Supply of houses shrink further

The Netherlands is a small but densely populated country, with a high average of people per square kilometer. In the Randstad, the country’s bustling economic hub, this figure soars to more than  1,000 people per square kilometer. With a growing population of over 18million, demand for housing has outpaced supply for years. 

While this vibrant growth might suggest an abundance of homes, the reality is quite different. A significant housing shortage persists, with the country currently lacking around 350,000 homes. This gap has been exacerbated by slow construction progress, rising building costs, and government policies that make renting out their properties less attractive for landlords. Many rental properties have been withdrawn from the market entirely, further reducing availability. 

As a result, competition for rental homes is intense, and prices have climbed steadily. In the private sector, rents have increased by 7,7% on average over the past year, with some regions – particularly urban areas like Amsterdam – seeing even sharper rises.

What to expat when you start your search

Finding a home in the Netherlands is challenging but not impossible. With rental properties listed for an average of just 18 days and 42 responses per listing, competition is fierce – especially for homes in the affordable price range. Starting early is key.

Rents are rising, with an average of €19.06 per square meter in the last quarter of 2024 (source: Pararius Rental Monitor Q4 2024). Landlords often require tenants to earn three to four times the monthly rent, meaning you’ll need a gross income of around €5,200 per month for the average private-sector home. 

Be flexible about location and property type. Living in smaller cities or just outside major urban centers like Amsterdam and Utrecht can provide more options and better affordability. Prepare your documents and act quickly when you find a listing that meets your needs.

With good preparation, your Dutch home is within reach! Read our tips for finding a home in The Netherlands faster.