Why Amsterdam is now one of Europe's most expensive rental markets
Free-sector rents in Amsterdam have climbed past €30 per square metre in the most sought-after districts. Here is what is driving the price, and what it means for your budget.
Almere
Almere is the most practical trade-off in the region: modern, energy-efficient homes, far more space per euro, and a direct train that puts you in Amsterdam Zuid or Centraal in about 25 minutes. If your budget is under pressure, this is usually where it starts to work.

One-bedroom apartments typically €1,000–€1,300 per month, two bedrooms €1,250–€1,650, family houses from around €1,700.
Availability is the best in the region — many searches close within two weeks.
Dutch rental law explainedWhere to look
Central, new-build apartments above the shops and station.
Quieter, greener, family houses with gardens.
Newest district, beach and fast link to Amsterdam.
Reading
Free-sector rents in Amsterdam have climbed past €30 per square metre in the most sought-after districts. Here is what is driving the price, and what it means for your budget.
What you get for €1,800, €2,300 and €2,700 across Amsterdam, and why Haarlem, Zaandam, Almere and Utrecht deserve a place on your shortlist.
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