What is the cost of living in Brussels compared to New York?

Question

My wife and I are moving to Brussels, and we are curious how expensive it is compared with New York. Specifically, if we earn $150,000 in New York, how will our lifestyle be in Brussels on 105,000 euro? Also, any idea how difficult it will be for my wife to secure a work visa? She is a licenced psychologist and speaks French and Dutch. Thanks!

Answer 1

Brussels is not the most expensive capital in Europe.

It is sure less then New York, however the Dollar - Euro rate is not in your advantage. Lets hope after the US elections that this improves.

However 105K is more the average and is considered a top salary. I guess what yo are able to do and afford in NY you can have in Brussels as well.

Housing will be a big chunk of the budget and specialy if you look to the upper class areas... try to look out side Brussels capital you can find good deals, it is also less hectic in the suburbs.

To aquire a workpermit when your an US citizen  with a medical degree is not that difficult there is some administration to go through but get a good lawyer to sort it out. however if you want to perform as a phychologist in a hospital or a home practice you will need approval from the medical board and association, they will review the degree from with university and so on. Psychologist with a company requires only a work permit.