Cost of Living Calculator Netherlands 2026

What Does It Cost to Live in the Netherlands as an Expat?

The Netherlands is one of Western Europe’s most desirable destinations for expats, but it’s not cheap. When I first moved to Amsterdam, I had a rough idea of what rent would cost — but I seriously underestimated everything else. Groceries, health insurance (mandatory!), OV-chipkaart for the trains, utilities. It all adds up faster than you expect.

The good news: the Netherlands is predictable. Costs are relatively transparent, prices are stable, and once you know the numbers, budgeting is straightforward. This calculator gives you a city-specific monthly estimate based on 2026 market data. It covers the core categories that matter most for expats.

Average Monthly Cost of Living by Dutch City (2026)

The biggest variable is always housing — and housing varies enormously by city. Everything else (groceries, transport, insurance) is much more consistent across the country. Here’s how the major cities compare for a single person renting a one-bedroom apartment:

City	Rent (1-bed)	Health ins.	OV monthly	Avg. groceries	Est. total
Amsterdam	€1,650	€130	€110	€350	€2,545+
Utrecht	€1,350	€130	€100	€330	€2,210+
The Hague	€1,250	€130	€100	€320	€2,100+
Rotterdam	€1,250	€130	€100	€320	€2,100+
Leiden	€1,225	€130	€95	€320	€2,070+
Eindhoven	€1,150	€130	€95	€300	€1,975+
Groningen	€1,050	€130	€90	€290	€1,860+
Maastricht	€1,025	€130	€90	€290	€1,835+

Health Insurance — A Hidden Cost Many Expats Miss

Health insurance (zorgverzekering) is mandatory for everyone living or working in the Netherlands, including expats. In 2026, the basic premium (basispremie) averages around €130–140 per month depending on the insurer and excess (eigen risico) you choose. This is a fixed cost that you cannot avoid — budget for it from day one.

The government does offer a healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag) if your income is below certain thresholds, which can partially offset this cost.

Public Transport (OV) Costs

The Netherlands has an excellent public transport network. Most expats use the OV-chipkaart for trains, trams, buses and metros. For regular commuters, monthly subscriptions range from €90–110 depending on the city and how far you travel. If you work in a different city from where you live, your employer may reimburse travel costs — this is common in the Netherlands and worth negotiating into your package.

Groceries: What to Expect

Dutch supermarkets are good value by Western European standards. Albert Heijn is the most common (mid-range), Jumbo is slightly cheaper, and Aldi/Lidl are the budget options. A single person cooking at home can manage comfortably on €250–350 per month. If you regularly shop at specialty stores or organic markets, budget €400–450.

Utilities in the Netherlands

Dutch energy bills were volatile in recent years but have stabilised significantly in 2025–2026. Expect €160–220 per month for gas, electricity, and water combined in a typical one-bedroom apartment. Note that some rentals (especially newer builds) include utilities in the rent — always check your contract.

Tips for Keeping Costs Down as an Expat

• Choose the right city: Groningen and Maastricht can save you €600–700/month compared to Amsterdam on rent alone. Both have strong expat communities.
• Compare health insurers: Premiums can differ by €20–30/month for equivalent cover. Use our Health Insurance Comparison tool.
• Get a Wise account for international transfers: If you’re sending money home or receiving foreign income, Wise is typically much cheaper than your Dutch bank. Open a Wise account here.
• Use your employer’s travel reimbursement: Many Dutch employers offer €0.23/km or a monthly OV pass. Don’t leave this on the table.
• Cook at home during the week: Dutch restaurants are not cheap. Limiting dining out to weekends can save €100–200/month.
• Shared housing is common: Especially in Amsterdam and Utrecht, sharing a flat is financially sensible and socially normal even for working professionals in their 30s.