Cost of Living Comparison: Amsterdam vs. Rotterdam vs. Other Cities in the Netherlands

jarah 9 February، 2025

0 106 3 minutes read

The Netherlands is known for its high quality of life, but living costs can vary significantly depending on the city you choose. While Amsterdam is the most expensive city in the country, other cities like Rotterdam , Utrecht , The Hague , and smaller towns offer more affordable alternatives without compromising on quality of life. Below is a detailed cost-of-living comparison to help you make an informed decision.

1. Housing Costs

Housing is the largest expense in the Netherlands, and prices vary widely between cities.

Amsterdam

Rent:
- A one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around €1,800–€2,500 per month .
- Outside the city center, expect to pay €1,200–€1,800 per month .
Buying Property: The average price per square meter in Amsterdam is approximately €6,000–€8,000 , making it one of the priciest real estate markets in the country.

Rotterdam

Rent:
- A one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs about €1,200–€1,600 per month .
- Outside the city center, rent drops to €900–€1,300 per month .
Buying Property: The average price per square meter is around €4,000–€5,000 , significantly cheaper than Amsterdam.

Other Cities (e.g., Utrecht, The Hague, Eindhoven)

Rent:
- City center: €1,100–€1,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
- Outside the city center: €800–€1,200 per month .
Buying Property: Prices range from €3,500–€5,000 per square meter , depending on the city.

Smaller Towns or Rural Areas

Rent: Renting in smaller towns or rural areas can be as low as €600–€900 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Buying Property: Property prices in rural areas are often half or less than those in major cities, with prices ranging from €2,000–€3,500 per square meter .

2. Utilities

Utility costs (electricity, heating, water, garbage) are relatively consistent across the Netherlands but may vary slightly based on housing size and energy efficiency.

Amsterdam: Average monthly utility bill for an 85m² apartment: €150–€200 .
Rotterdam: Similar to Amsterdam, averaging €140–€190 per month .
Other Cities: Slightly cheaper, averaging €130–€180 per month .
Rural Areas: Often lower due to smaller homes and fewer amenities, averaging €100–€150 per month .

3. Groceries and Dining Out

Food costs depend on shopping habits and dining preferences.

Groceries

Amsterdam: Grocery shopping can be pricey, especially in central neighborhoods. Expect to pay:
- Bread (baguette): €1–€1.50 .
- Milk (1 liter): €1–€1.30 .
- Eggs (12): €3–€4 .
- Weekly grocery budget for one person: €50–€70 .
Rotterdam: Grocery prices are similar to Amsterdam but slightly cheaper outside the city center.
Other Cities: Grocery shopping is more affordable, with weekly budgets closer to €40–€60 .
Rural Areas: Local markets offer fresh produce at competitive prices, reducing costs further.

Dining Out

Amsterdam: Eating out is expensive.
- Budget meal at an inexpensive restaurant: €15–€20 .
- Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: €60–€100 .
Rotterdam: Known for its diverse food scene, Rotterdam offers both high-end and affordable options.
- Budget meal: €12–€18 .
- Mid-range meal for two: €50–€80 .
Other Cities: Dining out is cheaper, with meals costing 10–20% less than in Amsterdam or Rotterdam.
Rural Areas: Local bistros and cafes provide hearty meals at bargain prices.

4. Transportation

Public transportation is efficient in all major cities, but owning a car becomes necessary in rural areas.

Public Transport

Amsterdam: Monthly public transport pass: €100–€120 .
Rotterdam: Monthly pass: €80–€100 .
Other Cities: Monthly passes range from €70–€90 , depending on the city.
Rural Areas: Public transport is limited; owning a car is essential.

Car Ownership

Gasoline: Approximately €1.80–€2.00 per liter nationwide.
Insurance: Varies by age and driving history but averages €600–€1,200 annually .
Maintenance and parking fees are higher in Amsterdam and Rotterdam compared to smaller cities.

5. Entertainment and Lifestyle

Leisure activities reflect local culture and economic conditions.

Gym Membership

Amsterdam: Monthly fee: €40–€70 .
Rotterdam: Monthly fee: €35–€60 .
Other Cities: Gym memberships are cheaper, averaging €30–€50 per month .

Cinema Tickets

Amsterdam: Average ticket price: €12–€15 .
Rotterdam: Similar to Amsterdam.
Other Cities: Tickets cost €10–€12 .

Cultural Activities

Museums, concerts, and festivals are abundant in Amsterdam and Rotterdam, with ticket prices ranging from €10–€30 .
Smaller cities host regional events at lower costs.

6. Childcare and Education

Childcare expenses vary based on whether you opt for public or private services.

Amsterdam: Full-time daycare costs €1,000–€1,500 per month .
Rotterdam: Daycare is slightly cheaper, averaging €900–€1,300 per month .
Other Cities: Costs drop to €800–€1,200 per month .
Rural Areas: Options may be limited, but costs are lower.

7. Overall Cost of Living Summary

Here’s a rough estimate of monthly expenses for a single person (excluding rent):

Category	Amsterdam	Rotterdam	Other Cities	Rural Areas
Groceries	€50–€70	€45–€65	€40–€60	€35–€55
Dining Out	€150–€250	€120–€200	€100–€180	€80–€150
Utilities	€150–€200	€140–€190	€130–€180	€100–€150
Transportation	€100–€120	€80–€100	€70–€90	€100+ (car)
Entertainment	€100–€150	€80–€130	€60–€100	€50–€80
Total (Excl. Rent)	€550–€810	€505–€745	€400–€630	€365–€630