Moving to Leiden, The Netherlands
Last updated on Jun 08, 2023
Summary: Expatriates move to Leiden, Netherlands for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant student life, and excellent quality of life. The city is known for its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and beautiful parks, making it an attractive destination for those looking to experience Dutch culture. Leiden is also home to a number of universities, making it a great place for expats to pursue their studies or find employment. Additionally, the city offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from museums and galleries to festivals and markets, ensuring that there is always something to do. With its convenient location near Amsterdam and The Hague, Leiden is an ideal destination for expats looking to explore the Netherlands.
What do I need to know before moving to Leiden?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Leiden, they said:
"Leiden is a beautiful city located in the Netherlands, and is a great place for expats to live. It is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and excellent quality of life. Expats should be aware that the cost of living in Leiden is relatively high, so it is important to budget accordingly. Additionally, the city is well-connected to the rest of the Netherlands and Europe, with easy access to public transportation and airports. Expats should also be aware that the weather in Leiden can be unpredictable, so it is important to be prepared for all types of weather. Finally, expats should be aware that the Dutch language is the official language of the Netherlands, so it is important to learn some basic Dutch before moving to Leiden," replied a member in Leiden.
How do I find a place to live in Leiden?

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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.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Leiden?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Leiden?
- Will I be able to find a job in Leiden?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Leiden appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Leiden?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Leiden accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Leiden like?
- How are healthcare services Leiden?
- What are medical services in Leiden like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Leiden?
- What are emergency services like in Leiden?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Leiden?
- How are local medical facilities in Leiden?
- As a foreigner living in Leiden, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?