Etterbeek vs Landstraße: Which City Wins for Expats in 2026?
Etterbeek costs roughly 2% less than Landstraße. Landstraße has significantly faster average internet speeds (200 Mbps vs 150 Mbps). Use our tool below to personalize the estimate based on your income and lifestyle.
Etterbeek is approximately comparable less expensive than Landstraße based on cost of living including rent. This makes Etterbeek a more budget-friendly option for expats considering a move.
Etterbeek has a FIRE Score of 67/100, indicating its suitability for financial independence and early retirement. The city's safety index is 85, which is relatively safe.
Recommended profile: Etterbeek is well-suited for retirees seeking a balanced lifestyle.
About Etterbeek
Etterbeek is a smart, understated pick for expats who want Brussels without the Brussels price tag: a one-bedroom outside the centre runs $1,050/mo and the overall cost of living index sits at 72/100. The trade-off is weather, with frequent rain, high humidity and overcast skies year-round, so pack accordingly. A safety index of 85/100, excellent healthcare and widely spoken English make daily life easy, and the large, active expat community around Place Jourdan and Merode means you will not land alone. It is not the cheapest corner of Europe, but at a 72/100 cost index with an 81/100 expat score, it earns its place.
About Belgium
Offers a clear pathway to citizenship, though no specific retiree visa is available. Those seeking long-term stays may explore other visa categories. Rent in Brussels is under $1,000/month, roughly 70% less than a typical US city center. However, income tax can hit 50% plus communal surcharges, making it a high-tax destination for remote workers.
$-200/mo
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About Landstraße
Landstraße is Vienna's third district, and the numbers make a strong case: a 1-bedroom in the centre runs $1,250/mo while outside it drops to $950/mo, with a single adult budget tier at $2,230/mo and a cost of living index of 74/100 against NYC. The expat score of 83/100 and digital nomad score of 83/100 are backed by a safety index of 90/100, a crime index of 10/100, and 200 Mbps internet, plus English is widely spoken. The catch is the retiree score of 70/100 and FIRE score of 69/100, and the settlement permit except gainful employment demands $2,548/mo, so this is a solid working expat base rather than a cheap early-retirement play.
About Austria
Austria has a digital nomad visa available or a fast path to citizenship, neither exists here. High earners also face a 55% top tax rate above EUR 1M. But retirees clearing EUR 2,548/mo qualify for a settlement permit, and with a 70.5 safety index and strong healthcare, it suits those prioritizing stability over low taxes or easy paperwork.
$50/mo
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| Metric | Etterbeek | Landstraße |
|---|---|---|
| 1BR Apartment (Center) | $1250 | $1250 |
| 1BR Apartment (Outside) | $1050 | $950 |
| 3BR Apartment (Center) | $2300 | $2300 |
| 3BR Apartment (Outside) | $1900 | $1750 |
| Safety Index | 85 | 90 |
| Internet Speed | 150Mbps | 200Mbps |
| Walkability Score | N/A | N/A |
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Etterbeek vs Landstraße -- Frequently Asked Questions
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