City Budget Comparison
Can You Live on $1,500/month?
London vs Brussels — Budget Breakdown
Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · April 2026
Feasibility
London
Likely Insufficient
COL+Rent: 72.9 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo may not cover basic costs in London.
Brussels
Likely Insufficient
COL+Rent: 54.9 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo may not cover basic costs in Brussels.
Budget Breakdown
| Category | London | Brussels | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (avg 1BR) | $906 | $839 | +$67 |
| Groceries | $171 | $217 | $46 |
| Dining Out | $136 | $146 | $10 |
| Transportation | $46 | $30 | +$16 |
| Utilities | $105 | $142 | $37 |
| Other / Misc | $136 | $126 | +$10 |
| Total | $1,500 | $1,500 | — |
Purchasing Power
London
$1,500
per month
Brussels equivalent
$1,130
per month
Only $1,130/mo in Brussels matches $1,500/mo in London — better value.
Other Budget Levels
FAQ
Can I live in London on $1,500/month?
Living in London on $1,500/mo is rated "Likely Insufficient". Budget allocates ~$906 to rent, $171 to groceries, $136 to dining.
Can I live in Brussels on $1,500/month?
In Brussels, $1,500/mo is rated "Likely Insufficient". Allocations: $839 rent, $217 groceries, $146 dining.
Is London or Brussels cheaper?
Brussels is generally cheaper. COL+Rent: London 72.9 vs Brussels 54.9 (NYC=100).
What is $1,500/mo in London worth in Brussels?
$1,500/mo of purchasing power in London equals ~$1,130/mo in Brussels using COL adjustment.