What are rents like in Brussels right now? (2026)

If you're wondering what you might pay to rent in Brussels in 2026, you're in the right place.

This article covers average rents by apartment size, top neighborhoods, and landlord costs, and we update it regularly to keep the numbers fresh.

And if you're planning to buy a property in this place, you may want to download our pack covering the real estate market in Brussels.

Who is the author of this content?

INVESTROPA

A team specialized in real estate investing in European countries

We are a team of financial experts, legal professionals, developers, and local real estate specialists dedicated to helping people like you avoid mistakes when investing in real estate in a foreign place, particularly in Brussels. If you’d like to learn more about us, you can check our presentation page.

What are typical rents in Brussels as of 2026?

What's the average monthly rent for a studio in Brussels as of 2026?

As of early 2026, the average monthly rent for a studio in Brussels is around 900 euros (roughly 940 USD).

Most Brussels studios fall within 750 to 1,050 euros per month (785 to 1,100 USD), depending on commune and condition.

The main factors affecting Brussels studio rents are location (central Ixelles costs more than outer Anderlecht), energy performance rating, and renovation quality.

What's the average monthly rent for a 1-bedroom in Brussels as of 2026?

As of early 2026, the average monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Brussels is around 1,110 euros (approximately 1,160 USD).

A realistic range for most Brussels 1-bedrooms sits between 950 and 1,350 euros per month (995 to 1,415 USD).

For cheaper 1-bedroom rents, look toward Anderlecht, Molenbeek, and parts of Schaerbeek; highest rents cluster in Ixelles near Flagey, Etterbeek, and the Woluwe communes.

What's the average monthly rent for a 2-bedroom in Brussels as of 2026?

As of early 2026, the average monthly rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Brussels is around 1,540 euros (approximately 1,610 USD).

Most Brussels 2-bedrooms rent within 1,250 to 1,950 euros per month (1,310 to 2,040 USD), with the spread reflecting quality and location differences.

Cheapest 2-bedroom options are in Anderlecht, Jette, and Forest; most expensive are in Uccle, Woluwe-Saint-Pierre, and upscale Ixelles near Avenue Louise.

By the way, you will find much more detailed rent ranges in our property pack covering the real estate market in Brussels.

What's the average rent per square meter in Brussels as of 2026?

As of early 2026, the average rent per square meter in Brussels is around 21 euros (approximately 22 USD).

Across Brussels neighborhoods, rent per square meter ranges from about 17 to 28 euros (18 to 29 USD), with central and upscale areas at the top.

Brussels rents per square meter run 20% to 30% higher than Antwerp or Ghent, reflecting the capital's status as an international hub.

Properties commanding above-average rates typically have excellent energy ratings, outdoor space, or premium locations near metro stations.

How much have rents changed year-over-year in Brussels in 2026?

As of early 2026, Brussels rents have increased by an estimated 2% to 3% compared to January 2025, a slowdown from previous years.

The main drivers are continued health-index indexation, structural housing shortage, and steady demand from international workers and students.

This 2-3% growth marks a clear cooling from 2024, when Federia reported average increases of 5% and median jumps closer to 7%.

What's the outlook for rent growth in Brussels in 2026?

As of early 2026, Brussels rents are projected to grow by 2% to 4% over the coming year, reflecting a tight but stabilizing market.

Key factors influencing growth include Belgium's inflation trajectory (driving automatic indexation), the ongoing rental shortage, and EU institution demand.

Strongest rent growth is expected in the EU Quarter area (Etterbeek, parts of Ixelles) and gentrifying pockets of Schaerbeek around Josaphat Park.

Risks include a sharper economic slowdown reducing expat relocations, new energy regulations pushing units off market, or political uncertainty affecting EU employment.

We have made this infographic to give you a quick and clear snapshot of the property market in Belgium. It highlights key facts like rental prices, yields, and property costs both in city centers and outside, so you can easily compare opportunities. We’ve done some research and also included useful insights about the country’s economy, like GDP, population, and interest rates, to help you understand the bigger picture.

Which neighborhoods rent best in Brussels as of 2026?

Which neighborhoods have the highest rents in Brussels as of 2026?

As of early 2026, the top three highest-rent neighborhoods in Brussels are Woluwe-Saint-Pierre (around 1,400 euros/1,465 USD for a 1-bedroom), Uccle (around 1,350 euros/1,415 USD), and Ixelles near Châtelain and Avenue Louise (around 1,300 euros/1,360 USD).

These Brussels neighborhoods command premiums because they combine green spaces, excellent transport, strong schools, and safe residential character.

Typical tenants include senior EU officials, diplomats, international professionals, and families seeking access to international schools.

By the way, we've written a blog article detailing what are the current best areas to invest in property in Brussels.

Where do young professionals prefer to rent in Brussels right now?

Young professionals in Brussels favor Saint-Gilles (vibrant bar scene), Ixelles around Flagey and Châtelain (walkability and nightlife), and Schaerbeek near Plasky and Josaphat (value with good connections).

In these areas, young professionals typically pay 950 to 1,200 euros per month (995 to 1,255 USD) for a 1-bedroom.

These neighborhoods attract young renters with excellent metro and tram links, walkable restaurants and coworking spaces, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere.

By the way, you will find a detailed tenant analysis in our property pack covering the real estate market in Brussels.

Where do families prefer to rent in Brussels right now?

Families in Brussels prefer Uccle (parks and international schools), Woluwe-Saint-Pierre (quiet streets and green spaces), and Watermael-Boitsfort (village feel near the Sonian Forest).

Families renting 2-3 bedrooms in these areas typically pay 1,600 to 2,200 euros per month (1,675 to 2,300 USD).

These neighborhoods attract families with green spaces, lower traffic, proximity to good schools, and a calmer residential environment.

Top schools nearby include the European School of Brussels, British School of Brussels, and International School of Brussels.

Which areas near transit or universities rent faster in Brussels in 2026?

As of early 2026, the fastest-renting areas in Brussels are the EU Quarter around Schuman and Luxembourg stations, the ULB campus area in Ixelles, and the VUB area in Etterbeek.

Properties in these high-demand areas typically stay listed for just 10 to 20 days, compared to 25 to 35 days elsewhere.

The rent premium for properties within walking distance of transit or universities in Brussels is around 50 to 100 euros per month (52 to 105 USD).

Which neighborhoods are most popular with expats in Brussels right now?

The top neighborhoods for expats in Brussels are Etterbeek (EU Quarter proximity), Ixelles (international atmosphere), and Woluwe-Saint-Pierre (space and international schools).

Expats typically pay 1,100 to 1,500 euros (1,150 to 1,570 USD) for a 1-bedroom, or 1,600 to 2,200 euros (1,675 to 2,300 USD) for a 2-bedroom.

These areas attract expats with English-friendly services, international restaurants, EU institution proximity, and established expat networks.

The most represented nationalities include French, German, Italian, Spanish, and British citizens, plus Americans and Eastern Europeans working in EU institutions.

And if you are also an expat, you may want to read our exhaustive guide for expats in Brussels.

Who rents, and what do tenants want in Brussels right now?

What tenant profiles dominate rentals in Brussels?

The top three tenant profiles in Brussels are singles and couples without children (largest group), students and flat-sharers (growing segment), and international professionals in EU institutions or multinationals.

Singles and couples represent roughly 45% to 50% of Brussels renters, students and sharers about 20% to 25%, and international professionals around 15% to 20%.

Singles seek 1-bedrooms of 45 to 65 square meters, students look for studios or shared flats, and international professionals often rent larger 2-bedrooms or furnished apartments.

If you want to optimize your cashflow, you can read our complete guide on how to buy and rent out in Brussels.

Do tenants prefer furnished or unfurnished in Brussels?

In Brussels, roughly 70% to 75% of long-term tenants prefer unfurnished rentals, while 25% to 30% seek furnished options.

Furnished apartments command a 10% to 20% premium, translating to roughly 100 to 200 euros extra per month (105 to 210 USD) on a typical 1-bedroom.

Furnished rentals attract expats on short-term contracts, students from abroad, corporate relocations, and professionals valuing move-in convenience.

Which amenities increase rent the most in Brussels?

The top five rent-boosting amenities in Brussels are strong energy performance (PEB A/B), private outdoor space, an elevator, secure parking or bike storage, and a modern kitchen.

Good energy rating adds 50 to 100 euros monthly; outdoor space adds 40 to 80 euros; elevator adds 30 to 60 euros; parking adds 75 to 150 euros; modern kitchen adds 25 to 50 euros.

In our property pack covering the real estate market in Brussels, we cover what are the best investments a landlord can make.

What renovations get the best ROI for rentals in Brussels?

Top ROI renovations in Brussels are energy upgrades (insulation, windows, heating), bathroom modernization, kitchen updates, flooring replacement, and layout changes to add a bedroom or office.

Energy upgrades cost 8,000 to 20,000 euros and add 75 to 150 euros monthly; bathroom refreshes cost 3,000 to 8,000 euros and add 40 to 80 euros; kitchen updates cost 2,500 to 7,000 euros and add 30 to 60 euros; layout changes cost 5,000 to 15,000 euros but can add 100 to 200 euros monthly.

Poor ROI renovations to avoid include luxury finishes exceeding neighborhood standards, pools or jacuzzis, over-customized designs, and expensive smart home systems.

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Belgium versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you’re planning to invest there.

How strong is rental demand in Brussels as of 2026?

What's the vacancy rate for rentals in Brussels as of 2026?

As of early 2026, the vacancy rate for rentals in Brussels is estimated at 1.5% to 3%, indicating a tight market where demand outstrips supply.

Across neighborhoods, vacancy ranges from under 1% in high-demand Ixelles and Etterbeek to around 3% to 4% in outer communes with less transit access.

The current rate is at or below historical average, reflecting a structural shortage as population growth outpaces new construction.

Finally please note that you will have all the indicators you need in our property pack covering the real estate market in Brussels.

How many days do rentals stay listed in Brussels as of 2026?

As of early 2026, the average Brussels rental stays listed for 20 to 25 days, though well-priced units in desirable locations often go within 15 days.

Days on market ranges from 10 to 15 days for 1-bedrooms near metro stations to 40 to 60 days for overpriced or poorly insulated units.

Compared to a year ago, days on market has remained stable or slightly decreased as available supply continues shrinking.

Which months have peak tenant demand in Brussels?

Peak tenant demand in Brussels occurs late August through October (academic year and job relocations) and January through February (new year job starts and expat arrivals).

Seasonal drivers include university starts at ULB, VUB, and other institutions, September restart of EU institutions, and January hiring cycles.

Lowest demand months are December (holiday slowdown) and July (summer vacation), when landlords may face longer vacancy.

What will my monthly costs be in Brussels as of 2026?

What property taxes should landlords expect in Brussels as of 2026?

As of early 2026, Brussels landlords should expect annual property tax (précompte immobilier) of roughly 1,000 to 2,500 euros (1,050 to 2,620 USD), depending on cadastral income and commune.

The range runs from around 600 euros for a small studio in a lower-tax commune to over 3,500 euros for a large apartment in a higher-tax area.

Brussels property taxes are calculated by indexing the cadastral income and multiplying by combined regional, provincial, and commune rates.

Please note that, in our property pack covering the real estate market in Brussels, we cover what exemptions or deductions may be available to reduce property taxes for landlords.

What maintenance budget per year is realistic in Brussels right now?

A realistic annual maintenance budget for a typical Brussels rental is 2,000 to 3,500 euros (2,095 to 3,665 USD).

The range runs from about 1,200 euros for a newer apartment to over 5,000 euros for older buildings requiring frequent repairs or syndic-mandated works.

Most Brussels landlords set aside 8% to 12% of annual rental income for maintenance as a buffer for expected upkeep and surprises.

What utilities do landlords often pay in Brussels right now?

In Brussels, landlords commonly pay building insurance, common area electricity and cleaning, and syndic management fees via service charges.

Building insurance runs 15 to 40 euros monthly; common area charges run 30 to 80 euros; syndic fees vary from 20 to 100 euros depending on building size.

Tenants typically pay electricity, gas, internet, and water directly, while landlords cover non-recoverable building costs and major repairs.

How is rental income taxed in Brussels as of 2026?

As of early 2026, Brussels rental income is generally taxed based on indexed cadastral income rather than actual rent, provided you rent to a private individual for residential use.

Main deductions include mortgage interest, certain maintenance costs, and standard deductions built into the cadastral income method.

A common Brussels-specific mistake is failing to distinguish between renting for private use (taxed on cadastral income) versus professional use (different treatment), which leads to errors.

We cover these mistakes, among others, in our list of risks and pitfalls people face when buying property in Brussels.

We made this infographic to show you how property prices in Belgium compare to other big cities across the region. It breaks down the average price per square meter in city centers, so you can see how cities stack up. It’s an easy way to spot where you might get the best value for your money. We hope you like it.

What sources have we used to write this blog article?

Whether it's in our blog articles or the market analyses included in our property pack about Brussels, we always rely on the strongest methodology we can.

We aim to be fully transparent, so below we've listed the authoritative sources we used and explained how we used them.

Source	Why it's authoritative	How we used it
Federia Baromètre 2024	Data-based barometer from the federation of French-speaking real estate agents, built from tens of thousands of leases.	We used it as core "ground truth" for Brussels rents by property type. We projected to January 2026 using inflation and indexation data.
Federia Baromètre 1st Semester 2024	Same methodology focused on the most recent half-year market turning points.	We used it to understand rent momentum when inflation cooled. We used it as a reality check for 2026 estimates.
The Brussels Times	Major English-language outlet clearly attributing numbers to Bruzz data source.	We used it for 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom anchors. We cross-checked direction with Federia's data.
Statbel Rent Calculator	Belgium's official statistics office explaining the legal rent indexation mechanism.	We used it to ground our indexation assumptions. We used it to explain why Belgian rents drift up even in calm markets.
National Bank of Belgium	Central bank's official forward-looking scenario for growth and inflation.	We used it to set a realistic 2026 inflation backdrop. We translated it into a conservative rent-growth corridor.
European Commission Belgium Forecast	EU institution providing independent macro forecast.	We used it as a second macro anchor for 2026. We compared it with NBB so our forecast isn't based on one source.
loyers.brussels	Brussels regional tool operationalizing the official reference rent framework.	We used it to sanity-check per-square-meter levels. We used it to explain why similar-sized flats rent differently.
Brussels Housing Code	Regional government's entry point to binding rental rules.	We used it to ground landlord and tenant obligations. We used it to keep advice Brussels-specific.
Brussels Property Tax Page	Region's official explanation of annual property tax.	We used it to describe the tax and who owes it. We translated it into monthly budget examples.
Belgium.be Property Tax	Government portal summarizing rules in plain language.	We used it as a cross-check that property tax is an owner cost. We used it to keep explanations accessible.
SPF Finances	Official Belgian tax authority guidance on rental income.	We used it to explain taxation differences by tenant type. We used it to keep the tax section accurate.
Wikifin	Belgium's financial education portal connected to the regulator ecosystem.	We used it to explain cadastral income in simpler terms. We used it to cross-check SPF Finances logic.
CBRE Tenant Survey 2024	Major global real estate firm with large, transparent survey dataset.	We used it to describe who rents and what they want. We used it to inform amenity and preference sections.
Brussels Studies Institute	Brussels academic institute working with Housing and administrative data.	We used it to anchor vacancy as a structural scarcity topic. We translated vacant unit data into vacancy rate estimates.
The Brussels Times (IBSA)	Mainstream outlet attributing stock/household figures to IBSA's socio-economic panorama.	We used it to contextualize housing pressure in Brussels. We kept rent levels anchored on lease-based barometers.