Cost of Living in Utrecht

The cost of living in Utrecht is similar to other major Dutch cities such as Eindhoven and Rotterdam. As is often the case in a major city, accommodation will likely be your most considerable expense.

Since there is a supply shortage in certain categories, landlords can charge more rent. Similar to other big cities, living further away from the city centre of Utrecht will save you quite a bit on rental costs.

Cost of accommodation in Utrecht

Accommodation will likely take up a substantial amount of your budget. Utrecht is a rapidly expanding city, and the housing supply has not kept up with demand. As a result, competition for certain types of housing, especially in sought-after city locations, is notoriously high. Therefore, rental costs can be pretty steep.

To add to this, utility expenses are typically not included in the rental. As such, you’ll likely have to pay electricity, water, and WiFi costs over and above your monthly rental fee. You may be lucky enough to have your landlord take care of these expenses, but we recommend thoroughly reading your rental agreement to ensure you are aware of your responsibilities.

Cost of transport in Utrecht

True to Dutch culture, cycling is probably the most popular transport mode among Utrecht locals. If you follow the locals’ lead and invest in a bike, you can significantly reduce your transport costs.

If cycling isn’t a viable option, then Utrecht’s public transport network (buses and trams) connects commuters to most parts of the city at reasonable prices. Single tickets can be expensive, but paying for longer-term options will save you money.

As in much of the Netherlands, owning a car in Utrecht is expensive. Local authorities have taken steps to discourage people from driving into the city centre and, as such, parking costs a pretty penny. Taxi fares in the city are also quite hefty.

Cost of groceries in Utrecht

The cost of groceries in Utrecht is moderate compared with the rest of Europe. Local supermarkets provide a wide variety of fresh produce, dairy, meat, and household items at affordable prices. Speciality items or imported goods, however, might be pricier.

Many locals and expats enjoy the weekly markets scattered throughout the city. Here, you can find fresh fruit, vegetables, cheese, and fish at competitive prices. These markets are not only a great way to save on groceries but also offer an authentic Dutch shopping experience.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Utrecht

Utrecht offers a vibrant cultural scene and a range of entertainment options, but costs can add up. From museum visits and theatre performances to cinema tickets, these cultural experiences come with a price tag that’s comparable to other Dutch cities. That said, there are often discounts available for students, seniors, and children.

Eating out in Utrecht can also be fairly costly, especially in tourist areas and the city centre. But if you know where to look, it’s possible to find more reasonably priced restaurants and cafés. The cost of a meal can vary greatly, but on average, a meal at a mid-range restaurant might be costlier than in other European cities. Drinking out can also be pricey, with craft beers and cocktails being particularly steep.

Cost of education in Utrecht

You’ll find the cost of education in Utrecht reasonably affordable, especially if you choose to send your children to a local school. Public education in the Netherlands is available at little or no cost. Some public schools even offer bilingual classes to accommodate expat students.

However, many expats still prefer to send their children to international schools. These schools have high fees, and additional expenses such as uniforms, books, and excursions can quickly mount. If you’re working in Utrecht and intend to send your children to an international school, you should try to negotiate an allowance into your relocation package.

Cost of healthcare in Utrecht

Expats moving to Utrecht can rest assured they’ll have access to good healthcare. However, healthcare costs in the Netherlands are much higher than in other European countries. As soon as you start your job in the Netherlands and are registered at your local municipality, you must take out a Dutch health insurance policy. The cost of medical insurance varies according to how comprehensive the policy is.

The mandatory basic policy covers standard medical treatments, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and certain medications. Additional coverage, such as dental or physiotherapy, can be added but will increase the monthly premium. Out-of-pocket expenses like co-pays can also add up. Private health insurance costs vary based on factors such as age, health, and coverage level. You should budget accordingly to ensure you are adequately covered.

Cost of living chart for Utrecht

Prices may vary depending on the product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for Utrecht in August 2024.