Moving from
Kortrijk to Oostend
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Car
Van
3.5T Trucks
7.5T (+) Trucks
Car (Taxi / Combo)
Perfect for small boxes, airport pick ups and luggage transfer.
Van (7-17 m3)
Great for moving studio or one bedroom apartments with basic furniture items and boxes.
3.5T Truck (20-24 m3)
Best for 1-2 bedroom apartments, small homes moves and commercials goods.
7.5T (+) Trucks
Best for 2 to 3 room apartments and upto 10 standard size pallets
Ostend, a vibrant coastal city in Belgium, is a prime destination for travellers seeking a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Situated along the North Sea, the city boasts a picturesque promenade adorned with grand, Belle Époque-style architecture, providing a stunning backdrop for strolls and people-watching. Visitors can explore the city's rich maritime heritage at the Mu. ZEE, a modern art museum housed in a former power station, or indulge in the fresh seafood and local delicacies that Ostend is renowned for.
In this blog, you’ll learn about moving from Kortrijk to Ostend. You’ll learn about cultural differences, the tax system, education, housing and food! We’ll provide you with the necessary information to help you move.
While Kortrijk and Ostende are both captivating Belgian cities, the cultural differences between the two are striking. Kortrijk is known for its more traditional, conservative atmosphere, where life is often slower and focuses on preserving historical roots. In contrast, Ostend boasts a vibrant, cosmopolitan culture that embraces diversity and modernity. The city's coastal location attracts a diverse population, including artists, entrepreneurs, and young professionals who often move from Kortrijk to Ostend in search of a more dynamic and open-minded community. Oostende's residents are widely renowned for their welcoming and inclusive nature, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a lively yet relaxed lifestyle along the North Sea.
While the cost of living in Kortrijk is generally considered reasonable, Ostend offers a more affordable option for those seeking a coastal lifestyle. Rental prices in Oostende are notably lower than in Kortrijk, with apartments and homes typically costing 10-15% less. Groceries and daily necessities also tend to be more budget-friendly in the seaside city, thanks to its proximity to the North Sea and abundant local produce. Additionally, Oostende's vibrant cultural scene and outdoor activities provide ample entertainment options that are often free or low-cost, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget further.
Let's look into these factors in better detail.
| Feature | Ostend | Kortrijk |
| Public Transport | Extensive bus network, affordable fares. | Smaller bus network, less frequent service. |
| Rail Connectivity | Direct high-speed train connections to major cities like Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent. Well-connected to the national rail network. | Served by regional trains, with connections to hubs like Lille and Ghent. Fewer direct high-speed options. |
| Cycling Infrastructure | Excellent bike lanes and bike-sharing program. | Developing cycling infrastructure, fewer bike-share. |
| Car Ownership | Lower rates due to walkable cities and public transport. | Higher rates as public transport is less comprehensive. |
| Traffic Congestion | Relatively low levels of congestion. | Moderate congestion, especially during peak hours. |
Tax Implication
| Tax Consideration | Ostend | Kortrijk |
| Income Tax | Standard progressive Belgian rates. | Same as Ostend. |
| Property Tax | Local municipalities set lower rates. | Slightly higher rates than Ostend. |
| Sales Tax (VAT) | Standard 21% VAT on most purchases. | Same 21% VAT rate as Ostend. |
| Wealth Tax | A local wealth tax on high-value assets. |
No local wealth tax. |
| Tax Incentives | Deductions for renewable energy and energy efficiency. | Similar tax incentives as Oostende. |
Housing
| Rental/Pricing Factor | Ostend | Kortrijk |
| 1-Bedroom Apartment | €700 - €900 city, €600 - €800 suburbs. | €800 - €1,000 city, €650 - €850 suburbs. |
| 3-Bedroom Apartment | €1,100 - €1,500 city, €900 - €1,300 suburbs. | €1,200 - €1,600 city, €950 - €1,400 suburbs. |
| 2-Bedroom House | €200,000 - €300,000 city, €150,000 - €250,000 suburbs. | €250,000 - €350,000 city, €180,000 - €280,000 suburbs. |
| Utilities | €150 - €250 per month for 1-bedroom. | €180 - €280 per month for 1-bedroom. |
| Rental Availability | Ample supply of apartments and houses. | Slightly less availability than in in Ostend. |
Feeding
| Feeding | Ostend | Kortrijk |
| Grocery Stores | Large chains like Carrefour, Delhaize, and local markets. Popular spots: Mercado, De Noordzee. | Fewer big chains and shops. Popular: Dille & Kamille, Bioplanet. |
| Restaurants | Diverse, from seafood like De Ooievaar to International at Cafe Nieuwpoort. Waterfront dining at Bamboo. | Local favorites: Kompass, De Gouden Boom. International options like Maison Manon. |
| Street Food/Casual Eateries | Vendors selling fresh seafood, waffles, and more. Try the fish and chips at Brasserie Broodbank. | Less extensive, but try the frituur (fries) at Frituur De Zwaan. |
| Food Costs | Grocery prices are lower, and dining out is moderately priced. | Grocery prices are slightly higher, and dining out can be more expensive. |
| Dietary Restrictions | Ample options for vegetarians, vegans, and allergies at places like De Oesterput. | Fewer specialised options, but they are still accommodating. |
Are you considering a move from Kortrijk to Ostend to study? With its diverse range of university programs and thriving student community, Ostend provides a unique blend of academic opportunities and a lively seaside lifestyle. The city's proximity to the North Sea and its cultural attractions make it an ideal destination for those seeking a well-rounded educational experience. Whether you're drawn to the city's rich history, bustling art scene, or world-class research facilities, Ostend is a captivating choice for your academic pursuits.
The charming coastal city of Ostend presents ample professional opportunities across various industries. With its thriving business landscape, from maritime trade to tourism, Ostend offers a dynamic job market that attracts talent from around the country. The city's strategic location and well-developed infrastructure make it an attractive hub for companies seeking to establish a presence in Belgium. Whether you want to join a multinational corporation or start a venture, Ostend's vibrant economy and supportive business environment can provide the perfect platform to advance your career goals.
Getting ready for your move to Ostend? Here’s a checklist you might want to use:
- Research the housing market thoroughly, as rental prices can vary significantly between the city centre and suburbs. Look for neighbourhoods that align with your lifestyle and budget.
- Plan your logistics carefully, including researching moving companies or local movers that can help relocate your belongings safely, arrange utilities, and update your address with relevant authorities.
- Learn some Dutch: While English is spoken in tourist areas, basic Dutch is helpful with friendly locals.
- Pack light layers and a windbreaker – coastal breezes are refreshing but can be chilly!
Moovick, one of the best moving companies, connects you with a network of professional movers who handle everything from secure packing to efficient transportation. There's no need to stress about navigating unfamiliar customs or lifting heavy boxes—Moovick takes care of the details. Whether you're moving for work, study, or a fresh start, Moovick is a reliable choice to make your move to Oostende a seamless experience.
Contact us today for more information.
