cheaper than Brussels. The average monthly cost in Gent is $1,998, while Brussels costs $2,123 per month.

Which city is better for digital nomads: Brussels or Gent?

For digital nomads, Brussels offers faster internet at 200 Mbps. Gent is more budget-friendly with lower living costs. Both cities have their strengths - Brussels has a NomadIQ score of 5.9/10 while Gent scores 6.9/10.

What is the rent difference between Brussels and Gent?

A 1-bedroom apartment costs $1,294/month in Brussels and $1,132/month in Gent. Gent has 13% lower rent.

Is Brussels or Gent safer?

Gent has a higher safety score of 7.5/10. Brussels scores 4.4/10 for safety while Gent scores 7.5/10.

Should I move to Brussels or Gent as an expat?

The choice depends on your priorities. Choose Gent if budget is important ($1,998/month). Choose Gent for better safety. Brussels is better for remote work with 200 Mbps internet.

Back to Comparison Tool

Brussels vs Gent

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Brussels

Belgium

$2,123/mo5.9/10

Gent

Belgium

$1,998/mo6.9/10

Brussels

Belgium

$2,123/moNomadIQ 5.9/10

Gent

Belgium

$1,998/moNomadIQ 6.9/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor

Brussels

Gent

Winner

Total Monthly Cost

$2,123

$1,998

Gent

Rent (1BR)

$1,294

$1,132

Gent

Groceries

$401

$395

Gent

Transport

$153

$222

Brussels

Healthcare

$220

$200

Gent

Safety Score

4.4/10

7.5/10

Gent

Internet Speed

200 Mbps

180 Mbps

Brussels

NomadIQ Score

5.9/10

6.9/10

Gent

Overall Winner: Gent

Based on our comparison, Gent wins 6 out of 8 categories.Brussels wins 2 categories.

Which city is better for digital nomads?

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

Best for Budget

Gent

$1,998/mo

Best Internet

Brussels

200 Mbps

Best NomadIQ Score

Gent

6.9/10

Our Recommendation: Gent is the clear winner for digital nomads, offering both affordability and excellent nomad infrastructure.

Digital Nomad Analysis: Brussels vs Gent

When comparing Brussels and Gent for digital nomads, several factors come into play.

Cost of Living: Gent is the more budget-friendly option at $1,998/month versus Brussels's $2,123/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Brussels leads with 200 Mbps average internet speed, ideal for video calls and large file transfers. Gent offers 180 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 7.5/10, Gent offers better security than Brussels (4.4/10).

Overall: Gent's NomadIQ score of 6.9/10 gives it an edge for remote workers.

Cost of Living Comparison

Gent is 6% cheaper than Brussels.

• Brussels rent: $1,294/mo
• Gent rent: $1,132/mo
• Difference: $162/mo

Safety Comparison

Gent has a higher safety score (7.5/10) compared to Brussels (4.4/10).

4.4/10

Brussels

7.5/10

Gent

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Brussels offers faster internet at 200 Mbps vs 180 Mbps.

200 Mbps

Brussels

180 Mbps

Gent

Which City Is Better for Expats?

Based on our analysis, Gent edges out as the better choice for expats, winning 6 of 8 comparison factors.

Brussels: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Gent: Best for budget-conscious expats

Brussels vs Gent

Brussels

Gent

Brussels

Gent

Detailed Comparison

Overall Winner: Gent

Which city is better for digital nomads?

Digital Nomad Analysis: Brussels vs Gent

Cost of Living Comparison

Safety Comparison

Digital Nomad Friendliness

Which City Is Better for Expats?

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Frequently Asked Questions: Brussels vs Gent