Schaerbeek, Belgium Hero Image
Wikipedia Contributor, CC BY-SA

Schaerbeek, Belgium

Data updated Oct 8, 2026

Follows Belgium Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →

📊 Scores

68
FIRE
68
Retiree
84
Digital Nomad

Best fit: Digital Nomad (score: 82)

Schaerbeek sits just northeast of Brussels, a compact commune of 133 thousand people at 32 meters above sea level. Its temperate oceanic climate brings cool winters with lows around -6°C, mild summers with highs around 31°C, and high humidity with frequent rainfall throughout the year. Expats tend to cluster in the Plasky area, a neighborhood known for its active community and convenient access to the rest of the city, making it a natural starting point for newcomers.

Living here is notably affordable compared to major global cities, with a cost of living index of 69 out of 100 relative to New York City. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre rents for $1,150/mo, while outside the centre it drops to $900/mo; a three-bedroom in the centre costs $2,100/mo, and outside the centre $1,650/mo. For a single adult, the budget tier totals $2,200/mo including rent, the mid-range tier comes to $2,900/mo, and the comfortable tier reaches $3,800/mo. Monthly expenses beyond rent run about $1,100/mo for a single person and $3,600/mo for a family of four, with utilities at $211/mo, internet at $47/mo, and a mobile phone plan at $18/mo. A cappuccino costs $4, an inexpensive restaurant meal runs $22 per person, and a mid-range three-course meal for two is $78.

Safety and healthcare are strong points. The safety index stands at 78 out of 100, while the crime index is a low 22 out of 100, indicating a secure environment. Healthcare quality is rated as excellent, and the air quality index is 45, which is moderate. These factors make Schaerbeek a comfortable place for long-term stays, whether you are raising a family or settling into retirement.

For those seeking 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. The nearest airport is BRU, located 9 km away, making international travel straightforward. With an overall expat score of 82 out of 100, a digital nomad score of 84, and a large and active expat community, Schaerbeek suits remote professionals, retirees, and anyone looking for a well-connected, safe, and reasonably priced base in Europe.

Estimate the cost of moving to Schaerbeek, Belgium

Get a free moving cost estimate for moving to Schaerbeek, Belgium. Takes 10 seconds.

How much are you shipping?

When are you moving?

Powered by Sirelo. Free quotes from international movers.

🏚️ Cost of Living

💰 Budgets and Costs

$1,719/mo, one person, rent included
Selected: mid-range lifestyle

Schaerbeek on a mid-range budget comes to about $1,719 a month for one adult, with $900 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $238 on groceries, $224 on dining out, $81.00 on entertainment and lifestyle and $276 on utilities and connectivity.

Rent

$900/mo

1BR outside the centre

Groceries

$238/mo

Staples basket scaled to a full month

Dining out

$224/mo

10 inexpensive meals

Entertainment & lifestyle

$81.00/mo

2 cinema trips, 12 cappuccinos

Utilities & connectivity

$276/mo

utilities, mobile, internet

Budgets (excl. rent)

Single person$819/mo

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 $1150/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.

See low-fee transfers

We may earn a commission at no cost to you.

See how Schaerbeek's cost of living compares with Hamont-Achel

Be the first to report costs in Schaerbeek

Share

🛡️ Safety & Crime

78
Safety Index

(Higher is safer)

22
Crime Index

(Lower is safer)

Schaerbeek is a reasonably safe Brussels neighborhood with a Security Index of 78, indicating low violent crime and good police presence. Primary concerns include petty theft in crowded areas and occasional bike theft—standard urban precautions apply. The neighborhood has a diverse, working-class character with pockets of higher activity near transit hubs; avoid isolated streets late at night. For American expats, this is a solid choice with typical European city awareness needed. No significant geopolitical risks affect daily life.

🏥 Healthcare

Excellent
Public Hospitals
Yes
Private Clinics
Yes
English-Speaking Doctors
Available

See how Schaerbeek's healthcare compares with Hamont-Achel

🌤️ Climate

Summer Temp
31°C
Winter Temp
-6°C
Humidity
79%
Air Quality Index
45
Annual Rainfall
1001 mm

Best Months

MayJunJulAugSep

Climate Notes

Schaerbeek has a temperate oceanic climate with cool winters (lows around -6°C) and mild summers (highs around 31°C), high humidity year-round, and frequent rainfall throughout the year.

💻 Digital Nomad

Avg Internet Speed
200 Mbps
Internet (monthly)
$47/mo
Coworking Availability
Abundant
Coworking Spaces Nearby
52
Digital Nomad Score
84/100

Community Notes

Schaerbeek is a vibrant district in Brussels, ideal for urban nomads.

Coworking Spaces

NameNotes
Factory FortyLocated in the heart of Schaerbeek, Factory Forty offers a creative and collaborative environment with a focus on sustainability. It's a good option for those seeking a community-focused workspace with regular events.
Regus Brussels SchaerbeekA reliable option in Schaerbeek, Regus provides a professional and well-equipped workspace. It's suitable for those who prefer a more corporate environment and need flexible terms.
Silversquare North StationWhile technically near Schaerbeek (close to the North Station), Silversquare offers a modern and design-focused coworking experience. It's a good choice for those who value aesthetics and easy access to transportation.
Co-Station BrusselsLocated near Schaerbeek, Co-Station is a tech-focused coworking space that's ideal for startups and digital professionals. It provides access to a network of mentors and investors.

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 Schaerbeek long-term? Belgium Digital Nomad Visa lets remote workers live legally.

View full requirements →

Working remotely from Schaerbeek? Nomad health insurance covers you across borders, month to month.

See nomad insurance

We may earn a commission at no cost to you.

See how Schaerbeek's digital nomad life compares with Hamont-Achel

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Widely Spoken
Expat Community
Large & Active
Top Neighborhoods
Plasky area
Banks Nearby
183
ATMs Nearby
110

Expat Life Notes

A highly diverse, densely populated district of Brussels with significant international worker populations.

Pros

  • ✓ Extreme diversity
  • ✓ Affordable for Brussels
  • ✓ Great markets

Cons

  • ✗ Safety perception issues
  • ✗ Noisy and crowded
  • ✗ Fragmented services

🏘️ Neighborhoods in Schaerbeek

Areas of Schaerbeek 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.

Quartier Dailly

Residential, green, family-friendly

A largely residential area with a mix of apartments and houses, popular with families and professionals. It's known for its green spaces, including Parc Josaphat, and good transport links. While generally safe and quiet, it can feel a bit removed from the city center's bustle.

Avenue Louis Bertrand

Charming, lively, village atmosphere

Centered around the vibrant Avenue Louis Bertrand, this area offers a village-like feel with numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's popular with a diverse crowd, including young professionals and families. The area is well-connected by public transport, but parking can be challenging.

Helmet

Multicultural, bustling, affordable living

A more affordable and multicultural area, Helmet is known for its lively market and diverse shops. While it offers a more authentic local experience, it may require some French language skills to navigate effectively. It's well-connected by public transport, but some areas can feel a bit gritty.

Linthout

Quiet, residential, green spaces

A quieter, more residential area with a mix of apartments and houses. It's known for its proximity to green spaces and its peaceful atmosphere. It's a good option for those seeking a more relaxed lifestyle, but it's a bit further from the main attractions.

Page 1 of 2

Could living/working in Schaerbeek cut years off your work life?

With a 1-bedroom in the center at $1150/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.

Calculate My FIRE Date →

🛂 Visa Options for Belgium

Belgium Self-Employed Professional CardBelgium Digital Nomad Visa

Many long-stay visas require proof of health insurance. Compare international health plans before you apply.

Compare health insurance

We may earn a commission at no cost to you.

🛂

Not sure which Belgium visa you qualify for?

Answer 11 questions and get a personalized match in under 2 minutes.

Find My Visa →

More Cities to Consider instead of Schaerbeek

Hamont-Achel, Belgium↔ Compare with Schaerbeek
Leuven, Belgium↔ Compare with Schaerbeek
Balzers, Liechtenstein↔ Compare with Schaerbeek
Karlsruhe, Germany↔ Compare with Schaerbeek
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Schaerbeek

Click any question to expand the answer.

Schaerbeek has a population of approximately 132,799 people.
A single person can expect to spend around $2,875 per month in Schaerbeek, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1150/month.
The nearest airport to Schaerbeek is BRU, approximately 8.7km away.
Schaerbeek is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 78.0. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.
Schaerbeek has an average internet speed of 200 Mbps. It is considered a well-established digital nomad destination.
Schaerbeek is best for expats who want proximity to Brussels without central prices. It’s less ideal for families or those seeking a quiet, suburban lifestyle.
For stays longer than 90 days, Americans typically need a long-stay visa (D visa). Options include a work visa (if you have a job offer), a student visa, or a family reunification visa. If you're retiring, you might explore the possibility of a professional card if you have some form of self-employment income.
Belgium has excellent healthcare. You'll need to register with a mutuelle (health insurance fund). Many doctors in Schaerbeek, especially younger ones, speak English fluently. Websites like Doctena can help you find English-speaking GPs and specialists.
Internet speeds in Schaerbeek are generally very good, with fiber optic available in many areas. You can expect download speeds of 50-100 Mbps or higher, sufficient for video conferencing and other remote work needs. Check with your landlord or internet provider for specific speeds at your address.
Yes, while not as saturated as the city center, there are coworking options in and around Schaerbeek. Spaces like Silversquare North (nearby) and some smaller, independent locations offer desks and meeting rooms. Check online directories for the most up-to-date listings.
Schaerbeek has excellent public transportation. The STIB/MIVB (Brussels public transport) operates trams, buses, and metro lines throughout the area. Cycling is also popular, with dedicated bike lanes. A MOBIB card simplifies paying for public transport.
Areas around Place de la Reine and towards Helmet are generally more affordable than the areas closer to the city center. You can find decent apartments at reasonable prices in these locations, while still having good access to amenities and transport.
Schaerbeek has a temperate maritime climate. Expect mild, wet winters and cool summers. Rainfall is common throughout the year. Be prepared for cloudy days and pack layers, as the weather can change quickly.
Schaerbeek is a very diverse commune, with a significant international population. While not all are expats in the traditional sense, you'll find people from all over the world. Brussels in general has a large expat community, so you'll easily find social groups and activities.
Groceries are generally comparable to or slightly cheaper than in the US, especially if you shop at local markets. Dining out can be more expensive, particularly at touristy restaurants. However, you can find affordable options, especially ethnic eateries and local cafes.
As a US citizen, you're still required to file US taxes even when living abroad. The Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) can help you exclude a certain amount of your income from US taxes. Also, be aware of FBAR and FATCA reporting requirements for foreign bank accounts.
Opening a bank account can be a bit bureaucratic. You'll typically need your passport, proof of address (rental agreement or utility bill), and possibly your Belgian residence permit. Some banks may require additional documentation. Be prepared for some paperwork.
Like any city, Schaerbeek has areas with higher crime rates. While generally safe, it's wise to be cautious in areas with less foot traffic, especially at night. Check local news and forums for up-to-date information and avoid leaving valuables visible.
It's possible, but it would require careful budgeting. Rent will likely be your biggest expense. You'd need to find a smaller apartment in a less central neighborhood and be mindful of your spending on dining out and entertainment. It's definitely more feasible than in many other European capitals.
While French and Dutch are the official languages, many people in Schaerbeek, especially younger generations and those working in international sectors, speak English. You can definitely get by, but learning some basic French or Dutch will greatly enhance your experience and integration.

Share This Guide

Compare visa routesIncome, fees, and residency paths for Belgium.