Cost of Living in Antwerp: A Practical Guide for Expats (2025)

Date: 10 April 2025
Source: Best City Index

Introduction

Antwerp, the diamond capital of the world and a hub for fashion, culture, and trade, offers a balanced lifestyle in the heart of Belgium. With its mix of historic charm and modern infrastructure, Antwerp has become a rising choice for expats and international professionals. But how much does it cost to live here? This guide provides a detailed overview of everyday expenses in Antwerp in 2025.

Population and Character

Antwerp is home to around 540,000 people, with a metropolitan area population of over 1 million. It is a multilingual city with Dutch as the main language, and English and French commonly used in business and education. The city combines Flemish heritage with a progressive and creative atmosphere.

Housing Costs

Housing in Antwerp is more affordable than in many larger European cities:

1-bedroom apartment (city centre): €950–€1,250
3-bedroom apartment (city centre): €1,600–€2,400
Utilities (electricity, heating, water, waste): €140–€200/month

Transport Costs

Antwerp offers efficient transport options:

Monthly public transport pass: €59
Petrol per litre: €1.89
Bicycle (new city bike): €400–€700

Education

For families and adult learners, Antwerp has several respected institutions:

International schools (e.g., Antwerp International School): €12,000–€25,000/year
Dutch or French language courses: €250–€800
University tuition (EU/EEA): €1,200–€2,000/year; (non-EU): €6,000–€10,000/year

Everyday Costs

Meal in a mid-range restaurant: €20–€35
Coffee: €3.00
Monthly groceries (single person): €280–€400
Gym membership: €25–€50/month
Cinema ticket: €12–€14
Museum entry (e.g., Museum aan de Stroom): €12

Healthcare

Belgium has one of Europe’s best healthcare systems:

Health insurance (monthly contribution): €110–€130
Doctor’s visit (if uninsured): €30–€55

AI Sentiment Analysis

Antwerp ranks positively in affordability, accessibility, and quality of life. It's considered a great alternative to larger cities with a slower pace of life and rich cultural offering, although knowledge of Dutch or French is a plus.

Cost of Living Overview

Expense Type	Cost (EUR)
Housing (1-bed centre)	€1,100
Utilities	€170
Public transport (monthly)	€59
Petrol (per litre)	€1.89
Groceries (monthly)	€340
Meal (restaurant)	€28
Gym (monthly)	€40
Cinema	€13
Education (children/year)	€18,000
Education (adults/year)	€5,000
Healthcare (insurance/mo)	€120

Disclaimer: All figures are averages and intended as general guidance only. Costs may vary depending on district, lifestyle, and exchange rates.

Learn More

For a detailed comparison of cities, visit: Best City Index - City Comparison

To see how Adelaide ranks, check out: Best City Index - Antwerp, Belgium

Watch these YouTube videos to get a better feel for Antwerp: