City Budget Comparison
Can You Live on $1,500/month?
Brussels vs London — Budget Breakdown
Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · April 2026
Feasibility
Brussels
Likely Insufficient
COL+Rent: 54.9 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo may not cover basic costs in Brussels.
London
Likely Insufficient
COL+Rent: 72.9 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo may not cover basic costs in London.
Budget Breakdown
| Category | Brussels | London | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (avg 1BR) | $839 | $906 | $67 |
| Groceries | $217 | $171 | +$46 |
| Dining Out | $146 | $136 | +$10 |
| Transportation | $30 | $46 | $16 |
| Utilities | $142 | $105 | +$37 |
| Other / Misc | $126 | $136 | $10 |
| Total | $1,500 | $1,500 | — |
Purchasing Power
Brussels
$1,500
per month
London equivalent
$1,992
per month
You'd need $1,992/mo in London to match $1,500/mo in Brussels.
Other Budget Levels
FAQ
Can I live in Brussels on $1,500/month?
Living in Brussels on $1,500/mo is rated "Likely Insufficient". Budget allocates ~$839 to rent, $217 to groceries, $146 to dining.
Can I live in London on $1,500/month?
In London, $1,500/mo is rated "Likely Insufficient". Allocations: $906 rent, $171 groceries, $136 dining.
Is Brussels or London cheaper?
Brussels is generally cheaper. COL+Rent: Brussels 54.9 vs London 72.9 (NYC=100).
What is $1,500/mo in Brussels worth in London?
$1,500/mo of purchasing power in Brussels equals ~$1,992/mo in London using COL adjustment.