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Retire in The Hague, Netherlands | Expat Exchange
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Retire in The Hague, The Netherlands

SJB Global
SJB Global
SJB Global
SJB Global

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 16, 2025

Summary: The Hague, Netherlands is an attractive destination for retirees due to its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and close proximity to Amsterdam. There are several retirement communities in The Hague, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of a nice two bedroom home in The Hague is approximately $400,000 USD, while a nice three bedroom home is around $500,000 USD. The Hague has a temperate climate, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to mid-60s Fahrenheit in the winter and mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit in the summer.

What is it like to retire in The Hague?

"Retiring in The Hague is an excellent choice for those who want plenty of things to do and a beautiful and vibrant city to explore. Benefiting from an extensive network of public transportation, retirees can easily travel around the city and beyond. This historic city offers a wealth of culture, history, and attractions. It’s a great location for those who wish to stay active, as it offers plenty of sporting and recreational activities. The Hague also has plenty of diverse and vibrant eateries, cafés and boutiques, as well as modern art and culture venues. Numerous volunteering opportunities are available in the city. Living in The Hague can be enjoyed year-round, and summer brings a wealth of outdoor activities and entertainment. The city is friendly, financial and cultural centre, making it an appealing destination for retirees," explained a retiree in The Hague.

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?

"Research your chosen destination thoroughly so that you can select an area with a suitable lifestyle infrastructure that meets your needs and expectations. Determine how you will meet your health care needs in your chosen destination. Make sure you determine the paperwork requirements for visas and residency (if applicable) for your chosen destination before making a move - make sure the paperwork is up to date and in order. Acquire a good understanding of the local language and culture, it will make life immeasurably more enjoyable. Talk to other overseas retirees and join an expat community to get an understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of local living. Ensure that you have access to your government pension, banking, and other financial systems. Plan ahead and think carefully about how you will fund your retired lifestyle - understand the local currency and exchange rates and make sure you are in control of your own finances. Consider taking out travel insurance in case of any medical problems that may arise while overseas," explained one retiree living in The Hague.

What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in The Hague?

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in The Hague is the cost of living. The Hague is one of the most expensive cities in the Netherlands, 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 many services and activities may not be available in English. Finally, the Hague is a large city, and navigating the public transportation system can be difficult for those who are not familiar with the area," said a retiree who moved to The Hague, The Netherlands.

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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in The Hague?

"Retiring in The Hague offers a variety of rewarding experiences. The city is known for its vibrant culture, with plenty of museums, galleries, and theatres to explore. The Hague is also home to a number of beautiful parks and gardens, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The city is also well-connected, with excellent public transport links to the rest of the Netherlands and beyond. Additionally, The Hague is a great place to retire due to its low cost of living and high quality of life. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and friendly locals, The Hague is an ideal destination for retirees," said one retiree in The Hague.

What are healthcare services like in The Hague?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in The Hague. They wrote:

"The Hague offers a wide range of healthcare services for its residents. The city has a number of hospitals, including the Haga Hospital, the Reinier de Graaf Hospital, and the Westeinde Hospital. Additionally, there are numerous general practitioners, specialists, and pharmacies located throughout the city. The Hague also has a number of health centers, which provide primary care services such as vaccinations, physicals, and health screenings. Furthermore, the city has a number of mental health services, including counseling and therapy. Finally, The Hague also has a number of home care services, such as home nursing and home care for the elderly," said one retiree in living in The Hague, The Netherlands.

How do I meet people in The Hague?

When we asked people living in The Hague about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in The Hague 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 networking events. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests, as these can be great ways to connect with other expats in the area," remarked one retiree in The Hague.

"I'd start with ACCESS (access-nl.org) and The Hague Online (thehagueonline.com), and go from there," said a retiree who moved to The Hague, Netherlands.

What is life like in The Hague?

When we asked people living in The Hague what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"The Hague is the seat of government for the Netherlands. So in addition to the Queen, Ministries and Dutch Parliament, it is home to foreign embassies and a host of international organizations (many UN) as well as international businesses. I think of it as a capital city with a small town feel. Lots of greenery and park land, with beautiful dune beaches along the North Sea. Plenty to do, with fewer tourists than in Amsterdam," explained one retiree living in The Hague.

"The Hague is a great city for expats and digital nomads, offering a high quality of life and plenty of opportunities for networking and socializing. The city is well-connected, with excellent public transport links to the rest of the Netherlands and beyond. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's vibrant cultural scene, with plenty of museums, galleries, and theatres to explore. The Hague also has a great selection of restaurants, cafes, and bars, as well as plenty of green spaces to relax in. The city is also home to a large international community, making it easy to meet people from all over the world," said one retiree in living in The Hague, The Netherlands.

SJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What do I need to know before retiring in The Hague?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to The Hague, they said:

"Before retiring in The Hague, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than the national average. Additionally, expats should research the healthcare system and the availability of medical services in the area. It is also important to understand the local culture and customs, as well as the language, to ensure a smooth transition. Expats should also consider the availability of public transportation and the cost of housing in the area. Finally, expats should research the local job market to ensure that they can find suitable employment if needed," said one retiree in The Hague.

"With its international flavor and resources supporting expats, The Hague is what I think is a relatively easy city in which to find your way. It's also an easy starting place to travel throughout the Netherlands and a great place from which to visit other countries," commented one retiree living in The Hague, Netherlands.

What type of recreational activities are there in The Hague?

"The Hague is home to a variety of recreational facilities for visitors and locals alike. The city boasts a number of parks, including the Westduinpark, a large park with a beach, playgrounds, and a variety of sports facilities. The city also has a number of museums, including the Mauritshuis, a museum of Dutch Golden Age paintings, and the Escher in Het Paleis, a museum dedicated to the works of Dutch graphic artist M.C. Escher. The city also has a number of theatres, including the Lucent Danstheater, a modern dance theatre, and the Koninklijk Theater Carré, a historic theatre. For those looking for outdoor activities, the city has a number of beaches, including Scheveningen Beach, and a number of cycling and walking trails. Finally, the city has a number of shopping centres, including the Binnenhof Shopping Centre, and a number of restaurants and cafes," said one retiree in The Hague.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in The Hague?

"The Hague is a great place for expats to buy groceries and do other shopping. One of the most popular supermarkets in the city is Albert Heijn, which has several locations throughout the city. Albert Heijn offers a wide selection of fresh produce, meats, and other groceries, as well as a variety of household items. Another popular grocery store is Jumbo, which also has several locations in The Hague. Jumbo offers a wide selection of international products, as well as a variety of organic and health food items. For other shopping, expats can visit the Grote Markt, a large outdoor market that offers a variety of fresh produce, meats, and other items. The city also has several shopping malls, such as the Binnenhof Shopping Centre and the Passage Shopping Centre, which offer a variety of stores and restaurants," wrote one person in The Hague.

About the Author

Joshua Wood 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.

SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB Global
SJB Global

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