Before you jump into house hunting, check these out!

In the Netherlands, there are three main types of housing: Social Housing for lower-income groups, offering affordable rents but long waiting times (up to years in popular cities), Private Rentals, which cost more but are more readily available (just make sure your salary can handle the rent), and Student Housing, which offers shared rooms and dorms for budget-friendly prices (because who needs privacy when you have a roommate and free Wi-Fi?). Whether you're browsing Funda for a swanky apartment or Kamernet for a shared student room, remember: understanding terms like kale huur (basic rent) and huurtoeslag (rent allowance) will make you sound like a pro. Just don’t forget to budget for utilities and insurance, or you might end up living in your bike! Click and learn more!

Types of Housing

Social Housing (Sociale Huurwoningen)

Government-regulated affordable housing for lower income groups.

Rent Range: €350 - €750 per month

Requirements:

  • Income below €40,765 (2023)

  • Registration with local housing corporation

  • Valid residence permit

Waiting Time: Can be several years in popular cities

Private Rental Market (Vrije Sector)

Market-rate housing with more immediate availability but higher costs.

Rent Range: €750+ per month

Common Requirements:

  • Monthly income 3-4x the rent

  • Employment contract

  • Deposit (usually 1-2 months rent)

  • Valid ID and residence permit

Additional Costs:

  • Utilities (€100-200/month)

  • Internet/TV (€40-60/month)

  • Insurance (€10-20/month)

Student Housing

Specialized accommodation options for students.

Types Available:

  • University dormitories

  • Student-specific housing corporations

  • Shared student houses

Average Costs:

Shared Room: €300-450/month

Private Room: €400-700/month

Studio: €600-900/month

Finding a Home

Popular Housing Websites

General Rental:

Student Housing:

Important Terms to Know

  • Kale huur: Basic rent without utilities

  • Inclusief: All-inclusive rent

  • Gemeubileerd: Furnished

  • Ongemeubileerd: Unfurnished

  • Servicekosten: Service costs

  • Huurtoeslag: Rent benefit/allowance

Tenant Rights & Tips

Your Rights as a Tenant

Rent Protection:

  • Maximum rent increase limits

  • Protection against unfair eviction

  • Right to basic maintenance

Contract Requirements:

  • Written agreement

  • Clear terms and conditions

  • Specified notice period

Help Resources: