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

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on May 05, 2024

Summary: Expatriates are drawn to Utrecht, Netherlands for its vibrant culture, excellent quality of life, and convenient location. With its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and lively nightlife, Utrecht is a great place to live and work. The city is well-connected to the rest of the Netherlands and Europe, making it easy to explore the region. Additionally, Utrecht is home to a diverse population, with a large international community, making it a great place for expats to meet new people and make friends.

What do I need to know before moving to Utrecht?

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

"Utrecht is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. It is known for its canals, its many parks, and its lively nightlife. Expats should be aware that the cost of living in Utrecht is relatively high, so it is important to budget accordingly. Additionally, the city is well-connected to the rest of the Netherlands and Europe, with excellent public transportation and easy access to airports. Expats should also be aware that the Dutch language is widely spoken in Utrecht, so it is helpful to learn some basic Dutch before moving. Finally, Utrecht is a very welcoming city, and expats should take advantage of the many opportunities to meet new people and explore the city," remarked one expat in Utrecht, The Netherlands.

How do I find a place to live in Utrecht?

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 Utrecht is to use online resources such as websites like Pararius, Funda, and Kamernet. These websites allow you to search for rental properties in Utrecht and filter your search by location, price, and other criteria. Additionally, you can also use social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter to connect with people who are looking for roommates or who have rental properties available. Finally, you can also contact local real estate agents who specialize in rental properties in Utrecht," replied a member in Utrecht.

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

"Expat homes and apartments in Utrecht are typically modern and spacious. Many of the apartments are located in the city center, close to shops, restaurants, and other amenities. The apartments often have large windows, allowing plenty of natural light to enter the space. Many of the homes and apartments also have balconies or terraces, providing a great outdoor space to relax and enjoy the views. Utrecht is known for its canals, so many of the apartments have views of the canals and the surrounding city," said one expat who made the move to Utrecht.

What is the average cost of housing in Utrecht?

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

"The cost of housing in Utrecht is generally quite high, with the average price for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre being around €1,200 per month. Prices for larger apartments and houses can be significantly higher, with some properties costing up to €2,500 per month," said one expat who made the move to Utrecht.

Should I buy or rent a home in Utrecht?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Utrecht, 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 Utrecht, it is important to consider your budget, lifestyle, and long-term plans. Buying a home in Utrecht can be a great investment, as the city is known for its strong housing market. However, it is important to consider the costs associated with buying a home, such as closing costs, taxes, and maintenance. Renting a home in Utrecht 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 Utrecht should be based on your individual needs and preferences," said one expat who made the move to Utrecht.

What should I pack when moving to Utrecht?

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

"When moving to Utrecht, it is important to pack warm clothing, as the climate is generally cool and wet. Rain gear such as a raincoat and waterproof shoes are also essential. An umbrella is also a good idea. It is also important to bring a good supply of sunscreen, as the sun can be quite strong in the summer months. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a few basic kitchen items such as pots, pans, and utensils, as well as some basic cleaning supplies. Finally, it is important to bring a valid passport and any necessary documents for registering with the local authorities," said one expat in Utrecht.

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

We asked people in Utrecht 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 norms when visiting Utrecht. It is considered rude to be late for appointments or social engagements, so it is important to be punctual. It is also important to be respectful of the Dutch language and to avoid speaking English too loudly in public. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the Dutch dress code and to dress appropriately for the occasion. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the Dutch culture and to avoid making any jokes or comments that could be seen as offensive," remarked one expat in Utrecht, The Netherlands.

"There are so many to list, I could write pages worth. The two very best are language related. My first was (thankfully) while practicing with my husband what to say to his parents at my first meeting with them. I wanted to say "It (the food) was delicious" which is "Het was lekker". What I said was "Ik ben lekker" which means "I'm hot." Oops! The other was when I was asking for directions to someone's house. I translated it incorrectly and ended up asking for psychological help. Oh the difference one wrong word can make! There were also some pretty excellent bicycling disasters, but luckily, nothing too incredibly embarrassing," said one expat in Utrecht.

Why do people move to Utrecht?

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

"Utrecht 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 beautiful canals, historic architecture, and lively nightlife. Utrecht is also home to a number of universities and research institutes, making it an ideal place for those looking to further their education or pursue a career in research. Additionally, the city is well connected to the rest of the Netherlands and Europe, making it easy to explore the region. With its diverse population, Utrecht is a great place to meet people from all over the world and experience a unique culture," wrote one expat living in Utrecht.

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How are healthcare services Utrecht?

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

"Utrecht offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The city has a number of hospitals, including the University Medical Center Utrecht, which is one of the largest hospitals in the Netherlands. Additionally, there are several specialized clinics and medical centers, such as the Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, the Wilhelmina Women's Hospital, and the Wilhelmina Eye Hospital. Utrecht also has a number of general practitioners, dentists, and other healthcare professionals. The city also has a number of pharmacies, as well as a number of health insurance companies. Utrecht also has a number of health and wellness centers, which offer a variety of services such as yoga, massage, and acupuncture," offered one expat living in Utrecht.

What are medical services in Utrecht like?

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

"Utrecht offers a wide range of medical services, including general practitioners, specialists, hospitals, and pharmacies. The city is home to several large hospitals, such as the University Medical Center Utrecht, which provides a comprehensive range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation. Additionally, there are numerous smaller clinics and private practices throughout the city, offering specialized care in areas such as cardiology, neurology, and oncology. Utrecht also has a number of pharmacies, providing access to prescription and over-the-counter medications," remarked one expat in Utrecht.

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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