Living in Louvain: a portrait
Louvain is a municipality in Brabant flamand in Flanders, with 104,009 residents spread across 56.6 km2. The population is experiencing moderate growth.
Check out property prices in Louvain to estimate your budget.
Urban profile
Louvain 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 Louvain
Louvain scores 66/100 for public transport. The walkability score is 83/100. Public transport access is adequate but could be improved.
Schools and services
The schools score is 79/100. Accessibility to shops and services reaches 86/100.
Green spaces and quality of life
With a green score of 64/100, Louvain has satisfactory green spaces.
Safety
The crime rate is above average, warranting particular attention, with 88.5 offences per 1,000 residents. Safety score: 4/100.
Cost of living
The median declarable income in Louvain is EUR 32,172 per year. The median house purchase price is EUR 447,999, or EUR 3,200 per sqm.
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Daily life in Louvain
The ratio between the median house price and median income is 13.9x. This high ratio reflects tension between property prices and local incomes. Access to shops and services (86/100) makes daily life convenient without excessive travel. Use our notary fees calculator to plan your move.
Family life
Under-17s represent 16.8 % of the population. The school access score of 79/100 reflects a quality educational offering. Abundant green spaces (64/100) provide playgrounds and walking areas for children. The average household size (3.40 persons) confirms the presence of many families.
Population profile
- 0-17 years: 16.8 %
- 18-34 years: 31.6 %
- 35-64 years: 34.6 %
- 65+ years: 17.0 %
- Foreign residents: 22.4 %
- Households: 30,574
- Average household size: 3.40
Neighboring municipalities
- Wemmel — 47,445 residents, overall score 52/100
- Grimbergen — 44,878 residents, overall score 68/100
- Kapelle-op-den-Bos — 42,595 residents, overall score 54/100
- Kampenhout — 39,860 residents, overall score 54/100
- Zaventem — 36,676 residents, overall score 67/100
Is Louvain a good municipality for families?
With a schools score of 79/100 and a green score of 64/100, Louvain is well-suited for families.
What is the overall score of Louvain?
Louvain has an overall score of 74/100, combining transport, schools, shops, green spaces, and safety.
What is the cost of living in Louvain?
The median income is EUR 32,172 per year and the median house price is EUR 447,999. The price-to-income ratio of 13.9x should be factored into your planning.
What is public transport like in Louvain?
The transport score is 66/100 and walkability is 83/100. A good network facilitates daily commuting.