Living in Chimay: a portrait
Chimay is a municipality in Hainaut in Wallonia, with 9,691 residents spread across 197.2 km2. The population is relatively stable.
Check out property prices in Chimay to estimate your budget.
Urban profile
Chimay is a small residential town with local shops, schools, and essential services. The municipality combines the tranquillity of a semi-rural setting with the convenience of local infrastructure. A strong community spirit prevails, with active associations and a pleasant social life that attracts families and young households.
Settling in Wallonia
Wallonia, the French-speaking region in southern Belgium, attracts with its natural landscapes, spacious living, and more affordable property prices. Registration fees stand at 12.5%, but the lower purchase prices often compensate for this difference. The region offers attractive energy renovation subsidies and boasts a remarkable natural heritage spanning the Ardennes, the Meuse valleys, and the Hainaut countryside. The rise of remote working has strengthened the appeal of Walloon municipalities for Brussels commuters.
Getting around Chimay
Chimay scores 32/100 for public transport. The walkability score is 31/100. A car is often necessary for daily commuting.
Schools and services
The schools score is 59/100. Accessibility to shops and services reaches 28/100.
Green spaces and quality of life
With a green score of 93/100, Chimay offers a leafy environment with numerous natural spaces.
Safety
The crime rate is below the national average, reflecting a peaceful living environment, with 38.8 offences per 1,000 residents. Safety score: 78/100.
Cost of living
The median declarable income in Chimay is EUR 25,848 per year. The median house purchase price is EUR 258,233, or EUR 1,845 per sqm.
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Daily life in Chimay
The ratio between the median house price and median income is 10.0x. This high ratio reflects tension between property prices and local incomes. Access to shops and services (28/100) may require regular trips to neighbouring municipalities. Use our notary fees calculator to plan your move.
Family life
Under-17s represent 19.3 % of the population. The school access score of 59/100 reflects an adequate educational offering. Abundant green spaces (93/100) provide playgrounds and walking areas for children. The average household size (3.99 persons) confirms the presence of many families.
Population profile
- 0-17 years: 19.3 %
- 18-34 years: 19.9 %
- 35-64 years: 37.6 %
- 65+ years: 23.3 %
- Foreign residents: 4.4 %
- Households: 2,431
- Average household size: 3.99
Neighboring municipalities
- Les Bons Villers — 9,586 residents, overall score 44/100
- Erquelinnes — 10,039 residents, overall score 51/100
- Montigny-le-Tilleul — 10,141 residents, overall score 47/100
- Le Roeulx — 8,708 residents, overall score 46/100
- Estaimpuis — 10,748 residents, overall score 46/100
Is Chimay a good municipality for families?
With a schools score of 59/100 and a green score of 93/100, Chimay offers an environment that should be evaluated based on your family priorities.
What is the overall score of Chimay?
Chimay has an overall score of 54/100, combining transport, schools, shops, green spaces, and safety.
What is the cost of living in Chimay?
The median income is EUR 25,848 per year and the median house price is EUR 258,233. The price-to-income ratio of 10.0x should be factored into your planning.
What is public transport like in Chimay?
The transport score is 32/100 and walkability is 31/100. Car use is often complementary.