Living in Ghent: a portrait
Ghent is a municipality in Flandre orientale in Flanders, with 269,597 residents spread across 156.2 km2. The population is experiencing moderate growth.
Check out property prices in Ghent to estimate your budget.
Urban profile
Ghent 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 Ghent
Ghent scores 75/100 for public transport. The walkability score is 87/100. The municipality is well-served by public transport.
Schools and services
The schools score is 88/100. Accessibility to shops and services reaches 79/100.
Green spaces and quality of life
With a green score of 56/100, Ghent has satisfactory green spaces.
Safety
The crime rate is above average, warranting particular attention, with 114.1 offences per 1,000 residents. Safety score: 2/100.
Cost of living
The median declarable income in Ghent is EUR 29,557 per year. The median house purchase price is EUR 578,819, or EUR 4,134 per sqm.
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Daily life in Ghent
The ratio between the median house price and median income is 19.6x. This high ratio reflects tension between property prices and local incomes. Access to shops and services (79/100) makes daily life convenient without excessive travel. Use our notary fees calculator to plan your move.
Family life
Under-17s represent 18.7 % of the population. The school access score of 88/100 reflects a quality educational offering. The average household size (4.03 persons) confirms the presence of many families.
Population profile
- 0-17 years: 18.7 %
- 18-34 years: 27.8 %
- 35-64 years: 36.9 %
- 65+ years: 16.6 %
- Foreign residents: 17.4 %
- Households: 66,922
- Average household size: 4.03
Neighboring municipalities
- Aalst — 90,995 residents, overall score 70/100
- Sint-Niklaas — 81,863 residents, overall score 74/100
- Beveren — 50,838 residents, overall score 65/100
- Termonde — 47,185 residents, overall score 67/100
- Deinze — 45,471 residents, overall score 66/100
Is Ghent a good municipality for families?
With a schools score of 88/100 and a green score of 56/100, Ghent offers an environment that should be evaluated based on your family priorities.
What is the overall score of Ghent?
Ghent has an overall score of 77/100, combining transport, schools, shops, green spaces, and safety.
What is the cost of living in Ghent?
The median income is EUR 29,557 per year and the median house price is EUR 578,819. The price-to-income ratio of 19.6x should be factored into your planning.
What is public transport like in Ghent?
The transport score is 75/100 and walkability is 87/100. A good network facilitates daily commuting.