Moving to the Netherlands from the US in 2023 | MoveHub (2024)

The best neighborhoods in the Netherlands

Best for families: Amstelveen, Amsterdam

This area on the outskirts of the Dutch capital, which is home to around 90,000 people, is a tribute to the multiculturalism you can expect to enjoy while living in the Netherlands.

With Indian restaurants, a Japanese kindergarten, and thousands of other expats living there, this is the perfect place for your family to enjoy life to the fullest. Your kids can attend the International School of Amsterdam, and enjoy the many parks that grace Amstelveen.

Best for students: Oosterpoort, Groningen

If you decide to live in Groningen, you’ll be choosing a university city where 60,000 students live and learn amongst a population of 200,000.

As well as the University of Groningen (one of the top 100 universities in the world,) Groningen is also blessed with plenty of museums, parks, and beautiful architecture.

In the diverse neighbourhood of Oosterpoort, you’ll be able to rock out at a concert or see a play at De Oosterpoort, the largest pop music venue in the northern Netherlands.

Groningen may be around 6,000 years old, but it’s become the youngest area in the country – and it shows.

Best for singles: Enschede, Twente

This city in the east of the country is wonderful if you’re moving to the Netherlands for work, and don’t have a family to take into consideration. Enschede is an entrepreneurial and high-tech hotspot – and it’s not all business.

It’s also home to the Netherlands Symphony Orchestra, Rijksmuseum Twenthe, and sporting facilities that will allow you to try everything from water skiing to regular skiing.

And if you want to see live sport, you can watch Twente’s soccer team, which won the top Dutch league (the Eredivisie) in 2010.

Best for hipsters: Buiksloterham, Amsterdam

Amsterdam-Noord is undoubtedly the coolest region in the Netherlands at the moment, and Buiksloterham is the jewel in its crown.

As well as cinemas, cutting-edge restaurants, and a film museum, the former industrial district-turned-hipster neighborhood on the water also boasts a virtual reality arcade, an adults-only playground, and a 3D-printed canal house.

Moving to the Netherlands from the US in 2023 | MoveHub (2024)

FAQs

Is it worth moving to the Netherlands? ›

The Netherlands is known for its great work-life balance. A study showed that full-time workers in the country dedicate over 60% of their day to personal time and leisure,²⁷ which means expats moving to the Netherlands will have plenty of opportunities to meet new people.

Can I live in the Netherlands as a US citizen? ›

In order to reside in The Netherlands, one must be in possession of a valid residence permit. This must be obtained from the Dutch Immigration authorities, the Immigratie en Naturalisatiedienst otherwise known as the IND.

How difficult is it for an American to move to the Netherlands? ›

Immigration. As a third-country national who does not possess EU, EEA, or Swiss nationality, you will need a residence permit to stay in the Netherlands for more than 90 days. There are different types of visas, residence permits, and work permits depending on your employer and your specific case.

Is it better to live in the Netherlands or the USA? ›

One of the biggest draws of Holland is their happy people and high quality of life. According to the World Happiness Report, the Netherlands ranks as the #5 happiest country in the world. From very friendly people to an extremely good work life balance, it's no wonder the people living in the Netherlands are so happy.

What is the downside of moving to Netherlands? ›

The Netherlands has a high cost of living, which includes everything from accommodation, groceries, and services. On average, the cost of living in the Netherlands is 10.7% higher than in the UK. Owning a car is particularly expensive, with high road tax and expensive repair costs.

Is 3000 euro a good salary in Netherlands? ›

Yes 3000 Euros would make you live confortable. There is one thing that can make quite a difference though, it is that many Dutch companies provide a lease car. Driving a car is very expensive in the Netherlands, and this makes a huge difference.

Can an American move to the Netherlands without a job? ›

Checklist for Moving to The Netherlands

To move to the Netherlands, you must have the following: Valid work contract. You are required to find a job before moving to the Netherlands.

What is the easiest country for Americans to move to? ›

The 10 Easiest Countries To Immigrate As an Expat
  • Germany.
  • New Zealand.
  • Singapore.
  • Sweden.
  • Ireland.
  • Netherlands.
  • Costa Rica.
  • Malta.
Mar 22, 2024

Do I have to pay US taxes if I live in the Netherlands? ›

As a U.S. citizen you are most likely required to file U.S. taxes with the IRS even if you live abroad. For more information on paying taxes as a U.S. Citizen please see: The new FATCA FAQ on travel.state.gov or download the FATCA FAQ here (pdf 177 KB) The general Internal Revenue Services Page.

How much money do I need to move to the Netherlands? ›

The cost of living in the Netherlands for a single person = ~ €1,782 per month and ~ €21,384 per year. Average cost of living in the Netherlands for a student = ~ €1,250 per month and ~ €15,000 per year. Cost of living in the Netherlands for a family = ~ € 4,102 per month and ~ €49,224 per year.

What is the average price of a house in the Netherlands? ›

The average selling price of a house in Q2 2022 was 448,000 euros. Starting in 2024, the housing market in the Netherlands experienced a notable resurgence, with house prices picking up momentum despite the previous year's challenges.

Can I retire in the Netherlands as an American? ›

The Netherlands, like other European countries, is part of the Schengen Agreement, which means that American retirees are allowed visa-free entry into the Dutch country as tourists or for business purposes up to 90 days. If you plan on a longer residency, you will have to apply for a permit.

Which city is better to live in Netherlands? ›

Amsterdam. With its picturesque canal houses, vibrant atmosphere, and international community, it's easy to understand why so many people choose to move to Amsterdam. Expats from over 180 nationalities live in the capital, making it a truly multicultural city.

Is Netherlands friendly to foreigners? ›

Dutch people are very direct and open in their communication style. People from other countries and cultures may interpret this directness as being rude. But that's far from being true. Most Dutch people are actually extremely humble, welcoming, and friendly towards foreigners.

What is the quality of life in the Netherlands? ›

The Netherlands has been ranked in second place for quality of life globally by Numbeo's 2024 quality of life index. The ranking placed the tiny European nation of Luxembourg in the top spot.

How much money should I have to move to the Netherlands? ›

The cost of living in the Netherlands for a single person = ~ €1,782 per month and ~ €21,384 per year. Average cost of living in the Netherlands for a student = ~ €1,250 per month and ~ €15,000 per year. Cost of living in the Netherlands for a family = ~ € 4,102 per month and ~ €49,224 per year.

Is Living in the Netherlands cheaper than the US? ›

United States is 11% more expensive than Netherlands. Jun 2024 Cost of Living.

Can an American work in the Netherlands? ›

If you wish to come to the Netherlands for work – for either a short period or a longer period – you may need an entry visa, a work permit and/or a residence permit.

Is it better to move to Germany or the Netherlands? ›

Germany is more advantageous for international students and expats when it comes to taxes. You can earn a tax-free income of up to €9,744. In the Netherlands, students must pay income tax on any money they make - even if it's just a part-time job.

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