Quick Summary: What You’ll Learn about Cheapest Places to live ine Netherlands
- Comprehensive list of the top 10 most affordable cities in the Netherlands for 2025
- Detailed cost comparisons including rent, utilities, and daily expenses
- Insights into the best cities for students, remote workers, and families
- Tips on how to save money by living outside major urban centers
- Information on VANonsite’s professional moving services to assist your relocation
Introduction
The Netherlands is renowned for its high quality of life, efficient infrastructure, and vibrant culture. However, living in major cities like Amsterdam can be expensive. For those seeking the Dutch experience without the hefty price tag, exploring more affordable cities is a smart move. This guide delves into the most budget-friendly places to live in the Netherlands in 2025, providing insights into living costs, lifestyle, and how VANonsite can facilitate your relocation.
Why Affordability Matters in the Netherlands
The Netherlands consistently ranks high in global quality of life indexes, but it’s no secret that living costs—especially in major cities—can be steep. Affordability matters more than ever for students, young professionals, families, and remote workers seeking a balanced lifestyle. Lower-cost cities offer the same infrastructure, safety, and healthcare system as Amsterdam or Utrecht, but at a fraction of the cost. By choosing a more affordable place to live, you gain financial breathing room—which means more savings, flexibility to travel, or simply living without the pressure of high monthly expenses. And thanks to the country’s excellent public transport, living outside a major hub doesn’t mean losing access to opportunities.
Top 10 Cheapest Cities to Live in the Netherlands
Based on recent data, here are the top 10 most affordable cities in the Netherlands for 2025:
| City | Average Monthly Cost (€) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Heerlen | 1,284 | Lowest cost of living, peaceful environment |
| Lelystad | 1,381 | Modern infrastructure, close to nature |
| Enschede | 1,499 | Vibrant student community, cultural events |
| Emmen | 1,574 | Family-friendly, green spaces |
| Venlo | 1,700 | Historic charm, cross-border opportunities |
| Groningen | 1,745 | Lively atmosphere, excellent universities |
| Zwolle | 1,764 | Rich history, strong community feel |
| Tilburg | 1,862 | Industrial heritage, growing economy |
| Almere | 1,937 | Modern city planning, proximity to Amsterdam |
| Maastricht | 1,920 | International vibe, picturesque landscapes |
City Spotlight: Heerlen – The Cheapest City in 2025
Heerlen stands out as the most affordable city in the Netherlands for 2025. With an average monthly cost of €1,284, it offers residents a peaceful lifestyle without compromising on essential amenities. The city boasts a rich history, green spaces, and a tight-knit community, making it ideal for families and retirees.
Cost of Food in the Netherlands: City-by-City Comparison
Food costs are another essential part of living expenses, and they can vary depending on where you settle. While the differences aren’t huge, shopping smart in smaller cities can still make a noticeable impact on your monthly budget.
| City | Milk (1L) | Bread (500g) | Eggs (12) | Basic Lunch Out | Monthly Groceries (1 person) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amsterdam | €1.35 | €2.10 | €3.90 | €14.00 | €300–€350 |
| Utrecht | €1.30 | €1.95 | €3.80 | €12.50 | €280–€320 |
| Groningen | €1.25 | €1.80 | €3.50 | €10.00 | €250–€300 |
| Enschede | €1.20 | €1.70 | €3.40 | €9.50 | €240–€280 |
| Heerlen | €1.15 | €1.60 | €3.20 | €9.00 | €230–€260 |
As the table shows, living in smaller cities like Heerlen or Enschede could save you up to €100/month on groceries and meals, compared to Amsterdam. That adds up fast—especially for students, families, or anyone on a budget.
Best Budget-Friendly Cities for Students
For international and Dutch students alike, affordability can define the overall study experience. The Netherlands is home to numerous smaller cities with excellent universities and lower rents, making them perfect for students on a budget. Cities like Enschede, Leeuwarden, and Tilburg not only offer affordable student housing but also vibrant student communities, nightlife, and public transport discounts.
- Enschede: University of Twente attracts international students, and average room rents are under €400/month.
- Leeuwarden: Known for NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences and its calm, student-friendly vibe.
- Tilburg: Offers a mix of academic quality and lower living costs, plus easy access to other cities.
In these cities, students can live well, study hard, and still enjoy life without constant financial stress.
Best Places for Remote Workers and Digital Nomads
Digital nomads and remote workers are seeking more than just Wi-Fi—they want lifestyle, affordability, and comfort. That’s why cities like Zwolle, Almere, and Lelystad are emerging as smart choices. With modern housing, high-speed internet, and an increasing number of coworking spaces, these cities combine practicality with liveability.
- Zwolle: A charming historic city with fast internet, cafés, and a walkable center.
- Almere: Sleek, planned architecture with green spaces, ideal for tech-savvy workers.
- Lelystad: Quiet and spacious, yet well-connected to major cities by train.
These locations give remote professionals the peace they need to focus, without sacrificing access to networks, nature, or weekend adventures.
Hidden Gems: Affordable and Livable Small Towns
Small Dutch towns often go unnoticed—but they’re where you’ll find the true affordability combined with rich local charm. These “hidden gems” provide an excellent quality of life, often with lower rent, less congestion, and easier access to nature.
- Emmen: A green town with spacious parks, good schools, and quiet neighborhoods.
- Venlo: Nestled near the German border, this town is full of historical architecture and offers great weekend getaways.
- Roermond: Known for its outlet shopping and picturesque waterfront, it’s surprisingly affordable for its location.
If you’re not tied to big cities for work or study, these towns offer a more relaxed, family-friendly lifestyle—and your wallet will thank you.
How Much Can You Save Living Outside Amsterdam?
Living outside major cities like Amsterdam can lead to significant savings. Here’s a comparison:
| Expense Category | Amsterdam (€) | Heerlen (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1-bedroom) | 1,500 | 700 |
| Utilities | 200 | 150 |
| Groceries | 300 | 250 |
| Transportation | 100 | 80 |
| Total | 2,100 | 1,180 |
By choosing Heerlen over Amsterdam, one could save approximately €920 per month.
VANonsite Moving Services: Relocate the Smart Way
Once you’ve found the right place to live, the next step is getting there. That’s where VANonsite makes all the difference. As a trusted specialist in removals to the Netherlands, VanOnSite offers tailored, professional relocation services across Europe. Whether you’re moving from the UK, Germany, or another EU country, their team handles every detail—packing, customs, transportation, unloading—so you can focus on starting fresh.
With transparent pricing, no hidden costs, and personalized quotes, VANonsite is ideal for individuals, families, students, and remote workers alike. You can even store your items short- or long-term while you settle in.
👉 Request your free moving quote and relocate with zero stress and 100% confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is living in smaller Dutch cities less enjoyable than in major ones?
A: Not at all. Smaller cities often offer a stronger sense of community, lower living costs, and a more relaxed lifestyle.
Q: Are there job opportunities in these affordable cities?
A: Yes, many of these cities have growing industries, universities, and businesses seeking talent.
Q: How is public transportation in these cities?
A: The Netherlands boasts an efficient public transportation system, ensuring connectivity even in smaller towns.
Q: Can I find English-speaking communities in these cities?
A: While larger cities have more extensive English-speaking communities, many residents in smaller cities also speak English, and expat communities are growing.
Q: How can VANonsite assist with my move?
A: VANonsite provides comprehensive moving services, including logistics planning, packing, transportation, and settling-in assistance, ensuring a seamless relocation experience.
