Cost Comparison 2025

DenvervsBrussels

United States
Belgium

Overall

💰

-10.0%

Denver is 10.0%cheaper

Rent

🏠

-33.3%

Housing is 33.3% lower

Dining

🍽️

-3.8%

Restaurants 3.8% cheaper

Groceries

🛒

-14.6%

Food shopping 14.6% less

Comparing the cost of living between Denver, United States and Brussels, Belgium reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Denver is more affordable than Brussels by approximately 10.0%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.

Key Cost Differences

Housing costs in Denver are higher than in Brussels by 50%. A one-bedroom apartment in Denver's city center costs around $1,900, while the same in Brussels is approximately €1,200.

Dining out in Denver costs about the same compared to Brussels. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $17 in Denver versus €16 in Brussels.

Public transportation in Denver is more expensive, with monthly passes at $114 compared to €53 in Brussels.

Grocery shopping in Denver is more expensive by approximately 17%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Denver can expect to spend approximately $616 per month (excluding rent), while in Brussels, the same lifestyle would cost around €544. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about $2,155 monthly in Denver versus €1,905 in Brussels. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.

Detailed Cost Comparison

Item
Denver, United States
Brussels, Belgium

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
$1,900
€1,200
1BR Outside Center
$1,500
€900
3BR City Center
$3,500
€2,200

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
$17
€16
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
$80
€70
Cappuccino
$5
€4
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
$6
€5

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
$1
€1
Bread (500g)
$3
€2
Eggs (12)
$4
€3
Cheese (1kg)
$11
€12

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
$3
€3
Monthly Pass
$114
€53
Taxi Start
$4
€3
Gasoline (1L)
$1
€2

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
$130
€180
Internet (60 Mbps)
$65
€45
Mobile Minute
$0
€0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Brussels to Denver, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Denver to Brussels requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.

Quality of Life Indices

Denver

Cost of Living Index80
Rent Index60
Purchasing Power Index95

Brussels

Cost of Living Index72
Rent Index40
Purchasing Power Index85

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Denver more expensive than Brussels?

No, Denver is approximately 10.0% cheaper than Brussels. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.

How much salary do I need in Denver compared to Brussels?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 91% of your Brussels salary when living in Denver. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Brussels, you'd need about $45,455 in Denver for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Denver and Brussels?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 50%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.

Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?

Denver offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Denver provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Denver if you prioritize earning potential, or Brussels for affordability.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Denver vs Brussels?

In Denver, a single person needs approximately $2,116 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $4,755. In Brussels, these figures are €1,444 for singles and €3,505 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Denver and Brussels in 2025 shows moderate differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.

Need to calculate salary equivalence?

Find out how much you need to earn in Brussels to maintain your lifestyle from Denver

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-28 • Data sourced from multiple providers