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Tilburg, a vibrant city in the Netherlands, is an appealing destination for students and professionals alike. Known for its lively cultural atmosphere and welcoming community. Tilburg also provides a relatively affordable cost of living and offers a balanced lifestyle compared to other major cities in the Netherlands and nearby countries.
Tilburg is well known not only for its educational opportunities but also for its manageable cost of living. Students can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the financial strain typical of many Western cities. In this blog, we will explore these components of the cost of living in Tilburg to help you plan your finances effectively and make the most of your stay in this picturesque country.
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Cost of Living in Tilburg Overview
The average cost of living in Tilburg varies depending on lifestyle choices and accommodation preferences. According to recent data from LivingCost, the monthly cost of living in Tilburg for a single person is around EUR 1687, including the rent. When factoring in rent for an apartment, total expenses range from EUR 875 to EUR 1500, varying based on location and apartment size.
Compared to other cities in the Netherlands and globally, Tilburg offers a high quality of life with reasonable living expenses. For international expatriates, the cost of living in Tilburg encompasses expenses such as housing rent, food, groceries, utilities, transportation, and entertainment. Below, we delve into specific categories of living expenses to give you a comprehensive understanding:
Also read: Cost of Living in Cambodia: Updated Prices, Comparison with Other Cities
Costs of Accommodation in Tilburg
When calculating the cost of living in Tilburg, accommodation is undoubtedly a major and crucial factor. Housing expenses vary based on location, size, and type of residence you choose. Typically, a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre of Tilburg, the capital city, can cost approximately EUR 1,088.
It’s a good idea to thoroughly research and compare different accommodation options in Tilburg to find one that suits your needs and budget. Larger apartments or those with additional amenities may incur higher costs. For your convenience, we have collected data on the average cost of housing for various apartments both within and outside the city centre in Tilburg.
| Apartment | Location | Approx. Monthly Cost |
| Apartment of One-bedroom | in the City Centre | EUR 1,088 |
| Apartment of Three-bedroom | in the City Centre | EUR 1,466 |
| Apartment of One-bedroom | Outside of Centre | EUR 875 |
| Apartment of Three-bedroom | Outside of Centre | EUR 1,350 |
Cost of a Utility in Tilburg
The monthly utility cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Tilburg is usually around EUR 188. This expense can vary based on usage and the apartment’s size. When budgeting your monthly living expenses in Tilburg, it’s essential to consider utility costs, as they cover a significant portion of your cost of living in Tilburg. Below is a table offering an overview of the average utility bills in Tilburg:
| Utility Type | Utility Name | Approx. Cost |
| Basic Utility Bills | Water, Electricity, Heating, Cooling, and Garbage | EUR 188 |
| Monthly Plan Mobile Phone | including Calls and 10GB+ Data | EUR 19 |
| Internet | Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL monthly | EUR 34 |
Restaurant Food Costs in Tilburg
Eating out in Tilburg offers a range of options, from budget-friendly eateries to upscale restaurants. Dining out can be pricier than cooking in your room and it may impact your overall budget for the cost of living in Tilburg. Here’s an approximate estimate of the average cost of a meal at restaurants in Tilburg:
| Type of Restaurant | Approx Cost of Meal in Restaurant |
| Meal for 2 person (in a Mid-range Restaurant) | EUR 70 |
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | EUR 12.50 |
| Equal meal. to McDonald’s | EUR 10 |
| (Regular Coffee) Cappuccino | EUR 2.67 |
Cost of Grocery in Tilburg
Now that you have seen the cost of dining at Tilburg’s restaurants, it’s a wise idea for students to consider cooking at home. By buying groceries from local markets, students can save money. Grocery prices in Tilburg are relatively low compared to many major cities worldwide. However, it is essential to compare prices to get the best value for your money.
Local markets offer fresh produce at lower prices than supermarkets. The cost of groceries can significantly impact the overall cost of living in Tilburg. The following table provides an overview of average grocery expenses in Tilburg:
| Grocery Item | Approx Cost |
| Milk (regular), (1 litre) | EUR 0.97 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | EUR 1.75 |
| Rice (white), (1kg) | EUR 3.09 |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | EUR 4.08 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | EUR 11.67 |
| Apples (1kg) | EUR 1.65 |
| Banana (1kg) | EUR 2.13 |
| Oranges (1kg) | EUR 1.65 |
| Tomato (1kg) | EUR 3.19 |
| Potato (1kg) | EUR 1.84 |
| Onion (1kg) | EUR 1.8 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | EUR 1.08 |
| Water (1.5 liter bottle) | EUR 0.65 |
Also read: Cost of Living in Indiana: A Guide on Expected Expenses
Transportation costs in Tilburg
Tilburg’s efficient public transportation system includes trains, buses, boats and taxis, providing convenient travel options throughout the city for residents and students. Evaluating transportation expenses is crucial as they significantly influence the overall cost of living in Tilburg.
Refer to the following table for an overview of transportation costs across different areas of Tilburg:
| Mode of Transport | Approx Cost |
| Ticket for Monthly Pass in a Public transport | EUR 67 |
| Ticket for Local Public transport | EUR 2.90 |
| Local tariff for the Taxi Ride of 1 km | EUR 1.50 |
| Normal Tariff of taxi for 1 hour Waiting | EUR 18 |
| 1 L or 0.26 gal Gas / Petrol | EUR 1.91 |
Also read: Cost of Living in Rotterdam: A Guide on Expected Expenses
Miscellaneous Costs in Tilburg
In addition to the primary categories of the cost of living in Tilburg, there are several other essential expenses to consider. These include costs for items and activities that you’ll likely need or want after spending some time in Tilburg, such as clothing, entertainment, and minor healthcare services. Below is a breakdown of some miscellaneous expenses:
| Miscellaneous | Approx Cost |
| Movie Ticket | EUR 12.50 |
| Brand Jeans | EUR 47.17 |
| Fitness Club | EUR 25 |
| Summer Dress | EUR 19.33 |
| Pair of Sports shoes | EUR 73 |
| Doctor’s visit | EUR 98.8 |
Cost of Living in Tilburg Compared to Other Countries/Cities
Tilburg is generally considered a relatively affordable city to live in the Netherlands. While Tilburg ranks among the top 24% of the most expensive cities in the world. When compared to some other cities like Rotterdam, Netherlands, and Luxembourg it boasts of a slightly lower cost of living but still it boasts a standard of living. However, it is a little bit more expensive than Belgium, Jakarta and Maastricht.
To give you an idea of how the cost of living in Tilburg, compares to these cities, we have provided a detailed comparison below. Please have a look:
| Cost of Living City/Country Wise | Average Cost of living (including rent) | Comparison with Cost of Living in Tilburg |
| Cost of Living in Rotterdam | EUR 1853 | Higher than Tilburg |
| Cost of Living in the Netherlands | EUR 1790 | Higher than Tilburg |
| Cost of Living in Luxembourg | EUR 2025 | Higher than Tilburg |
| Cost of Living in Maastricht | EUR 1590 | Lower than Tilburg |
| Cost of Living in Belgium | EUR 1418 | Lower than Tilburg |
| Cost of Living in Jakarta | EUR 661 | Lower than Tilburg |
As shown in the table, Tilburg offers a cost of living that is generally more affordable than many of its neighbouring cities. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to balance a comfortable lifestyle with manageable living expenses.
Average Tuition Fees in Tilburg
Tuition fees in Tilburg are generally comparable to those in many Netherlands cities. Students can budget more effectively for their preferred university by checking the average tuition fees at Tilburg University. Please note that tuition fees may vary based on the chosen university, level of study, and field of study. See the table below for a summary of some of the tuition fees at selected Tilburg universities from various Courses:
| University Name | Tuition Fee per year |
| Tilburg University | EUR 2470 – EUR 19890 |
| TIAS School for Business and Society | EUR 22240 – EUR 46370 |
Tips for Managing Cost of Living in Tilburg
Living in Tilburg can be a rewarding experience, but managing expenses wisely is essential to getting the most out of your time in the city. By adopting smart financial strategies and taking advantage of local resources, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without spending too much. Here are some practical tips to help you effectively manage the cost of living in Tilburg.
Affordable Accommodation: Finding a place to live is often the largest expense. Here are some strategies to keep housing costs down.
- Shared Housing: Opting for shared housing is a great way to significantly reduce your rental costs. Sharing an apartment with others not only splits the rent but also the utilities.
Cook at Home: Eating out can add up quickly. Here are some ways to save money by preparing your meals. Plan your meals to prevent food wastage and save you money in the long run.
Affordable Healthcare: It is important to manage health expenditures. Buy some National Health Insurance to take advantage of lower medical costs, ensuring you get the health care you need without financial stress. Also, use community health centres for minor health concerns as they often provide services at lower rates.
Limit Unnecessary Purchases: Sticking to a budget can help avoid unnecessary spending. Here are some tips to stay on track.
- Budgeting: Maintaining a strict budget helps in managing your finances better. Create a monthly budget and stick to it to avoid overspending.
- Avoid Impulse Buying: Make a shopping list before heading to stores to avoid buying unnecessary items.
Overall, Tilburg offers a reasonable cost of living, especially for students. By understanding and budgeting for the various components of living expenses in Tilburg, you can make informed decisions that enhance your experience in this dynamic city.
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FAQs on the Cost of Living in Tilburg
Answer: The cost of living in Tilburg for a single person is approximately EUR 1687 per month. This includes various expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and other daily necessities. The estimated cost of housing rent ranges from EUR 875 to EUR 1500.
Answer: Tilburg can be considered relatively expensive to live in, especially when compared to some other cities. The average cost of living is around EUR 1687 per month, which includes various expenses like housing, food, transportation, and utilities. However, at this cost, you can live a good quality of life in Tilburg.
Ans: The rent for apartments In Tilburg, varies based on where you choose to live. If you prefer a 1-bedroom apartment in the City Centre, it costs about EUR 1,088 per month. But if you decide to live outside the City Centre, the rent drops to around EUR 875 per month for a similar apartment.
So, this was all about the cost of living in Tilburg. Many Indian students dream of pursuing education in foreign nations due to the exposure and career growth they offer. Consider joining a free counselling session with Leverage Edu if you plan to study abroad.
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