Brussels 19 Districts Living Guide: Find Your Ideal Brussels Neighborhood

Brussels is a city I’ve called home for years, and let me tell you, it’s a place like no other. Made up of 19 distinct districts, each with its own vibe, Brussels has something for everyone—whether you're new here, a student, a professional, or part of a family. Each district offers different lifestyle options, education choices, community activities, and more. Picking the right one is all about matching it to what you need.

Living and Cost of Living in Brussels

The cost of living in Brussels really depends on where you choose to settle. In the city center, like Brussels City or Ixelles, rent is on the higher side, but you’re right in the middle of everything—great amenities, cultural activities, and a buzzing city vibe. If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, Anderlecht and Molenbeek are more affordable, though safety can be a bit of a concern, especially for families. On the other hand, areas like Woluwe-Saint-Pierre and Uccle are known for their peaceful, high-quality living, great community facilities, and are perfect for families who value safety and tranquillity.

Education and Childcare Resources in Brussels

One of the best things about Brussels is its wide range of high-quality public and private schools, including multilingual options. Districts like Woluwe-Saint-Lambert and Uccle are known for their excellent schools, including international ones, which makes them very appealing to expat families. In districts like Schaerbeek and Anderlecht, school quality can vary a lot, so it’s important to do your research. If you’re after international schools, the city center and areas around the EU institutions are great spots.

For childcare, you’ll find plenty of nurseries and centers, especially in family-friendly neighborhoods like Uccle and Woluwe-Saint-Pierre. These areas have childcare facilities that are not only safe but often surrounded by green spaces, which is fantastic for families with young kids. In more central districts like Brussels City and Ixelles, childcare can be a bit more competitive, but you do get a good variety of choices. Districts like Saint-Gilles have an artsy vibe, which also extends to the family activities they offer—perfect for young, creative families.

Language and Cultural Activities in Brussels

Living in Brussels means embracing a mix of languages—French and Dutch are the official ones, but English is spoken pretty widely too, especially in certain areas. If you’re near the EU district, you’ll hear a lot of English, thanks to all the international institutions. Schaerbeek and Molenbeek are mainly French-speaking, which can be a bit challenging if you don’t speak French, but it’s also part of what makes Brussels so culturally rich. In Woluwe-Saint-Lambert and Woluwe-Saint-Pierre, English is fairly common due to the large international community, which makes life easier for expat families.

Each district has its own unique cultural activities. The city center is packed with museums, galleries, and concerts, making it a cultural hotspot. Ixelles is artsy and has an exciting nightlife, with lots of quirky bars and cultural spaces—perfect if you’re into the creative scene. If you prefer something quieter, Uccle and Woluwe-Saint-Pierre are great for family-friendly events and outdoor activities. Saint-Gilles and Forest are known for their multicultural feel and often host local markets and art exhibitions, giving a real sense of community.

Safety Across Brussels Districts

Safety is one of the biggest factors people think about when choosing a district. Districts like Uccle, Woluwe-Saint-Pierre, and Woluwe-Saint-Lambert are known for being very safe, which is why they’re popular with families. Schaerbeek and Molenbeek have a bit more of a mixed reputation—some areas are fine, but others can be a bit dodgy, especially at night. That said, there have been lots of urban renewal projects aimed at improving these areas. The city center is generally safe, but like any busy area, it’s prone to petty crime like pickpocketing—something to keep in mind when you’re out and about.

Cost of Living and Transportation in Brussels

Living in the heart of Brussels is pricey, with upscale shops and fancy restaurants, but if you love the convenience of being close to everything, it’s worth it. Districts like Anderlecht and Schaerbeek are easier on the wallet, with affordable local shops and markets, which is great if you’re on a budget. Woluwe-Saint-Pierre and Uccle sit in the mid-to-high price range but offer a lot in terms of lifestyle quality—great green spaces, good amenities, and a comfortable living environment.

The public transport system here is a huge plus. You’ve got metros, buses, and trams that connect the city well. The city center and EU district have fantastic connectivity, which makes commuting a breeze. Even if you’re living a bit further out in places like Uccle or Woluwe-Saint-Pierre, you still have good transport links, giving you the best of both worlds—peaceful living without being disconnected. Plus, Brussels is becoming more bike-friendly, and a lot of people are switching to cycling as their main way of getting around.

Job Opportunities in Brussels

Being the heart of the EU means Brussels has a ton of job opportunities, especially in international organizations and companies, which are mainly concentrated in the EU district and Brussels City. Ixelles and Saint-Gilles are hotspots for creative jobs, perfect for young entrepreneurs and artists. If you’re in Anderlecht or Schaerbeek, you’ll find more small businesses and some manufacturing roles. Residential districts like Uccle and Woluwe-Saint-Pierre offer stable jobs in the service and administrative sectors, which are ideal if you’re looking for something steady.

Comparison Table of the 19 Districts of Brussels

Conclusion

Every one of Brussels' 19 districts has its own vibe and charm. The right one for you depends on what matters most—whether it’s safety, schools, budget, or job opportunities. I hope this guide helps you get a clearer picture of what Brussels has to offer so you can find the perfect neighborhood to call home.