Accommodation in Eindhoven

You will find a range of high-quality modern accommodation in Eindhoven. This compact, walkable city offers diverse living options to suit various lifestyles. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant city centre or the serene suburbs, Eindhoven caters to modern professionals, families, and creatives alike. Housing here is generally clean, well-maintained, and reflective of the city’s high quality of life.

When searching for accommodation in Eindhoven, you should consider access to public transport and the proximity to work and schools. The city’s efficient public transport system and renowned cycling infrastructure make commuting straightforward, and most areas, especially within the city centre, are within walking distance.

Areas and suburbs in Eindhoven

Living in Eindhoven Centrum immerses you in a vibrant, urban lifestyle. Packed with shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks like the Van Abbemuseum, the city centre is buzzing day and night. Stylish apartments, many converted from old factories, showcase the modern charm of this area. While rents here are higher, the convenience and atmosphere make it an attractive choice for those seeking an energetic lifestyle.

Neighbourhoods like Strijp-S and Woensel offer distinct lifestyles beyond the city centre. Strijp-S, a repurposed industrial area, has become a creative hotspot with its art, music, and festivals. It’s particularly popular with young professionals. Woensel, in contrast, offers more affordable housing and a multicultural vibe, making it great for families and international students. Both areas are well-connected to the centre and provide housing options suited to various budgets and tastes.

If you’re after a quieter lifestyle, consider the surrounding towns and villages such as Best, Meerhoven, and Geldrop. These areas are ideal for families, offering spacious homes, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community. They balance tranquillity with accessibility, thanks to their proximity to Eindhoven’s employment hubs and recreational spots.

Read more about the Best (and Worst) Places to Live in Eindhoven.

Types of accommodation in Eindhoven

Both social and private housing is available for rental in Eindhoven. Social housing comes at subsidised rates; however, you must first join a housing queue and meet specific criteria. The waiting lists are typically long, so your quickest and best bet is to rent privately.

Apartments

Apartments are the most common property type in Eindhoven, particularly in the inner city. Young professionals and students usually gravitate towards these compact yet modern homes. These range from studios to multi-bedroom units, often located in sleek new buildings or renovated industrial spaces. The closer you are to the centre, the higher the rental price, as is common in most major Dutch cities.

Rooms

If you’re on a budget, renting a room in a shared apartment with flatmates can save you a significant amount. This is a particularly popular option for students and newcomers, offering an affordable way to settle in while meeting new people.

Houses

Standalone, semi-detached, and terraced houses are available in Eindhoven, with more spacious properties typically found in the surrounding villages. These areas are particularly favoured by families looking for gardens and a quieter environment. Townhouses in both urban and suburban areas provide a balance of space and community living, with multiple floors and shared walls for a neighbourly feel.

Finding accommodation in Eindhoven

Searching for accommodation in Eindhoven? There are several online property portals that make house-hunting a breeze. Websites like Funda.nl, Pararius.nl, and Huurportaal.nl are excellent resources for finding rental or purchase options. These platforms provide detailed property listings, including photos, descriptions, and pricing, helping you understand the market and what to expect in different areas.

If you’re new to the Netherlands or don’t speak Dutch, hiring a real estate agent (makelaar) can be a game-changer. Agents often have access to off-market listings and can navigate language barriers, making it easier to find suitable housing. They also help with negotiating terms and ensuring compliance with Dutch rental laws, which is invaluable for newcomers.

Social media networks are another handy tool for finding accommodation in Eindhoven. Facebook groups, such as local community and expat forums, often feature posts from landlords or tenants looking for replacements. These informal channels are a quick and effective way to find housing, but always verify listings to avoid scams.

Useful Links

• Funda.nl
• Pararius.nl
• Huurportaal.nl

Renting accommodation in Eindhoven

Making an application

When making a rental application in Eindhoven, you’ll typically need to provide several key documents to demonstrate your eligibility. A valid passport or EU identity card is essential to verify your identity. Most landlords also require proof of income, which could include your employment contract, recent payslips, or bank statements. Students should provide university enrolment letters and any scholarship documentation.

Ensure you register with the municipality to obtain your citizen service number (BSN), which is essential for legal residency and rental agreements. If your income does not meet the landlord’s criteria, you may need a guarantor, who must provide proof of income and identification.

Make sure you fully understand the rental terms and conditions and any additional fees. Real estate agents, for example, often charge a fee equivalent to one month’s rent.

Leases

Historically, most leases in Eindhoven were fixed-term contracts lasting one year, although six-month leases are also available. Fixed-term agreements specify a start and end date, although as of July 2024, they are generally restricted to specific cases like student housing.

You will also encounter flexible leases, which have no fixed termination date. Always insist on a written agreement, as verbal contracts, although legally binding, can lead to disputes.

Deposits

Expect to pay one to three months’ rent as a deposit and the first month’s rent upfront. Ensure the terms for returning your deposit are clearly stated in your lease.

Terminating the lease

To end your lease, you’ll usually need to provide notice in writing. Check your contract for the specific notice period required, which is typically one to two months.

Utilities in Eindhoven

Setting up utilities in Eindhoven can be straightforward, but newcomers may face challenges such as language barriers or understanding the energy market. Planning ahead and having the necessary documents ready will smooth the process. Utilities include electricity, gas, water, and internet, which are typically managed separately from rent.

Newcomers should arrange utilities within the first week of moving in to ensure uninterrupted services. Keep all relevant documentation, such as identification and bank details, handy. Many providers offer English-speaking customer service. Always note initial meter readings and confirm contract terms before signing up to avoid surprises down the line.

Electricity and gas

The energy market in Eindhoven is liberalised, allowing you to choose from multiple providers. Major players include Eneco, Vattenfall, Essent, Budget Energie, and Greenchoice. Vandebron and Pure Energie specialise in renewable-only energy, catering to environmentally conscious consumers.

Contracts vary between fixed-rate, offering stable pricing, and variable-rate, which can fluctuate with the market. Flexible monthly contracts are also available, which is ideal for short-term residents. For detailed comparisons, platforms like Energievergelijk and Easyswitch can help you find the best fit.

Water

Brabant Water supplies water to Eindhoven residents. To set up an account, contact them with your move-in date, address, and bank details. Accurate meter readings are essential to avoid billing discrepancies. Payments are usually arranged through direct debit, ensuring hassle-free transactions.

Bins and recycling

Waste disposal and recycling are managed by Cure Afvalbeheer. Residents receive containers for residual waste, organic matter, and paper. Collection schedules are available on the Cure Afvalbeheer website. Items like plastics, cans, and drink packaging are sorted after collection to streamline recycling efforts.

For large items or hazardous waste, visit recycling points located across the city. Proper sorting not only benefits the environment but also helps maintain Eindhoven’s reputation as a clean, green city.

Internet

High-speed internet in Eindhoven is fast and reliable, with providers such as Ziggo, KPN, and T-Mobile offering competitive packages. Fibre-optic connections are prevalent across the city, supporting speeds comparable to other major Dutch cities. Average upload and download speeds are well above 100Mbps, making Eindhoven ideal for remote work and streaming.

The city is also a leader in adopting emerging technologies. Comprehensive fibre-optic coverage ensures ultra-fast connections, and 5G development projects are further enhancing mobile connectivity. Innovative providers like Ziggo and T-Mobile now offer gigabit internet, enabling seamless online experiences for residents.

For short-term residents, temporary internet solutions include mobile hotspots, prepaid SIM cards with data plans, or month-to-month ISP contracts. Public Wi-Fi is also available in various locations but is best used for light, non-secure browsing.

Useful links

• Energievergelijk and Easyswitch
• Brabant Water
• Cure Afvalbeheer
• Ziggo, KPN and T-Mobile