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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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Living in the Netherlands: peculiarities, pros and cons

The beautiful picture of canals, tulips and windmills is only part of the reality. Life in the Netherlands is full of both pleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties. The country offers unique conditions, but requires careful preparation and adaptation. Let’s look at the key features of this kingdom, advantages and disadvantages for those who are thinking of moving.

Moving to the Netherlands: what you need to know about living abroad

Moving to this country requires preparing documents, choosing a city and adapting to a new culture. The Netherlands is known for its high level of bureaucracy, so it is important to know every step of the process in advance.

Documents and residence permits in the Netherlands

For long-term residence in the country it is necessary to apply for a residence permit (Permit to Stay). There are different categories of permits suitable for specific relocation purposes:

  1. The working residence permit is suitable for highly qualified professionals. To obtain it, you need an invitation from a Dutch employer and a salary that meets the minimum requirements (from 3000 € per month for professionals over 30 years of age).
  2. A student visa is issued when you enrol in a university or college. A letter of enrolment, proof of financial solvency (about 10,000 € per year) and health insurance are required.
  3. Residence permits for investors are granted for investments of 1.25 million euros or more in the country’s economy. The money must be invested in local companies or start-ups.

It takes from 3 to 6 months to obtain a residence permit. The process requires a full package of documents: passport, medical insurance, income certificates and other papers. An incomplete package or errors in the documents will result in refusal or delay of the process.

How to choose a city to live in the Netherlands

Each region has its own characteristics, climate, cost of living and professional opportunities:

  1. Amsterdam is the capital, where museums, international companies and start-ups are centred. High salaries are compensated by expensive rent (a one-room flat in the centre costs from 1500 €).
  2. Rotterdam is a city of modern skyscrapers and Europe’s largest port. The industrial centre of the Netherlands with a developed economy and moderate cost of living.
  3. The Hague is the political capital, home to embassies, international courts and major government offices. An excellent choice for lawyers, diplomats and civil servants.
  4. Utrecht is a student centre with thousands of years of history. The city is characterised by a well-developed infrastructure and moderate housing prices.

Smaller cities such as Leiden, Haarlem or Eindhoven offer a quieter atmosphere and less competition on the labour market.

The pros of living in the Netherlands

What makes life in the Netherlands attractive for Russian emigrants? A high standard of living, a stable economy and an advanced social system attract thousands of immigrants every year.

Social support and standard of living

The Dutch social system provides residents with stability and protection at all stages of life. The state supports not only working citizens, but also those who are temporarily in a difficult situation:

  1. Health insurance is compulsory for all residents of the country. The basic package costs about 120 € per month and covers visits to general practitioners, check-ups and emergency care. Additional insurance allows you to get dental and physiotherapy services.
  2. Unemployment benefit is 70 per cent of the last salary and is paid for up to 24 months. You must have worked for at least 26 weeks in the last year in order to receive the benefit.
  3. The pension system in the country is based on three levels: state pension, corporate pension funds and personal savings. The average pension is about 1100 € per month.

Social programmes include support for families, students and people with disabilities. The Dutch state actively cares for the well-being of its citizens, creating conditions for a stable and comfortable life.

Economy and job opportunities

The country’s economy is among the top 20 most developed economies in the world. Major industries include logistics, information technology, finance and agriculture. Major companies such as Shell, Philips and Unilever offer high-paying jobs for professionals from different countries.

The average salary is 2800 € after tax. In the IT sector, specialists earn between 3500 and 6000 € per month, engineers around 4000 € and doctors up to 7000 €. The working week lasts 36-40 hours, but many companies offer flexible schedules and the possibility of remote work.

High cost of living in the Netherlands

Life in the Netherlands requires considerable financial investment, especially for emigrants who are used to Russian realities. The daily costs of housing, transport, groceries and services can surprise even those who have prepared themselves for the move.

Housing is one of the biggest expense items. Renting a one-room flat in the centre of Amsterdam costs from 1500 to 1800 euros per month. On the outskirts, the cost drops to €1000 to €1200, but accessibility to public transport becomes critical. In other major cities such as Rotterdam and The Hague, renting a one-bedroom apartment costs 1200-1400 euros in the centre and 900-1000 euros on the periphery. Utility bills range from €150 to €250 per month, including heating, electricity, water and internet.

Food prices are also higher than the European average. For example:

  1. Bread – 1,5 € per loaf.
  2. Milk – €1.2 per litre.
  3. Chicken fillet – 8 € per kilo.
  4. Fruits and vegetables cost between €2 and €4 per kilo depending on the season.

A visit to a café or restaurant will cost 15-20 € per person. A cup of coffee costs around €3, and lunch at a mid-range establishment costs between €20 and €30. Transport costs are also high. A monthly pass for public transport in Amsterdam costs about 90 €, and a single trip costs 3 €. Petrol costs around €2 per litre. Parking in the city centre can cost up to 7 € per hour. Despite the high costs, the country offers quality services and a high level of comfort.

Property in the Netherlands for Russians

Buying or renting a home is one of the main issues when moving. Living in the Netherlands requires an understanding of the local property market, which is highly expensive and has strict rules.

How to find and arrange accommodation

The process of finding a facility can take several months due to high competition. In large cities, demand for flats exceeds supply, which makes the rental process challenging.

The main stages of the housing search:

  1. Choice of region and city. Amsterdam and The Hague are suitable for those looking to work for international companies. Rotterdam is suitable for engineers and logistics specialists.
  2. Use of online platforms. Funda.nl, Pararius.com, Kamernet.nl. These sites offer up-to-date adverts from owners and agencies.
  3. Document preparation. Passport, proof of income, employment contract, certificate of trustworthiness from the previous landlord.
  4. Formalisation of the lease agreement. The deposit is usually the amount of two months’ rent.

The average cost of a flat in Amsterdam is around €500,000. Mortgages are granted at 2-3% per annum, but require a down payment of 10-20% of the property value.

Additional Costs:

  1. Purchase tax – 2% of the property value.
  2. Notary services – from 1000 to 2000 €.
  3. The realtor’s commission is about 1% of the home’s value.

Conclusion

Life in the Netherlands combines a high level of comfort with the difficulties of adaptation. High prices, bureaucracy and climatic peculiarities can be a challenge for new emigrants. However, social security, stable economy, quality education and developed infrastructure compensate for these difficulties.

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How to buy a flat in the Netherlands: a step-by-step guide for Russians

Buying property abroad is a strategic move that opens up new horizons. If you’re wondering how to buy a flat in the Netherlands, this guide will provide the answer. From researching the property market to understanding the nuances of mortgage lending, the process can be daunting. But with the right preparation and knowledge of the key points, you can confidently go through each stage and make the purchase safe and profitable.

Preparing to buy a flat in the Netherlands: where to start

How to buy a flat in the Netherlands is a question for which there is no universal answer, but there are clear steps for a successful start. First of all, you need to decide where you want to live. The Netherlands is a country with diverse regions, and each of them has its own peculiarities:

  1. Amsterdam is the capital and cultural heart of the country, but its property prices are high.
  2. Rotterdam is a more modern and industrial city where there is also a high demand for housing, but with prices slightly lower.
  3. The Hague, known as the legal capital, attracts those looking for tranquillity and convenience to life.

After choosing a city, you should start researching the market. It is important to understand that property in the Netherlands for foreigners requires special attention to legal aspects. One of the important points is the tax, which is 2% of the value of the housing. In addition, consider the cost of registering the property and notary fees. Note: the difference between new build and second homes can affect the price significantly and it is important to understand which option is more suitable.

How to choose a region to buy a property in the Netherlands

How to buy a flat in the Netherlands is an important question to detail, starting with the choice of location. Amsterdam is a dream for many people, but the price of flats here can be shocking. The average cost of a square metre in the capital can reach 5,500 euros. If you are looking for more affordable accommodation, you should consider Rotterdam or The Hague.

If you are ready for a quieter environment, then cities such as Wageningen or Leiden are suitable. These regions are renowned for their well-developed infrastructure and academic institutions. In addition, property in the Netherlands in these cities can cost 20-30% cheaper.

Buying a flat with a mortgage in the Netherlands: what Russians need to know

Buying property with a mortgage is a real possibility for Russians, but it is important to take into account several important points. Firstly, banks in the Netherlands for foreign buyers can offer a loan of up to 80% of the value of the flat. The interest rate for non-residents, as a rule, will be higher: from 3 to 5% depending on financial data and credit history.

The process of obtaining a mortgage begins with choosing the right bank. Among the popular banks in the Netherlands for foreign buyers are ABN AMRO and ING. Both institutions offer attractive terms for those who have a stable income or work remotely. At the same time, you need to provide all the necessary documents, including proof of income and employment documents.

Taxes and additional costs when buying a property in the Netherlands

The first and the main one is the property purchase tax, which is 2% of the value of the property. In addition, the buyer will have to pay notary services, which depending on the value of the housing can vary from 500 to 1,500 euros. It is also worth considering the costs of registration of the object and consultations with lawyers.

Monthly expenses such as utilities, insurance and property taxes should not be forgotten. All this in total can significantly increase the financial burden, so it is important to assess the costs of buying a property in the Netherlands in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Property costs in the Netherlands: how to buy a flat at a favourable price

The cost depends directly on the location and condition of the accommodation. In large cities such as Amsterdam, flat prices can reach 6,000 euros per square metre, while in smaller cities such as Leiden or Wageningen, the price can be 20-30% lower. If you want to invest in property in the Netherlands, it is important to consider not only the current value, but also the dynamics of price growth. For example, Rotterdam and Amsterdam are forecast to have stable house price growth over the next few years, making them favourable for long-term investments.

Risks and pitfalls of buying a flat in the Netherlands

To safely buy a flat in the Netherlands, you need to be prepared for several possible risks that can significantly affect the final transaction. In order to minimise potential problems, it is important to take the process seriously and not rely solely on information obtained from public sources:

  1. Document fraud. As in other countries, there are cases of document fraud, including false deeds of ownership.
  2. Errors in the contract of sale. One of the most frequent risks is the presence of inaccuracies or errors in the contract itself. This can lead to legal problems or even loss of money.
  3. Misrepresentation of the mortgage transaction. When applying for a mortgage to buy a property in the Netherlands, you need to be attentive to the details, as the slightest mistake in filing the documents can cause a denial of the loan or even legal problems in the future.
  4. Non-compliance with documents and regulatory requirements. There are strict requirements for the registration of facilities in the country, and even small discrepancies can cause problems.
  5. Price fluctuations in the property market. Fluctuations in value may affect the investment. However, many factors such as the economic situation, changes in tax rates and infrastructure development in the region can affect the future price of a home.

How to avoid pitfalls when buying a flat in the Netherlands?

  1. Work only with trusted agents and lawyers.
  2. Maintain transparency at all stages of the transaction.
  3. Factor in any additional costs and don’t forget about taxes.
  4. Carefully review the contract and all legal details.

Conclusion

How to buy a flat in the Netherlands? The process is certainly not easy, but with the right preparation and a competent approach, it is quite feasible for Russians. The main thing is to choose the region carefully, assess all the financial and legal aspects, and work with reliable partners at every stage of the transaction. Do not forget to also take into account all taxes, mortgage costs and paperwork, so that the investment in property in the Netherlands will bring long-term benefits.

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