"Is Netherlands too expensive!" That depends on where you live and how you budget. While Amsterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht are pricier, cities like Eindhoven, Groningen, and Maastricht offer a more affordable lifestyle (CBS Netherlands, 2025). If you plan well, Netherlands offers a high quality of life, strong job market, and efficient public services.
So, what is the cost of living in Netherlands?
Housing costs vary – A one-bedroom apartment in Amsterdam costs around €1,800 (₹1.6L), while in Groningen or Tilburg, it’s closer to €1,100 (₹97K) (Pararius, 2025). Student housing through DUWO or SSH can be as low as €500 (₹44K) per month.
Groceries and eating out – Shopping at Albert Heijn, Lidl, or Jumbo keeps costs low, with a loaf of bread costing €2.20 (₹195). A meal at a local eetcafé is about €15 (₹1,300), while a dinner at a bruin café in Amsterdam can go up to €30 (₹2,600) (Numbeo, 2025).
Transport is efficient but costs add up – The OV-chipkaart is essential for using NS trains, GVB trams, and RET buses, with a monthly pass costing €100 (₹8.7K) (Dutch Railways, 2025). Biking remains the cheapest and most popular mode of transport, with second-hand bikes available from Swapfiets or Marktplaats for €150–€300 (₹13K–₹26K).
With top universities, a strong economy, and a high standard of living, Netherlands remains a top choice for expats and students.
Cost of Living in Netherlands in 2025: An Overview
The Netherlands is a country of contrasts—Amsterdam’s high prices can be daunting, but cities like Groningen, Eindhoven, and Nijmegen offer affordable alternatives (CBS Netherlands, 2025). The key to living comfortably here? Smart budgeting and choosing the right location.
Students: €1,200–€1,800 (₹1.05L–₹1.57L) per month. Government-subsidized housing, part-time work, and student discounts help cut costs. Learn how tostudy abroad for free with scholarships.
Professionals: €2,000–€3,500 (₹1.75L–₹3.05L). Salaries in tech, finance, and healthcare are competitive, but taxes and social security contributions affect take-home income.
Families: €3,500–€5,500 (₹3.05L–₹4.8L). Public schooling is free, but international schools and childcare are expensive.
Cost of Living in Netherlands: Average Monthly Expenses (2025)
Expense Category
Average Monthly Cost (€)
Notes
Rent (Shared/Studio/2BHK)
€800–€1,800 (₹70K–₹1.57L)
Amsterdam costs 50% more than Rotterdam
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet)
€150–€250 (₹13K–₹22K)
Winter heating can push costs higher
Groceries
€250–€400 (₹22K–₹35K)
Albert Heijn, Lidl, and Jumbo are popular choices
Public Transport
€80–€120 (₹7K–₹10.5K)
Monthly NS train pass for intercity travel
Dining Out & Entertainment
€200–€500 (₹17.5K–₹43K)
Cafés and bars are pricier in tourist areas
Healthcare (Insurance & GP visits)
€120–€200 (₹10.5K–₹17.5K)
Basic insurance is mandatory (Zorginstituut Nederland, 2025)
Rental prices have increased by 2.1% annually due to high demand from expats, students, and professionals (CBS Netherlands, 2025). Amsterdam remains the most expensive city, while Eindhoven and Groningen offer more budget-friendly options.
Average Monthly Rent in Netherlands (2025)
Accommodation Type
Average Monthly Rent (€)
Notes
Room in Shared Flat
€600–€1,000 (₹52K–₹87K)
Ideal for students and young professionals
Studio Apartment
€1,200–€1,800 (₹1.05L–₹1.57L)
Suitable for singles or couples
1-Bedroom Apartment
€1,600–€2,500 (₹1.4L–₹2.2L)
Higher prices in Amsterdam & Utrecht
2–3 Room Apartment
€2,400–€3,500 (₹2.1L–₹3.05L)
Popular among families & professionals
4+ Room Apartment/House
€3,500+ (₹3.05L+)
Limited availability in city centers
Conversion rates may vary.
Data Source:CBS Netherlands, Pararius, Dutch Rental Market Report (2025).
Upfront Costs & Rental Agreements
Security Deposit: Typically 1–2 months’ rent upfront.
Prepaid Rent: Some landlords ask for first and last month’s rent in advance.
Lease Duration: 12-month contracts are standard, with short-term leases priced 20–40% higher.
Tips for Finding Affordable Rent
Student Housing: DUWO & SSH offer rooms from €500 (₹44K) per month.
Government Rent Subsidies: If your annual income is below €33,000 (₹28.8L), you may qualify for Huurtoeslag (Dutch Rent Allowance) (Belastingdienst, 2025).
Best Rental Platforms: Funda, Pararius, Kamernet list verified properties.
Social Media & Local Groups: Facebook groups like Expats in Netherlands help find sublets and house shares.
Cost of Living in Netherlands: Food and Grocery Prices
The cost of food in Netherlands depends on whether you cook at home or eat out. Eating at restaurants can be 2-3 times more expensive than home-cooked meals (Numbeo, 2025). While dining out in Amsterdam costs more, cities like Eindhoven, Groningen, and Rotterdam offer more budget-friendly options.
Eating Out: A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs €15–€25 (₹1.3L–₹2.2L), while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs €60–€90 (₹5.2K–₹7.8K) (Dutch Hospitality Market Report, 2025).
Cooking at Home: Weekly groceries for one person cost around €50–€90 (₹4.3K–₹7.8K), depending on shopping choices. Lidl, Aldi, and Jumbo are cheaper than Albert Heijn, which has premium pricing.
Average Grocery Prices in Netherlands (2025)
Grocery Item
Average Price (€)
Where to Buy
Milk (1L)
€1.20 (₹105)
Albert Heijn, Jumbo, Lidl
Bread (500g)
€2.00 (₹175)
Jumbo, Aldi, Local Bakeries
Eggs (12)
€3.50 (₹310)
Lidl, Jumbo, Albert Heijn
Chicken (1kg)
€9.00 (₹780)
Albert Heijn, Jumbo, Butcher Shops
Apples (1kg)
€3.00 (₹260)
Lidl, Aldi, Weekly Farmers’ Markets
Rice (1kg)
€2.50 (₹220)
Jumbo, Lidl, Asian Grocery Stores
Coffee (250g)
€4.50 (₹390)
Albert Heijn, Lidl, Jumbo
Beer (500ml)
€2.80 (₹240)
Supermarkets, Local Liquor Stores
Conversion rates may vary.
Data Source:Numbeo, Dutch Supermarket Price Lists, CBS Netherlands (2025)
The Netherlands has one of the best public transport networks in Europe, covering buses, trams, metros, and trains operated by NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen), GVB (Amsterdam), RET (Rotterdam), and HTM (The Hague). Cycling remains the most affordable and convenient mode of transport, with over 36% of Dutch residents using bicycles for daily commutes (Dutch Transport Authority, 2025).
Public Transport: A single bus or tram ticket costs €2.90 (₹250), while a monthly OV-chipkaart pass for unlimited travel in major cities starts from €105–€150 (₹9.1K–₹13K) (NS Netherlands, 2025).
Owning a Car: Fuel prices have increased by 5% in the last year, making cars an expensive choice for daily travel.
Cycling: A second-hand bicycle costs €200–€600 (₹17K–₹52K), and bike-sharing schemes like OV-fiets cost €4.45 (₹390) per 24 hours.
Average Monthly Transportation Costs in Netherlands (2025)
Mode of Transport
Monthly Cost (€)
Additional Notes
Public Transport Pass
€105–€150 (₹9.1K–₹13K)
Covers bus, tram, metro, & local trains
Single Bus/Tram Ticket
€2.90 (₹250)
Valid for 60–90 minutes
Taxi (per km)
€2.50 (₹220)
Higher in Amsterdam & The Hague
Fuel (per liter)
€1.85 (₹160)
Petrol & diesel prices fluctuate
Car Insurance
€80–€200 (₹7K–₹17.5K)
Based on age & vehicle type
Road Tax
€600–€1,200 (₹52K–₹1.05L) per year
Depends on car emissions
Parking Fees (Amsterdam city center)
€3–€7 per hour (₹260–₹610)
Monthly passes available
Bicycle Rental (OV-fiets)
€4.45 per day (₹390)
Available at train stations
Conversion rates may vary. Data Source:NS Netherlands, Dutch Transport Authority, CBS Netherlands (2025).
Curious about study-abroad myths? ReadCommon Study Abroad Myths to clear up misconceptions before planning your move.
Cost of Living in Netherlands: Utility Bills and Internet Charges
Utility costs in Netherlands depend on household size, location, and seasonality. Heating bills can be 40–60% higher in winter, especially in colder northern regions like Groningen and Friesland (CBS Netherlands, 2025). The Dutch government encourages energy efficiency, and households using solar panels or energy-efficient heating systems receive tax benefits (Dutch Energy Authority, 2025).
Electricity Prices: €0.38 per kWh due to higher energy tariffs.
Internet & Mobile: KPN, Ziggo, and T-Mobile offer the most competitive broadband plans.
Water Charges: Households pay a fixed fee + usage-based charges, managed by regional water boards.
Average Monthly Utility & Internet Costs in Netherlands (2025)
Utility Type
Average Monthly Cost (€)
Provider Examples
Electricity (3-person household)
€150–€250 (₹13K–₹22K)
Eneco, Vattenfall, Essent
Heating (Gas)
€100–€180 (₹8.7K–₹15.5K)
GasTerra, Vattenfall
Water
€30–€60 (₹2.6K–₹5.2K)
Vitens, Waternet, Brabant Water
Internet (100 Mbps)
€40–€70 (₹3.5K–₹6K)
Ziggo, KPN, T-Mobile
Mobile Plan (Unlimited Data)
€25–€50 (₹2.1K–₹4.3K)
Vodafone, KPN, T-Mobile
Conversion rates may vary. Data Source:CBS Netherlands, Dutch Utility Providers, ISP Reports (2025).
Tips to Reduce Utility Costs:
Use Energy-Efficient Appliances – Households with A+++ rated devices save up to €300 per year on electricity.
Check for Off-Peak Energy Plans – Many providers offer lower rates at night or during weekends.
Bundle Internet & Mobile Plans – Ziggo and KPN offer discounts when bundling broadband and mobile services.
Monitor Water Usage – Dutch water providers suggest low-flow showerheads to cut water bills by €50 annually.
Studying in Netherlands? Prepare for entrance exams with IELTS Preparation or explore alternatives like PTE and GRE for university admissions.
Cost of Living in Netherlands: Healthcare Expenses
The Netherlands has a mandatory health insurance system where all residents, including expats and students, must have basic health insurance (Zorgverzekeringswet). Public healthcare covers GP visits, emergency care, and hospitalization, while private insurance provides faster specialist access and dental coverage (Dutch Healthcare Authority, 2025).
Basic Health Insurance (Basisverzekering): Starts from €120–€160 (₹10.5K–₹14K) per month, covering essential medical services.
GP Visits: €30–€50 (₹2.6K–₹4.3K) per visit unless insured.
Prescription Medications: €10–€40 (₹870–₹3.5K) depending on subsidies.
Private Insurance: Extra coverage for dental, physiotherapy, and specialist treatments.
Average Healthcare Costs in Netherlands (2025)
Healthcare Service
Cost (€)
Notes
Basic Health Insurance
€120–€160 (₹10.5K–₹14K)
Mandatory for residents
GP Visit
€30–€50 (₹2.6K–₹4.3K)
Free under basic insurance
Emergency Treatment
Free
Covered by public insurance
Specialist Consultation
€100–€200 (₹8.7K–₹17.5K)
Referral required
Prescription Medication
€10–€40 (₹870–₹3.5K)
Prices vary by medication
Dental Check-up
€50–€100 (₹4.3K–₹8.7K)
Not covered under public insurance
Private Health Insurance
€50–€150 (₹4.3K–₹13K)
Covers dental, physiotherapy
Conversion rates may vary. Data Source:Dutch Healthcare Authority, Zorgverzekeraars Nederland, CBS Netherlands (2025).
Tips to Manage Healthcare Costs:
Compare Insurance Plans – Check providers like Zilveren Kruis, Menzis, and VGZ for affordable policies.
Use Dutch GP Referrals – Seeing a huisarts (GP) first is mandatory to avoid extra specialist fees.
Apply for Healthcare Allowance (Zorgtoeslag) – If earning below €32,500 annually, you may qualify for €110 per month in subsidies.
Use Public Healthcare When Possible – Private hospitals cost 50–100% more for non-urgent procedures.
Applying for Dutch universities? Improve your test scores with GMAT Preparation to boost your chances of getting into top business schools.
Cost of Living in Netherlands: Schools and Universities
The Netherlands is a top study destination, but tuition fees for non-EU students, including Indian students, are higher than for EU residents (Dutch Ministry of Education, 2025).
Public Universities: Bachelor's degrees cost €6,000–€15,000 (₹5.2L–₹13L) per year, while master's programs range from €8,000–€20,000 (₹7L–₹17.5L) per year.
Private Universities: Institutions like Nyenrode Business University charge up to €35,000 (₹30.4L) per year.
Scholarships: Options like the Orange Tulip Scholarship, Holland Scholarship, and Erasmus+ help reduce costs.
Schooling for Families: Public schools are free for residents, while international schools cost €7,000–€20,000 (₹6L–₹17.5L) per year.
Tuition Fees in Netherlands (2025) – Non-EU Students
Cost of Living in Netherlands: Entertainment and Leisure
The Netherlands offers a range of activities, from dining out to museums and outdoor sports. Eating out is expensive, but budget-friendly options like FEBO, Wok to Walk, and Albert Heijn To-Go make meals affordable.
Restaurants: A mid-range meal costs €15–€25 (₹1.3K–₹2.2K) per person.
Movies & Events: Cinema tickets range from €12–€15 (₹1K–₹1.3K), while concerts cost €40–€120 (₹3.4K–₹10.4K).
Gyms & Sports: Memberships start at €30–€60 (₹2.6K–₹5.2K) per month.
Average Entertainment & Leisure Costs in Netherlands (2025)
Activity
Average Cost (€)
Notes
Meal at Mid-Range Restaurant
€15–€25 (₹1.3K–₹2.2K)
Per person
Fast Food (McDonald's, FEBO)
€8–€12 (₹700–₹1K)
Combo meal
Coffee at a Café
€3–€5 (₹260–₹440)
Cappuccino or latte
Cinema Ticket
€12–€15 (₹1K–₹1.3K)
Standard screening
Gym Membership
€30–€60 (₹2.6K–₹5.2K)
Monthly
Concert Ticket
€40–€120 (₹3.4K–₹10.4K)
Depends on artist & venue
Bike Rental (Monthly)
€15–€30 (₹1.3K–₹2.6K)
Swapfiets, OV-fiets
On a budget? Many museums have free entry days, and cycling is the cheapest way to explore Dutch cities.
Salaries in Netherlands vary widely based on industry, experience, and location. The average gross salary in 2025 is €3,500–€4,000 (₹3.1L–₹3.5L) per month, but after taxes, take-home pay is lower due to income tax (up to 49.5%), social security, and pension contributions (CBS - Statistics Netherlands, 2025).
Important tax rule for expats: The 30% ruling allows highly skilled workers to receive 30% of their salary tax-free, making Netherlands attractive for professionals in IT, engineering, and finance (Dutch Tax Authority, 2025).
Student Tip: If you work part-time while studying, your hourly wage is around €12–€15 (₹1K–₹1.3K). EU students can work without restrictions, but non-EU students can work a maximum of 16 hours per week (IND Netherlands, 2025).
How Does the Cost of Living in Netherland’s Cities Compare?
The Netherlands has significant cost variations across cities. Amsterdam is the most expensive, while Eindhoven and Groningen are more affordable (CBS - Statistics Netherlands, 2025).
Amsterdam: High salaries, but rent for a one-bedroom apartment is €1,800–€2,500 (₹1.5L–₹2.2L).
Rotterdam: 30% cheaper rent than Amsterdam and strong career opportunities in finance and trade.
Utrecht: Ideal for students and professionals, with fast train connections to other cities.
The Hague: Popular among diplomats and expats, with slightly lower living costs than Amsterdam.
Eindhoven: Home to ASML, Philips, and TU/e, making it ideal for engineering and tech professionals.
Average Monthly Living Costs in Major Dutch Cities (2025)
City
Average Monthly Cost (€)
Key Differences
Amsterdam
€2,500–€3,500 (₹2.1L–₹3L)
High rent, strong job market
Rotterdam
€2,000–€2,800 (₹1.7L–₹2.4L)
Affordable rent, good finance sector
Utrecht
€2,200–€3,000 (₹1.8L–₹2.6L)
Central location, major student city
The Hague
€2,000–€2,900 (₹1.7L–₹2.5L)
International hub, diplomatic jobs
Eindhoven
€1,800–€2,600 (₹1.5L–₹2.2L)
Lower rent, booming tech sector
Student Tip: Eindhoven and Groningen offer cheaper rent, with student housing from €600 (₹52K) per month.
Where Should You Live?
For Students: Utrecht, Eindhoven (lower rent, top universities).
For Finance & Business Professionals: Amsterdam, Rotterdam (best salaries).
For Engineers & Tech Experts: Eindhoven (ASML, Philips, TU/e).
How Does Netherlands’ Cost of Living Compare to Other European Countries?
The Netherlands is more expensive than Spain and Sweden but cheaper than the UK and parts of Germany (Eurostat, 2025). Rent in Amsterdam is as high as London’s, while cities like Eindhoven and Rotterdam offer more affordable living options.
Rent: Amsterdam is one of the priciest cities in Europe, but rent in Utrecht or The Hague is 20–30% cheaper than in London or Paris (CBS Netherlands, 2025).
Food: Eating out in Netherlands costs 15–20% more than in Germany but is still cheaper than in Scandinavian countries.
Public Transport: The Netherlands has one of the best-connected rail networks, but fares are higher than in Spain and Germany.
Healthcare: Dutch healthcare is among the best in Europe but private insurance is mandatory, unlike in France where public healthcare covers most costs.
Cost of Living: Netherlands vs. Other European Countries (2025)
Country
Average Monthly Cost (€)
Key Differences
Netherlands
€2,200–€3,200 (₹1.9L–₹2.8L)
High rent in Amsterdam, lower in other cities
Germany
€1,800–€2,800 (₹1.6L–₹2.4L)
Cheaper rent, lower healthcare costs
France
€2,100–€3,000 (₹1.8L–₹2.6L)
Affordable groceries, higher taxes
Spain
€1,500–€2,500 (₹1.3L–₹2.2L)
Lowest rent and food costs
Sweden
€2,000–€3,000 (₹1.7L–₹2.6L)
High taxes but good public benefits
United Kingdom (London)
€2,800–€4,000 (₹2.4L–₹3.5L)
Most expensive, costly public transport
Looking for a budget-friendly study destination? Read Cost of Living in Europe for a complete comparison.
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What Does It Cover?
Tuition Fees – Based on university and program selection.
Accommodation – On-campus vs. private apartments.
Food & Groceries – Eating out vs. cooking at home.
Transport Costs – Public transport vs. owning a vehicle.
Entertainment & Lifestyle – Gym, Wi-Fi, social events, shopping.
The Netherlands offers a great work-life balance, high salaries, and top-ranked universities. But is it the right fit for you?
Pros of Living in Netherlands
High salaries in IT, engineering, and finance.
Delft, Erasmus, and Utrecht offer globally recognized degrees.
Saves transport costs with bike-friendly infrastructure.
Over 90% of Dutch people speak English.
Trains and buses make travel across Europe seamless.
Cons of Living in Netherlands
Amsterdam has a housing shortage; other cities are more affordable.
Mandatory Health Insurance – €120/month, no free healthcare for expats.
Rainy, cloudy weather for half the year.
Getting residence permits and housing takes time.
Restaurants cost more than in Germany or Spain.
Best for: Students, tech professionals, expats in finance and healthcare. Not ideal for: Those looking for low-cost living, warm weather, or fast-moving bureaucracy.
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Is Netherlands an expensive country to live in compared to other European nations?
Yes, Netherlands is more expensive than most EU countries but cheaper than Switzerland and Scandinavia. Rent, food, and healthcare costs are higher than in Germany and Belgium, but lower than in Sweden and the UK.
How much does a single person need per month to live comfortably in Netherlands?
A single person needs at least €1,800-€2,500 (₹1.6L-₹2.2L) per month, including rent, food, and transport. Living costs are higher in Amsterdam (€2,500+), while smaller cities like Eindhoven and Utrecht are slightly cheaper.
Is it possible to live in Netherlands on a student budget?
Yes, students can live on €900-€1,500 (₹80,000-₹1.3L) per month, depending on the city. Rent for student housing ranges from €400-€800, and part-time jobs help cover expenses.
What is the average utility bill in Netherlands for a one-bedroom apartment?
Utilities (electricity, water, heating, internet) cost €150-€250 per month (₹13,000-₹22,000) for a one-bedroom apartment, depending on usage and location.
Are groceries cheaper in Netherlands compared to Germany or Belgium?
Groceries in Netherlands are slightly more expensive than in Germany but cheaper than in Belgium. A monthly grocery bill for one person is around €250-€400 (₹22,000-₹35,000). Budget-friendly supermarkets like Lidl and Aldi offer lower prices.
How much does public transport cost in Netherlands, and is there a student discount?
A one-way ticket costs €2.50-€4 in major cities.
A monthly transport pass is around €75-€120 (₹6,600-₹10,600).
Students get free or discounted travel with the OV-chipkaart, but only if they qualify for Dutch student loans.
What are the hidden costs of renting an apartment in Netherlands?
Apart from rent, tenants pay:
Security deposit (1-2 months’ rent).
Agency fees (if renting through an agent).
Service costs (€50-€200 per month for maintenance and amenities).
How much do expats pay for health insurance in Netherlands?
Health insurance is mandatory for all residents. Expats pay around €110-€140 per month (₹9,700-₹12,300) for basic coverage. Employers usually partially reimburse healthcare costs.
What is the difference in cost between living in Amsterdam and Rotterdam?
Amsterdam is 25-40% more expensive than Rotterdam. A one-bedroom apartment in Amsterdam costs €1,500-€2,200, while in Rotterdam, it ranges from €1,100-€1,600. Groceries and entertainment are also pricier in Amsterdam.
Is it cheaper to eat out or cook at home in Netherlands?
Cooking at home is significantly cheaper.
Groceries for a week: €50-€80 (₹4,400-₹7,000).
Meal at a mid-range restaurant: €20-€35 (₹1,800-₹3,100) per person.
Are there affordable suburbs near major Dutch cities where expats can live?
Yes, expats looking for lower rent can consider:
Zaandam (near Amsterdam) – 20% cheaper.
Delft (near The Hague) – Cheaper rent and student-friendly.
Breda (near Rotterdam) – Good expat community and affordable housing.
How much does a childcare or daycare facility cost per month in Netherlands?
Daycare costs €800-€1,500 per month (₹70,000-₹1.3L) per child. The Dutch government provides childcare subsidies that can cover up to 80% of the cost for eligible families.
Is it expensive to own and maintain a bicycle in Netherlands?
No. A new bicycle costs €300-€1,000 (₹26,000-₹88,000), while second-hand bikes are available for €50-€250. Maintenance costs €50-€100 per year, making cycling the most cost-effective transport option.
How does taxation impact the overall cost of living for expats in Netherlands?
Expats are taxed under progressive tax rates (9.5% to 49.5%), but high earners may qualify for the 30% tax ruling, reducing taxable income. VAT on goods is 21%, affecting retail prices.
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