The Best Places to Live in the Netherlands

Are you looking to move to the Netherlands? Here, we will examine the best places to move to, whether you are moving with your family, retiring, or are a young professional.

Relocating to a new country always comes with a mix of excitement and uncertainty. While the prospect of starting a new chapter in the Netherlands is thrilling, finding the right city to call home is essential to making your move from the UK a success.

Drawing on data we’ve collected from those who used PSS Removals to move overseas, we’ve compiled a list of the most sought-after destinations for expats relocating to the Netherlands.

This beautiful country is famous for its charming cities, vibrant culture, and high quality of life, offering a variety of places to suit every lifestyle. With so many appealing choices, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when deciding where to settle down. That’s where we help in narrowing down the perfect spot that fits your unique needs, whether you’re focused on family life or seeking a lively urban experience.

If you’re planning a removal service to the Netherlands from the UK, PSS International Removals is here to make the journey as smooth as possible. We’ll handle every detail carefully, ensuring your belongings arrive safely and on time while providing all the support you need. Let’s explore the best cities in the Netherlands that could soon become your new home.

1. Amsterdam – Vibrant city known for its exceptional quality of life

The Netherlands is known for its stunning places, and Amsterdam is a great example of this.

With a thriving population of nearly 1 million people, it offers the vibrant energy of big city living. If you’re moving from the UK, you’ll find a welcoming community, as the city is home to a large expat population—a fact that hasn’t gone unnoticed by the Dutch government.

While Amsterdam can be pricey, expats benefit from a significant tax incentive: a 30% reduction on taxable income for the first five years of residency. Additionally, thanks to the city’s international diversity, speaking Dutch initially isn’t essential, though we highly recommend learning the language over time to fully integrate and enrich your experience.

2. Utrecht – Thriving job market with an abundance of charming cafes

Although not as large as Amsterdam, Utrecht is not a tiny town either with a population of just over 375,000. Moving to this part of the Netherlands does come with some challenges.

Among the most challenging will be finding a home. Currently, Utrecht has a housing shortage (as many places do), but time can be your best friend. Take your time when looking for a place to own or rent in Utrecht. This is not a place where it is easy to just show up and move in.

Although housing may be a difficult venture, finding a job will not. Utrecht is full of well qualified jobs to provide for all your needs. Among the most common employment options are engineering, finance, transportation, and as always, healthcare.

3. The Hague (Den Haag) – Great place to live for young adults

Den Haag, the third-largest city in the Netherlands, is a mix of old and new. The city center features modern high-rises and businesses, while the surrounding areas showcase traditional coastal homes and shops.

It’s a great place for young adults, offering plenty of outdoor activities and a lively nightlife. Kitesurfing is especially popular, and when the sun goes down, the city comes alive with bars and entertainment.

Like in many Dutch cities, homes in The Hague don’t usually have air conditioning, which is fine in summer but can make winters a bit challenging, especially in older, less-insulated houses. The city does offer a range of heating options, but it’s something to keep in mind. With so much to do outdoors, The Hague is perfect for anyone who loves an active lifestyle.

4. Haarlem – Excellent place to live for families

Haarlem, the capital city of North Holland, is considered one of the best places in the Netherlands for families to live.

Haarlem combines small-town Dutch charm with plenty of activities for families with kids of all ages. With its low crime rate and safe, welcoming vibe, it’s a great choice for anyone moving from the UK who’s looking for a family-friendly place to settle.

The city is rich in history, from the famous Corrie Ten Boom House, a powerful WWII landmark, to the many fascinating museums dotted around. That said, Haarlem isn’t the cheapest place to live—it ranks among the top 8% of the most expensive cities worldwide. But for engineers or experienced project managers, there are plenty of job opportunities that can help cover the higher costs of living.

5. Rotterdam – Modern architecture and impressive harbour

Rotterdam is a lively place where making friends can happen quickly and it is one of the more modern cities in the Netherlands. Instead of the traditional Dutch architecture you might expect, the city is full of sleek high-rise buildings and a bold, modern skyline.

It’s also one of the most diverse cities in the Netherlands, which adds to its unique character.

If you’re an animal lover, though, living in Rotterdam might have its challenges. Many landlords don’t allow pets, and owning one means registering them and paying a pet tax. But if you manage to find a pet-friendly landlord and are okay with the tax, the city’s many parks and outdoor spaces are perfect for spending time with your furry friend.

6. Arnhem – Vibrant hub for art and culture

Arnhem, located in the eastern Netherlands, is a city full of character. It’s making a name for itself in the fashion world, so don’t be surprised to see people dressed in their best, even for a quick trip to the grocery store.

But Arnhem isn’t all about high fashion. It’s a place where working-class families also feel at home, enjoying everything the city has to offer.

If you’re an animal lover, Arnhem has plenty to keep you busy. The city is home to Burger’s Zoo, a popular spot for families to spend an afternoon. If you prefer seeing animals in the wild, there are also nature reserves nearby where you can enjoy wildlife in its natural surroundings. Arnhem has a strong connection to nature, and its residents love spending time outdoors, making it a great place for nature lovers.

7. Leiden – Excellent place to retire with plenty of green spaces

Leiden is known for being one of the wettest cities in the Netherlands and not because of the rain. The city has more canals and bridges than anywhere else in the country. Currently, there are 88 bridges throughout the city and strolling along the waterways is an excellent way to spend an afternoon.

Leiden, like many cities in the Netherlands, is one that you can enjoy exploring on foot or by bicycle. A variety of outdoor spaces allow you to slow things down a bit and take in the historic cites of the city. However, Christmas is where Leiden shines the most. Leiden’s Floating Christmas Market is the best way to embrace the holiday season and shopping among the canals is just a lot of fun.

8. Eindhoven – Great job opportunities for those in tech

Eindhoven has grown a lot in recent years, thanks to its modern development and plenty of job opportunities. The city is a hub for tech and healthcare jobs, making it a popular choice for people looking to settle and work in the Netherlands.

However, the growing population is not simply devoted to their work. Eindhoven is a city that loves to work hard as well as play hard and thankfully, they don’t take themselves too seriously.

Among the most popular attractions in the city of Eindhoven is the Silly Walks Tunnel. The tunnel is one that is based on the silly walks Monty Python is known for. While walking through, you are encouraged to silly walk your way through. However, if you would like something on a more serious note, the Van Gogh Bicycle Path is a unique experience as well. The path glows during the night depicting the Starry Night as you ride.

9. Groningen – Vibrant university city with affordability

Groningen is a city that balances its rich history with a modern vibe. If you’re thinking about living here, one of the first things you’ll notice is the lively market days, which are a big part of life in the city.

Specifically, the Vismarkt. It is not just a fish market as the name might have you believe. This bustling market, although only open 3 days a week, has everything, fresh produce, meats, cheeses, sweets, and more.

Groningen is a very walkable city, so expect to walk to most of your destinations. While walking around, expect to be allured into a variety of cafes by the scent of coffee. Coffee lovers unite in Groningen and no matter where you find yourself, you will never be more than a few meters away from a good cup of coffee.

10. Breda – Among the cheapest in the Netherlands for cost of living

Breda is one of the more affordable cities to live in the Netherlands, which makes it a popular choice for many. The city has been steadily growing, with more people moving in as they discover its charm and everything it has to offer.

There’s no shortage of things to do in Breda. If you enjoy the outdoors, you’ll find plenty of hiking trails both in the city and on its outskirts, giving you the chance to explore nature and enjoy some fresh air. The city has a lively atmosphere, full of great pubs, cafes, and restaurants where you can grab a meal, meet friends, or enjoy a night out.

So whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk or a fun evening out, Breda has something for everyone.

11. Delft – Relaxed atmosphere with plenty of bars, restaurants and shops

In Delft, you will see a lot of ceramic pottery. The famous Delft Blue Pottery is among the most popular and what tourists tend to gravitate toward, but do not neglect to enjoy the other varieties that are growing in popularity throughout the city.

While shopping for pottery you will love strolling the streets and walking along the canals viewing all the unique and classic architecture.

Living in Delft can feel like stepping back in time, with its historic charm and old-world atmosphere. But don’t let that fool you—this city has a strong connection to innovation. Delft is closely tied to the history of scientific discovery, particularly through Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, a local pioneer who revolutionised microscopy and helped lay the foundation for microbiology. His contributions to science have left a lasting impact, showcasing Delft’s blend of tradition and progress.

12. Maastricht – Safe city with unique history

At first glance, Maastricht might seem like a typical Dutch city, but it quickly sets itself apart. Steeped in history, especially military history, the city brings the past to life in remarkable ways. One of its most intriguing features is the network of mine caves, known as Casemates, built between 1579 and 1825, showcasing Maastricht’s strategic importance through the ages.

These tunnels and caverns were used during World War II as air raid shelters and you can view them today.

One unique aspect of Maastricht is its network of winding, curving roads, a characteristic of its medieval origins. As the oldest city in the Netherlands, Maastricht’s streets developed naturally over centuries, shaped by trade routes and the needs of its growing population. While the layout may have incidentally made navigation tricky for invaders in the past, its primary defense relied on its strategic location and fortified walls rather than the design of its roadways. These historic streets now add to the city’s charm and timeless appeal.

13. Hilversum – Peaceful surroundings with lots of nature reserves

If you love the media, Hilversum is your city. Those who are in the entertainment industry or working to break into it, flock to Hilversum for their few moments of screen time. However, the city is not just about media. They are also devoted to animals as well.

Unfortunately, animals can be injured or killed while crossing roadways. In Hilversum, they have built the largest animal overpass ever constructed to keep wildlife safe while crossing busy intersections.

14. Weesp – Quiet city, perfect for those looking to escape hustle and bustle

Weesp is a small, traditional town where you’ll find the classic Dutch windmills that the Netherlands is known for.

It is a very walkable city with its share of calming canals and quaint shops. Weesp is the type of city you will want to live in if you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of big city life.

This small town in the Netherlands has a lot to offer especially for those looking to embrace the history of the Netherlands. However, if you want to enjoy the big city, it is simply a 18 minute train ride to the big city of Amsterdam, so you are never too far away from excitement.

Are you looking to relocate your personal belongings to the Netherlands?

The Netherlands offers a delightful mix of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and a relaxed pace of life that caters to a variety of lifestyles. If you’re searching for reasons for moving to the Netherlands, consider reading our previous post.

For those seeking the energy and excitement of a bustling city, the Netherlands has plenty to offer. Amsterdam, for instance, stands out as one of the top choices among people who have moved with PSS Removals, and it’s easy to see why. From its iconic canals and world-class museums to its vibrant nightlife and excellent amenities, Amsterdam is a city that never ceases to amaze.

If coastal living is more your style, cities like The Hague and Rotterdam provide easy access to beautiful beaches, along with a laid-back lifestyle that makes every day feel like a getaway. We recommend that you take the time to explore different regions of the Netherlands to help you decide which part of this harming country feels most like home.

When it comes to shipping your items to the Netherlands, PSS International Removals is here to help. With over 40 years of experience and a dedicated team of experts, we’ll ensure your move is smooth and stress-free, providing you with all the support you need for a seamless transition from the UK.