The best places to live in Eindhoven
Eindhoven is a compact and walkable city, with most places within a short stroll or a trip away using public transport. You will find a range of areas and suburbs in Eindhoven to suit both your lifestyle and budget. From modern inner-city living to quaint, suburban communities on the outskirts, the city has something for everyone.
Here are some of the most popular areas in Eindhoven.
Central areas in Eindhoven
Centrum
Living in Eindhoven Centrum means immersing yourself in a vibrant urban lifestyle. The area is brimming with energy, offering a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and bars where you can spend your days and evenings. It’s a cultural hotspot too, featuring institutions like the Van Abbemuseum, which hosts inspiring art exhibitions and events.
If you appreciate green spaces, you’ll enjoy recent initiatives to add more greenery and biodiversity around the City Hall area. The compact nature of the city and its well-connected public transport system make commuting a breeze, ensuring you can explore Eindhoven effortlessly.
The housing options here reflect the area’s modern vibe, with many old factories and office blocks transformed into stylish apartments. While you might pay a premium to live in Centrum, the unparalleled convenience and amenities make it a highly desirable place to call home.
Strijp-S
Strijp-S in Eindhoven has transformed from a former industrial zone into a cultural hub buzzing with life and creativity. Once off-limits as a Philips industrial area, this neighbourhood is now a magnet for young professionals and creatives. It’s packed with art galleries, music venues, and innovative workspaces, adding to its lively and modern atmosphere.
Strijp-S also serves as a popular event space, hosting festivals and markets that draw large crowds. The housing here, while on the pricier side due to its growing popularity, includes unique apartments set in converted industrial buildings. If you’re looking for a trendy, dynamic area close to the city centre, Strijp-S ticks all the boxes.
Northern districts of Eindhoven
Woensel
Living in Woensel means enjoying a blend of affordable housing, cultural diversity, and modern convenience. The area, which includes Woensel-Noord and Woensel-Zuid, is known for its multicultural atmosphere, with residents from all over the world adding to its charm. Woensel-Zuid, in particular, stands out as one of Eindhoven’s most affordable neighbourhoods, making it a favourite for budget-conscious individuals and families.
Woensel is well-connected to Eindhoven’s city centre, thanks to an extensive bus network and the city’s famed cycling paths. Many residents choose to bike into town, enjoying the convenience of short commutes and a sustainable way to travel.
Woensel-Zuid
In Woensel-Zuid, you’ll find a lively vibe around Kruisstraat, where a variety of shops and restaurants offer flavours from across the globe. The proximity to educational institutions also makes it a popular choice for international students. For a touch of greenery, there are parks dotted around the area, perfect for relaxing or a weekend stroll.
Woensel-Zuid offers some of the city’s best value for housing, combined with easy access to both amenities and transport links. With its affordable rental prices and community-focused vibe, this neighbourhood has become increasingly popular with families and students alike. The local markets and parks add to the area’s appeal, giving you plenty of leisure options close to home.
Towns and villages surrounding Eindhoven
If you’re seeking a quieter lifestyle, the towns and villages surrounding Eindhoven offer an excellent balance of tranquillity and accessibility. These areas are particularly family-friendly, with features such as high-quality schools, spacious homes, and safe, welcoming communities. Places like Meerhoven stand out for their thoughtful, family-oriented amenities, including parks and playgrounds.
Villages such as Best and Geldrop combine affordability with excellent transport links to Eindhoven, whether by train, bus, or the Netherlands’ extensive cycling paths. The proximity to employment hubs and recreational facilities makes these areas popular for professionals and families alike. You’ll also find plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, with green spaces and local attractions like the Philips Museum providing entertainment for all ages.
Many of these villages also boast a strong sense of community, making them ideal for raising children or simply enjoying a slower pace of life. Whether it’s the leafy streets of Son or the bustling charm of Geldrop, there’s something to suit every lifestyle.
Areas to avoid in Eindhoven
While Eindhoven is generally considered a safe city, some areas are worth approaching with caution. Vaartbroek has seen higher incidences of drug-related crimes and home burglaries in recent years. Residents in the city centre have also raised concerns about safety at night, with issues such as begging and the need for increased police presence frequently mentioned.
Further reading
►For more on finding housing, see Accommodation in Eindhoven
►Check out the Cost of Living in Eindhoven for help on budgeting
Photo credits: Eindhoven Centraal and Eindhoven, both by Vishall Helm, sourced from Unsplash. Watermill at Opwetten, Nuenen by Wammes Waggel, sourced from Wikimedia Commons.
Are you an expat living in Eindhoven?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Eindhoven. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global Health Insurance
Moving your family abroad can be intimidating, but learning about medical options such as family health insurance early on can help you successfully settle in.
Limited-time offer: 10%* off for life!
Get covered today and enjoy 10%* off your health insurance policy!
*T&Cs apply
Moving Internationally?
International Movers. Get Quotes. Compare Prices.
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.
Get your free no-obligation quotes from select removal companies now!