Moving to Belgium: Housing options & real estate market for emigrants

Finding the perfect apartment is often the first major hurdle for newcomers when moving to Belgium. The Belgian real estate market is tight – the supply of rental apartments in the metropolitan areas of Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent is shrinking while prices continue to rise. In 2025 alone, several thousand new rentals were lost on the market. This guide provides you with a comprehensive overview of the various housing options, the most important legal framework of the Belgian rental market, as well as a current rental price overview of the main cities, to help you make your decision.

Unlike in Germany, the three regions of the country – Flanders, Wallonia and Brussels – each have their own tenancy laws. Nevertheless, there are common principles: most rental apartments are rented unfurnished but come with their own kitchen and bathroom. During viewings, you should check the energy efficiency of the property, as poorly insulated older buildings cause significantly higher utility costs, and energy performance certificates have been mandatory for all landlords since 2025.

The housing situation in Brussels is particularly tight – supply is falling, prices are rising. The capital attracts many international skilled professionals due to the EU institutions, which further fuels already high demand. In Flanders, rental prices are somewhat more moderate, but the market is more heavily regulated. Wallonia is considered the cheapest region in the country, especially in smaller cities such as Liège, Namur or Charleroi, where rents are significantly lower than in Brussels.

On the highly competitive Belgian rental market, a professional and complete application is crucial. Landlords generally expect proof of income showing a monthly income of at least three times the base rent. The deposit is legally limited to a maximum of three months' rent.

In addition to classic rental apartments, the following alternatives in Belgium can make the start easier:

 

– FURNISHED APARTMENTS: Particularly for a short‑term start, furnished apartments are a time‑saving solution. As an expat in Brussels, you will pay around €1,000 to €1,500 per month for a furnished one‑ to two‑bedroom apartment in the city centre. However, furnished apartments are usually 20 to 30 percent more expensive than unfurnished ones.

 

– SERVICED APARTMENTS: Especially in Brussels, there are providers offering apartments with flexible lease terms (3–24 months) as well as additional services such as cleaning and laundry service.

 

– SHARED FLATS (COLIVING/KOTEN): A popular and budget‑friendly option, especially for young professionals and language students. In Brussels, a private room in a coliving facility costs about €780 to €1,010 per month.

 

– BUYING A HOME: Foreigners are allowed to purchase property in Belgium without special restrictions – neither a particular citizenship nor a specific residence status is required.

Rental prices in Belgium vary greatly. In the, the most expensive city, monthly rent for a one‑bedroom apartment in the city centre is between €1,050 and €1,500, and for a two‑ to three‑bedroom apartment between €1,200 and €1,600. The EU district is particularly costly.

Antwerp, the second largest city, is somewhat more moderate: here, one‑bedroom apartments cost about €870 to €1,100. Ghent offers a good balance between urban life and affordable housing, with rents between €870 and €1,000 for a one‑bedroom apartment.

The cheapest major cities are is the European School of Brussels, Namur and Charleroi in Wallonia. There, rents for one‑bedroom apartments range between €650 and €800, and for larger apartments between €800 and €1,100.

Utility costs (heating, electricity, water, internet) in Belgium are around €150 to €250 per month for a standard apartment.

The deposit is a maximum of two to three months' base rent, depending on the region. It must be paid into a separate, interest‑bearing blocked account (in the tenant's name) or processed via a specialised service. When moving out, the tenant receives the deposit back plus interest – provided there is no damage beyond normal wear and tear. This deposit handling is safer in Belgium than in Germany, as the money never goes directly to the landlord's account.

Landlords typically require a gross monthly income of at least three times the base rent. The notice period for tenants is generally three months, but may vary depending on the type of contract. For nine‑year contracts, special rules apply: termination is possible at the end of the third or sixth year.

The most common types of contracts are the three‑year contract (short‑term) and the nine‑year contract (long‑term, standard). Rent is usually adjusted annually based on the health index (inflation).

IMPORTANT NOTE: Before signing a rental contract, a detailed handover protocol (état des lieux) is essential, documenting the condition of the apartment upon move‑in. This protects you later against unjustified claims by the landlord regarding the deposit.

Moving to Belgium requires careful preparation regarding apartment search, regional differences and legal framework. The real estate market is highly competitive in metropolitan areas such as Brussels and Antwerp, and rental prices in the capital are among the highest in Belgium. However, those willing to move to Wallonia or smaller cities can find significantly more affordable housing. A detailed look at regional legislation, the deposit, the handover protocol and indexation clauses will help you successfully master your start in Belgium.