Pros and Cons of Living in Amsterdam
Last updated on Jan 12, 2025
Summary: The pros of living in Amsterdam, Netherlands include its vibrant culture, excellent public transportation, and its close proximity to other European countries. Amsterdam is also known for its beautiful canals, parks, and museums. Additionally, the city is known for its tolerant and open-minded attitude towards different lifestyles. On the other hand, the cons of living in Amsterdam include its high cost of living, its crowded streets, and its limited housing options. Additionally, the city can be quite noisy due to its many bars and clubs.
What are the pros and cons of living in Amsterdam?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Amsterdam responded:
"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the vibrant culture and nightlife of Amsterdam, as well as the city's excellent public transportation system. They also enjoy the city's many parks and canals, which provide a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the cost of living in Amsterdam to be quite high, as well as the fact that the city can be quite crowded at times. Additionally, the weather in Amsterdam can be quite unpredictable, with cold, wet winters and hot, humid summers," said one member in Amsterdam.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What do expats in Amsterdam appreciate most about the local culture?
"Openness, liberal attitudes and acceptance of all. Friendliness towards expats living here, extremely genuine, happy, family and friend-oriented people," remarked one in Amsterdam.
"Expats in Amsterdam appreciate the city's vibrant culture, which is reflected in its diverse population, its many festivals and events, and its rich history. They also appreciate the city's laid-back atmosphere, its excellent public transportation system, and its wide range of cultural attractions. Additionally, expats enjoy the city's many parks and green spaces, its world-class museums, and its lively nightlife. Amsterdam is also known for its welcoming attitude towards foreigners, making it a great place for expats to settle down and make a home," explained one expat.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
What do expats find most challenging?
"The rainy weather was distressing to me. Getting to know Dutch people can be difficult depending upon where you live. The Dutch don't like to "think outside the box". The most common phrase I heard was "That's not possible". It drove me crazy," explained one expat living in Amsterdam.
"One of the most challenging aspects of the local culture for expats in Amsterdam is the language barrier. Dutch is the official language of the Netherlands, and while many people in Amsterdam speak English, it can be difficult to communicate with locals if you don't speak Dutch. Additionally, the Dutch culture is known for its directness and bluntness, which can be difficult for expats to adjust to. Furthermore, the Dutch are known for their strong sense of individualism, which can be difficult for expats to understand and navigate. Finally, the Dutch are known for their strong work ethic, which can be difficult for expats to adjust to if they are used to a more relaxed work culture," said one expat in Amsterdam.
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.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Amsterdam?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Amsterdam?
- Will I be able to find a job in Amsterdam?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Amsterdam appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Amsterdam?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Amsterdam accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Amsterdam like?
- How are healthcare services in Amsterdam?
- What are medical services in Amsterdam like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Amsterdam?
- What are emergency services like in Amsterdam?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Amsterdam?
- How are local medical facilities in Amsterdam?
- As a foreigner living in Amsterdam, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?