UnpinnedGlobal City Directory

Amsterdam

Netherlands

Cost of Living in Amsterdam

Comprehensive breakdown of living costs, rent prices, and quality of life metrics

Cost of Living Analysis

Amsterdam is renowned for its picturesque canals, vibrant culture, and high quality of life, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads. However, the city is also known for its relatively high cost of living compared to other European cities. Accommodation expenses are particularly significant, with rental prices in the city center being notably high. For instance, a one-bedroom apartment in central Amsterdam can cost around €1,500 to €2,000 per month, while in less central areas or other cities like Rotterdam or Utrecht, prices may drop to approximately €1,000 to €1,500. (deel.com)

Food and dining costs in Amsterdam can vary based on lifestyle choices. Grocery shopping at supermarkets like Albert Heijn or Lidl offers a range of options, with monthly expenses typically ranging from €300 to €500. Dining out at mid-range restaurants usually costs about €20 to €30 per meal. (nomad.digital) Transportation is efficient, with a monthly public transport pass costing around €90 to €110, depending on the city. Cycling is a popular and affordable option, and car ownership, while possible, should consider the costs of parking, fuel, insurance, and road taxes. (deel.com)

The Netherlands boasts top-notch connectivity and infrastructure, making it an ideal destination for digital nomads. The country is known for its excellent internet speeds and widespread high-speed connectivity, including extensive public Wi-Fi networks. This ensures that you’ll have no trouble finding coworking spaces, cafes, and libraries with reliable internet connections for remote work. In addition, the Dutch public transportation system is renowned for its efficiency, and the country’s compact size makes traveling between cities a breeze. (nomad.digital)

For digital nomads considering Amsterdam, it's essential to budget carefully and explore various accommodation options, such as coliving spaces or rentals in less central neighborhoods, to manage costs effectively. Embracing the city's cycling culture can reduce transportation expenses, and taking advantage of the numerous public parks and free cultural events can provide entertainment without straining the budget. Overall, while Amsterdam presents a higher cost of living, its rich cultural scene, efficient infrastructure, and welcoming atmosphere offer a rewarding experience for those prepared to navigate its expenses.

Overall Ranking

Global Rank
#25
Cost of Living Index
75.9
Quality of Life
209.6

Cost Breakdown

Rent Index
56.8
Groceries Index
65.6
Restaurant Index
79.7
Local Purchasing Power
132.9

Housing & Property

Cost of Living + Rent Index
67.6
Property Price to Income Ratio
10.3

Safety & Healthcare

Safety Index
73.8
Crime Index
26.2
Healthcare Index
81

Environment & Transportation

Pollution Index
22.8
Climate Index
87.5
Traffic Index
76.6
Data last updated: 2025-07-05T00:00:00.000Z

Understanding the Indices:

  • Cost indices: Lower values indicate lower costs (better for budget)
  • Quality indices: Higher values indicate better quality/safety
  • Rank: Lower numbers indicate better overall affordability