12 Top-Notch Places to Live in the Netherlands for Quality Living

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Thinking about moving to the Netherlands? This small but mighty country is packed with charm, from its historic canals and tulip fields to modern cities buzzing with culture and innovation. Whether you’re drawn to Amsterdam’s international vibe, Utrecht’s cozy canals, or the laid-back lifestyle of smaller towns, the Netherlands has a place for everyone.

Having explored this country and studied what makes each city and town unique, I’ve narrowed it down to the 12 best places to live here. These spots were chosen for their quality of life, affordability, accessibility, and overall vibe. Whether you’re moving for work, family, or a fresh adventure, this guide will help you find the perfect place to call home in the Netherlands.

The Best Places to Live in the Netherlands 

Eager to explore the most picturesque locations in the Netherlands? Nestled in the heart of Europe, this country offers a perfect match for every preference. Continue reading to uncover the finest living spots the Netherlands has to offer.

Searching for the ideal place to call home in the Netherlands? No matter your plans or lifestyle, this centrally located European gem has something to suit every need.

• Best for cultural scene: Amsterdam
• Best for modern architecture: Rotterdam
• Best for historical charm: Utrecht
• Best for international institutions: The Hague
• Best for academic atmosphere: Leiden
• Best for technology and innovation: Eindhoven
• Best for historical significance: Maastricht
• Best for student life: Groningen
• Best for picturesque streets: Haarlem
• Best for technological education: Delft
• Best for nature and history: Arnhem
• Best for modern living and sustainability: Almere

Here are all the top places to live in the Netherlands that you should consider:

1. Amsterdam

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,500 – $5,000
• 🌟 Unique Features: Iconic canals 🚲, international culture 🌍, and vibrant nightlife 🍻
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: March – October 🌤️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Expats 💼, creatives 🎨, and digital nomads 💻

Living in Amsterdam means waking up to historic canals, world-class museums, and a buzzing international vibe. The Dutch capital seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern innovation, making it one of the best cities to live in the Netherlands.

From cycling past 17th-century canal houses to enjoying a cozy coffee break in a hidden courtyard café, there’s always something to discover. The city’s job market is booming, especially in tech, finance, and creative industries, attracting professionals from around the world. Expats love the diverse community, while families appreciate Amsterdam’s excellent schools, parks, and laid-back lifestyle.

Whether you’re visiting the Van Gogh Museum, browsing Albert Cuyp Market, or taking a scenic canal ride, Amsterdam offers a high quality of life with endless cultural experiences. It’s a city that never stands still, making it the perfect place for those who love dynamic urban living with a touch of history.

2. Rotterdam

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,800 – $3,500
• 🌟 Unique Features: Modern architecture 🏙️, diverse communities 🌏, and bustling port 🚢
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: April – September ☀️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Young professionals 👩‍💼, entrepreneurs 🚀, and city lovers 🌆

If sleek skyscrapers, cutting-edge design, and a global mindset excite you, Rotterdam is the place to be. Unlike the Netherlands’ more traditional cities, Rotterdam is a modern metropolis known for its bold architecture, thriving port, and dynamic art scene.

The Erasmus Bridge and Markthal are just the beginning—every corner of the city is filled with street art, creative hubs, and world-class dining. Rotterdam’s multicultural energy makes it one of the most diverse and innovative places to live. The job market is strong, especially in maritime industries, tech, and sustainability, drawing young professionals and entrepreneurs alike.

Despite its urban edge, Rotterdam offers plenty of green spaces, excellent public transport, and a relaxed work-life balance. Whether you’re catching a film at LantarenVenster, biking along the Maas River, or enjoying a summer festival, Rotterdam delivers a refreshing, forward-thinking way of life.

3. Utrecht

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,700 – $3,200
• 🌟 Unique Features: Historic charm 🏛️, top universities 🎓, and relaxed canal vibes 🚣
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: April – September 🌞
• 🏆 Perfect For: Students 📚, families 👪, and history lovers 🏰

Picture medieval canals, cozy cafés, and a lively student atmosphere—that’s Utrecht in a nutshell. This charming city is known for its compact, bike-friendly streets and stunning Dom Tower, making it one of the most picturesque places to live in the Netherlands.

Utrecht offers a perfect mix of history and modernity, with bustling markets, independent boutiques, and a thriving café culture. As home to one of the country’s top universities, the city has a young, vibrant energy, while still feeling more laid-back than Amsterdam.

Families love Utrecht for its top-rated schools and green parks, while professionals appreciate its proximity to major business hubs. With a strong economy, excellent public transport, and a welcoming community, Utrecht is ideal for anyone looking for a balanced, high-quality lifestyle—where history meets modern Dutch living. It’s simply the place to be!

4. The Hague

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,800 – $3,800
• 🌟 Unique Features: Political hub 🏛️, international organizations 🌍, and seaside escape 🌊
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: May – September 🌤️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Diplomats 🏢, expats 💼, and beach lovers 🏖️

If you’re looking for a city that blends political prestige with a relaxed coastal vibe, The Hague is a top choice. As the seat of the Dutch government and home to international institutions, this city is both cosmopolitan and charming.

Stroll through historic streets lined with embassies, admire Dutch masterpieces at the Mauritshuis, or escape to Scheveningen Beach for a breath of fresh sea air. The Hague is perfect for expats and professionals, thanks to its international schools, diplomatic community, and strong job market in law, politics, and business.

Despite its importance on the world stage, The Hague has a relaxed pace, offering spacious parks, cultural festivals, and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re here for career opportunities or the appeal of living near the coast, The Hague provides a refined yet laid-back lifestyle that’s hard to beat.

5. Leiden

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,600 – $3,000
• 🌟 Unique Features: Prestigious university 🎓, charming canals 🚣, and rich history 📜
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: April – October ☀️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Academics 📖, students 🎒, and culture enthusiasts 🎭

Step into Leiden, and you’ll find a city where history, academia, and charm come together effortlessly. Known for its prestigious university, Leiden has a rich intellectual atmosphere balanced by its quaint canals, windmills, and cobbled streets.

The city’s compact, bike-friendly layout makes it easy to explore hidden bookshops, lively markets, and centuries-old buildings. Leiden is also home to the Netherlands’ oldest botanical garden, where tulips first bloomed in Europe. Despite its historical feel, the city offers modern amenities, cultural festivals, and a thriving student scene, keeping things fresh and vibrant.

With excellent public transport connections, Leiden is ideal for those who want a peaceful, community-driven lifestyle while staying close to bigger cities like Amsterdam and The Hague. Whether you’re an academic, a professional, or someone who loves a blend of history and liveliness, Leiden is the perfect Dutch city to call home.

6. Eindhoven

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,500 – $2,800
• 🌟 Unique Features: Tech innovation 💡, design capital 🎨, and green spaces 🌳
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: May – September 🌞
• 🏆 Perfect For: Tech professionals 🖥️, engineers ⚙️, and families 👨‍👩‍👦

If you’re drawn to tech, innovation, and creative energy, Eindhoven is calling your name. Known as the “Brainport of Europe,” this city is a hub for technology, design, and startups, making it a top destination for engineers, entrepreneurs, and creatives.

The city’s industrial past has transformed into a modern, dynamic landscape, with areas like Strijp-S serving as a hotspot for art, music, and co-working spaces. Eindhoven is home to the renowned Design Academy and major tech companies like Philips and ASML, driving a booming job market.

Despite its futuristic feel, Eindhoven still offers green spaces, friendly neighborhoods, and a strong international community. Whether you’re attending Dutch Design Week, cycling through the Genneper Parks, or grabbing a craft beer at a trendy bar, Eindhoven is perfect for those who want to live in a city that’s always looking ahead.

7. Maastricht

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,600 – $3,000
• 🌟 Unique Features: European charm 🇪🇺, historic streets 🏰, and gourmet food 🍷
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: March – October 🌤️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Expats 🌍, retirees 🏡, and food lovers 🍽️

Located in the southern tip of the Netherlands, Maastricht feels like a world of its own. With Belgium and Germany just a stone’s throw away, this city is a mosaic of cultures, offering a unique blend of Dutch, French, and German influences.

Maastricht is famous for its medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant café culture. The Vrijthof square is always buzzing with markets, concerts, and festivals, while the Maas River provides a scenic backdrop for a relaxing stroll. As one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, Maastricht embraces its history while keeping things fresh with a thriving university scene.

For those seeking a sophisticated, international lifestyle with a touch of old-world charm, Maastricht is a perfect fit. Whether you’re indulging in local wines, exploring underground caves, or enjoying a night at a jazz club, this city offers a slower-paced, yet culturally rich way of life.

8. Groningen

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,300 – $2,500
• 🌟 Unique Features: Vibrant student life 🎓, bike-friendly 🚲, and lively nightlife 🍻
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: April – September ☀️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Students 📚, young professionals 💼, and creatives 🎭

Looking for a city that’s young, energetic, and bursting with creativity? Groningen is the answer. With its large and diverse student population, this northern gem is known for its lively nightlife, cutting-edge arts scene, and forward-thinking sustainability efforts.

Groningen’s Grote Markt serves as the city’s beating heart, surrounded by trendy cafés, historic buildings, and buzzing cultural venues that keep the energy high year-round. It’s a place where you can cycle everywhere, enjoy some of the best Dutch festivals, and experience an inclusive, progressive atmosphere that welcomes all.

But Groningen isn’t just for students—it’s also one of the greenest and healthiest cities in the Netherlands, with car-free zones, beautiful parks, and a strong focus on clean energy and urban innovation. If you’re after a vibrant, youthful city that balances tradition with innovation, Groningen delivers an exciting, sustainable lifestyle that’s hard to match.

9. Haarlem

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,700 – $3,200
• 🌟 Unique Features: Quaint Dutch charm 🏡, artsy vibe 🎨, and easy Amsterdam access 🚆
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: April – October 🌤️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Families 👪, artists 🎭, and commuters 🚉

Just 15 minutes from Amsterdam, Haarlem is the perfect mix of city convenience and small-town charm. Known for its historic architecture, world-class museums, and cozy café culture, Haarlem offers a slower pace of life without sacrificing accessibility.

The city’s Grote Markt is a stunning central square, surrounded by boutique shops, outdoor terraces, and the impressive St. Bavo Church. Art lovers will appreciate the Frans Hals Museum, while foodies can indulge in Michelin-star dining and vibrant local markets. Haarlem also boasts easy access to the North Sea beaches, making it a great spot for those who love both city life and nature.

With excellent schools, green parks, and a family-friendly atmosphere, Haarlem is ideal for expats, professionals, and families looking for a beautiful, well-connected place to live—all while avoiding Amsterdam’s higher price tag.

10. Delft

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,500 – $2,900
• 🌟 Unique Features: Picturesque canals 🌊, world-famous Delftware 🎨, and student-friendly vibe 🎓
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: March – October ☀️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Students 🎒, artists 🖌️, and history lovers 🏰

Famous for its iconic blue pottery and charming canals, Delft is a fairytale-like city that offers a high quality of life in a compact, friendly setting. With its historic churches, picturesque streets, and lively market squares, Delft feels like a mini-Amsterdam, minus the crowds.

As home to the Delft University of Technology, the city has a strong academic and tech scene, attracting students, researchers, and innovators from around the world. Despite its small size, Delft has plenty of cultural events, independent boutiques, and cozy cafés that make everyday life enjoyable.

For those who want a balance of history, education, and modern convenience, Delft is a top choice. Its excellent train connections to The Hague and Rotterdam make commuting a breeze, while its charming canals and green spaces offer a peaceful retreat from city life.

11. Arnhem

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,400 – $2,600
• 🌟 Unique Features: Lush parks 🌳, relaxed atmosphere 🏡, and cultural events 🎭
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: May – September 🌤️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Nature lovers 🌿, families 👪, and remote workers 💻

For those who love green spaces, rich history, and a laid-back vibe, Arnhem is a hidden gem. Nestled near Veluwe National Park, one of the largest nature reserves in the Netherlands, this city offers a perfect mix of urban life and outdoor adventure.

Arnhem played a key role in World War II, and you can still see history come to life at spots like the Airborne Museum and John Frost Bridge. But there’s more to this city than its past—it’s also big on sustainability, with bike-friendly streets, eco-conscious initiatives, and plenty of green spaces to explore.

From boutique shopping and buzzing cafés to hiking through forests and catching live music, Arnhem has something for everyone. With affordable housing, a creative arts scene, and easy access to nature, it’s an awesome place for families, professionals, and outdoor lovers alike.

12. Almere

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,200 – $2,500
• 🌟 Unique Features: Modern urban planning 🏙️, affordable housing 🏡, and growing expat scene 🌍
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: April – September ☀️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Budget-conscious expats 💰, families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, and commuters 🚆

If modern design, sustainability, and plenty of space sound like your vibe, Almere is worth considering. Built on reclaimed land, this young, fast-growing city is one of the most unique places to live in the Netherlands—offering a fresh take on urban living with a nature-friendly twist.

Everything here is designed for green, easy living, from energy-efficient homes and eco-friendly neighborhoods to tons of waterfront spots perfect for kayaking or weekend strolls. Despite its sleek, futuristic feel, Almere is more affordable than Amsterdam, making it a solid choice for families, professionals, and anyone looking for space without breaking the bank.

With wide streets, modern architecture, and a strong community vibe, Almere is a breath of fresh air compared to the Netherlands’ older cities. Whether you’re commuting to Amsterdam, biking along the lakes, or just enjoying the extra room to breathe, Almere proves that the future of Dutch living is already here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Best Places to Live in the Netherlands 

Interested in learning more about the top living destinations in the Netherlands? Let’s dive into some frequently asked questions about the finest places to live in this charming European nation.

Where is the best place to live in the Netherlands?

Determining the best place to live in the Netherlands depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Here are some popular options, each offering unique advantages:

• Amsterdam: Known for its rich cultural scene, vibrant nightlife, and diverse population. Ideal for those seeking an energetic urban environment with plenty of job opportunities, especially in sectors like tech, finance, and creative industries.

• Rotterdam: Renowned for its modern architecture and bustling port. It’s a great choice for those interested in a dynamic, multicultural urban experience with a strong emphasis on innovation and design.

• Utrecht: Offers a charming blend of historic and modern living, with a significant student population. It’s for those seeking a lively yet more relaxed urban environment with a strong sense of community.

• The Hague: Known as the seat of the Dutch government and home to numerous international courts and embassies. It’s ideal for expats and professionals involved in politics, law, and international relations.

• Leiden: A smaller city known for its historic university and beautiful old town. Perfect for those who appreciate a rich academic atmosphere combined with the charm of a small town.

• Eindhoven: A hub for technology and design, often regarded as the innovation city of the Netherlands. Suitable for professionals and students in tech and design fields.

• Haarlem: Offers a quieter alternative to Amsterdam, with its own historical charm. Great for families and individuals seeking a peaceful yet culturally rich living experience.

• Groningen: Known for its youthful vibe due to a large student population. It’s a good choice for students and young professionals.

Each city has its unique charm and benefits, so the best choice depends on your personal preferences in terms of lifestyle, work opportunities, cultural interests, and environment.

What is the safest city to live in the Netherlands?

The Netherlands is a safe country with a high standard of living and low crime rates. However, the perception of safety can vary depending on individual experiences and specific areas within cities. Here are some cities I’ve been to that prioritize safety:

• Amstelveen: Located just south of Amsterdam, Amstelveen is frequently mentioned for its safety, green spaces, and family-friendly environment. It’s popular among expatriates and has a high standard of living.

• Hilversum: Known as the “media city” of the Netherlands, Hilversum offers a safe and peaceful living environment. Its small size contributes to a close-knit community feeling.

• Delft: Famous for its historic center and technical university, Delft is not only rich in culture and history but also known for being a safe and pleasant city to live in.

• Leiden: This historic university city is famous for its charming canals and old buildings, and it maintains a reputation as a safe and friendly place to live.

• Gouda: Famous for its cheese, Gouda is a smaller city that is safe and peaceful, with a quaint and historic atmosphere.

• Utrecht: Despite being a large city, Utrecht is often perceived as a safe place to live. It combines the amenities of a big city with a smaller town’s safety and community feel.

It’s important to remember that safety can be subjective and varies by neighborhood within each city. For the most current and detailed information, consulting local police reports or expatriate forums can provide more specific insights into the safety of these and other Dutch cities.

What is the most livable city in the Netherlands?

Determining the “most livable city” in the Netherlands can vary based on individual preferences and priorities. However, several cities are frequently mentioned for their high quality of life:

• Amsterdam: The capital city is famous for its vibrant cultural scene, diverse population, and extensive public transport. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a lively urban environment with plenty of job opportunities and entertainment options.

• Utrecht: This city offers a great balance between a bustling urban center and a relaxed atmosphere. Its rich history, cultural activities, and strong community feel make it very livable, especially for families and students.

• Rotterdam: Known for its modern architecture and innovative design, Rotterdam is great for those who appreciate a contemporary urban lifestyle. It has a dynamic job market, especially in creative and maritime industries.

• The Hague: As the seat of the Dutch government and numerous international institutions, The Hague offers a cosmopolitan environment with lots of green spaces and a high standard of living.

• Leiden: This smaller city is famous for its historic charm and excellent education facilities, including one of Europe’s oldest universities. It’s a great option for those who prefer a quieter, academic atmosphere.

• Eindhoven: A hub for technology and innovation, Eindhoven is ideal for professionals and students in the tech industry. It offers a high quality of life with a focus on modern living and innovation.

Each of these cities offers a unique combination of amenities, culture, and atmosphere, making them highly livable depending on your personal needs and preferences. Factors such as access to healthcare, education, public transport, job opportunities, and cultural activities are typically considered when determining livability.

Where is it affordable to live in the Netherlands?

Affordability in the Netherlands can vary widely based on the region, with the cost of living generally being higher in larger cities and more manageable in smaller towns and rural areas. Some of the more affordable places to live in the Netherlands include:

• Enschede: Located in the eastern part of the Netherlands, near the German border, Enschede offers relatively affordable living, especially in terms of housing costs.

• Nijmegen: One of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, Nijmegen is famous for its vibrant student life and relatively affordable housing market compared to the larger cities.

• Leeuwarden: The capital of Friesland in the north, Leeuwarden offers a lower cost of living, with more affordable housing options than in the major cities of the Randstad area.

• Groningen: Although it’s a lively student city, Groningen can be more affordable than the larger cities in the west, especially when looking outside the city center.

• Tilburg: Located in the southern part of the country, Tilburg is popular for its lower living costs, making it a more affordable option for many.

• Almere: A planned city near Amsterdam, Almere offers more affordable housing options compared to the capital, though it’s still within commuting distance.

• Zwolle: This city in the northeast provides a balanced cost of living with good quality of life, offering more affordable housing than the Randstad cities.

• Apeldoorn: Known for its green spaces and more laid-back lifestyle, Apeldoorn offers a more affordable cost of living while still providing good amenities and infrastructure.

Additionally, while housing might be cheaper in some areas, other costs like transportation (especially if commuting to a larger city for work) should also be considered.

How much salary do you need to live comfortably in the Netherlands?

The salary needed to live comfortably in the Netherlands can vary significantly depending on several factors such as location, lifestyle, and family size. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Single Person: For a single individual living in a city like Amsterdam or Utrecht, a gross annual salary of around €30,000 to €40,000 may be sufficient for a comfortable lifestyle, covering rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, and leisure activities. In smaller cities or towns, this amount could be lower.

• Couples: For couples without children, a combined gross annual income of about €50,000 to €60,000 is often considered comfortable, especially if both partners are earning. This estimate assumes shared living expenses and a moderate lifestyle.

• Families: For families with children, a gross annual income of €60,000 to €70,000 or more could be necessary to cover living costs comfortably. This would include larger housing, childcare, education (if opting for private schooling), and other family-related expenses.

These figures are approximate and can vary based on personal preferences and choices, such as the type of housing, reliance on public transportation versus owning a car, dining out habits, and other lifestyle decisions.

Additionally, it’s important to consider the Netherlands’ progressive tax system, social security contributions, and other deductions when calculating net income from gross salary. The cost of living in the major cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht is typically higher than in smaller towns and rural areas.

For a more precise estimation based on specific circumstances, it’s advisable to use cost of living calculators or consult with financial advisors familiar with the local context.

How much money is enough to live in Holland?

The amount of money needed to live in the Netherlands varies greatly depending on several factors, including location, lifestyle, and personal circumstances. Here’s a rough guideline for different scenarios:

• Single Person: In major cities like Amsterdam or Utrecht, a single person might need around €1,200 to €1,800 per month to cover basic expenses such as rent (for a one-bedroom apartment), utilities, groceries, public transportation, and some leisure activities. In smaller cities or towns, these costs could be lower.

• Couples: For couples without children, monthly expenses might range from €2,000 to €2,500, depending on factors like housing choices and lifestyle. This estimate assumes shared living expenses.

• Families: Families with children might require €2,500 to €3,500 or more per month. This higher cost accounts for larger housing, childcare, education (if opting for private schooling), and other family-related expenses.

• Students: International students usually need about €800 to €1,200 per month, depending on the city and their lifestyle. This estimate includes housing, food, study materials, transportation, and some personal expenses.

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Live in the Netherlands 

The Netherlands, with its unique blend of historical charm and modern innovation, offers a variety of lifestyles to fit any preference. From the bustling streets of Amsterdam and Rotterdam to the tranquil canals of Utrecht and the historic beauty of Maastricht, this small yet diverse country has something for everyone.

For those seeking affordability, cities like Enschede and Leeuwarden provide a cost-effective lifestyle without sacrificing quality. They demonstrate that the Netherlands can be surprisingly affordable with the right location. Meanwhile, if you thrive in dynamic urban environments, the country’s larger cities offer rich cultural experiences and burgeoning career opportunities.

Happiness is also a key factor in the Dutch way of life. Cities like Haarlem and Leiden are frequently mentioned for their high livability, combining the convenience of urban living with the charm of small-town communities.

So, what are the best places to live in the Netherlands? The answer varies as much as the landscape of the country itself. It ultimately depends on what you value most in your living environment. Whether it’s for career growth, cultural experiences, or simply the joy of living in a place that balances tradition with progress, the Netherlands offers a myriad of choices. It’s not just a place to live, but a place to experience a rich and fulfilling lifestyle.