Arlon sits in the far south of Belgium, close to the borders with Luxembourg and France, at an elevation of 411 m above sea level. The city runs on Europe/Brussels time and enjoys a temperate oceanic climate with mild summers near 30°C, cold winters that dip to around -6°C, and humidity that stays high year round at 80%, bringing frequent rain and four clear seasons typical of the Belgian Ardennes. Among the small number of expats who settle here, the preferred neighborhoods are Centrum and Fragnée, both central and convenient for daily life.
Living costs in Arlon are moderate by Western European standards, with a cost of living index of 67/100 against New York City at 100. A one bedroom apartment rents for $897/mo in the city centre and $925/mo outside it, while a three bedroom costs $1,682/mo in the centre and $1,682/mo outside. Utilities run $265/mo, internet $52/mo, and a mobile plan $25/mo. A single adult can expect total monthly costs of $1,174/mo on a budget, $1,741/mo mid range, or $1,915/mo comfortable, with rent included. Excluding rent, a single person spends about $1,050/mo and a family of four about $3,450/mo. The average local net salary is $2,860/mo. Everyday extras include $17 for an inexpensive restaurant meal, $90 for a three course mid range meal for two, $3 for a cappuccino, and $42/mo for a public transport pass.
Safety is a strong point, with a safety index of 86/100 and a crime index of just 14/100, where lower is safer. Air quality is reasonable at an index of 45, again with lower being better. Healthcare quality is rated excellent. The city of 31 thousand people has an overall expat score of 70/100, a FIRE score of 72/100, a retiree score of 66/100, and a digital nomad score of 65/100. English proficiency is common in tourist areas, and the expat community is very few in size. Average internet speed reaches 85 Mbps.
For longer stays, Belgium offers the Long Stay National Visa (D-visa) for retirees and the Belgium Digital Nomad Visa, which requires a minimum monthly income of $765/mo. The nearest airport is LUX, just 6 km away. Arlon suits remote workers, early retirees, and budget conscious singles who value safety, excellent healthcare, and a quiet small city rhythm over a large expat scene.