×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Digital Nomad Guide to Rotterdam, Netherlands | Digital Nomad Exchange
Digital Nomad Exchange
Free MembershipSign In

Digital Nomad Life in Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Universal Tax Professionals
Universal Tax Professionals
Universal Tax Professionals
Universal Tax Professionals

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Summary: Rotterdam, Netherlands is a popular destination for digital nomads due to its vibrant culture, excellent public transportation, and affordable cost of living. The city is known for its modern architecture, art galleries, and museums, as well as its lively nightlife. The approximate population of Rotterdam is 645,000. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Rotterdam is estimated to be around $1,500 USD. The cost of renting a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Rotterdam is approximately $1,000 USD per month. The best neighborhood to live in Rotterdam is the city center, as it is close to all the attractions and amenities. The weather in Rotterdam is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit (1-18 Celsius).

How do I meet people in Rotterdam?

When we asked people living in Rotterdam about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Rotterdam can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports clubs, language clubs, and cultural clubs. Expats can also join meetup groups, which are organized around specific interests and activities. Additionally, there are many international organizations in Rotterdam that host events and activities for expats. Other ways that expats can meet people in Rotterdam include attending local festivals and events, joining a local church or religious organization, or simply striking up conversations with people in cafes and bars," said one person in Rotterdam.

What is life like in Rotterdam?

When we asked people living in Rotterdam what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Rotterdam is vibrant and exciting. The city is known for its modern architecture, vibrant nightlife, and diverse cultural attractions. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's many parks, museums, and galleries, as well as its bustling nightlife. The city is also home to a large international community, making it easy to meet people from all over the world. Rotterdam is also a great place to work remotely, with plenty of co-working spaces and cafes offering free Wi-Fi. The cost of living in Rotterdam is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads," said one expat in Rotterdam.

Homelike

We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Netherlands. If you're moving to Netherlands, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Netherlands.

Homelike

We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Netherlands. If you're moving to Netherlands, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Netherlands.

Where should I live in Rotterdam?

We asked digital nomads and 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 Rotterdam is to use online rental websites such as Pararius, Funda, and Kamernet. These websites allow you to search for rental properties in Rotterdam and filter your search by location, price, and amenities. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who specialize in the Rotterdam area to help you find a place to live. You can also look for rental postings on social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Finally, you can attend local events such as open houses and apartment tours to find a place to live in Rotterdam," said one person in Rotterdam.

"My husband was lucky enough to bump into another colleague who was relocating to Australia at the time we needed a house. Hey presto, we had a house. We shipped all our furnitre and possessions over and lived at IKEA for the first 6 monts. He had a look around at the suburbs when he came ahead of our move and decided on this one as it was quiet with lots of trees," said one expat who made the move to Rotterdam.

What do I need to know before moving to Rotterdam?

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

"Before retiring in Rotterdam, expats should be aware that the cost of living is relatively high compared to other cities in the Netherlands. Additionally, expats should research the different neighborhoods in Rotterdam to find the one that best suits their needs. It is also important to note that Rotterdam is a very multicultural city, so expats should be prepared to interact with people from many different backgrounds. Furthermore, expats should be aware that the weather in Rotterdam can be unpredictable, so they should be prepared for both warm and cold temperatures. Finally, expats should research the healthcare system in Rotterdam to ensure they have access to the medical care they need," explained one expat living in Rotterdam, The Netherlands.

HomelikeHomelike
Learn More

We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Netherlands. If you're moving to Netherlands, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Netherlands.

HomelikeHomelike

We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Netherlands. If you're moving to Netherlands, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Netherlands.
Learn More

What do people appreciate most about the culture in Rotterdam?

"Expats in Rotterdam appreciate the city's vibrant and diverse culture, with its many festivals, events, and activities. They also enjoy the city's modern architecture, its many parks and green spaces, and its excellent public transportation system. Additionally, expats appreciate the city's welcoming and friendly atmosphere, as well as its excellent international cuisine. Rotterdam is also known for its strong sense of community, with many locals eager to help newcomers settle in and make the most of their new home," said one expat in Rotterdam.

Homelike

We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Netherlands. If you're moving to Netherlands, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Netherlands.

Homelike

We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Netherlands. If you're moving to Netherlands, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Netherlands.

What do people find most challenging about the culture in Rotterdam?

"Expats in Rotterdam often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Dutch is the official language of the Netherlands, and while many people in Rotterdam speak English, it is not as widely spoken as in other parts of the country. Additionally, the Dutch culture can be quite different from other cultures, and expats may find it difficult to adjust to the local customs and etiquette. Furthermore, the Dutch are known for their directness and bluntness, which can be difficult for expats to get used to," explained one expat living in Rotterdam, The Netherlands.

What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Rotterdam for a while?

"If you plan to stay in Rotterdam for a while, you will need to apply for a residence permit. Depending on your nationality, you may also need to apply for a Schengen visa. You will need to provide proof of your identity, proof of financial means, and proof of accommodation. Additionally, you may need to provide a valid passport, proof of health insurance, and a criminal record check," said one expat in Rotterdam.

SJB GlobalSJB Global
Connect

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Rotterdam?

We asked people in Rotterdam if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:

"It is important to be aware of cultural differences when visiting Rotterdam. It is important to be respectful of the local customs and traditions. It is considered rude to be late for appointments or social engagements, so it is important to be punctual. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as dressing too casually or too formally can be seen as disrespectful. It is also important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking too loudly in public. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations, and to avoid engaging in any activities that are illegal in the Netherlands," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Rotterdam.

HomelikeHomelike
Learn More

We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Netherlands. If you're moving to Netherlands, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Netherlands.

HomelikeHomelike

We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Netherlands. If you're moving to Netherlands, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Netherlands.
Learn More

What are healthcare services like in Rotterdam?

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

"Rotterdam offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The city has a number of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of services, including general medical care, specialized care, and emergency services. Additionally, Rotterdam has a number of pharmacies, opticians, and other health-related services. The city also has a number of health insurance providers that offer coverage for medical expenses. Furthermore, Rotterdam has a number of health promotion initiatives, such as health education programs, health screenings, and health campaigns. Finally, the city has a number of support services for those with mental health issues, such as counseling and therapy," said one member in Rotterdam.

HomelikeHomelike
Learn More

We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Netherlands. If you're moving to Netherlands, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Netherlands.

HomelikeHomelike

We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Netherlands. If you're moving to Netherlands, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Netherlands.
Learn More

What are the pros and cons of living in Rotterdam?

"Expats and digital nomads living in Rotterdam often appreciate the city's vibrant culture, modern architecture, and diverse population. They also enjoy the city's excellent public transportation system, which makes it easy to get around. Additionally, the city's close proximity to other major cities in the Netherlands and Europe makes it an ideal base for exploring the region. On the downside, some expats and digital nomads find the cost of living in Rotterdam to be quite high. Additionally, the weather can be unpredictable, with strong winds and rain common throughout the year," remarked one member in Rotterdam.

HomelikeHomelike
Learn More

We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Netherlands. If you're moving to Netherlands, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Netherlands.

HomelikeHomelike

We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Netherlands. If you're moving to Netherlands, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Netherlands.
Learn More

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad 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.

Homelike
Homelike

Homelike can help you find furnished, short-term rentals in Netherlands
Learn More

HomelikeHomelike

Homelike can help you find furnished, short-term rentals in Netherlands
Learn More

Digital Nomads RotterdamRotterdam Guide

Digital nomads and expats talk about what it's like living in Rotterdam.

Digital Nomad Life Rotterdam Living in Rotterdam

More about what it's like living in Rotterdam.

Netherlands Forum Netherlands Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Netherlands on our Netherlands forum - meet people, get advice and help others.

Contribute to Netherlands Network Contribute
Help others in Netherlands by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Netherlands.

Expat Healthcare Advice in NetherlandsHealthcare & Health Insurance in Netherlands

Digital Nomads in Netherlands offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Netherlands.

Real Estate in NetherlandsRentals in Netherlands

Rentals in popular cities and towns in Netherlands.

Homelike
Homelike

Homelike can help you find furnished, short-term rentals in Netherlands
Learn More

HomelikeHomelike

Homelike can help you find furnished, short-term rentals in Netherlands
Learn More

Contribute to Netherlands Network Contribute
Help others in Netherlands by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Netherlands.

Universal Tax Professionals
Universal Tax Professionals

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides