Thinking about moving to Arnhem? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Arnhem.
Arnhem, a city located in the eastern part of the Netherlands, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful landscapes. It’s a city that offers a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty, making it an attractive place to live for many. However, like any city, living in Arnhem comes with its own set of pros and cons. In this article, we will delve into the advantages and disadvantages of living in this Dutch city, providing a comprehensive overview for those considering making Arnhem their new home.
Pros of Living in Arnhem
One of the biggest advantages of living in Arnhem is its location. Nestled between the Rhine River and the Veluwe, one of the largest forested areas in the Netherlands, Arnhem offers a unique blend of city life and natural beauty. The city is surrounded by green spaces, including the Hoge Veluwe National Park, which is perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting. The city’s location also makes it easy to travel to other parts of the Netherlands and Europe, with excellent train and bus connections.
Arnhem is also a city rich in history and culture. It played a significant role in World War II, and the city’s history can be explored at the Airborne Museum ‘Hartenstein’. The city is also home to the Netherlands Open Air Museum, which showcases the country’s history and culture in an engaging and interactive way. For art lovers, the Museum Arnhem houses a collection of modern and contemporary art, while the Kröller-Müller Museum, located in the nearby Hoge Veluwe National Park, boasts the second-largest Van Gogh collection in the world.
Another advantage of living in Arnhem is the quality of life. The city offers a relaxed pace of life, with a friendly and welcoming community. The cost of living is also relatively low compared to other Dutch cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam, making it an affordable place to live. The city has a wide range of housing options, from modern apartments in the city center to traditional Dutch houses in the suburbs.
Arnhem also offers a wide range of recreational activities. The city has a vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants. The city also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the World Street Painting Festival and the Sonsbeek Theater Avenue. For sports enthusiasts, the city offers a variety of sports clubs and facilities, including the GelreDome, home to the Vitesse football club.
Finally, Arnhem is a great place for families. The city has a number of excellent schools, including the Arnhem International School, which offers an international curriculum for students from kindergarten to high school. The city also has a number of parks and playgrounds, as well as family-friendly attractions like the Burgers’ Zoo and the Dutch Water Museum.
Cons of Living in Arnhem, Netherlands
Despite its many advantages, living in Arnhem also has its downsides. One of the main disadvantages is the weather. Like the rest of the Netherlands, Arnhem has a maritime temperate climate, which means it can be quite rainy and windy. The winters can be cold and damp, while the summers are generally mild, with temperatures rarely exceeding 30 degrees Celsius.
Another disadvantage of living in Arnhem is the language barrier. While many people in the Netherlands speak English, Dutch is the official language and is used in most aspects of daily life, including work, education, and administration. This can make it difficult for non-Dutch speakers to integrate and navigate the city. However, there are language schools in the city, such as the Dutch Language Institute, that offer Dutch language courses for foreigners.
While Arnhem offers a relaxed pace of life, some might find the city too quiet. The city’s nightlife and cultural scene, while vibrant, are not as extensive as in larger Dutch cities like Amsterdam or Rotterdam. This can be a disadvantage for those who crave the hustle and bustle of a big city.
Another potential downside of living in Arnhem is the job market. While the city has a diverse economy, with sectors ranging from healthcare to retail, the job market can be competitive, especially for non-Dutch speakers. However, the city’s location near the German border provides additional job opportunities in nearby German cities like Duisburg and Düsseldorf.
Finally, while the cost of living in Arnhem is relatively low compared to other Dutch cities, it is still high compared to many other countries. This is particularly true for housing, with high demand and limited supply driving up prices. However, the city offers a range of housing options, from shared apartments to single-family homes, to suit different budgets.
