If you’re considering moving to the Netherlands, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost of living. In this article, we’ll take a look at the local currency, compare the cost of living in the Netherlands to the UK and the USA, break down costs for singles, couples, and families of 4 in different categories, and explain the most common forms of payment in the Netherlands.
Local Currency in the Netherlands
The local currency in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). One euro is divided into 100 cents. The Netherlands is a member of the European Union and uses the same currency as several other countries in Europe.
Cost of Living in the Netherlands Compared to the UK and USA
According to the Numbeo cost of living index, the cost of living in the Netherlands is higher than in the UK and the USA. The index takes into account factors such as housing, food, utilities, transportation, and entertainment.
As of February 2023, the index shows that the cost of living in Amsterdam is about 13.75% higher than in London and 34.72% higher than in New York. The cost of living in other cities in the Netherlands varies, but generally, the cost of living in the Netherlands is higher than in the UK and the USA.
Breakdown of Costs in the Netherlands
To give you an idea of what you can expect to pay for different expenses in the Netherlands, let’s break down costs for singles, couples, and families of 4 in different categories.
Housing
Housing is one of the biggest expenses in the Netherlands. The cost of housing varies depending on where you live and the type of housing you choose. According to Numbeo, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is €1,271 per month. A three-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around €2,428 per month.
If you’re on a tight budget, you may be able to find a room to rent for around €500 per month. However, keep in mind that housing in the Netherlands is in high demand, and finding a place to live can be challenging.
Food
The cost of food in the Netherlands is comparable to the UK and the USA. You can expect to pay around €10 for a meal at an inexpensive restaurant and around €50 for a meal at a mid-range restaurant.
If you’re on a tight budget, you can save money by shopping at supermarkets and cooking your meals. A week’s worth of groceries for one person costs around €40-€50.
Utilities
The cost of utilities in the Netherlands varies depending on the size of your home and your usage. On average, you can expect to pay around €150 per month for utilities such as electricity, water, and gas.
Leisure
The cost of leisure activities in the Netherlands varies widely depending on what you enjoy doing. A movie ticket costs around €11, and a fitness club membership costs around €40-€50 per month.
If you enjoy going out, expect to pay around €5-€6 for a beer in a bar or around €7-€8 for a cocktail. Entrance fees for museums and other attractions vary widely but usually range from €10-€20.
Transport
The cost of transport in the Netherlands is relatively high, but the country has an excellent public transportation system. A one-way ticket on public transport in Amsterdam costs €3.20, and a monthly pass costs €100.
If you prefer to drive, you can expect to pay around €1.65 per liter of gasoline. Car insurance is also relatively expensive, with an average cost of €80-€100 per month.
Clothing
The cost of clothing in the Netherlands is comparable to other Western European countries. The prices of clothing items depend on the brand and quality of the product. If you’re looking to buy new clothes on a budget, there are several affordable chain stores that offer reasonably priced clothing.
For example, H&M and Zara are popular stores where you can find fashionable clothes at an affordable price. A pair of jeans can cost around €50-€80, while a shirt can cost around €20-€30.
Household Goods
The cost of household goods in the Netherlands varies depending on the item and brand. For example, a new television can cost anywhere from €300 to €1,500 depending on the size and features. A washing machine can cost around €300-€500, while a refrigerator can cost around €400-€800.
If you’re on a tight budget, you may be able to find used household goods on websites such as Marktplaats, the Dutch version of Craigslist. Many people sell their used items at a fraction of the cost of new items.
Forms of Payment in the Netherlands
The most common forms of payment in the Netherlands are cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Most stores and restaurants accept debit cards, and credit cards are accepted at larger chain stores and hotels.
Contactless payments are also becoming increasingly popular in the Netherlands, and many stores now offer this option. Mobile payments, such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet, are also gaining popularity in the Netherlands.
In addition to these forms of payment, the Netherlands has a unique payment system called iDEAL. iDEAL is an online payment system that allows you to make payments directly from your bank account. Many online stores in the Netherlands accept iDEAL payments.
The cost of living in the Netherlands is generally higher than in the UK and the USA. Housing, transportation, and leisure activities tend to be more expensive in the Netherlands, while food and clothing are comparable in price.
When it comes to payment methods, the Netherlands offers a variety of options, including cash, debit cards, credit cards, contactless payments, and iDEAL.
Before you move to the Netherlands, it’s essential to research the cost of living in your desired location and create a budget that takes into account your income and expenses. By doing so, you can ensure that you can live comfortably in the Netherlands without breaking the bank.