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.
Zaandam
Renting an apartment in Zaandam
Zaandam is eleven minutes from Amsterdam Centraal and noticeably cheaper. New apartment blocks around the station, a compact centre and quick access to Amsterdam Noord and West make it the smartest fallback for anyone whose Amsterdam budget doesn't quite stretch.
What renting in Zaandam costs
One-bedroom apartments typically €1,050–€1,350 per month, two bedrooms €1,300–€1,700.
How long it takes
Homes here are less contested than Amsterdam, and one to three weeks is normal.
Dutch rental law explainedWhere to look
Neighbourhoods we search in Zaandam
Inverdan (station area)
New apartments, direct trains, everything walkable.
Oud-Zaandijk
Characterful, quiet, close to the Zaanse Schans.
Zaandam Zuid
Family homes and more square metres per euro.
Reading
Market notes relevant to Zaandam
Where to actually look: Amsterdam districts and the commuter cities
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.
Also covered