Best Budget-Friendly Cities in Belgium for Indian Students

Why City Choice Matters

When planning your studies abroad, choosing the right city can make a significant difference in your monthly expenses. Rent, food, public transport, and social life all vary depending on the location. While Brussels and Antwerp offer vibrant city life, they also come with higher living costs. That’s why many Indian students are now turning to smaller yet dynamic cities where affordability and quality of life meet.

Top 5 Cheapest Cities in Belgium for Students

Finding the right city means balancing cost with convenience. Here are five Belgian cities where rent stays low and campuses are within easy reach:

Liège: A Student Hub with Affordable Housing

Located in the French-speaking region of Wallonia, Liège is known for being one of the most cost-effective cities in Belgium for students. It offers a strong academic reputation through institutions like the University of Liège, while still maintaining low accommodation prices and affordable eateries. Thanks to its active student population, the city has a welcoming and diverse environment. Public transport is accessible and reasonably priced, and many students benefit from special discounts on trains and buses.

Namur: Low-Key and Low-Cost

Namur, the capital of Wallonia, is another excellent option for Indian students seeking a balance between calm lifestyle and affordability. It’s home to institutions like the University of Namur, offering quality education in a peaceful and compact city. Monthly rent is often lower than in bigger cities, especially if you opt for shared student housing. Because Namur is smaller, you’ll also save on transport, as most places are within walking or cycling distance.

Mons: Great for Tech and Engineering Students

Known for its strong academic focus on technology and engineering, Mons is home to the University of Mons and various research centers. The city offers attractive housing options, with many apartments available near the campus at affordable rates. Living costs in Mons are among the lowest in the country, and Indian students can easily adapt to the slower pace while enjoying a multicultural and welcoming community.

Louvain-la-Neuve: A True Student City

Louvain-la-Neuve is a unique city built entirely for students. It was designed around the Catholic University of Louvain (UCLouvain), one of the top institutions in Belgium. Everything in the city—from housing to restaurants—is built with students in mind. While it’s not the cheapest city on this list, the infrastructure is tailored for student life, with discounts on transport, food, and housing. The close-knit campus vibe makes it ideal for international students adjusting to life in Belgium.

Hasselt: Peaceful, Green, and Affordable

Situated in the Flemish region, Hasselt is known for its greenery, calm environment, and low living costs. The city hosts several higher education institutions and offers a high quality of life with less hustle. Rental prices are reasonable, and students can benefit from reduced fares on public transport. If you’re looking for a quiet yet vibrant place to study, Hasselt could be a perfect match.

Ghent: Affordable Alternative to Brussels

While Ghent is larger and more cosmopolitan than the cities above, it still offers better affordability compared to Brussels or Antwerp, especially in terms of housing. Ghent University attracts thousands of international students, including many from India. The city offers an excellent mix of academic life, job opportunities, and student discounts, making it a strong contender for those who want the perks of a bigger city without the price tag of the capital.

Conclusion

Choosing where to study in Belgium involves more than just university rankings—it’s also about managing your budget and adapting to a new culture. For Indian students, cities like Liège, Namur, Mons, and Hasselt provide a cost-effective entry point into Belgian academic life, while cities like Ghent offer a good balance between lifestyle and expenses. Wherever you decide to go, make sure to compare not only tuition fees but also monthly living costs to avoid unpleasant surprises. And don’t forget—platforms like Studely can help you manage your finances, get your blocked account, and find housing before you arrive.