Charleroi is a Wallonian city and municipality, currently holding the title of the fifth-largest city in Belgium. It’s a popular immigration spot, and now let’s see why!
Costs of living
Compared to Brussels and other cities in Belgium, prices in Charleroi seem much more affordable and better suited to the typical salary of the average citizen. Restaurant prices are considerably cheaper than in many places in Belgium, and grocery prices are no different.
Health care
Like in entire Belgium, the healthcare in Charleroi is incredibly high-quality, one of the best in Europe. Grand Hôpital de Charleroi is the central healthcare institution operating in the city, helping hundreds and sometimes even thousands of patients every day. While casually walking through the city you can easily find at least several drug stores on your way, making finding medications you need very easy and convenient.
Rich history
Charleroi as both city and municipality has been existing for hundreds of years, just like many cities and regions of Belgium. So it should come as no surprise that you can spend hundreds of hours researching its history! It doesn’t matter which way you approach it – by viciously reading through all the books in the local libraries, long walks in historical places or many talks with the local elderly.
Crime rate
Charleroi used to have a significant problem with criminal behaviours, but in recent years crime rates are going nothing but down. Current residents of the city can feel safe walking not only during the daytime but also at night. The local police department is working harder than ever to keep the area as safe as it should be.
Public transport
Charleroi has a very straightforward yet remarkably efficient public transport system. It currently contains several bus lines and four main metro lines operating by TEC, a company responsible for handling the public transport in the entire Wallonia. Even if you’ve just moved in, you’ll have no trouble figuring out Charleroi’s public transport – it may seem complicated at first glance, but in reality, it’s as simple as it can get!
