Pros and Cons of Living in Netherlands

Pros and Cons of Living in The Netherlands

Last updated on Feb 19, 2023

Summary: The pros of living in Netherlands include its high quality of life, excellent public transportation, and vibrant culture. The country is also known for its progressive social policies, such as its liberal stance on same-sex marriage and marijuana use. Additionally, the Netherlands is a great place to learn a new language, as English is widely spoken and Dutch is relatively easy to learn. On the other hand, the cost of living in the Netherlands is relatively high, and the weather can be unpredictable. Additionally, the country is densely populated, so it can be difficult to find a place to live.

What are the pros and cons of living in The Netherlands?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in The Netherlands responded:

"Expats and digital nomads in The Netherlands enjoyed the convenience of living in a safe and developed country where English is widely spoken. They appreciate the relatively short commute times and efficient, reliable transport systems. They enjoy the Dutch hospitality, being part of the vibrant cultural life in its cities, and being able to take advantage of the local shops and restaurants. On the downside, expats may find that the cost of living is high and that the inclement weather can often be dampening. Additionally, digital nomads may be drawn to the Netherlands for its reputation as a tech hub but may find the bureaucracy and paperwork for setting up a business to be too arduous," remarked one expat in Netherlands.

Answer this Question

Never worry about paying your medical bills out of pocket again. The innovative Get a quote from our partner, PassportCard. PassportCard allows for a stress-free experience for all expat families, remote travelers, and workers. With a 24/7 customer service and an outstanding customer base of over 2 Million clients, it will feel like medical care at home. Get up to 10% off on your policy now. Get a quote from our partner, PassportCard.

International Health Insurance

What do expats in The Netherlands appreciate most about the local culture?

"I appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and level of safety compared to where I came from. I appreciate the Dutch appreciation for time off with family and friends. They know when to stop working and enjoy life, people, each other. They also don't consider themselves competitive as we are raised in the US. This has minuses but definite pluses in how they view life and what they feel is important," said one person in Amsterdam.

"Being and talking, most of the time, in a straight forward manner. Sort of 'business like', not losing any time with additional "chit-chat". And fairness as a general trade of the Dutch. I come to enjoy them both," remarked one expat in Tilburg.

What do expats find most challenging?

"Most challenging thing is that you have to wait for two or three or four weeks until you finally get something. When you want to make an appintment wait one week, you want to order something wait one month...maybe I am too exaggerate things, but for me it seemed sooo long," said one person in The Hague.

"Getting used to the greater darkness during the winter months (being so far north). I don't love the rain or wind howling in off the North Sea, but you get used to it, and it's really not as bad as people make it out to be. Culturally, the Dutch can seem a bit curt, abrupt, and also love to poke fun at others, teasing beyond the bounds some cultures are used to. When you understand it's their culture and not personal, you move past it," remarked one expat in The Hague.

About the Author

Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.