Pros and Cons of Moving to the Netherlands

For Western expats, moving to the Netherlands is generally a painless experience. The Dutch strive for an egalitarian society and are known for their liberalism, welcoming religions and traditions from all over the world. That said, the Netherlands certainly has a rich culture and history, some of which may initially seem unusual. Here are some of the pros and cons of moving to the Netherlands.

Accommodation in the Netherlands

+ PRO: Variety of accommodation

You can rent or buy accommodation in various styles and locations to suit your budget – but it makes sense to live where amenities and new friends will be nearby. Although Dutch accommodation can be pricey, especially in major cities, houses and apartments are generally of a high standard.

To avoid rental scams, verify that the agency is registered with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce and check reviews on trusted platforms. Ensure all contracts are clear, and always use secure payment methods.

- CON: Extra costs

Apartments in the Netherlands are either furnished, unfurnished or advertised as a ‘shell’. Shell apartments may seem like a bargain, but renting one often means having to buy everything, including carpets and major appliances. Some rental agencies charge a month’s deposit and a month’s rent as a finder’s fee on top of all the other relocation costs.

Accommodation in the Netherlands

Lifestyle in the Netherlands

+ PRO: Great social life

The country’s easy-going café culture and the summer music festivals that pop up in parks and public spaces are ideal for meeting up with friends and making new ones. There are also well-supported cultural events throughout the year, where museums and galleries open their doors to the public for nominal fees.

Safety in the Netherlands

+ PRO: Lower-than-average crime rates

The Netherlands compares favourably to the UK and the US when it comes to crime statistics. You will feel secure, and even large football crowds are usually family-friendly and require little policing. Nevertheless, as with anywhere, there are areas where it’s probably best not to hang around at night.

When cycling, always use bike lanes, equip proper lighting, and obey traffic signals. These measures will ensure a safer experience on the road.

- CON: Irresponsible cyclists

Most safety issues in the Netherlands come from bicycles. Cyclists often weave in and out of traffic without safety helmets, and it’s worth bearing in mind that in a collision between a car and a bicycle, the motorist will be held responsible.

Working in the Netherlands

+ PRO: 30 percent tax ruling

The Netherlands has one of Europe’s lowest unemployment rates, which, combined with the 30-percent-tax-free allowance available to people moving to work in the Netherlands, makes for an attractive work destination. The allowance is designed to offset additional costs for highly skilled workers moving from abroad. Professions like IT, engineering, and healthcare often meet eligibility criteria due to their demand in the Dutch labour market.

+ PRO: Great work-life balance

The Dutch are known for their healthy work-life balance, and many work part-time.

- CON: Not many opportunities for non-EU expats

If a Dutch employer wants to hire someone from outside the EU, they have to prove that a Dutch citizen or someone from another EU country can’t fill the position – which is rarely the case. Researching appropriate work visas is a must.

Work Visas in the Netherlands
Work in the Netherlands 
Tax in the Netherlands

Culture in the Netherlands

+ PRO: An egalitarian society

Moving to the Netherlands from another Western country will entail little culture shock. Almost everyone is tolerant of non-Dutch speakers, and most Dutch speak English. They also have a highly inclusive culture.

- CON: Learning to speak the language

While the Dutch are happy to speak English with international arrivals, they’re justifiably proud of their language and expect you to learn the basics. Apps like Duolingo, local language schools, and community programmes can help you pick up conversational Dutch quickly.

- CON: Misreading the Dutch

The Dutch are known for their directness, which may take some time to get used to. It can be misunderstood as rudeness when it’s more a desire for clarity and understanding.

Local Culture in the Netherlands

Healthcare in the Netherlands

+ PRO: Efficient healthcare service

Healthcare in the Netherlands is efficient, waiting times are usually short, and doctors generally speak good English. Multilingual healthcare providers and interpreter services are increasingly common, making the system more accessible for non-Dutch speakers.

Register with a GP (huisarts) as soon as you arrive to ensure you can access the healthcare system efficiently when needed.

- CON: Healthcare is expensive

Health insurance in the Netherlands is expensive and doesn’t always cover what you might expect, so it’s important to read the small print. Finding a doctor or dentist after arriving can be difficult and you may find that dentists don’t offer enough pain relief. Local anaesthetic may cost extra. Doctors’ automated phone systems can also be challenging for non-Dutch speakers – you may want to note the numbers needed to press to make an appointment and keep them by the phone.

Healthcare in the Netherlands

Transport and driving in the Netherlands

+ PRO: A country of travellers

The Netherlands hosts one of Europe’s busiest airports – Amsterdam Airport Schiphol – and Rotterdam has one of the world’s biggest ports. For a small country, the Dutch transport goods on a large scale. The Dutch have long been known as a nation of travellers, and it’s easy to see why – most of Europe is easily accessible by car, train or boat, and anywhere else is just a flight away.

To meet growing demand, Dutch transport systems have introduced emission-free buses and continue to expand rail networks and cycling infrastructure. Smart mobility solutions, including real-time traffic updates, are increasingly adopted to enhance efficiency.

- CON: Traffic jams and cancellations

Due to the sheer density of the population, rush hour congestion is common. The usually efficient Dutch trains can be prone to unexpected cancellations, and it’s important to keep bikes chained as theft is widespread. Also, while cycling in the Netherlands is good for fitness, the rain can sometimes make for an unpleasant experience.

+ PRO: The Dutch cycling habit

Almost everyone uses a bicycle for any journey within a few miles. Embracing this habit will increase your fitness levels while doing your bit for the environment and blending in with the locals. Innovative solutions, such as uninterrupted cycle routes and underwater parking, are making cycling even more appealing.

Transport in the Netherlands

Weather in the Netherlands

+ PRO: Each season boasts its own charm

Each season brings its own magic to the Netherlands. Skaters fill the frozen canals during winter, while the blooming tulips are an iconic sight in spring, and the almost-Mediterranean summers afford sunshine till late in the evening. But autumn is best of all, when the turning leaves transform parks and forests into a golden blaze of colour.

With climate change, summers are becoming hotter and winters milder, changing the dynamics of seasonal activities. It’s worth keeping an eye on weather apps for sudden changes.

- CON: Unpredictable weather

Although it sometimes feels Mediterranean, the Dutch weather can turn quickly, especially in the summer. Flood risks in coastal areas also mean keeping emergency resources handy is wise.

Weather Charts in the Netherlands

Shopping in the Netherlands

- CON: Restricted hours

The restricted opening hours may take a while to get used to. For example, banks and most shops are closed until around noon on Mondays. Most shops close at around 5pm and are open for restricted hours on Sundays. Luckily, large supermarkets in main cities tend to stay open until 10pm most nights.

+ PRO: Independent shops

Independent shops are common in the Netherlands, and shopping at specialist cheese and chocolate shops is a particular treat. The supermarkets may be smaller than you are used to, but you should still be able to find a few of your favourite home brands. Most places host weekly food markets that sell an abundance of fresh produce. Another bonus is that it isn’t necessary to buy bottled water – the Netherlands has some of Europe’s best drinking water.

Local retailers have adapted to online shopping trends, integrating digital platforms to reach more customers while maintaining the charm of in-person browsing.