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Ghent cityscape

Ghent🇧🇪

Belgium · Cost of living & nomad guide 2026

Photo by Katrīna Eglīte on Unsplash

Who this suits

FamiliesClean air seeker
Population
265,086
Timezone
Europe/Brussels
Nomad community
Small

What it's actually like here

Nestled in a picturesque corner of Belgium, this charming city offers a surprisingly affordable European lifestyle for nomads. Rent is quite reasonable, especially when compared to bigger capitals, making it a solid choice if you're watching your budget. Internet is generally fast and reliable, so you won't struggle with video calls or uploading content. English proficiency is high, meaning navigating daily life is a breeze. It’s wonderfully safe, and you'll feel comfortable exploring even after dark. The expat and nomad community here is on the smaller side, ideal if you prefer a quieter experience and integrating more with local life. However, if a massive social scene is your top priority, you might find it a bit subdued.

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City metrics

Financial

Rent 1BR (centre)US$1,000/mo
Rent 1BR (outside)US$750/mo
Cost of living (national avg)8 (US=100, World Bank ICP)
Cheap mealUS$14.00
Mid-range meal for 2US$45.00
Monthly groceries~US$310

Infrastructure

Internet speed160 Mbps
Connectivity score97/100
Healthcare index80/100
Coworking spaces~12

Lifestyle

Safety index78/100
Air quality22 AQI — Good
Walkability82/100
Climate score62/100
English proficiencyhigh
Source: OpenAQ · Global Peace Index · regional statistical agencies · Updated Live + annual

Nomad

Nomad communitySmall
Visa easeeasy
Budget score60/100
Lifestyle score78/100
Overall nomad score
74/100
Source: World Bank ICP (cost of living, US=100), Ookla (internet), OpenAQ (air quality) · Updated Quarterly

📍 Ghent on the map

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Featured neighbourhoods

Neighbourhood guides coming soon for Ghent.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to live in Ghent as a digital nomad?+

As of 2026, a 1-bedroom apartment in the centre of Ghent averages around $1,000 per month. The national cost-of-living index for Belgium sits at 8 (US=100) — sourced from World Bank ICP. City-level detail is coming as we gather it; for now this is a national figure. Nomads typically budget extra for coworking, eating out, and travel.

Is Ghent safe for digital nomads?+

Ghent scores 78/100 on our composite safety index, which blends the Global Peace Index, crime stats and traveller-advisory data. Most nomad-friendly neighbourhoods feel comfortable to walk in day and night.

How fast is the internet in Ghent?+

Headline average internet speed in Ghent is around 160 Mbps based on Ookla Speedtest data. That's enough for video calls, large file uploads and most remote-work needs in central neighbourhoods — coworking spaces and serviced apartments usually run faster than that.

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