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Where to live in Amsterdam: an overview of good neighbourhoods

Home » Blog » Where to live in Amsterdam: an overview of good neighbourhoods

Moving to the capital of the Netherlands is becoming increasingly popular with expats, students and IT industry professionals. The city offers a high quality of life, developed infrastructure and a unique atmosphere with a combination of historical architecture and modern technology. Where is the best place to live in Amsterdam, given the differences in neighbourhoods, price levels and other features? Each district has its own advantages, whether it is its central location, proximity to nature, prestigious schools or developed cultural life. It is important to consider the cost of rent, transport accessibility and the level of security.

Amsterdam-Centre: the historic heart of the city

The most famous and one of the first in the rating of expensive districts of the capital. The average cost of renting a one-bedroom flat here starts from 1800-2500 euros per month. It is a tourist centre, so life is full of cultural events, there are many cafes and shops in the city.

Advantages:

  1. Close proximity to attractions: museums, theatres and famous canals are within walking distance.
  2. Well-developed public transport: trains to other cities in the Netherlands and Europe leave from the central station.
  3. High level of comfort: restaurants, upmarket shops, parks and cycle paths.

Disadvantages:

  1. High prices for housing and utilities.
  2. Noise due to tourists and busy nightlife.

Jordaan: an upmarket neighbourhood with a bohemian atmosphere

Jordaan combines old architecture, cosy streets and modern restaurants. The average cost of housing is around 2000 euros for a small flat. It is one of the most prestigious neighbourhoods. Many artists, designers and entrepreneurs choose it after thinking about where to live in Amsterdam.

Features:

  1. The quiet streets and stylish cafes are the perfect place for a relaxed life.
  2. Luxury accommodation and security – the high cost is offset by the level of comfort.
  3. Close to the centre but without the crowds of tourists.

The disadvantage is the high price and limited number of available flats. It usually takes a long time to find an apartment in Jordaan and it is quickly sold out.

De Pijp: a lively neighbourhood with a multicultural atmosphere

De Pijp is known as the most cosmopolitan corner of the capital. Students, expats and young professionals live here, making it a great option for active people. The average rental price is €1,600-2,200 per flat.

Reasons for popularity:

  1. Best restaurants and markets: the neighbourhood is home to the famous Albert Cape Market.
  2. Lots of parks and green areas.
  3. Street life atmosphere: cafes, bars and festivals.

The downside is that the area is congested during peak hours, and because of the high population density, it is difficult to find parking spaces.

Amsterdam-Noord: an up-and-coming neighbourhood

Amsterdam-Noord is one of the fastest growing places in the city. Start-ups, creative spaces and modern housing estates are concentrated here.

Benefits:

  1. Affordable prices – rentals start from 1300 euros for a spacious flat.
  2. Developed infrastructure – ferries take residents to the centre free of charge within 5 minutes.
  3. Modern business centres and technology parks.

It is the best option for those who want spacious housing, good ecology and quick connection to the centre.

Overhoeks: a new luxury neighbourhood with skyscrapers

The Overhoeks neighbourhood is considered the most modern and elite in the capital. It is home to residential skyscrapers with panoramic views of the city.

Features:

  1. Innovative residential complexes with underground car parks.
  2. Close proximity to the water and views of the River Hey.
  3. High security and gated residential areas.

Minuses – rental prices start at €2,500 per month. This is one of the most expensive neighbourhoods, which is more often chosen by businessmen and wealthy expats.

Weesperzijde: a quiet neighbourhood by the water

Where is the best place to live in Amsterdam if you need peace of mind? Weesperzijde is one of the quietest and most picturesque locations. The location is ideal for families and those who appreciate a measured pace of life. Situated along the Amstel River, it offers convenient cycling routes, green walking areas and panoramic water views.

Unlike the central areas, there are hardly any tourists here, making the streets less crowded and more cosy. Along the waterfront are cosy cafes and restaurants offering mesmerising views of the river, while local shops and farmers’ markets allow for a relaxed but convenient lifestyle.

Benefits:

  1. There are few tourists, making the neighbourhood comfortable for everyday life.
  2. Developed infrastructure: schools, shops, markets and restaurants overlooking the water.
  3. Close to the centre: the area is located just minutes away from Amsterdam’s key attractions.
  4. The average rental price is from €1,600 per flat, making it more affordable than luxury neighbourhoods.

Oud-West: combining history and modernity

Oud-West offers a balance between history and modern urban dynamics. It is the perfect place for those who want to live in an authentic neighbourhood with a rich past, but still enjoy amenities.

Benefits:

  1. Variety of accommodation: both restored historic houses and new apartment complexes with modern amenities are available.
  2. Close proximity to Wondel Park, one of the most beautiful places in the capital, ideal for walking, jogging and outdoor recreation.
  3. Convenient infrastructure: shops, coffee shops, restaurants and proximity to central areas.
  4. Average prices range from €1,500-2,000 per flat, making the neighbourhood affordable compared to the upmarket parts of the city.

The neighbourhood is suitable for young people, professionals and those looking for a balance between a historic atmosphere and a dynamic lifestyle. Here you can find author’s shops, unique art spaces and trendy establishments that make life interesting and busy.

Westerpark: a green space within the city limits

Where the best place to live in the capital is the Westerpark district, which is recognised as an eco-friendly corner within Amsterdam. It offers a well-developed infrastructure and proximity to nature. It is a great choice for families, athletes and anyone who prefers to live in a quiet location but with quick access to the city centre. The Westerpark is the main centre of the district, where you can play sports, picnic and enjoy walks. Festivals, concerts and fairs often take place here, making life more active and busy.

Why choose Westerpark:

  1. Low noise levels compared to busier neighbourhoods.
  2. Lots of greenery and open spaces creating a comfortable living environment.
  3. Developed infrastructure: shops, restaurants, sports grounds and cycling routes.
  4. The average rental cost is 1400-1800 euros, making it affordable even for families.
  5. Close to the centre, but without the hustle and bustle and heavy tourist traffic.

Where to live in Amsterdam: conclusions

The best neighbourhood to live in Amsterdam depends on your budget, lifestyle and personal preferences. For those who love the hustle and bustle of the city, the Centre and De Pijp are ideal. Those looking for tranquillity and spacious flats should consider Amsterdam-Noord or Westerpark. For those who want to live in an upmarket neighbourhood with modern amenities, Overhoeks and Jordaan are ideal.

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Dutch real estate market: why buy property abroad in the Netherlands in 2025

Against the backdrop of increasing pressure on emerging markets, the high stability of the Kingdom of the Netherlands becomes an important argument for why to buy real estate abroad.

The Dutch legal system, transparency of transactions, high level of protection of private property, and a stable economy create favorable conditions for long-term asset ownership. Moderate price growth, high demand for rentals in cities with developed infrastructure, and the European tax system make the market particularly attractive in 2025.

Residency and living opportunities: the value of residency in a stable jurisdiction

The Netherlands offers opportunities for obtaining residency through business structures or investment projects, where purchasing property becomes an integral condition.

In addition to the right to legal residence, residency in the Netherlands provides access to European education, banking services, and social guarantees. The question of why to buy real estate abroad goes beyond just profitability—it concerns freedom, mobility, and personal or family migration strategy in the long term.

The Netherlands in investment strategies: where to invest in real estate abroad in 2025?

While stock and cryptocurrency markets remain unstable, real estate in stable European countries is considered the most reliable capital protection instrument.

The average return from reselling properties in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht is 7-10% per year, and rental rate growth outpaces inflation. In times of economic turbulence, investments in Dutch real estate ensure the preservation of a profitable base.

Key advantages of investing in the Dutch market

The Dutch model of managing cities and real estate creates favorable conditions for investors:

  • high legal protection at all stages of the transaction;
  • developed transport and educational infrastructure;
  • stable rental demand in student and business clusters;
  • potential for property value growth in peri-urban areas;
  • modern architectural heritage and high energy efficiency.

Thus, buying property in the Dutch market is not only financially justified but also logistically rational in the context of European policy and urban planning. In such conditions, the question of why to buy real estate abroad receives practical justification: the asset functions simultaneously as an investment, migration tool, and element of strategic planning.

Ownership formats: from apartments to commercial real estate

The Netherlands offer a wide range of properties for purchase. Commercial real estate is particularly in demand—office spaces, shopping galleries, street retail properties. Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam remain centers of business activity, ensuring high liquidity of such assets.

The question of why to buy real estate abroad also often arises when analyzing residential projects: apartments in new buildings, townhouses in satellite cities, and renovated historical buildings are consistently rented out and show price appreciation.

Legislation and taxation: transparent conditions for foreign buyers

The Netherlands adhere to an open policy towards foreign investors. Transactions are supervised by notaries and financial institutions, eliminating fraud risks. Legislation does not impose ownership restrictions on non-residents.

When buying property abroad in the Netherlands, the owner obtains full rights to manage the asset, rent it out, sell it, or pass it on through inheritance. The tax base is clear: taxation is predetermined, and it is possible to optimize it through a sound financial planning structure.

Real earning mechanisms: from rent to value appreciation

The main question concerning investors is how to ensure stable profitability. The answer lies in real mechanisms that work in the Netherlands:

  • long-term rental of housing to students, IT specialists, and young professionals;
  • participation in municipal renovations and property value appreciation within neighborhood renewals;
  • renting commercial spaces, especially in tourist and commercial areas;
  • reselling at the completion stage of construction—after the property is put into operation, the price rises by 15-20%;
  • property ownership as a condition for participating in investment programs to obtain citizenship through real estate investments, if EU policy changes in the future.

Thus, real estate becomes not just an asset but an actively working source of income and economic stability.

Safety, infrastructure, and ecology: important intangible assets

The answer to the question of why to buy real estate abroad in the Netherlands lies not only in the profit sphere. Resilience to climate challenges, attention to ecological standards, high urban planning culture make owning property in the Netherlands safe and comfortable.

Bike paths, parks, urban farms, and green roofs become part of the everyday environment. Low crime rates, digitization of management, and transparency of social systems enhance the sense of stability and trust in the state.

Promising cities for investments in 2025

Depending on the investment goal, one can choose both the capital region and developing clusters:

  • Amsterdam—leader in rental and housing price appreciation, especially in areas bordering the historic center;
  • Rotterdam—focus on commercial real estate and innovative construction projects;
  • Utrecht—university capital, promising for rental investors;
  • Eindhoven—city with the largest technology campuses, where profitability is above average;
  • Groningen—popular among students and young professionals.

Each city has unique potential, and the variety of ownership formats allows adapting the strategy to specific goals.

Conclusion

In the conditions of a global crisis, weakening national currencies, and the desire to protect capital, it becomes evident why to buy real estate abroad specifically in the Netherlands.

High legal stability, migration opportunities, income diversification through rent and resale, as well as prospects for obtaining residency through real estate investments—all these factors make the Netherlands a strategically important direction for private and corporate investors. In 2025, the country remains a cornerstone for those who choose not only income but also stability, security, and freedom of movement!

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Is it possible to buy a property in the Netherlands for a foreigner?

The interest in housing in Europe is steadily growing. Countries with high legal protection and stable economies regularly come into the focus of foreign investors. The question of whether a foreigner can buy property in the Netherlands is becoming more common, especially among non-residents looking for a place to live, rent or invest.

Is it possible for a foreigner to buy real estate in the Netherlands: the legal basis

Before making a transaction, it is important to clearly understand that the country’s legislation does not impose strict restrictions. The answer to the question of whether it is possible for a foreigner to buy property in the Netherlands is yes. The transaction is allowed for both EU citizens and residents of other countries.

Differences:

  1. EU citizens execute the transaction according to the standard procedure.

  2. Non-residents with non-EU citizenship participate under the same conditions, but with additional requirements for verifying the source of funds and sometimes for visa status.

The restrictions do not apply to the purchase itself, but to certain categories of real estate, for example, some municipal programs or a social fund.

What you can buy: objects, types, format of property

The Netherlands offers a variety of segments. Housing is available for personal ownership without land lease or temporary rights. A foreigner acquires an object with the right of full registration in the cadastre.

Popular places:

  1. A city apartment.
  2. A house in the suburbs.
  3. Apartments in new residential complexes.
  4. Land for building.
  5. A buy-to-let facility.

Is it possible for a foreigner to buy a house in the Netherlands? Yes. You can purchase a private property, a townhouse, a villa. The country does not require local registration to complete the transaction.

Transaction features: step-by-step algorithm

The purchase process is subject to general rules and does not require a special status. The transaction is accompanied by a notary, the object is registered in the state register, and the contract sets out the terms of the transfer of rights.

The sequence of actions:

  1. Choosing an object and offering a price.

  2. Signing of a preliminary agreement.

  3. Making a deposit (usually 10%).

  4. Legal review of the facility.

  5. Preparation and signing of the basic contract with a notary.

  6. Transfer of ownership and registration.

This procedure for buying real estate in the Netherlands for foreigners follows a transparent, proven algorithm and protects both sides.

Is it possible for a foreigner to buy real estate in the Netherlands on credit or mortgage?

Banks provide loans to non-residents, but under enhanced conditions. The main requirement is a stable income, a transparent source of funds, and a proven financial history.

Key conditions:

  1. Down payment: from 30%.
  2. Rate: higher by 1-1.5% compared to residents.
  3. Term: up to 30 years.
  4. Collateral: the property itself.
  5. Additional guarantees: surety, deposit.

Is it possible to buy a property in the Netherlands for a foreigner with a mortgage? Yes, but you will have to take into account higher costs and efforts to collect documents.

Cost list: what makes up the final amount

Any transaction requires not only the price of the object, but also the calculation of all related costs. Transparency is a key principle in the market.

Cost list:

  1. The cost of the facility is by agreement of the parties.

  2. Notary services — 1000-2500 euros.

  3. Registration of the right — 100-200 euros.

  4. The purchase tax is 2% for individuals, 8% for investments.

  5. Agent’s services — 1-2% of the transaction amount.

  6. Bank fees depend on the buyer’s country of origin.

  7. Translations and assurances — from 200 euros, depending on the language and volume.

Restrictions for foreigners when buying property in the Netherlands

There are no formal prohibitions. But there are indirect restrictions that affect the choice and procedure.:

  1. Access to social real estate is limited.
  2. In some areas, there is a purchase priority for local residents.
  3. Financial verification is more stringent when capital originates from outside the EU.
  4. Difficulties in buying through offshore structures.

If the laws are followed and the transaction is clearly documented, there are no restrictions for foreigners.

Documents: complete set, translation, verification of compliance

In order to confirm the validity of the purchase, the buyer must collect an exhaustive package of documents. The law requires absolute transparency of the transaction. Even the best facilities lose their liquidity if the buyer is missing one of the critical points. A notary performs not only a technical but also a legal function. Verification concerns the identity of the buyer, the source of funds, and the property status of the facility. All documents must be submitted at least 3-5 business days before signing the main agreement. Any foreign document is accompanied by a translation into English or Dutch. The translation must be certified by a certified specialist (beëdigd vertaler). A simple certificate without a signature and seal does not work.

List of documents:

  1. A foreign passport with an up-to-date visa or entry stamp.

  2. Confirmation of the address of residence in the country of origin — utility bill, bank letter.

  3. The source of funds declaration is a detailed description of the origin of capital, especially for amounts above 100,000 euros.

  4. Income statement or tax return for the last 2 years.

  5. A bank statement showing the movement of funds for 6 months.

  6. The taxpayer’s INN or registration number (if it operates in the EU).

  7. A written power of attorney, if the transaction is represented by an agent or attorney.

  8. A mortgage agreement, if a loan is used.

  9. Preliminary purchase agreement (if signed earlier).

Risks of incomplete documentation:

  1. Blocking the transaction.
  2. Notification to Financial Control.
  3. Freezing of funds on the account.
  4. Refusal to register ownership rights.

All forms are checked before the transfer of the advance payment. In case of doubt, the notary notifies the financial authorities.

The issue of taxes: fixed fees, estimates, income

The taxation system for the purchase of real estate includes several levels — federal, municipal and revenue. Is it possible to buy a property in the Netherlands for a foreigner without paying taxes? No. Any purchase is recorded in the tax base, regardless of nationality.

Property purchase tax

The fee is paid once upon transfer of ownership. The bid depends on the status of the buyer and the purpose of the purchase.:

  • 2% — if the property is purchased as a primary residence;
  • 8% — when buying for investment purposes or if there is no registration in the country.

The amount is paid to the notary’s account before signing the contract.

Annual Property Tax (WOZ)

The municipality calculates the tax based on the cadastral value of the property. The calculation is updated annually, taking into account market adjustments. Average rate: 0.04%-0.12% of the cost of the property. Example: an apartment worth 400,000 euros obliges the owner to pay 400-1200 euros annually.

Municipal fees

Monthly fees include area maintenance, garbage collection, sanitation, water supply, and local services. The average range is 40-90 euros per month.

Tax on rental income

If the property is rented out, the income is declared. The rate depends on the form of ownership:

  1. An individual is subject to the Box 3 category (asset tax).
  2. Company — is taxed as corporate income.

The percentage varies from 1.2% to 1.7% of the property’s value, depending on the ownership structure and rental rate.

Double taxation

If there is an agreement between the Netherlands and the country of citizenship, it is possible to offset the taxes paid. Most EU countries, as well as the United Kingdom, the United States, Switzerland and Canada have such an agreement.

Is it possible to buy a property in the Netherlands for a foreigner — resume

Is it possible to buy a property in the Netherlands for a foreigner: the rules remain one of the most transparent in Europe. The transaction is possible without restrictions on citizenship, and the procedure itself protects the rights of a non-resident. It is important to comply with the requirements for documents, take into account taxes and plan all expenses in advance.

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