Living in Harelbeke: a portrait
Harelbeke is a municipality in Flandre occidentale in Flanders, with 29,904 residents spread across 27.6 km2. Population growth is strong, reflecting sustained attractiveness.
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Urban profile
Harelbeke is a medium-sized city with comprehensive urban services, good transport connectivity, and varied neighbourhoods. It offers hospitals, shopping centres, cultural and sporting facilities, and a diversified job market. This intermediate size provides the best compromise between urban dynamism and quality of life.
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 Harelbeke
Harelbeke scores 59/100 for public transport. The walkability score is 56/100. Public transport access is adequate but could be improved.
Schools and services
The schools score is 71/100. Accessibility to shops and services reaches 59/100.
Green spaces and quality of life
With a green score of 66/100, Harelbeke has satisfactory green spaces.
Safety
The crime rate is above average, warranting particular attention, with 83.9 offences per 1,000 residents. Safety score: 5/100.
Cost of living
The median declarable income in Harelbeke is EUR 30,488 per year. The median house purchase price is EUR 224,741, or EUR 1,605 per sqm.
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Daily life in Harelbeke
The ratio between the median house price and median income is 7.4x. This ratio is around the Belgian average, indicating a balanced market. Access to shops and services (59/100) may require regular trips to neighbouring municipalities. Use our notary fees calculator to plan your move.
Family life
Under-17s represent 19.4 % of the population. The school access score of 71/100 reflects a quality educational offering. Abundant green spaces (66/100) provide playgrounds and walking areas for children. The average household size (5.47 persons) confirms the presence of many families.
Population profile
- 0-17 years: 19.4 %
- 18-34 years: 20.0 %
- 35-64 years: 39.0 %
- 65+ years: 21.6 %
- Foreign residents: 8.5 %
- Households: 5,470
- Average household size: 5.47
Neighboring municipalities
- Izegem — 29,227 residents, overall score 69/100
- Wevelgem — 31,884 residents, overall score 70/100
- Knokke-Heist — 32,514 residents, overall score 63/100
- Zwevegem — 25,785 residents, overall score 72/100
- Menin — 34,417 residents, overall score 69/100
Is Harelbeke a good municipality for families?
With a schools score of 71/100 and a green score of 66/100, Harelbeke is well-suited for families.
What is the overall score of Harelbeke?
Harelbeke has an overall score of 65/100, combining transport, schools, shops, green spaces, and safety.
What is the cost of living in Harelbeke?
The median income is EUR 30,488 per year and the median house price is EUR 224,741. The price-to-income ratio of 7.4x should be factored into your planning.
What is public transport like in Harelbeke?
The transport score is 59/100 and walkability is 56/100. Car use is often complementary.