Belgium vs Belgium · 24 km apart
Belgium
single / month
Cheaper overallBelgium
single / month
| Expense | Mechelen | Brussels | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | $9.60 | $12.48 | Mechelen |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | $38.40 | $49.92 | Mechelen |
| Cappuccino | $2.88 | $3.74 | Mechelen |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | $218 | $283 | Mechelen |
| Monthly public transport pass | $35.20 | $45.76 | Mechelen |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | $92.80 | $121 | Mechelen |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | $26.88 | $34.94 | Mechelen |
| Fitness club membership | $26.88 | $34.94 | Mechelen |
| Cinema ticket | $7.04 | $9.15 | Mechelen |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | $506 | $702 | Mechelen |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | $352 | $489 | Mechelen |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | $1,056 | $1,466 | Mechelen |
| Total single-person budget | $992 | $1,321 | Mechelen |
| Average net salary | $3,100 | $4,030 |
Mechelen is cheaper overall. A single-person monthly budget in Mechelen runs about $992 versus $1,321 in Brussels — a difference of roughly 33%.
Salary-adjusted, Brussels leaves more disposable income after basic expenses. Both figures are model estimates — see each city page for local-currency detail.
Full cost of living in Mechelen · Full cost of living in Brussels