Brussels Faces Population Decline Amidst Record Migration
Over 75,000 Belgians relocated to different regions last year, marking the highest migration rate in 13 years, according to the Federal Public Service (FPS) Interior, as reported by De Tijd and L’Echo on Friday. The majority of movers originated from the Brussels-Capital Region, with Flanders emerging as the primary destination. A staggering 36,970 residents departed from Brussels last year, with two-thirds migrating to Flanders. Despite a record influx of 11,600 newcomers from Flanders and 9,014 from Wallonia, these numbers failed to counterbalance the significant outflow.
Demographer Patrick Deboosere from VUB noted that this trend is not unprecedented, attributing it largely to escalating housing prices and increased pressure on local schools and childcare facilities. “Longer waiting lists are also significant factors,” he stated.
Nevertheless, statistics indicate that Brussels’ overall population still grew. According to Statbel, the region gained more than 6,200 residents in 2024, mainly due to international migration. Remarkably, Brussels continues to be the only Belgian region reporting more births than deaths.
Flanders Becomes a Magnet
Data reveals that Flanders is increasingly favored by those relocating. Nearly 33,400 individuals moved from Brussels and Wallonia to Flanders in 2024, while just under 20,000 exited, resulting in a net inflow of approximately 14,000 people. CIB spokesperson Kristophe Thijs remarked that areas surrounding Brussels and mid-sized cities such as Mechelen, Leuven, and Aalst have become particularly attractive.
Wallonia also experienced growth, recording a net influx of over 2,400 residents, particularly in border municipalities in Walloon Brabant and Namur.
For more details, reports 24brussels.