What it's actually like here
This charming Belgian city offers a refreshingly accessible European experience for digital nomads. While not bargain-basement cheap, it generally feels quite affordable, especially compared to larger European hubs, making your budget stretch further. Rent for a central apartment is reasonable, and day-to-day expenses are manageable. You'll find the internet infrastructure robust and reliable, perfect for staying connected and productive. The city feels very safe, allowing you to explore its beautiful canals and historic streets with peace of mind. Ghent is ideal for those seeking a more integrated cultural experience rather than a bustling nomad hub; the expat community is present but not overwhelmingly large. It particularly suits those who appreciate historical beauty, a slower pace, and a high quality of life. The locals have excellent English proficiency, easing communication. However, one honest caveat is that while beautiful, the weather can be grey and damp for significant parts of the year, which might be a change for those used to sunnier climes.
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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 87 (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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