Is €800 Enough for Living in Belgium?

The question of whether €800 is sufficient for living in Belgium hinges on several complex factors, including your location, lifestyle, and specific needs. This article delves into the various aspects that affect the budget, offering insights to help you make informed decisions.

Location

One of the most significant factors to consider is your location. Belgium is divided into urban, suburban, and rural areas, each with its own cost of living.

In cities like Brussels and Antwerp, the cost of living is generally higher. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment, for example, can exceed €1200 per month, in stark contrast to smaller towns or rural areas where it might be significantly lower.

Smaller cities or towns might stretch €800 further, providing more opportunities for a comfortable living without overwhelming financial burdens.

Housing

Housing is typically the largest expense. In Brussels, a one-bedroom apartment with utilities could cost around €700 to €1200 per month. In smaller towns, the figure might be lower.

Utilities, including electricity, heating, and water, can add an additional €100 to €200 per month.

Internet costs average between €30 and €50.

Groceries and Food

Grocery shopping is crucial for daily sustenance. The cost can range from €200 to €400 per month depending on your eating habits.

Buying goods in bulk can significantly reduce costs. For instance, purchasing meat while on sale at Lidl and storing it in a freezer can help manage weekly spending to around €50.

Transportation

Public transportation is an affordable option, with monthly passes in Brussels costing about €50. However, if you rely on private transportation, the budget may become strained.

Healthcare and Insurance

Healthcare costs can vary depending on whether you are employed or not. If working, you might have health insurance through your employer. Otherwise, you will need to budget for out-of-pocket expenses.

Miscellaneous Expenses

Miscellaneous expenses include entertainment, dining out, and personal expenses. These can vary widely from person to person.

With a budget of €800, a student might manage to live well by carefully budgeting for all categories. For example, rent with bills included and shared with three others might be €300 a month.

A relatively high phone bill of €50 might need to be budgeted for separately.

Uncertain transportation costs can be managed by taking advantage of young adult rates, which can be as low as €6 for travel anywhere in Belgium.

Apart from these, around €200 a month might be left for discretionary spending, which could be spent on concerts, restaurants, and social gatherings with friends.

Conclusion

In conclusion, €800 is likely insufficient for living independently in larger cities like Brussels or Antwerp. However, in smaller towns, it might be more feasible with careful budgeting and cost reduction strategies. Options like sharing accommodations, taking advantage of bulk buying, and budgeting for specific categories can significantly enhance your financial comfort in Belgium.