Pros and Cons of Moving to Amsterdam

If you're looking to move to Europe, there are few destinations as exciting as Amsterdam. The lifestyle in Amsterdam is energetic, offering a rich blend of culture, history, and modern amenities that attract people from around the globe. While the fast-moving housing market and high cost of living might pose challenges, the city's unique charm and opportunities often outweigh these concerns.

You will need to weigh up the pros and cons of moving to Amsterdam before setting your plans into motion. We list a few of those below.

Lifestyle in Amsterdam

+ PRO: Rich in culture and history

Living in Amsterdam means having world-class cultural attractions right on your doorstep. From the expansive Vondelpark, perfect for leisurely walks and outdoor activities, to Westerpark's bustling cultural hub at Westergasfabriek, the city's green spaces offer something for everyone. Art enthusiasts can explore renowned galleries like the Rijksmuseum, home to Dutch masterpieces, or the Van Gogh Museum, showcasing the world's largest collection of the artist's works.

Amsterdam’s cultural landscape has evolved to include adaptive reuse of spaces, such as the transformation of former industrial sites into dynamic cultural hubs. This creative energy permeates the city, offering endless opportunities for exploration and inspiration.

+ PRO: Shopping, eating out and nightlife

The lifestyle in Amsterdam is second to none. With quirky boutiques, cutting-edge fashion outlets, and a legendary culinary scene, the city satisfies even the most discerning tastes. The nightlife is just as lively, with options ranging from intimate jazz clubs to energetic dance venues. Whether you're discovering hidden gems in De Pijp or experiencing the buzz of the Jordaan, Amsterdam offers unforgettable experiences at every turn.

Lifestyle in Amsterdam

Cost of living in Amsterdam

- CON: Expensive city

As a major European capital, Amsterdam has a high cost of living comparable to other large capital cities of the continent, such as Rome and Vienna. Housing, utilities, groceries, and transport add significantly to the expenses.

+ PRO: Good quality of life

In Amsterdam, the old adage that you get what you pay for rings true. Pricey as it may be, you'll be able to live well. The city's excellent healthcare, efficient public transport, and rich cultural life make it one of the most desirable places to live globally. In fact, Amsterdam has been rated one of the world’s top cities for quality of life.

Cost of Living in Amsterdam

Accommodation in Amsterdam

+ PRO: Diverse neighbourhood options

Amsterdam's neighbourhoods offer a range of housing styles and atmospheres. If you want proximity to attractions, Centrum provides picturesque canal houses but at a premium. For a family-friendly vibe, Oud-West combines modern housing with access to Vondelpark. Trendy areas like De Pijp cater to those seeking a bohemian lifestyle, while Amsterdam-Noord provides more affordable and spacious options with a creative edge.

- CON: Demand outstrips supply

As a city with a high population density, finding accommodation in Amsterdam can be a challenge. The housing market is fiercely competitive, with rental listings often disappearing within hours. Recent trends indicate that rental availability has decreased significantly, intensifying the competition among tenants.

Once you secure a place, prepare for compact living spaces, especially if you're eyeing the historic canal-side homes in the city centre. The charm of these homes often comes with higher rental prices and limited square footage.

+ PRO: Adaptive reuse of industrial spaces

Amsterdam excels in turning industrial areas into thriving residential and cultural spaces. Neighbourhoods like Amsterdam-Noord feature innovative housing options and creative hubs, offering a unique blend of living and leisure.

Accommodation in Amsterdam
Best Places to Live in Amsterdam

Education and schools in Amsterdam

+ PRO: Free high-quality local schooling

With government-funded public schooling up to age 16, you won’t need to worry about school fees for most of your child’s school career. Public schools in Amsterdam generally perform well based on international measures, so you can rest assured that you aren’t compromising on quality.

- CON: Most public schools teach in Dutch

If you have older children or are only in Amsterdam in the short term, the language barrier at public schools can be an issue. Young children pick up additional languages more easily, so the earlier they start speaking Dutch, the better. While bilingual public schools exist, their limited number can make securing a spot challenging. Early application is highly recommended for parents considering this option.

+ PRO: Wide range of international schools

As the capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is a hub for international schools. You’ll find that curricula offered range from Japanese to French to British and beyond. The International Baccalaureate is also popular.

Schooling in Amsterdam
International Schools in Amsterdam

Getting around in Amsterdam

+ PRO: One of the world’s most cycle-friendly cities

Amsterdam’s reputation as a city of cyclists is well earned. Around 60 percent of the city’s population uses bicycles for their daily commute. The government continues to invest in cycling infrastructure, including over 300 miles (500 km) of cycling paths and innovative facilities like underwater bike parking near major stations. Ongoing initiatives aim to expand this network and reduce car traffic, making it even safer and more convenient to get around on two wheels.

+ PRO: Good transport network

Getting around in Amsterdam is easy, with many public transport options to choose from, including the metro, buses, trams and trains. Major improvements, such as the Oranje Loper project, promise even better service. For international travellers, direct Eurostar services to London resume in 2025, adding another layer of convenience for commuting and travel.

+ PRO: Easy to travel to neighbouring countries

If you have a bit of wanderlust, you'll be well-positioned in Amsterdam. Trains are a popular and easy way of travelling to neighbouring countries such as France, Belgium and Germany. Even London is only five hours away by train and even quicker by air.

Getting Around in Amsterdam

Healthcare in Amsterdam

+ PRO: High-quality healthcare

If you live in Amsterdam, you’ll find yourself in a country with one of the world’s best-rated healthcare systems. Everyone working in the Netherlands is required to have health insurance so that services can be easily accessed. Doctors are highly skilled, and the facilities are top-notch.

- CON: Challenges for newcomers

Newcomers may encounter hurdles when accessing healthcare in Amsterdam. Registering with a GP is essential, but high demand can make it difficult to find one accepting new patients. Additionally, understanding the Dutch healthcare system and managing insurance requirements can be initially confusing.

+ PRO: Superior health outcomes

Life expectancy in the Netherlands is above the EU average, reflecting the effectiveness of its healthcare system in delivering positive results.

Healthcare in Amsterdam
Healthcare and Medical Insurance in the Netherlands