Top expat-friendly cities to live in the Netherlands
When thinking of relocating to the Netherlands, Amsterdam often tops the list—and for good reason. It’s a vibrant, international city with endless charm. However, in recent years, mass tourism, rising crime rates, and sky-high housing prices have made expats look beyond the capital for more livable alternatives. Here's a look at the top places to consider calling home.
Utrecht
Utrecht offers the perfect balance between big-city amenities and small-town charm. It has a vibrant international community, excellent public transport, and top-tier universities and research institutions—making it especially attractive for professionals and students alike. Plus, its central location means you can easily reach other Dutch cities (like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or The Hague) within an hour. The historic canals, cozy cafés, and a slightly slower pace of life also make it a lot more livable and relaxed compared to the bustle of the capital.
Key plus factors:
Central Location, International Vibe, High Quality of Life, Cultural & Historic Charm, Great for Families, Bike-Friendly, Strong Job Market, Compact & Walkable, Less Crowded Than Amsterdam, Green Spaces
Interesting links:
Rental Agencies in Utrecht
Dutch Courses Utrecht
Real Estate Agents in Utrecht
Dentists in Utrecht
Amstelveen
Just south of Amsterdam, Amstelveen has quietly become a favorite among expats—especially families and professionals working in or near the capital. It offers a peaceful, suburban atmosphere with plenty of green space, excellent international schools, and a strong sense of community. While you're close enough to Amsterdam for work or nightlife, you also get more space, better housing options, and a quieter pace of life. Add in great public transport and a thriving international population, and it's easy to see why Amstelveen is such a popular choice.
Key plus factors:
Proximity to Amsterdam, Family-Friendly, International Schools, Peaceful Suburban Living, Green Spaces, Spacious Housing, Strong Expat Community, Excellent Public Transport, Safe Environment, High Quality of Life
Interesting links:
Rental Agencies in Amstelveen
Dutch Courses Amstelveen
Real Estate Agents in Amstelveen
Haarlem
Haarlem is in our opinion a smaller, more relaxed version of Amsterdam, It offers a charming mix of history, culture, and livability without the crowds. Just 15 minutes from Amsterdam by train, it’s a favorite among expats who want the beauty and convenience of city life with a more local, authentic feel. Haarlem’s cobbled streets, canals, boutique shops, and vibrant café culture make it incredibly inviting. It also boasts good schools, access to nature (including beaches of Bloemendaal and Zandvoort), and a strong community vibe, perfect for families and professionals.
Key plus factors:
Close to Amsterdam, Historic Charm, Relaxed Atmosphere, Authentic Dutch Experience, Great for Families, Café Culture, Access to Nature, Beach Nearby, Walkable City Center, Strong Community Feel
Interesting links:
City Guide
Rental Agencies in Haarlem
Dutch Courses Haarlem
Real Estate Agents in Haarlem
Delft
Known for its stunning canals, historic architecture, and the iconic blue pottery, Delft is a picturesque university town that punches well above its weight. It’s home to TU Delft, one of Europe’s top technical universities, which brings in a diverse international crowd of students, researchers, and professionals. The city blends old-world charm with innovation, making it a great spot for expats looking for a calm, cultured environment with a youthful and intellectual energy. Plus, with easy connections to both Rotterdam and The Hague, you're never far from the action.
Key plus factors:
University Town, Historic Beauty, International Community, Innovative Environment, Calm and Safe, Excellent Education, Close to Rotterdam and The Hague, Walkable City, Cultural Heritage, Canal Views
Interesting links:
Rental Agencies in Delft
Dutch Courses Delft
Real Estate Agents in Delft
The Hague
The Hague is the political heart of the Netherlands and home to many international organizations. It offers a unique blend of global influence, seaside living, and cultural sophistication. With embassies, the International Court of Justice, and major NGOs based here, it attracts diplomats, professionals, and families from around the world. The city combines elegant architecture, museums, and wide boulevards with relaxed beach vibes at Scheveningen. It’s also known for excellent international schools and a high standard of living, making it one of the top expat choices in the Netherlands.
Key plus factors:
International City, Political and Legal Hub, Seaside Living, Cultural Sophistication, Excellent International Schools, Family-Friendly, Diverse Expat Community, High Quality of Life, Elegant Architecture, Proximity to Nature
Interesting links:
Rental Agencies in The Hague
Dutch Courses The Hague
Real Estate Agents in The Hague
Eindhoven
Eindhoven is known as the tech and design capital of the Netherlands, it has become a hotspot for innovation, startups, and international talent. Home to major companies like ASML, ASM International and Philips, the city attracts a large expat workforce—especially in tech, engineering, and design industries. It’s modern, dynamic, and constantly evolving, with a strong international community and a youthful vibe. Despite its focus on innovation, Eindhoven is also surprisingly livable, offering green spaces, affordable housing (by Dutch standards), and a growing cultural scene.
Key plus factors:
Tech and Innovation Hub, Strong Job Market, Modern Infrastructure, Affordable Housing, International Workforce, Design and Creativity, Startup Scene, Green Spaces, Youthful Energy, Great for Engineers and Tech Professionals
Interesting links:
City Guide
Rental Agencies in Eindhoven
Dutch Courses Eindhoven
Real Estate Agents in Eindhoven
Rotterdam
Rotterdam had to be completly rebuilt after WWII, the city embraced cutting-edge architecture, innovative urban planning, and a strong international outlook. It’s a major port city with a diverse population and a dynamic energy that draws creatives, entrepreneurs, and expats from all over the world. With plenty of cultural festivals, top-notch dining, and a thriving arts scene, Rotterdam offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle at a more relaxed pace and more affordable living than Amsterdam.
Key plus factors:
Modern Architecture, Diverse Population, Creative Energy, Affordable Living, Cosmopolitan Lifestyle, Major Port City, International Business Hub, Cultural Festivals, Great Food Scene, Efficient Public Transport
Interesting links:
Rental Agencies in Rotterdam
Dutch Courses Rotterdam
Real Estate Agents in Rotterdam