1. How much does it cost to live in Amsterdam in 2025?

If you're planning to move to Amsterdam in 2025, understanding your expected monthly expenses is essential. The cost of living varies depending on your household type and lifestyle. A single individual spends an average of €1,103.40 per month, while a couple needs around €2,206.80 to cover essential expenses. Families with two children can expect to spend approximately €3,866.90 per month, excluding rent. For students, living costs are slightly lower, ranging between €800 and €1,000, depending on accommodation and lifestyle choices. Amsterdam remains one of the most expensive cities in the Netherlands, making careful budgeting crucial for anyone planning to relocate.

Source: Numbeo

Comparison with other Dutch cities:

Amsterdam's living costs are notably higher than other cities in the Netherlands. For instance, while a single person in Amsterdam might spend around €1,103.40 monthly (excluding rent), the same individual in Rotterdam or The Hague could expect to spend approximately 20-25% less.

2. 🏠 Housing costs in Amsterdam (2025)

How expensive is rent in Amsterdam?

Renting in Amsterdam is a significant expense. Here's a breakdown of average rental prices per accommodation type according to the numbers from 2025:

Need a home in Amsterdam? Check out Rent.nl for the latest housing listings. 

💡Tip: Want to know if you can get housing allowance? Click here.

Rent by District:

• Amsterdam-Centrum (City Center): €2,000 and above for a one-bedroom apartment.
• Amsterdam-West: €1,500 - €1,800 for a one-bedroom apartment.
• Amsterdam-Oost: €1,400 - €1,700 for a one-bedroom apartment.
• Amsterdam-Zuid: €1,600 - €2,000 for a one-bedroom apartment.
• Amsterdam-Noord: €1,200 - €1,500 for a one-bedroom apartment.

Source: Expatistan

Social housing vs. private sector: What’s possible for expats?

Social housing in Amsterdam is primarily reserved for residents with lower incomes and often involves long waiting lists, making it less accessible for expats. Most expats opt for private sector rentals, which, while more readily available, come with higher rent prices.

Hidden costs:

• Agency Fees: Some rental agencies charge a one-time fee, typically equivalent to one month's rent.
• Deposits: Usually one to two months' rent, refundable at the end of the lease term.
• Service Costs: Additional fees for communal services like cleaning, maintenance, and security.

Tips for finding affordable housing in Amsterdam:

• Expand your search area: Consider neighborhoods outside the city center, such as Amsterdam-Noord or Amsterdam-Zuidoost, where rents are more affordable.
• House sharing: Sharing an apartment can significantly reduce individual costs.
• Start early: The housing market is competitive; beginning your search well in advance increases your chances of securing suitable accommodation.

3. 🍽️ Cost of groceries in Amsterdam

Average monthly grocery budget in 2025

The Netherlands Nutrition Centre provides guidelines on daily food costs:

Source: Nibud

Prices of common groceries

Here's a snapshot of average prices for common grocery items:

Source: Numbeo

Where to shop for the best deals

• Supermarkets: Chains like Lidl and Aldi are known for their budget-friendly prices.
• Local Markets: The Albert Cuyp Market and Dappermarkt offer fresh produce, often at lower prices than supermarkets.
• Online Shopping: Services like Picnic provide competitive prices and home delivery options.

Tips to save money on groceries in Amsterdam

• Buy in bulk: Purchasing larger quantities can lead to discounts.
• Seasonal shopping: Seasonal produce is often cheaper and fresher.
• Opt for store brands: Supermarket own brands typically offer quality products at lower prices.

4. 🚲 Transportation costs in Amsterdam

Is it cheaper to bike, take public transport, or drive?

🚲 Biking: A second-hand bike costs €100-€300, and maintenance is cheap.

🚋 Public Transport: A monthly GVB pass costs €90.

🚗 Driving: Fuel costs €1.90/L, parking in the city center is €7.50/hour.

💡 Best option? Cycling + public transport. Owning a car in Amsterdam is expensive.

Source: GVB Amsterdam

5. 🏥 Healthcare & insurance costs

✅ Dutch health insurance is mandatory if you live/work in the Netherlands.
✅ Average monthly costs: €150.
✅ You can apply for zorgtoeslag (healthcare allowance). How much health allowance you get, depends on your income. Discover here how much zorgtoeslag you will get.

6. 💰 Taxes & hidden costs

• Income Tax:
  • Up to €73,031/year: 36.93% tax.
  • Above €73,031/year: 49.50% tax.
• Municipality Taxes:
  • Waste collection tax: €330/year.
  • Water authority tax: €100-€200/year.

7. Other fixed costs

Finally, you need to consider these other monthly expenses when living in Amsterdam.

• Entertainment, outings and sports: €228
• Clothes and shoes: €70
• Telephone subscription: €16
• Internet subscription: €35

💡 Tip: Use an I Amsterdam City Card for museum and public transport discounts.

Source: Kamer.nl

8. 📚 Education costs

A bachelor's degree in the Netherlands typically takes four years to complete. EU/EEA students can expect to pay up to €8,000 in total tuition fees, while non-EU/EEA students should budget between €9,000 and €20,000 per year, totaling a maximum of €45,000 for a full program.

9. 💼 Salaries in Amsterdam

In the Netherlands, the Centraal Bureau van Statestiek (CBS) estimates that the modal income in 2025 will be €46,500 gross per year. That is about €3,875 gross per month. This means your net income will be €3084,33. 

💡 Tip: If you're an expat earning €45,000+, check the 30% tax ruling for tax benefits.

10. 🔥 Money-saving tips for expats in Amsterdam

✅ Apply for housing and healthcare subsidies.
✅ Live in cheaper districts like Amsterdam-Noord.
✅ Use a bike instead of a car.

Need a home in Amsterdam? Check out Rent.nl for the latest housing listings.