Living in Bruges: a portrait
Bruges is a municipality in Flandre occidentale in Flanders, with 119,869 residents spread across 138.4 km2. The population is experiencing moderate growth.
Check out property prices in Bruges to estimate your budget.
Urban profile
Bruges is a metropolitan-scale city with a diversified economic fabric and a rich cultural scene. The transport network is extensive, professional opportunities are plentiful, and healthcare and education services are of a high standard. The diversity of neighbourhoods allows everyone to find a suitable living environment, from lively centres to quieter residential areas.
Settling in Flanders
Flanders, the economically dynamic region in northern Belgium, benefits from reduced registration fees of just 3%, a significant fiscal advantage for buyers. The region stands out for its strong economic fabric, quality infrastructure, and robust job market. Flemish culture values quality of life, cycling as a mode of transport, and well-maintained public spaces. The Flemish property market is generally more expensive than Wallonia but offers high liquidity.
Getting around Bruges
Bruges scores 76/100 for public transport. The walkability score is 79/100. The municipality is well-served by public transport.
Schools and services
The schools score is 82/100. Accessibility to shops and services reaches 91/100.
Green spaces and quality of life
With a green score of 55/100, Bruges has satisfactory green spaces.
Safety
The crime rate is above average, warranting particular attention, with 95.5 offences per 1,000 residents. Safety score: 4/100.
Cost of living
The median declarable income in Bruges is EUR 31,137 per year. The median house purchase price is EUR 465,640, or EUR 3,326 per sqm.
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Daily life in Bruges
The ratio between the median house price and median income is 15.0x. This high ratio reflects tension between property prices and local incomes. Access to shops and services (91/100) makes daily life convenient without excessive travel. Use our notary fees calculator to plan your move.
Family life
Under-17s represent 16.2 % of the population. The school access score of 82/100 reflects a quality educational offering. The average household size (4.31 persons) confirms the presence of many families.
Population profile
- 0-17 years: 16.2 %
- 18-34 years: 20.0 %
- 35-64 years: 38.8 %
- 65+ years: 25.0 %
- Foreign residents: 8.6 %
- Households: 27,840
- Average household size: 4.31
Neighboring municipalities
- Courtrai — 80,032 residents, overall score 69/100
- Ostend — 72,586 residents, overall score 63/100
- Roulers — 66,262 residents, overall score 69/100
- Waregem — 39,997 residents, overall score 69/100
- Ypres — 35,550 residents, overall score 71/100
Is Bruges a good municipality for families?
With a schools score of 82/100 and a green score of 55/100, Bruges offers an environment that should be evaluated based on your family priorities.
What is the overall score of Bruges?
Bruges has an overall score of 77/100, combining transport, schools, shops, green spaces, and safety.
What is the cost of living in Bruges?
The median income is EUR 31,137 per year and the median house price is EUR 465,640. The price-to-income ratio of 15.0x should be factored into your planning.
What is public transport like in Bruges?
The transport score is 76/100 and walkability is 79/100. A good network facilitates daily commuting.