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Moving to Tilburg, Netherlands | Expat Exchange
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Moving to Tilburg, The Netherlands

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Sep 13, 2024

Summary: Expats move to Tilburg, Netherlands for its vibrant culture, excellent quality of life, and convenient location. The city is known for its friendly locals, diverse international community, and wide range of activities and attractions. It is also a great place to study, with several universities and colleges offering a variety of courses. Additionally, Tilburg is a great place to work, with many multinational companies based in the city. With its excellent transport links, it is easy to get around and explore the rest of the Netherlands.

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What do I need to know before moving to Tilburg?

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

"Tilburg is a vibrant city located in the south of the Netherlands. It is known for its friendly locals, great nightlife, and excellent public transport system. Expats should be aware that the cost of living in Tilburg is relatively high compared to other cities in the Netherlands. Additionally, the city is home to a large international student population, so it is important to be aware of the cultural differences between locals and expats. Expats should also be aware that the weather in Tilburg can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from hot summers to cold winters. Finally, it is important to note that the Dutch language is widely spoken in Tilburg, so it is beneficial to learn some basic Dutch before moving to the city," commented one expat who made the move to Tilburg.

How do I find a place to live in Tilburg?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Tilburg is to use online rental websites such as Pararius, Funda, and Kamernet. These websites allow you to search for rental properties in the Tilburg area and filter your search by price, size, and other criteria. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who specialize in rental properties in the Tilburg area. Finally, you can also look for rental postings on local classifieds websites such as Marktplaats," commented one expat who made the move to Tilburg.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Tilburg?

"Expat homes and apartments in Tilburg are typically modern and spacious, with plenty of natural light. Many of the apartments are located in the city center, close to shops, restaurants, and other amenities. Many of the homes and apartments have balconies or terraces, and some have access to a communal garden. The city is well-connected by public transport, making it easy to get around," commented one expat who made the move to Tilburg.

What is the average cost of housing in Tilburg?

If you are thinking about moving to Tilburg, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in Tilburg is generally quite high. Renting an apartment in the city center can cost anywhere from €800 to €1,500 per month, while renting a house in the suburbs can cost anywhere from €1,000 to €2,000 per month. Prices can vary depending on the size and location of the property," said one expat in Tilburg.

Should I buy or rent a home in Tilburg?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Tilburg, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"When deciding whether to buy or rent a home in Tilburg, it is important to consider your budget, lifestyle, and long-term plans. Buying a home in Tilburg can be a great investment, as the city is growing in popularity and real estate prices are on the rise. However, it is important to consider the costs associated with buying a home, such as closing costs, taxes, and maintenance. Renting a home in Tilburg can be a more affordable option, and it can provide more flexibility if you are not sure how long you will be living in the city. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Tilburg should be based on your individual needs and preferences," remarked one expat in Tilburg, The Netherlands.

What should I pack when moving to Tilburg?

We asked people living in Tilburg to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Tilburg, it is important to pack warm clothing, as the climate is generally cool and wet. Rain gear such as a raincoat and umbrella are also essential. Comfortable shoes are also recommended, as the city is quite walkable. Additionally, it is important to bring any necessary documents such as a passport, visa, and work permit. Finally, it is a good idea to bring a few items to make your new home feel more comfortable, such as pictures, books, and other personal items," explained one expat living in Tilburg, The Netherlands.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Tilburg?

We asked people in Tilburg if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"It is important to be aware of cultural differences when visiting Tilburg. It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to be mindful of the local language. It is also important to dress appropriately, as some clothing items may be considered inappropriate in certain contexts. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local etiquette when it comes to public behavior, such as avoiding loud conversations in public places and refraining from smoking in non-smoking areas. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations, and to respect them at all times," remarked one expat who made the move to Tilburg.

"One that I think I will remember for the rest of my life would be in the early stages of my Dutch period, when a Dutch family I've befriended, invited me to the beach. It was a time when my Dutch knowledge was at "frog’s leg level". So they’ve invited me to join them on the beach, and I’ve told them to wait for a couple of minutes so I can grab my “lichaam dookije” (literally “body towel”). When they’ve heard that expression they laughed until their eyes were full of tears. My assumption at the time was based on the fact that as they have the word describing “hand towel”, there must be a word for the “body towel” (or bad towel). But as it happens usually, while the expression “bad towel” does exist in Dutch, the “body towel” does not. But the effect of my choice of words was hilarious for them," explained one expat living in Tilburg, Netherlands.

Why do people move to Tilburg?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Tilburg, they responded:

"Tilburg is an attractive destination for expats due to its vibrant culture, excellent transport links, and high quality of life. The city is known for its friendly locals, diverse range of activities, and its close proximity to other major cities in the Netherlands. Additionally, Tilburg is home to a number of international companies, making it an ideal place for expats to find employment. The city also offers a wide range of housing options, from traditional Dutch homes to modern apartments, making it easy for expats to find a place to call home. Finally, Tilburg is a great place to explore Dutch culture, with its many museums, galleries, and cultural events," said one expat.

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How are healthcare services Tilburg?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Tilburg, they replied:

"Tilburg offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The city has several hospitals, including the Maxima Medical Center, which provides general medical care, as well as specialized services such as cardiology, neurology, and oncology. Additionally, Tilburg has a number of primary care centers, which provide general medical care and preventive services. The city also has a number of pharmacies, as well as a number of specialized clinics, such as those for physical therapy, mental health, and addiction treatment. Finally, Tilburg also has a number of home care services, which provide medical care to those who are unable to leave their homes," remarked one expat in Tilburg.

What are medical services in Tilburg like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Tilburg, they replied:

"Tilburg offers a wide range of medical services to its residents. The city has several hospitals, including the Maxima Medical Center, which provides a range of general and specialized medical care. Additionally, there are numerous pharmacies, medical centers, and clinics located throughout the city. Tilburg also has a number of specialized medical services, such as a cancer center, a fertility clinic, and a dialysis center. Furthermore, the city has a number of medical professionals, such as general practitioners, specialists, and nurses, who are available to provide medical care to the residents of Tilburg," said one expat living in Tilburg, The Netherlands.

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.

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