Best fit: Digital Nomad (score: 66)
Dilbeek sits just nine kilometers from Brussels Airport, a short hop from the Belgian capital's core. The town rests at 50 meters above sea level and holds a population of 42 thousand. Its temperate climate brings warm summers that can reach 31°C and cold winter lows of -6°C, with humidity averaging 79 percent. For expats, the neighborhood of Groot-Bijgaarden stands out as the popular choice, offering a quieter base while keeping the airport and city within easy reach.
Living costs here are moderate by Western European standards, with a cost of living index of 69 out of 100 compared to New York City. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre rents for $1,050/mo, while the same outside the centre costs $850/mo. For larger families, a three-bedroom in the centre runs $1,950/mo, dropping to $1,550/mo outside. A single adult's monthly budget, rent included, ranges from $1,030/mo on a tight budget to $1,598/mo at mid-range and $2,058/mo for comfort. Excluding rent, a single person spends about $1,100/mo, while a family of four needs $3,600/mo. Utilities add $222/mo, internet $47/mo, and a mobile plan $21/mo. Eating out is reasonable: an inexpensive meal costs $22, a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant runs $90, and a cappuccino is $4.
Safety is a strong point, with a safety index of 70 out of 100 and a crime index of 30 out of 100, where lower is safer. Healthcare quality is rated as good, and English is widely spoken, which eases daily life for newcomers. The expat community itself is small, but the town's proximity to Brussels means access to a broader international network is never far.
For those looking to stay long-term, Belgium offers the Long Stay National Visa (D-visa) for retirement, and the Belgium Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers, which requires a minimum monthly income of $765/mo. Reaching Dilbeek is straightforward via Brussels Airport, located just 9 km away. With an average internet speed of 150 Mbps, a digital nomad score of 68 out of 100, and a FIRE score of 63 out of 100, this town suits remote workers and early retirees who value safety, good healthcare, and a calm suburban setting over a large expat scene.
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Dilbeek at the budget tier comes to about $1,461 a month for one adult, with $850 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $181 on groceries, $90.00 on dining out, $50.00 on entertainment and lifestyle and $290 on utilities and connectivity.
Rent
$850/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$181/mo
75% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$90.00/mo
4 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$50.00/mo
1 cinema trip, 8 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$290/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Dilbeek at the mid-range tier comes to about $1,688 a month for one adult, with $850 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $241 on groceries, $224 on dining out, $83.00 on entertainment and lifestyle and $290 on utilities and connectivity.
Rent
$850/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$241/mo
Staples basket scaled to a full month
Dining out
$224/mo
10 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$83.00/mo
2 cinema trips, 12 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$290/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Dilbeek at the comfortable tier comes to about $2,230 a month for one adult, with $1,050 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $337 on groceries, $403 on dining out, $150 on entertainment and lifestyle and $290 on utilities and connectivity.
Rent
$1,050/mo
1BR in the centre
Groceries
$337/mo
140% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$403/mo
6 inexpensive meals + 6 mid-range meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$150/mo
4 cinema trips, 20 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$290/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Estimates for one adult, built from this city's average prices and the usage shown for each tier. Your spending will differ with how often you eat out and where you live.
A 1BR in the center runs about $1050/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.
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See how Dilbeek's cost of living compares with Waterloo
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(Lower is safer)
Dilbeek is a safe, quiet suburban community near Brussels with low violent crime and a strong police presence. Petty theft and bike theft occur occasionally, as in most Belgian towns, but serious crime is rare. The main concern is standard European urban awareness—avoid displaying valuables and use common sense in central Brussels when visiting. For American expats, Dilbeek offers a secure, family-friendly environment with minimal safety concerns. The area's residential character and proximity to Brussels's amenities make it an excellent choice for remote workers seeking stability.
See how Dilbeek's healthcare compares with Waterloo
Dilbeek experiences a temperate climate with warm summers reaching highs of 31°C, cold winters with lows of -6°C, and a relatively high average humidity of 79%.
Close to Brussels, offering a relaxed atmosphere with basic coworking options.
| Name | Notes |
|---|---|
| Regus Brussels West | Located just outside Dilbeek in Sint-Agatha-Berchem, this Regus offers a professional environment with easy access to Brussels. It's a reliable option with standard amenities, suitable for those who prefer a well-established brand. |
| CoStation Brussels | While technically in Brussels, CoStation is easily accessible from Dilbeek and caters to tech-focused individuals and startups. It provides a modern, collaborative atmosphere with various networking opportunities. |
| Factory Forty | Located in nearby Sint-Pieters-Leeuw, Factory Forty offers a unique coworking experience in a renovated industrial building. It's known for its creative vibe, community events, and focus on sustainability, making it attractive to expats seeking a more alternative workspace. |
Names, locations and hours can change. Check each space's website before you visit. Places from © OpenStreetMap contributors and Foursquare Open Source Places (Apache 2.0).
Planning to live in Dilbeek long-term? Belgium Digital Nomad Visa lets remote workers live legally.
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See how Dilbeek's digital nomad life compares with Waterloo
An upscale suburb west of Brussels. Popular with international families seeking peace while staying near the capital.
Areas of Dilbeek that expats often consider.
Conditions can change from one block to the next, and these descriptions are general guides, not safety assessments. Before choosing where to stay or live, check current travel advisories, talk to people who live there, and visit in person if you can.
Bustling town center, convenient
The heart of Dilbeek, offering easy access to shops, restaurants, and public transportation. A mix of families and younger professionals reside here. While convenient, it can be busier and noisier than other areas.
Residential, green, family-friendly
A larger suburb with a more relaxed atmosphere. Popular with families due to its parks and schools. Good public transport links to Brussels, making it suitable for commuters. Offers a good balance of tranquility and accessibility.
Quiet village, rural charm
A more rural village within Dilbeek, offering a peaceful environment. Ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life and proximity to nature. Requires a car for convenient access to amenities and may be less appealing to those who don't speak Dutch fluently.
Traditional village, local feel
Another village within Dilbeek, known for its traditional character and local community. Offers a more authentic Belgian experience. Public transport is available, but a car is recommended. Less expat presence.
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $1050/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.
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