Living in Essen: a portrait
Essen is a municipality in Anvers in Flanders, with 19,630 residents spread across 69.6 km2. The population is experiencing moderate growth.
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Urban profile
Essen 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 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 Essen
Essen scores 31/100 for public transport. The walkability score is 43/100. A car is often necessary for daily commuting.
Schools and services
The schools score is 49/100. Accessibility to shops and services reaches 46/100.
Green spaces and quality of life
With a green score of 72/100, Essen offers a leafy environment with numerous natural spaces.
Safety
The crime rate is below the national average, reflecting a peaceful living environment, with 40.4 offences per 1,000 residents. Safety score: 76/100.
Cost of living
The median declarable income in Essen is EUR 30,752 per year. The median house purchase price is EUR 325,450, or EUR 2,325 per sqm.
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Daily life in Essen
The ratio between the median house price and median income is 10.6x. This high ratio reflects tension between property prices and local incomes. Access to shops and services (46/100) may require regular trips to neighbouring municipalities. Use our notary fees calculator to plan your move.
Family life
With 20.4 % of residents under 17, Essen has a distinctly family-oriented profile. The school access score of 49/100 reflects an adequate educational offering. Abundant green spaces (72/100) provide playgrounds and walking areas for children. The average household size (6.65 persons) confirms the presence of many families.
Population profile
- 0-17 years: 20.4 %
- 18-34 years: 19.2 %
- 35-64 years: 40.1 %
- 65+ years: 20.4 %
- Foreign residents: 21.6 %
- Households: 2,952
- Average household size: 6.65
Neighboring municipalities
- Kasterlee — 19,648 residents, overall score 54/100
- Kalmthout — 19,672 residents, overall score 58/100
- Zwijndrecht — 19,580 residents, overall score 51/100
- Ranst — 19,776 residents, overall score 50/100
- Boom — 19,431 residents, overall score 57/100
Is Essen a good municipality for families?
With a schools score of 49/100 and a green score of 72/100, Essen offers an environment that should be evaluated based on your family priorities.
What is the overall score of Essen?
Essen has an overall score of 53/100, combining transport, schools, shops, green spaces, and safety.
What is the cost of living in Essen?
The median income is EUR 30,752 per year and the median house price is EUR 325,450. The price-to-income ratio of 10.6x should be factored into your planning.
What is public transport like in Essen?
The transport score is 31/100 and walkability is 43/100. Car use is often complementary.