Leiden, The Netherlands
Retire in Leiden, The Netherlands
Last updated on Feb 21, 2023
Summary: Leiden, Netherlands is a popular destination for retirees due to its rich cultural heritage, vibrant city life, and close proximity to Amsterdam. The city is home to a number of retirement communities, which offer a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of a nice two bedroom home in Leiden is typically around $400,000 USD, while a nice three bedroom home can cost up to $600,000 USD. The weather in Leiden is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit throughout the year.
What is it like to retire in Leiden?
"Leiden and its surroundings offer retirees a vibrant and active lifestyle. There is an active expat community in the area, with many retirees from all over the world. There are plenty of cultural attractions to explore, such as the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden, the Leiden University Library, and the Hortus Botanicus. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, such as cycling, walking, and sailing. For those looking for a bit of nightlife, there are plenty of bars, pubs, and restaurants to explore," explained a retiree in Leiden.
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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?
"Retirees in Leiden recommend researching the cost of living in the area before making a decision to retire abroad. They also suggest familiarizing yourself with the local culture and customs to ensure a smooth transition. Additionally, retirees suggest taking advantage of the local healthcare system and exploring the area to find activities and attractions that appeal to you. Finally, they recommend connecting with other expats in the area to get advice and support," explained a retiree in Leiden.
"Retiring abroad can significantly reduce your cost-of-living, but it's important to do your research and ensure your finances are in shape and that you've budgeted for any extra costs associated with retirement overseas, such as taxes or health insurance. Make sure that you look into the local laws, culture, climate and cost of living in the area you are considering, as well as the availability of medical services and assistance in case of emergencies. Find out what support services are available in the area, such as retirement homes or help lines, or language courses to help you integrate into the local community. Talk to people who have already retired in the place you are considering to get their first-hand advice on local cost of living, entertainment and other activities available to retirees in the area. Finally, look at the foreign exchange rate to make sure that your money will go far enough," explained one retiree living in Leiden.
What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Leiden?
"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Leiden is the cost of living. Leiden is a relatively expensive city, and the cost of housing, food, and other necessities can be quite high. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who are not fluent in Dutch. Although English is widely spoken, it is not the primary language, and it can be difficult to navigate the city and its services without a good understanding of Dutch. Finally, the weather in Leiden can be unpredictable, with cold winters and wet summers, which can be difficult to adjust to for those who are used to more temperate climates," said one retiree in living in Leiden, The Netherlands.
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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Leiden?
"Retiring in Leiden offers a variety of rewarding experiences. The city is known for its rich history, with many historical sites and monuments to explore. The city also offers a vibrant cultural scene, with a variety of museums, galleries, and theaters. Leiden is also home to a number of parks and green spaces, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The city is also well-connected to the rest of the Netherlands, making it easy to explore the rest of the country. Finally, the city is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to settle down and enjoy retirement," said a person in Leiden.
What are healthcare services like in Leiden?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Leiden. They wrote:
"Leiden offers a wide range of healthcare services for its citizens. The city has several hospitals, including the Leiden University Medical Center, which is one of the largest and most advanced hospitals in the country. Additionally, there are numerous primary care clinics, pharmacies, and other medical facilities located throughout the city. Leiden also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as the Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, which focuses on neurological research and treatment. Furthermore, the city has a number of mental health services, including counseling and therapy, as well as a range of support services for those with disabilities," remarked one retiree in Leiden.
How do I meet people in Leiden?
When we asked people living in Leiden about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Leiden can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining meetup groups, or attending events hosted by the local expat community. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join local churches or volunteer organizations, as these can be great ways to meet people and become involved in the local community," explained one retiree living in Leiden.
"I never contacted any, I have built my social life slowly, friends from work, or that I've met in different situations," said one retiree in living in Leiden, Netherlands.
What is life like in Leiden?
When we asked people living in Leiden what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Leiden is a great place for expats and digital nomads to live. The city is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful canals, and friendly locals. Expats and digital nomads can find plenty of activities to do in Leiden, from exploring the city's many museums and galleries to taking a boat ride along the canals. The city also offers a wide range of accommodation options, from traditional Dutch apartments to modern co-living spaces. Leiden is also well-connected to the rest of the Netherlands and Europe, making it easy to travel to other cities and countries. With its welcoming atmosphere and plenty of opportunities for work and leisure, Leiden is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads," said one retiree in Leiden.
"Leiden is a students town, but also in between The Hague (centre of government) and Amsterdam (Capital) and not too far from Rotterdam (largest harbour in the world), therefore, it's quite a diverse city. You will find mostly everything you can think of, from sport clubs/associations, religious goups, classes in all forms of artistic expression (dancing, sculpture, painting, etc), loads of very interesting museums, and of course, a lively nightlife," commented one retiree living in Leiden, Netherlands.
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What do I need to know before retiring in Leiden?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Leiden, they said:
"Before retiring in Leiden, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than the national average. They should also research the local housing market to find a suitable place to live. Additionally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local healthcare system and the availability of medical services. It is also important to understand the local culture and customs, as well as the language, to ensure a smooth transition. Finally, expats should research the local job market to find out what opportunities are available for those who wish to continue working after retirement," said one retiree in Leiden.
"hmmm difficult. Actually nothing in tone of warning... just DO IT! It's a great place," commented one retiree living in Leiden, Netherlands.
What type of recreational activities are there in Leiden?
"Leiden offers a variety of recreational facilities for visitors and locals alike. The city is home to several parks, including the Hortus Botanicus, a botanical garden with a variety of plants and trees, and the Leidse Hout, a large park with a lake, playgrounds, and a petting zoo. The city also has several sports facilities, including the Leiden Sportcentrum, which offers a variety of sports activities, and the Leiden Swimming Pool, which has an indoor and outdoor pool. For those looking for a more cultural experience, Leiden has several museums, including the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden, which houses a collection of ancient artifacts, and the Naturalis Biodiversity Center, which focuses on the natural history of the Netherlands. Finally, the city also has several theaters, including the Stadsschouwburg, which hosts a variety of performances, and the Leidse Schouwburg, which is a popular venue for musicals and plays," said one member in Leiden.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Leiden?
"Leiden is home to a variety of shops and supermarkets where expats can buy groceries and do other shopping. Albert Heijn is the largest supermarket chain in the Netherlands and has several locations in Leiden, including one at the Stationsweg. Jumbo is another popular supermarket chain in the Netherlands, and there is a location at the Stationsplein. For more specialized shopping, the Leiden Market is a great place to find fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local products. Additionally, the Leiden Passage is a shopping center with a variety of stores, including clothing, electronics, and home goods. Finally, the Leiden Bazaar is a great place to find unique items from around the world," explained one retiree living in Leiden.
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.
