Moving to Amsterdam as an expat can be an exciting adventure, but one of the first challenges you’ll face is deciding where to live. Amsterdam is a city that offers a range of diverse neighborhoods, each with its own personality and vibe. Whether you’re looking for a bustling social scene, a quiet family-friendly area, or proximity to work, Amsterdam has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best neighborhoods in Amsterdam for expats to call home.
Jordaan
The Jordaan is one of the most iconic neighborhoods in Amsterdam, famous for its narrow streets, charming canals, and historic homes. Originally a working-class neighborhood, it’s now one of the most sought-after areas for both locals and expats.
- Why expats love it: Jordaan offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and a lively atmosphere. It’s filled with cozy cafés, art galleries, and boutique shops. For expats who love culture and a quintessential Amsterdam experience, this neighborhood is a top choice.
- Lifestyle: Jordaan is popular with young professionals, artists, and creatives who enjoy a lively yet laid-back atmosphere. You’ll often find locals at the weekly markets or grabbing a coffee at one of the many trendy spots.
- Downsides: It’s one of the more expensive areas, so be prepared for higher rent prices.
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De Pijp
De Pijp is one of Amsterdam’s most vibrant and diverse neighborhoods, located just south of the city center. Known for its multicultural population, De Pijp is a lively mix of different cultures, cuisines, and styles.
- Why Expats Love It: This neighborhood has a laid-back, bohemian feel with a strong sense of community. It’s perfect for expats who want to be close to the action without being in the city center. The famous Albert Cuyp Market is the beating heart of De Pijp, offering fresh produce, street food, and local goods.
- Lifestyle: De Pijp is popular with young professionals and international residents. It’s packed with hip cafés, bars, and restaurants, making it a hotspot for socializing. The neighborhood’s cultural diversity also means there’s always something new to discover.
- Downsides: While lively, De Pijp can be a bit noisy, especially near the market.
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Amsterdam Zuid
Amsterdam Zuid is an upscale neighborhood located south of the city center. It’s known for its spacious homes, beautiful parks, and high-end shopping streets like Beethovenstraat. For expats with families, Zuid is one of the best areas to settle down.
- Why Expats Love It: The area offers a more peaceful, suburban feel while still being close to the city center. Expats with children appreciate the large green spaces, including Vondelpark and the Amstelpark, as well as the international schools located nearby.
- Lifestyle: Zuid is perfect for families and professionals who enjoy a quieter, more refined lifestyle. The area is also home to some of the best museums in Amsterdam, including the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum.
- Downsides: The cost of living in Zuid can be high, especially for larger family homes.
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Oost (Amsterdam East)
Amsterdam Oost has undergone a transformation in recent years, becoming one of the most up-and-coming areas in the city. This neighborhood is a mix of traditional Dutch architecture, modern developments, and a growing number of hip cafés and restaurants.
- Why Expats Love It: Expats are drawn to Oost for its laid-back vibe and growing international community. The area is home to a number of parks, including the beautiful Oosterpark, making it a great option for those who enjoy the outdoors.
- Lifestyle: Oost is popular with families and young professionals alike. The area is also known for its multicultural food scene, with plenty of ethnic restaurants and food markets to explore.
- Downsides: While still more affordable than some other areas, prices in Oost have been rising as the neighborhood becomes more popular.
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Westerpark
Located just west of the city center, Westerpark is a creative and lively neighborhood centered around the sprawling park of the same name. With its trendy bars, restaurants, and art spaces, Westerpark has a young, energetic vibe.
- Why Expats Love It: Expats who enjoy a creative, urban lifestyle will love Westerpark. The neighborhood is a hub for the city’s artistic and cultural scene, with regular events, markets, and festivals happening in and around the park. It’s also close to the city center, making it convenient for work and socializing.
- Lifestyle: Westerpark attracts a mix of young professionals, artists, and international residents. The park itself is a major draw, offering plenty of green space for outdoor activities and relaxation.
- Downsides: While Westerpark is lively and fun, it’s also one of the pricier areas due to its central location.
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Nieuw-West
Nieuw-West is one of the largest neighborhoods in Amsterdam and is located further from the city center. While traditionally more residential, it has seen a lot of development in recent years, making it an increasingly attractive option for expats looking for more affordable housing.
- Why Expats Love It: Nieuw-West offers more space and affordability compared to other parts of the city. It’s a diverse area with a mix of cultures and is ideal for expats who are looking for a quieter, more residential neighborhood while still having access to the city.
- Lifestyle: Nieuw-West is perfect for families or expats who don’t mind a slightly longer commute. It’s also home to several parks, including the Sloterplas, a large lake that’s popular for swimming and water sports.
- Downsides: While more affordable, Nieuw-West is still developing, and some parts of the neighborhood may lack the amenities found in more central areas.
Click here to see all available rentals in Amsterdam Nieuw-West
Bos en Lommer
Bos en Lommer is another up-and-coming neighborhood located in the west of Amsterdam. It’s an increasingly popular choice for expats, thanks to its affordable housing, diverse community, and proximity to the city center.
- Why Expats Love It: Bos en Lommer offers a mix of affordability and convenience. It’s only a short tram ride from the city center and has a growing number of cafés, restaurants, and shops. For expats on a budget, it’s a great option.
- Lifestyle: The neighborhood has a young, diverse population and is perfect for expats looking for an affordable place to live that’s still close to the action. It’s also home to the Westerpark, giving residents access to green spaces.
- Downsides: While rapidly improving, some areas of Bos en Lommer are still developing.
Click here to see all available rentals in Bos en Lommer
Amsterdam is a city that offers a little something for everyone, no matter what kind of lifestyle you’re after. From the historic charm of Jordaan to the multicultural energy of De Pijp, the city is filled with diverse neighborhoods that cater to different needs. Whether you’re a young professional looking for a trendy, lively area or a family seeking a quieter, more suburban feel, Amsterdam has the perfect neighborhood for you.
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