Pros and Cons of Living in Leiden
Last updated on Apr 21, 2023
Summary: The pros of living in Leiden, Netherlands include its close proximity to Amsterdam, its vibrant student culture, its rich history, and its beautiful canals. The cons of living in Leiden include its high cost of living, its limited public transportation options, and its cold winters.
What are the pros and cons of living in Leiden?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Leiden responded:
"Expats and digital nomads living in Leiden appreciate the city's rich history, its vibrant culture, and its close proximity to Amsterdam. They also enjoy the city's picturesque canals, its many parks and green spaces, and its excellent public transportation system. On the downside, some expats and digital nomads find the cost of living in Leiden to be quite high, and the city can be quite crowded during peak tourist season," explained one expat living in Leiden.

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What do expats in Leiden appreciate most about the local culture?
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?