Living in Ostend: a portrait
Ostend is a municipality in Flandre occidentale in Flanders, with 72,586 residents spread across 37.7 km2. The population is experiencing moderate growth.
Check out property prices in Ostend to estimate your budget.
Urban profile
Ostend 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 Ostend
Ostend scores 67/100 for public transport. The walkability score is 76/100. Public transport access is adequate but could be improved.
Schools and services
The schools score is 53/100. Accessibility to shops and services reaches 61/100.
Green spaces and quality of life
With a green score of 57/100, Ostend has satisfactory green spaces.
Safety
The crime rate is around the national average, with 69.0 offences per 1,000 residents. Safety score: 18/100.
Cost of living
The median declarable income in Ostend is EUR 27,643 per year. The median house purchase price is EUR 560,018, or EUR 4,000 per sqm.
Estimate your budget with our mortgage simulator.
Daily life in Ostend
The ratio between the median house price and median income is 20.3x. This high ratio reflects tension between property prices and local incomes. Access to shops and services (61/100) makes daily life convenient without excessive travel. Use our notary fees calculator to plan your move.
Family life
Under-17s represent 15.9 % of the population. The school access score of 53/100 reflects an adequate educational offering. The average household size (3.42 persons) confirms the presence of many families.
Population profile
- 0-17 years: 15.9 %
- 18-34 years: 17.7 %
- 35-64 years: 37.0 %
- 65+ years: 29.3 %
- Foreign residents: 12.0 %
- Households: 21,251
- Average household size: 3.42
Neighboring municipalities
- Roulers — 66,262 residents, overall score 69/100
- Courtrai — 80,032 residents, overall score 69/100
- Waregem — 39,997 residents, overall score 69/100
- Ypres — 35,550 residents, overall score 71/100
- Menin — 34,417 residents, overall score 69/100
Is Ostend a good municipality for families?
With a schools score of 53/100 and a green score of 57/100, Ostend offers an environment that should be evaluated based on your family priorities.
What is the overall score of Ostend?
Ostend has an overall score of 63/100, combining transport, schools, shops, green spaces, and safety.
What is the cost of living in Ostend?
The median income is EUR 27,643 per year and the median house price is EUR 560,018. The price-to-income ratio of 20.3x should be factored into your planning.
What is public transport like in Ostend?
The transport score is 67/100 and walkability is 76/100. A good network facilitates daily commuting.