Pros & Cons of Living in Nijmegen

Thinking about to Nijmegen? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Nijmegen.

Nestled in the eastern part of the Netherlands, Nijmegen is a city that beautifully blends history with modernity. Known for being the oldest city in the country, it offers a unique charm that has started to attract digital nomads from around the world. But what is it really like to live and work remotely from Nijmegen? Let's dive into the pros and cons.

Pros of Living in Nijmegen as a Digital Nomad

Firstly, Nijmegen is a haven for those who love a blend of history and nature. The city is surrounded by lush greenery, with parks like Kronenburgerpark and Valkhof Park offering peaceful spaces to unwind or work outdoors. The city's ancient roots also provide a fascinating backdrop, with the Roman-era Valkhof Museum and the medieval Stephernkerk being standout attractions. Digital nomad Anna, who's been living in Nijmegen for a year, shares, "I love setting up my workspace in the park, with the ancient city wall as my backdrop. It's incredibly inspiring."

Secondly, Nijmegen is home to a thriving international community, thanks in part to its large student population and growing startup scene. The city hosts regular events like the annual Four Days Marches, which draws thousands of international visitors. There are also numerous coworking spaces, such as Mercatornovum and The Social Hub, where digital nomads can connect and collaborate.

Lastly, the city's location is ideal for travel enthusiasts. Situated near the German border, it's easy to explore other European countries. Plus, the Netherlands' efficient public transport system makes domestic travel a breeze. Digital nomad Alex recalls, "Last weekend, I was in Amsterdam, and the weekend before that, I was in Düsseldorf. It's so easy to explore from here."

Cons of Living in Nijmegen, Netherlands as a Digital Nomad

While Nijmegen has much to offer, it's not without its drawbacks. The weather can be a challenge, with cold winters and unpredictable rainfall. This can make outdoor activities and cycling, a popular mode of transport, less enjoyable. Digital nomad Sarah admits, "I struggle with the weather here. Some days it's just hard to leave the house."

Another potential downside is the cost of living. While not as expensive as Amsterdam, Nijmegen's prices can still be steep compared to other digital nomad hotspots. Accommodation, in particular, can be pricey and competitive due to the city's large student population.

Lastly, while the international community is growing, the language barrier can still pose a challenge. Although many locals speak excellent English, some aspects of life, like dealing with bureaucracy or integrating with the local community, may require some knowledge of Dutch. Digital nomad David notes, "I've picked up some Dutch since moving here, but it's still a challenge sometimes. I think learning the language would really enhance my experience."

Living in Nijmegen as a digital nomad offers a unique blend of history, nature, and community. However, it's important to weigh these benefits against potential challenges like the weather and language barrier. Ultimately, the best way to understand if Nijmegen is the right fit for you is to experience the city's charms for yourself.