Why did 3,600 people move from the UK to the Netherlands in 2019? And why is the Netherlands one of the popular countries in the world for Brits to emigrate to?
Well, going to live in the Netherlands makes a lot of sense for Brits and the advantages of moving here are many:
The Pros of Moving to the Netherlands
Amsterdam, Netherlands
It is a short hop across the sea if you ever need to get back to the UK in a hurry
English is widely spoken so there are very few communication problems, although to integrate fully it will help you to learn Dutch
It is a very safe country with very low crime rates
It is easy to get work if you speak English as many major international employers are based here
There is a large expat community in the Netherlands which many people moving abroad find reassuring
Health insurance, which is mandatory, is very cheap in the Netherlands and the healthcare system is excellent
The education system in the Netherlands is very good with some world-class universities
If you are one of the thousands of Brits thinking of moving to the Netherlands then this guide will provide you with all you need to know about every region of the Netherlands, and how much it will cost you to move there.
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What is the Average Cost of Moving from London to the Netherlands?
Based on data over the summer of 2021 we have seen the cost of moving overseas rise substantially. There are a number of reasons for that including the worldwide shortage of shipping containers, fuel price increases, increased labour costs, and of course the additional customs checks and paperwork that is required post-Brexit.
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home to the Netherlands is:
By Road: £2,100-£2,500
By Sea: £2,600-£3,000
By Air: £3,100-£3,800
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home to the Netherlands is:
By Road: £2,300-£2,700
By Sea: £3,200-£3,800
By Air: £4,600-£5,700
What is the Average Cost of Moving from Cardiff to the Netherlands?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home to the Netherlands is:
By Road: £2,300-£2,700
By Sea: £2,700-£3,200
By Air: £3,100-£3,800
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home to the Netherlands is:
By Road: £2,500-£2,900
By Sea: £3,300-£4,000
By Air: £4,600-£5,700
What is the Average Cost of Moving from Glasgow to the Netherlands?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home to the Netherlands is:
By Road: £2,500-£3,000
By Sea: £2,500-£3,000
By Air: £3,100-£3,800
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home to the Netherlands is:
By Road: £2,800-£3,400
By Sea: £3,200-£3,800
By Air: £4,600-£5,700
What is the Average Cost of Moving from Belfast to the Netherlands?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home to the Netherlands is:
By Road: £2,600-£3,100
By Sea: £2,500-£3,000
By Air: £3,100-£3,800
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home to the Netherlands is:
A Moving Guide to the 12 Regions of the Netherlands
There are 12 regions of the Netherlands all of which offer a different but great lifestyle. Just click on each of the regions to learn all about the best places in the Netherlands to live.
If you are thinking of moving to the Netherlands then you may find some useful information at www.iamexpat.nl
For British expats looking for work in the Netherlands, www.findajobinholland.com lists jobs that require the English language.
The Netherlands is one of the most densely populated countries in Europe and generally homes are expensive and in short supply. The two most popular nationwide house-finding agencies are www.funda.nl and www.directwonen.nl
Moving to Drenthe Netherlands
Raadhuisplein, Emmen
Drenthe is located in the northeast of the Netherlands, and is bordered by Groningen in the north, Germany to the east, Overijssel to the south, and Friesland to the west.
This is a very sparsely populated region with most of the province used for agricultural purposes.
The tranquility and wonderful scenery in Drenthe attracts many tourists, and also those expats who want to live a more relaxed lifestyle, but with all the benefits of living in the Netherlands, and easy access to the amenities of the cities.
Drenthe is also well known for the dolmens, prehistoric tombs made from boulders that are believed to have come from Denmark during the Ice Age.
There are three national parks in Drenthe, Drents-Friese Wold, Dwingelderveld, and The Drenthe Aa, which offer many outdoor leisure pursuits, as well as being great places to relax and explore the ancient burial mounds.
Despite the rural location of Drenthe, it is very well connected with the rest of the Netherlands. The larger towns have great rail connections, whilst even the most remote villages have a regular bus service.
For those who need to get to Amsterdam or the airport at Schiphol, you are only a couple of hours away by car.
Over the last decade, there has been significant investment in Drenthe and many international companies are now located here, so if you are looking for work in Drenthe then check out www.iwcn.nl which has lots of useful information and also a job portal.
British expats thinking of going to live in Drenthe usually head for the two most populated cities of Assen and Emmen, but being such a rural province, there are many very charming villages to discover that will make ideal homes if you seek a quiet and peaceful lifestyle.
Assen – Assen is the capital city of Drenthe, and the fastest-growing city in the region both economically and by population. Having had much investment in recent years there are now plenty of job opportunities here, particularly in the service sectors and healthcare.
British expats moving to Assen will find that this is a compact and flat city that is easy to walk or cycle around. There is excellent public transport with a comprehensive train service, and also buses to the more rural villages. For car drivers parking is plentiful and cheap.
There is a good range of shops, an outdoor market, some excellent cafes and restaurants, a very good museum, and all the amenities you need for day-to-day living.
Assen is a very family-friendly city and consequently, the homes here tend to be family row houses (terraced houses) or rent-controlled apartments (long-term rents).
With a quaint old town square, great local parks, and the city itself surrounded by wonderful countryside, this is a safe and laid-back city in which to live.
And finally, you cannot review Assen without mentioning that it is the home of the Dutch round of the MotoGP motorcycle racing series, which is reason enough to move here if you are a biker.
Emmen – Emmen is a larger city than Assen and offers expats relocating here a great lifestyle. Despite a population of around 100,000, there is a strong sense of community, and Emmen is regarded as a very safe place to live.
Surrounded by beautiful countryside, leading an active lifestyle is easy in Emmen, whilst having easy access to all the amenities of a city gives residents here the best of both worlds.
Emmen is a wonderful choice for expat families to move to. There are primary schools in every village and neighbourhood of Emmen, excellent further education institutes, a great range of shops, sporting facilities, clubs and societies, a vibrant nightlife, and many cultural events.
British expats thinking of moving to Emmen will find a huge amount of useful information about the city at www.emmenmaakhetmee.nl
Coevorden – The 17th-century fortress city of Coevorden is found in the southeastern corner of Drenthe.
At the centre of this historic city is the Castle of Coevorden which dates from 1522 and is now a restaurant and hotel.
This is a wonderfully peaceful and scenic city surrounded by beautiful countryside, giving you the opportunity to enjoy many outdoor leisure pursuits.
Coevorden is not just about history and scenery though, there is a thriving economy here. If you are thinking of moving to Coevorden for work, you will find plenty of opportunities, especially at the Europark Industrial Complex which straddles the border between the Netherlands and Germany.
British expat families thinking of moving to Coevorden will have the benefit of living in a very safe city with a number of excellent parks, a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, local societies and clubs, as well as two secondary schools, and numerous primary schools.
Around Coevorden are the villages of Dalen, Zweeloo, Alden, Oosterhesselen, Schoonoord, and Sleen, all offering wonderfully tranquil and picturesque places to live.
If you are thinking of moving to Coevorden then there is lots of useful information at www.coevorden.nl
If you are considering moving to Drenthe then there is lots more useful information at www.iwcn.nl
What is the Average Cost of Living in Assen, Drenthe?
On average, a family of four would need £3,776 (€4,231) a month for living expenses
On average, a single person would need £2,059 (€2,307) a month for living expenses
Flevoland, the newest province in the Netherlands, having been established only in 1986, is the result of land being reclaimed from the Zuiderzee.
Reclaimed from the sea during the 1950s and 60s, there is little history here, but Flevoland has now evolved into a desirable part of the Netherlands to live.
Flevoland is in central Netherlands and is very well connected to not only the rest of the country but to Europe and beyond. Flevoland has direct rail links to Utrecht, Amsterdam, Zwolle, The Hague, Groningen, Leeuwarden, and Schiphol International Airport.
Going to live in Flevoland makes a lot of sense for many expats moving to the Netherlands who cannot afford the high prices of Amsterdam, but need to live within easy commuting distance of the big cities.
Lelystad – Being a new city, Lelystad has been designed with ease of living in mind, so schools, green spaces, parks, and shops are easily accessible, no matter what part of the city you live in.
With low crime, great schools, and very affordable homes with gardens, plenty of green open spaces, parks, and amenities, this is a great little city for British expat families.
Public transport is particularly good in Lelystad and it is just a 35-minute commute to Amsterdam via train. For those needing to travel further afield, Lelystad has its own international airport.
If you are thinking of moving to Lelystad then you will find lots more useful information at www.lelystadopportunities.com
Almere – Just 20 minutes from Amsterdam by train is Almere, a well-developed city with many great amenities.
There is a large expat community in Almere, and for British expats looking for a small, friendly city, there are many great reasons to move here: There is a large shopping centre, a low-key but vibrant nightlife, excellent public transport, easy access to lovely countryside, many outdoor leisure pursuits, low crime rate, it is close to Utrecht and Amsterdam, and the homes offer excellent value for money.
In Almere, there are two international schools, two universities, 17 secondary schools, and numerous primary schools.
Almere even has its own website for internationals who live and work in the area. You can visit their website at www.internationalalmere.com
What is the Average Cost of Living in Lelystad, Flevoland?
On average, a family of four would need £3,129 (€3,506) a month for living expenses
On average, a single person would need £1,509 (€1,691) a month for living expenses
What is the Average Cost of Living in Almere, Flevoland?
On average, a family of four would need £2,595 (€2,885) a month for living expenses
On average, a single person would need £731 (€812) a month for living expenses
What is the Average Price of Property in Flevoland?
The average house price in Flevoland is €288,000
The average apartment in Flevoland costs €270,000
The average rental cost of a 1 bedroom city centre apartment is €810 per month
The average rental cost of a 1 bedroom suburban apartment is €550 per month
The average rental cost of a 3 bedroom city centre apartment is €1,200 per month
The average rental cost of a 3-bedroom suburban apartment is €900 per month
Noord-Brabant, often referred to as just Brabant, is the second-largest province in the Netherlands, and there are many reasons why this is such a great region of the Netherlands for British expats to move to.
Expats thinking of moving to the Netherlands looking for work will find that Noord-Brabant offers a wealth of career opportunities, with many world-leading companies choosing this region as their base.
Brabant accounts for over a fifth of the total exports for the Netherlands and is where considerable investment has resulted in some excellent job opportunities, notably at the Brainport Eindhoven. Across the whole region, from logistics to agriculture, Brabant has a thriving economy and is heavily industrialised so is a great place to relocate to for work or as a family.
British expat families moving to Brabant will find that not only is there plenty of work opportunities but the schools are very good, there are dozens of museums, a calendar full of events, excellent restaurants, shopping facilities, and easy access to the rest of the Netherlands.
Although Brabant is an excellent choice for a new home if you are looking for culture or work, it also offers you the opportunity to live a quiet and tranquil life in some beautiful rural villages. With four national parks offering nearly ten thousand kilometres of hiking trails, Brabant is a nature lover’s paradise.
So where are the best places to live in Noord-Brabant?
Eindhoven – Eindhoven is the largest city in Brabant and is home to Phillips, DAF Trucks, and Brabantia, which employ many of the city’s 230,000 residents. Eindhoven is a technology and design hub and offers employment opportunities in many high-tech industries to expats with the necessary skills.
Families thinking of moving to Eindhoven will find that there are numerous primary and secondary schools, as well as a number of higher education facilities including The Design Academy, and The Eindhoven University of Technology.
Eindhoven is a very green city with over a third of public areas in the city given to parks and green open spaces, the most of any city in the Netherlands.
Culturally there is much to interest you in Eindhoven with a large number of museums, galleries, music venues, and festivals.
Eindhoven is very well connected having its own airport just 5 miles outside the city, offering flights from and to all of Europe, mainly by low-cost airlines. There is also a major rail hub in the city that offers both local and national services.
With a great range of shops, cafes, and restaurants, Eindhoven is a vibrant city quite unlike any other city in the Netherlands and has much to offer British expats.
Tilburg – The university city of Tilburg is just a few kilometers from the Belgium border and is the sixth-largest city in the Netherlands. Tilburg is a vibrant city with a large number of annual festivals, museums, music venues, and parks. This makes this small city an ideal place to live for not only young professionals but families.
With great value homes which are considerably cheaper than Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, or the Hague, and a good range of schools, shops, restaurants, and bars, this is a city that will appeal to a lot of expats thinking of moving to the Netherlands.
Breda – Just an hour from Amsterdam and under thirty minutes from Rotterdam is the vibrant city of Breda. It is a great mix of old and new, with historic buildings, plenty of good bars and restaurants to choose from, easy access to the countryside, and everything you could need for your day-to-day living.
Breda has a very low rate of crime with a very laid-back lifestyle making this a very friendly and welcoming city. Most British expats tend to live around the city centre where there is easy access to all the great restaurants and bars, as well as the twice-weekly food market.
There are a number of great schools, and housing is far cheaper than in the cities of Amsterdam or Rotterdam, so this makes a great city for families as well as young professionals to relocate to.
‘s-Hertogenbosch – ‘s-Hertogenbosch, more commonly referred to as Den Bosch, is the Provincial capital of Brabant and one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands. This is a charming old fortified town with a laid-back vibe and is a great place to live.
With a large number of city parks, a whole swathe of nature reserve on the border of the city, a network of subterranean canals under the city, a city centre where cars are restricted, and everything is easily accessible, a great range of shops, cafes and restaurants, weekly markets, and unique and independent stores, Den Bosch is regarded as one of the best cities to live within Brabant.
If you are looking for work in Brabant then check out www.werkenvoor.brabant.nl for all the latest vacancies.
What is the Average Cost of Living in Noord-Brabant?
On average, a family of four would need £2,637 (€2,933) a month for living expenses
On average, a single person would need £745 (€829) a month for living expenses
What is the Average Cost of Property in Noord-Brabant?
The average house price in Noord-Brabant is €345,000
The average apartment in Noord-Brabant costs €243,000
The average rental cost of a 1 bedroom city centre apartment is €1,126 per month
The average rental cost of a 1 bedroom suburban apartment is €869 per month
The average rental cost of a 3-bedroom city centre apartment is €1,565 per month
The average rental cost of a 3-bedroom suburban apartment is €1,255 per month
If you are thinking of moving to the Netherlands, then Utrecht should be high on your short list of places to live.
With vibrant city centres, excellent amenities, lovely lakeside beaches within cycling distance, nature reserves right on your doorstep, a multi-cultural population, and a high quality of life, Utrecht is a favourite destination for many British expats.
Utrecht city – Just 25 minutes from Amsterdam by train, Utrecht is right in the middle of the Netherlands with great transport links to the whole country. Schiphol International Airport is just half an hour away by train too for flights worldwide.
The medieval city of Utrecht appeals to young students, professionals, and families alike, with plenty of cultural activities, a number of museums, many sports facilities, some great music venues, and amenities to cater to everyone’s needs.
Utrecht has a great range of primary and secondary schools, international schools, and four excellent universities.
Utrecht benefits from having the lowest unemployment rate in the Netherlands, and a thriving local economy. It will help you to integrate faster if you can speak Dutch, and you should definitely make an effort to learn at least the basics of the language, but there are many international companies based in Utrecht, and nearly everyone in the Netherlands speaks English.
The biggest downside of moving to Utrecht is the lack of affordable housing, the prices of homes here are very high, although less than in Amsterdam, and are in high demand.
You may, therefore, want to look at some of the other options of places to live in Utrecht which offer excellent amenities, but have far more affordable homes, and homes are more readily available too.
Amersfoort – The beautiful medieval city of Amersfoort is the second-largest city in Utrecht, and has a population of about 150,000 people. It is an extremely well-connected city with excellent rail links to all the major cities of the Netherlands, Germany, and Schipol Airport. Within Amersfoort you will find a great local bus service although everything is easily accessible by bike or on foot.
Amersfoort has a vast range of shops, including large retailers and a number of independent stores. With great schools, a large expat community, plenty of parks, and easy access to the countryside, this is a great place to raise a family.
There are numerous international companies based here and work is plentiful, especially in the service, IT, and finance sectors.
ljsselstein – The ancient fortified town of ljsselstein is just 20 minutes from Utrecht city and offers a very charming and picturesque suburb in which to live. They are excellent rail connections to Nieuwegein and Utrecht, a good selection of shops, great schools, easy access to the countryside, and more affordable, as well as more plentiful housing than in Utrecht city.
Nieuwegein – Built in the 1970s to cope with the overflow of residents from Utrecht, Nieuwegein is just 7 kilometres from Utrecht city. With easy motorway access, a nice variety of homes that are surrounded by open green spaces and lakes, and a number of industrial parks offering employment opportunities, this is a great place for expat families to relocate to.
Leidsche Rijn – Originally two small villages, Leidsche Rijn is now the largest housing development in the Netherlands with over 30,000 new homes and businesses. When completed, this eco-friendly project will provide houses, hospitals, schools, shops, and leisure and entertainment facilities for the residents. The expected completion date is 2025, so if you want to live in a modern part of Utrecht with excellent facilities, then this could be the suburb for you.
What is the Average Cost of Living in Utrecht?
On average, a family of four would need £2,818 (€3,158) a month for living expenses
On average, a single person would need £804 (€894) a month for living expenses
What is the Average Price of Property in Utrecht?
The average house price in Utrecht is €469,000
The average apartment in Utrecht costs €296,000
The average rental cost of a 1 bedroom city centre apartment is €1,208 per month
The average rental cost of a 1 bedroom suburban apartment is €960 per month
The average rental cost of a 3-bedroom city centre apartment is €2,123 per month
The average rental cost of a 3-bedroom suburban apartment is €1,411 per month
Gelderland is the largest and most unique of all the provinces of the Netherlands.
British expats thinking of moving to Gelderland will find a host of good reasons to do so:
There are many castles and fine old manor houses, the Het Loo Royal Palace, picturesque nature reserves, charming old villages, historic cities, a vast number of leisure activities, and many cultural highlights. Add to that the famously good schools and healthcare, plentiful work, and very safe communities, and it is easy to see why Gelderland is such a great place to relocate to.
Arnhem – Arnhem is the capital of Gelderland. Whilst not usually on the radar of most expats moving to the Netherlands, Arnhem is a great place to consider relocating to. This is a very family-friendly little city with lovely parks, easy access to the countryside, sports facilities, shops, and some great schools.
Everything in Arnhem is within walking distance, this is a compact city but it has a good range of amenities, many great little cafes, a vibrant nightlife, a number of museums, a zoo, and a cinema.
Expats going to live in Arnhem will need a good understanding of the Dutch language. Although English is widely spoken, there are not so many international companies here, so you will most likely need to speak Dutch to get a job.
There is, however, a website for Arnhem that specializes in jobs for expats which you may wish to check out: www.undutchables.nl
There is a small but active expat community in Arnhem that will help you integrate into this lovely city easier. www.arnhemlife.nl will give you lots more useful information
You will find that homes in Arnhem are very affordable compared to most cities in the Netherlands.
Nijmegen – Nijmegen is a historic fortified city full of beautiful buildings and charming squares. You will also find the oldest shopping street in the Netherlands here. Home to about 20,000 students who attend Radboud University, there is some lively nightlife here as well as a good range of cafes and bars. With a wide variety of annual festivals and events, museums and cultural sites to visit, a city beach, the biggest art-house cinema in the Netherlands, as well as a good number of high street and independent stores, there is plenty to keep you occupied in Nijmegen.
Many expats have chosen Nijmegan as their new home and there is even an expat help-desk set up to assist those who have moved to or are considering moving to, Nijmegen.
Apeldoorn – Just an hour from Amsterdam and Eindhoven is the University City of Apeldoorn. As well as being a region renowned for good employment opportunities, it is also steeped in history and culture, as well as being the favourite country residence of the Dutch Royal Family.
Apeldoorn offers you the perfect balance of a city with great restaurants and cafes, a wide range of shops, and every amenity you could need, with beautiful villages and nature right on your doorstep.
British expat families thinking of moving to Apeldoorn will find it is a very family-friendly place with plenty to do: De Hoge Veluwe National Park, the Kroller-Muller Museum which holds the largest Van Gogh collection in the world, the Apenheul with over 35 species of monkey, the Julianatoren and the Malkenschoten amusement parks, whilst Dolfinarium Harderwijk, the largest marina park in Europe is just 30 minutes from Apeldoorn.
According to a study by Atlas voor Gemeenten, Apeldoorn is the 7th happiest place in the Netherlands to live.
What is the Average Cost of Living in Gelderland?
On average, a family of four would need £3,202 (€3,588) a month for living expenses
On average, a single person would need £1,563 (€1,751) a month for living expenses
What is the Average Cost of Property in Gelderland?
The average property price in Gelderland is €335,000
The average apartment in Gelderland costs €221,000
The average rental cost of a 1 bedroom city centre apartment is €857 per month
The average rental cost of a 1 bedroom suburban apartment is €700 per month
The average rental cost of a 3 bedroom city centre apartment is €1,500 per month
The average rental cost of a 3-bedroom suburban apartment is €1,192 per month
Friesland is a wonderfully different part of the Netherlands, with plenty of peaceful nature, preserved traditions, folklore, and a tranquil way of life. Steeped in history and culture with a very laid-back feel, this is a region of the country that you will want to give serious consideration to moving to.
Friesland is unique amongst the provinces of the Netherlands in that it has its own officially recognized language, Frisian, which over 50% of the local population speak, with the remainder speaking Dutch, regional languages, and foreign languages. Learning Fresian is mandatory in schools here.
And, as an example of the wonderful uniqueness of this great region, the 900 inhabitants of the fishing village of Hindelopen have their own dialect and are famed as the smallest town in the world with its own dictionary.
The 11 Cities Tour is held in the winter when the canals freeze over and participants are able to ice skate the 125 miles between the 11 cities of Friesland, although it has been many years since it was last cold enough to hold this event. In the summer the sport of pole vaulting over the canals, known as fierljeppen, is popular.
There are so many beautiful, historic towns and villages within Friesland, it is difficult to choose the best as each is special in its own way. But here is an overview of some of the most popular places in Friesland.
Leeuwarden – The capital city of Friesland, Leeuwarden is around 2 hours from Amsterdam. Originally a centre for farming, it is now a thriving city and is home to financial services, metal processing, water technology, and more recently, creative technology, mainly in the gaming sector.
With a student population of over 30,000 the city is well set up to cater to their needs, but it is the family-friendly nature of the city that will attract most British expats. Homes here are considerably cheaper than in most parts of the Netherlands, there are over 40 primary schools, wonderful nature right on your doorstep, and it is a safe and healthy city in which to raise a family.
The city centre is a great place for young expats to live as there is a huge variety of bars, restaurants, shops, cinemas, a library, and some wonderful buildings.
The north of the city appeals to all expats. Boniface appeals to families with its large homes with gardens, there is the very desirable and upmarket Transvaal, the Liberty district is popular with students, whilst those looking for a lively and culturally diverse area will head for Bloemenbuurt, Rengerspark offers grand homes, whilst Oldegalileen offers a range of homes and amenities to appeal to all age groups.
The east of the city offers a wide range of homes, from the mansions of the Orange District to the converted warehouses of Tulpenburg, to the spacious family-sized homes in Camminghaburen.
To the south of the city, you will find Julianepark, popular with families, the historic area of Nijlan, and waterfront new builds in Zuiderburen.
The west of Leeuwarden appeals to many age groups. Students tend to live around the Valerius Quarter, Vogelwijk appeals to all age groups, whilst areas such as Vosse Park, Westeinde, and Helicon offer larger homes with plenty of green space.
Sneek – If you enjoy water sports, then Sneek, in the heart of the Frisian Lakes district, should be at the top of your list of places to live in Friesland. Sneekweek is an annual watersports event, the largest inland water event in all of Europe, and attracts visitors from far and wide.
This compact city of just over 30,000 inhabitants, is easy to get around by foot or by bike. There is a good range of local stores, plenty of bars and restaurants, historic buildings, and places of interest such as museums and the gin distillery, which is housed in a building dating back to 1484.
Drachten – With a population of just over 45,000, Drachten is the second-largest city in Friesland after Leeuwarden. The town has expanded mainly due to the arrival of the Phillips factory, and the UK Phillips factory is expected to move its operation here, so there may be job openings for those expats looking for work in Friesland.
Drachten does not lack amenities with a good shopping center, a swimming pool, theatre, library, live music events, a children’s farm, as well as art and culture events. Every Thursday and Saturday in the town square is a market.
Drachten is the principal town in the municipality of Smallingerland. Not only is there wonderful nature here, including the forests of Beetsterzwaag, but the municipality is very keen to promote a healthy lifestyle so there are many sporting facilities.
Expat families will find that virtually every village here has a primary school, and there are a good number of secondary schools, including special needs schools and an NT2 school which primarily teaches in English.
Hindeloopen is a small town of 900 residents and offers a tranquil place to live. Located along the ljsselmeer this is a great place to move to if you enjoy watersports. The town is full of 17th and 18th-century buildings giving it a quaint atmosphere, whilst there are all the facilities you could need for everyday living.
Dokkum is a picture-postcard-perfect city with many historic buildings. This small and cosy city is surrounded by water which not only offers recreational opportunities but is also the venue for the 3-day Admiralty Day festival which is held every September.
There are of course many more great places to move to in Friesland and you can learn more about them at www.friesland.nl
There is a facebook group for expats in Friesland that you may find useful if you are thinking of moving there.
What is the Average Cost of Living in Friesland – Leeuwarden
On average, a family of four would need £3,119 (€3,495) a month for living expenses
On average, a single person would need £1,376 (€1,541) a month for living expenses
What is the Average Cost of Property in Friesland?
The average house price in Friesland is €235,000
The average apartment in Friesland costs €196,000
The average rental cost of a 1 bedroom city centre apartment is €625 per month
The average rental cost of a 1 bedroom suburban apartment is €488 per month
The average rental cost of a 3 bedroom city centre apartment is €1,000 per month
The average rental cost of a 3-bedroom suburban apartment is €784 per month
Many expats moving to Noord-Holland will end up in Amsterdam, usually because of work.
Amsterdam is a very international city and English is widely spoken, a real bonus for many as it makes settling in, making friends, and finding work so much easier.
And with such an international mix of residents, there is a fantastic range of restaurants and cultural experiences to be had.
With canals, museums, parks, festivals, art galleries, cafes, restaurants, and endless events, there is always something to do in Amsterdam.
Despite being the capital city, Amsterdam is a very friendly and compact city that feels more like a collection of villages, so it is easy to make friends here.
The price of a home in Amsterdam is the highest in all of the Netherlands, and there is a real shortage of all property types, which drives up prices and competition. And even if you do manage to find somewhere to live you will often find that the basics, such as a kitchen, are not included in the price, whether you are buying or renting.
And whether you want to visit England, or more likely, people will want to come to visit you, or you need to travel cheaply to anywhere in Europe, then Schiphol Airport is right on your doorstep.
But to ignore all the other wonderful options for a place to live in Noord-Holland would be a shame, so here is a quick guide to some of the alternatives to living in Amsterdam.
Haarlem is the capital of Noord-Holland and shares many characteristics with Amsterdam, albeit a smaller, safer, less touristy, less frantic version.
You will still find all the amenities you need, here homes are more affordable, and there is less crime, but the city is just as beautiful, with canals and historic buildings, as well as plenty to keep you occupied in your spare time.
Zaandam is a popular place to live for those commuting into Amsterdam. However, the commute is best made by public transport as the roads into Amsterdam are notoriously gridlocked, especially during rush hour.
The affordability of homes, about half of what you would pay in Amsterdam, and the very picturesque surroundings, are a good trade-off for many though, and this is a very popular area for expats to live.
Purmerend is particularly popular with families as this area has many newly built, large, family-sized homes, as well as apartments. There is a great range of stores, schools, and everything you need for day-to-day living.
Property prices are about half of what you would pay in Amsterdam, whilst commuting into the city is easy by public transport.
Amstelveen is a very laid-back and tranquil suburb of Amsterdam, with a large expat community. With a population of just over 90,000, you will find all the amenities you need and a range of housing to suit all budgets, although the close proximity of Amsterdam is reflected in the property prices here.
A word of warning though. Amstelveen is on the flight path to Schiphol and some parts of the town suffer from aircraft noise.
Expats moving to Noord-Holland have many options if they are looking for some traditional Dutch towns and villages in which to live:
Marken is a historic harbour village with beautiful old wooden homes.
Volendam is a traditional fishing village but within easy reach of Amsterdam.
Bloemendaal is a coastal town with hip bars and restaurants. With a large sandy beach and a party atmosphere, this town is very popular with younger people.
Bergen offers you a wonderful sandy beach, beautiful nature, museums, culture, and art. This coastal village has been popular with artists since the 1900s and there are regular arts and crafts markets and fairs here.
What is the Average Cost of Living in Noord-Holland – Amsterdam
On average, a family of four would need £2,939 (€3,270) a month for living expenses
On average, a single person would need £825 (€918) a month for living expenses
What is the Average Cost of Property in Noord-Holland?
The average house price in Noord-Holland is €444,000
The average price of an apartment in Noord-Holland is €403,000
The average rental cost of a 1 bedroom city centre apartment is €1,597 per month
The average rental cost of a 1 bedroom suburban apartment is €1,239 per month
The average rental cost of a 3-bedroom city centre apartment is €2,808 per month
The average rental cost of a 3-bedroom suburban apartment is €2,013 per month
Zeeland (translated into English as Sealand) offers you a relaxed and healthy lifestyle in a wonderfully scenic location. On the border of Belgium in the southwest of the Netherlands, Zeeland is connected to the mainland by a series of bridges and dykes.
The emphasis in Zeeland is on a high quality of life with a perfect life/work balance. The villages offer you a tranquil and traditional way of life, whilst the cities are large enough to offer you every amenity and small enough that they do not feel like cities.
There is a good mix of big brand stores as well as independent shops, there are Michelin-starred restaurants, a wide variety of events and festivals throughout the year, cultural museums, and art galleries, ensuring that there is always something to do.
British expat families will find that the quality of education is high and there is even an international university, University College Roosevelt, and the HZ University of Applied Sciences in Zeeland.
Homes are very affordable here and the choice is vast, from apartments with sea views to new builds, to historic mansions, farmhouses, to quaint little village cottages.
The municipalities of Zeeland, Terneuzen, Hulst, and Sluis each offer you a unique part of Zeeland in which to live.
Terneuzen – In the North Sea Port harbour area, just an hour from Ghent, Antwerp, and Bruges, is the cosmopolitan municipality of Terneuzen. Surrounded by water and beautiful nature, this is a safe and relaxing place to live.
There are plenty of recreational opportunities from golf, to hiking, watersports to beaches, as well as numerous art and cultural events. Terneuzen is also home to the world-famous jazz venue ‘Porgy and Bess’.
Those British expats looking for work will find that many international companies are based here and there are many job opportunities in the construction, logistics, petrochemical, and services sectors.
Hulst – On the border of Belgium, Hulst is just half an hour from Antwerp. This municipality offers many work opportunities as well as very affordable homes, either in the city of Hulst or in the quaint villages around. With all the amenities you need for day-to-day living, great schools, plenty of cultural and leisure events, and being surrounded by nature, this is a peaceful place to call home.
Sluis – With beautiful beaches, surrounded by nature, and many places of interest, Sluis is popular with tourists. For expats thinking of moving to Zeeland, Sluis has many career opportunities, a relaxed way of life, friendly locals, and a large number of villages or towns to relocate to.
Middleburg is the capital of Zeeland and is about two and a half hours away from Amsterdam. It is a very historic city with a 15th-century city hall regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings in all of the Netherlands. With a market held twice a week, a good range of cafes and restaurants, a variety of local stores, a museum, and a number of events and festivals throughout the year, this is a great small city in which to live.
Vlissengen is a lively seaside resort with a beautiful harbour and long sandy beaches. With a historic city centre, many great restaurants and cafes, plenty of shops, and a safe and healthy environment, this is a great place for expats to consider moving to.
Goes is an important economic centre on the river De Korte Gos, in Zeeland. With a beautiful harbour and historic buildings, this is a very attractive place to live.
You may also like to visit www.expatcentrezeeland.nl where you will find lots of useful information for expats thinking of moving to Zeeland.
What is the Average Cost of Living in Zeeland – Middelburg?
The average house price in Zeeland is €247,000
The average price of an apartment in Zeeland is €219,000
Moving to Groningen, Netherlands
Reitdiep Haven, Groningen
With a number of major universities, including Hanze University of Applied Sciences, the University of Groningen, and the University Medical Centre, Groningen is a lively student city.
Of the 190,000 residents in Groningen, 20% are students and over 60% of all residents are under the age of 40. There are a large number of restaurants, cafes, bars, and live music venues to cater to their needs, as well as many cultural attractions and art galleries.
Situated close to the border with Germany, many companies have chosen to base themselves in Groningen. From the world’s largest sugar factory to IT, to the gas industry, and a huge range of industries in between, this is an industrious area with good job opportunities.
Groningen is a small city and it is easy to walk or get about by bicycle. Public transport is comprehensive and there is even an airport just 10 kilometres from the city. You can get to Amsterdam in about two and a half hours, and The Hague, Rotterdam, or even Hamburg in about three hours by car.
Where are the Best Places to Live in Groningen?
City Centre – As you would expect prices are higher in the city centre, but if you want to be within walking distance of all the amenities and attractions of Groningen, then this is the place to be.
Hortusbuurt – Between the city and the Noorderplantsoen is Hortusbuurt, a family-friendly area with great access to both the park and all the restaurants and cafes.
Oranjewijk – On the opposite side of the park to Hortusbuurt, this is another family-friendly district with large homes and easy access to the city and local amenities.
Zeeheldenburrt and Schilderswijk – Popular with students and younger people, this is a great area to live with plenty of bars and cafes as well as the most popular park in Groningen, Nooderplantsoen. This is a historic part of the city and many of the homes in this district even have their own gardens.
Korrewegwijk – Just a five-minute bike ride from the city centre and an area with great value-for-money homes. Another popular student area with a large number of cafes, bars, and shops.
Oosterport – Another area popular with students and young people because of the variety of bars, restaurants, and live music venues.
Rivierenbuurt – With affordable homes and the largest park in Groningen on your doorstep, this is a convenient location to get into the city centre easily.
Vinkhuizen – Popular with families as the homes are great value for money, and whilst a little out of the city, the centre is easy to get to and the area itself offers all you need for day-to-day living.
Further out of the city, you will find many charming villages, all within easy commuting distance of the city. Glimmen, Beijum, Lewenborg, Aduard, Winsum, Ten Boer, Bedum, and Zuidhorn are worthy of mention as they offer good family-sized homes in village communities with easy access to the city.
Special mention must be made of Haren, regarded as one of the best places to live in Groningen due to the family-friendly communities, great amenities, and open green spaces.
You will find some useful information about going to live in Groningen at www.insidegroningen.com
What is the Average Cost of Living in Groningen?
On average, a family of four would need £2,708 (€3,013) a month for living expenses
On average, a single person would need £767 (€853) a month for living expenses
What is the Average Cost of Property in Groningen?
The average house price in Groningen is €237,000
The average price of an apartment in Groningen is €214,000
The average rental cost of a 1 bedroom city centre apartment is €735 per month
The average rental cost of a 1 bedroom suburban apartment is €627 per month
The average rental cost of a 3-bedroom city centre apartment is €1,294 per month
The average rental cost of a 3-bedroom suburban apartment is €1,017 per month
Limburg is the most southern of the provinces of the Netherlands and borders both Germany and Belgium. This region is unique in the Netherlands in that it is a very hilly region and as a consequence is popular with hikers and mountain bikers. Limburg is also famous for its locally brewed beers, and sweet pies, known as Limburgse vlaai.
Maastricht is the capital city of Limburg, a city filled with history, great career opportunities, an international university (and a total of six universities), and a high quality of life. About 30% of the population are expats from all over the world.
For British expat families moving to Maastricht, there are a number of international schools in the area including the International School Maastricht, United World College Maastricht, as well as some English language courses at the Maastricht University.
Being so central within Europe, Maastricht allows easy access to many European cities such as Luxembourg, Paris, Brussels, Frankfurt, and Cologne.
Maastricht is a vibrant, multi-cultural city filled with art, history, and culture. It offers all the amenities you need and is a very popular destination for Dutch shoppers due to the large number of chain and independent stores within the city.
There is a local airport and high-speed international rail services. Within an hour’s car drive, you have an additional seven airports to choose from.
On the outskirts of the city, you will find plenty of recreational facilities including golf courses, hiking, biking, and watersports.
If you prefer a laid-back village set in the beautiful countryside then Gulpen is worth considering. With easy access to Maastricht via a direct bus service, this village offers a tranquil lifestyle.
For those expats thinking of moving to Limburg who prefer lots of activity then Valkenburg may be for you. From ziplines to amusement parks, a number of museums, an open-air theatre, and Roman history to be discovered, there is plenty to fill your spare time here.
Within the five regions of Limburg, you will also find the major cities of Heerlen and Sittard-Geleen.
Heerlen is a historic Roman city and today is home to the Hogeschool Zuyd, a university of applied sciences. There are many interesting buildings within the city including a 12th-century church and a prison tower. This is a compact city offering you all the amenities you need. With great schools and healthcare, and a good variety of shops and cafes, this is a family-friendly city.
Sittard-Geleen is the second most populated region of Limburg. You can choose to live in the city centre where you will find a large selection of high street chain stores as well as independent boutique shops. Great restaurants, many places of culture, live music venues, and parks can be found here, making it very family-friendly. On the outskirts of the city, you will find many tranquil villages offering a relaxed way of life. Surrounded by lush countryside there are many recreational opportunities.
If you are thinking of moving to the Limburg region then there is a useful website for expats that you might find useful: www.expatcentremaastrichtregion.nl
What is the Average Cost of Living in Maastricht?
On average, a family of four would need £2,622 (€2,917) a month for living expenses
On average, a single person would need £728 (€810) a month for living expenses
What is the Average Price of Property in Maastricht?
The average house price in Maastricht is €262,000
The average price of an apartment in Maastricht is €186,000
The average rental cost of a 1 bedroom city centre apartment is €940 per month
The average rental cost of a 1 bedroom suburban apartment is €675 per month
The average rental cost of a 3-bedroom city centre apartment is €1,780 per month
The average rental cost of a 3-bedroom suburban apartment is €1,279 per month
Moving to Overijssel, Netherlands
Giethoorn, Overijssel
Overijssel is in the central-eastern region of the Netherlands and offers a region of beautiful landscapes and historic cities.
The region has more than its fair share of castles which adds to the charm of this lovely region. Along with many historic buildings, beautiful scenery, and a high quality of life, this is a region well worth considering if you are thinking of moving to the Netherlands.
It is here that you will find Giethoorn, often referred to as the most beautiful village in all of the Netherlands. Bordering the Weerribben-Wieden National Park, the village offers relaxing cycle tracks, leisurely waterways, meandering walking routes, and thatched houses. Established in 1230, this is a major tourist attraction now but epitomises the relaxing way of life and beautiful nature of this region.
Zwolle is the capital city of Overijssel, steeped in history there are still many medieval buildings to be seen within the city. This is a great city for expat families as there are a number of universities and colleges, as well as an excellent road network connecting you with the north of the Netherlands.
Enschede is the largest city in Overijssel with a population of about 158,000 residents. Once a medieval city, today it hosts many events and live music festivals, as well as being home to a large number of art galleries and museums. A compact city, Enschede attracts people who want to live in a vibrant city without the costs and frantic nature of cities like Amsterdam.
Deventer is a city rich in history, but it is the A1 industrial Park, offering work in logistics and manufacturing, that attracts many expats to live here. Coupled with the educational offerings at the Saxion University of Applied Sciences, the parks, nature, and numerous traditional villages offer an even more relaxed lifestyle, that attracts families to this area.
For expats looking for work in the Netherlands then Overijssel offers many opportunities. According to www.ec.europa.eu unemployment levels in the region vary by employment sector, with the lowest unemployment rates in the financial and real estate sectors.
Each of the regions has its own unique employment sectors, for example, Zwolle is where e-commerce and health sectors jobs can be found, whilst in Twente, you will find manufacturing and ICT-related jobs.
Coupled with good healthcare, a high standard of education, and a healthy lifestyle, Overijssel is a great place to raise a family or enjoy a high quality of life.
What is the Average Cost of Living in Overijssel – Zwolle?
On average, a family of four would need £3,555 (€3,984) a month for living expenses
On average, a single person would need £1,703 (€1,908) a month for living expenses
What is the Average Property price in Overijssel?
The average house price in Overijssel is €272,000
The average price of an apartment in Overijssel is €189,000
The average rental cost of a 1 bedroom city centre apartment is €708 per month
The average rental cost of a 1 bedroom suburban apartment is €625 per month
The average rental cost of a 3-bedroom city centre apartment is €1,313 per month
The average rental cost of a 3-bedroom suburban apartment is €925 per month
Zuid-Holland, or South Holland, is one of the most densely populated areas in the world with a population of just over 3.7 million.
This region is the archetypal Holland with an abundance of tulip fields, windmills, cheese farms, long sandy beaches, and canals.
For stunning coastal views, you may choose to live in the old fishing ports of Scheveningen, Kijkduin, or Katwijk. Now popular seaside resorts, these villages offer everything you need for day-to-day living but in stunning surroundings, whilst having easy access to the larger cities if you need it.
Rotterdam is a modern city with every convenience and amenity you need. The largest port in Europe, Rotterdam attracts companies from all over the world to settle here and so offers you a range of employment sectors if you are looking for work in the Netherlands.
Rotterdam has a very multicultural society adding to the vibrant feel of the city. Home to a university, Rotterdam has many students which adds to the modern and lively feel of the city.
The Hague is the political heart of the Netherlands and offers a more historic city to call home. With many cultural offerings, museums, art galleries, music venues, festivals, and annual events, this city has much to offer its residents. With a huge number of restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops, there is no shortage of places to go, and whilst homes can be expensive here, the advantages of living in a thriving city are many.
Leiden is the home of the oldest university in the Netherlands and has a student population of around 20,000. It is a very beautiful city with lots of history, most of it very well preserved, but the large student population ensures that there is also a vibrancy and beating heart to this lovely city.
Just 15 minutes from the Hague, and 40 minutes from Amsterdam by train, you could be living in an enchanting city that is within easy reach of the delights of Amsterdam, or the cultural offerings of the Hague.
Leiden has some beautiful local parks such as Hortus Botanicus and Van Der Werffpark, a large number of museums, an annual international film festival, music festivals, theatres, and cinemas.
Delft, is famous for its blue and white ceramics. A small city rich in tradition, it offers many interesting things to see and do without the prices and crowds of Amsterdam, but still within easy reach of the bigger cities such as The Hague, just half an hour by tram, should you ever want them.
The beach at Scheveningen is just an hour’s tram ride away from Delft, whilst the beach at the Hook of Holland is an easy bike ride away.
With some beautiful local parks, many museums, bric-a-brack markets, a stunning library with a glass roof, a number of children’s playgrounds, theatres, cinemas, a calendar full of events, numerous bars, cafes, and restaurants, good healthcare, and some fine schools, this is a great place for families to relocate to.
What is the Cost of Living in Zuid-Holland – Rotterdam?
On average, a family of four would need £2,523 (€2,807) a month for living expenses
On average, a single person would need £712 (€793) a month for living expenses
What is the Average Cost of Property in Zuid-Holland?
The average house price in Zuid-Holland is €385,000
The average price of an apartment in Zuid-Holland is €251,000
The average rental cost of a 1 bedroom city centre apartment is €1,145 per month
The average rental cost of a 1 bedroom suburban apartment is €889 per month
The average rental cost of a 3-bedroom city centre apartment is €1,964 per month
The average rental cost of a 3-bedroom suburban apartment is €1,303 per month
The removal cost estimates above are for the minimum number of items based on the average contents of a home. There are many factors that can affect the cost of your home move, so to get a cost estimate tailored to your particular home move just request a free quote.
There is a whole section of guides to help make your move to the Netherlands as stress-free and as cheap and easy as possible, so be sure to check out our international home moving pages.
Read verified reviews and get a free home moving quote for movers who will take you from anywhere in Europe to the Netherlands at www.umzugsbewertungen.com
If you are moving from the USA to the Netherlands, you will find reviews and can get a free cost estimate for your home move at www.mymovingreviews.com
Good luck with your home move to the Netherlands and come back and tell us in the comments below all about your new life.
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