Best Neighborhoods for Expats in Eindhoven

Eindhoven, known as the "Silicon Valley of the Netherlands," is a thriving city with a rich history in technology and innovation. As the home of tech giants like Philips and ASML, it attracts expats from all over the world, especially those working in the engineering, tech, and design sectors. With its green spaces, modern developments, and vibrant international community, Eindhoven offers a variety of neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles. Whether you’re a professional looking for a modern apartment or a family seeking a quiet, suburban area, this guide will help you find the best places to live as an expat in Eindhoven.

Strijp-S: Creative and Trendy

Strijp-S is a former industrial area that has been transformed into one of the most dynamic and creative districts in Eindhoven. With modern apartment buildings, coworking spaces, and plenty of cultural events, Strijp-S has quickly become a popular spot for young professionals and expats working in the tech and creative industries.

- Why expats love it: Strijp-S is a hub for innovation, creativity, and modern living. The neighborhood is filled with stylish cafés, restaurants, art galleries, and coworking spaces, making it ideal for expats who want to be in the middle of Eindhoven’s cutting-edge scene. Its proximity to the city center and good public transportation links make it a convenient option for commuters.
- Lifestyle: Strijp-S is perfect for those who enjoy a vibrant urban lifestyle with a focus on arts, culture, and design. It’s a great area for young professionals, creatives, and expats who enjoy living in a modern and lively community.
- Downsides: As Strijp-S is one of the trendiest parts of the city, rental prices can be higher than in other neighborhoods.

Tongelre: Quiet and Green

Tongelre is one of Eindhoven’s oldest districts, located to the east of the city center. This residential neighborhood offers a quiet and peaceful environment, making it ideal for expats who prefer a slower pace of life while still being close to the city center.

- Why expats love it: Tongelre is known for its green spaces, parks, and historic homes. It’s perfect for expats who enjoy nature and outdoor activities while still wanting easy access to Eindhoven’s amenities. The neighborhood offers a mix of modern and traditional Dutch housing, making it a diverse and appealing area for families.
- Lifestyle: Tongelre is great for families and professionals who want a calm, suburban lifestyle. The area is known for its friendly community, local shops, and access to beautiful parks like the Karpendonkse Plas, which is perfect for walking and cycling.
- Downsides: Tongelre is quieter than some other parts of Eindhoven, which may not suit those looking for a more active social scene.

Woensel-Zuid: Family-Friendly and Convenient

Woensel-Zuid is one of the largest residential neighborhoods in Eindhoven, located to the north of the city center. It’s a popular area for expat families due to its affordable housing, green spaces, and proximity to international schools.

- Why expats love it: Woensel-Zuid offers a range of housing options, from modern apartments to traditional family homes. It’s also close to several international schools, making it a convenient location for expat families. The neighborhood has plenty of parks, playgrounds, and local amenities, creating a family-friendly atmosphere.
- Lifestyle: This area is perfect for families or professionals looking for more space and a quieter environment. Woensel-Zuid offers a good balance between suburban living and access to Eindhoven’s city center, which is only a short bike or bus ride away.
- Downsides: While it’s great for families, Woensel-Zuid may not be the first choice for single professionals or those looking for a lively nightlife scene.

De Bergen: Historic and Charming

De Bergen is one of Eindhoven’s oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods, located in the heart of the city. With its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and cozy cafés, De Bergen offers a more traditional and charming living experience compared to the city’s more modern areas.

- Why expats love it: De Bergen is perfect for expats who appreciate history and culture. The neighborhood is filled with independent shops, art galleries, and trendy eateries, creating a lively yet intimate atmosphere. It’s also located right in the city center, making it easy to access everything Eindhoven has to offer.
- Lifestyle: De Bergen is ideal for expats who want to live in a charming, historic area with a vibrant cultural scene. It’s especially popular with professionals and creatives who enjoy a mix of old-world charm and modern conveniences.
- Downsides: As one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Eindhoven, De Bergen can be expensive, and housing options are limited due to its historic nature.

Eindhoven Centrum: Urban and Convenient

For expats who love city living, Eindhoven Centrum offers the ultimate convenience. The city center is home to modern apartments, high-end shopping, and a variety of restaurants and cultural attractions, making it the perfect choice for those who want to be in the heart of the action.

- Why expats love it: Living in Eindhoven Centrum means you’re within walking distance of the city’s best amenities, including shops, restaurants, bars, and cultural venues like the Van Abbemuseum. The area is well-connected by public transport, making it ideal for professionals who work in or near the city center.
- Lifestyle: The city center is perfect for expats who enjoy an urban lifestyle with easy access to nightlife, shopping, and cultural activities. It’s popular with young professionals and singles who want to be close to their workplace and social scene.
- Downsides: As with most city centers, living in Eindhoven Centrum comes with a higher cost of living and can be noisy, especially on weekends.

Meerhoven: Modern and Family-Oriented

Meerhoven is a modern residential neighborhood located on the outskirts of Eindhoven. It’s one of the newest developments in the city, offering spacious homes, green spaces, and plenty of amenities for families.

- Why expats love it: Meerhoven is ideal for families and professionals who want a modern home with access to parks and playgrounds. The neighborhood is designed with families in mind, offering plenty of green spaces, sports facilities, and a shopping center. It’s also close to Eindhoven Airport, making it convenient for expats who travel frequently.
- Lifestyle: Meerhoven offers a quiet, suburban lifestyle with modern housing and family-friendly amenities. It’s a great option for those who want more space and a relaxed environment while still being a short drive from the city center.
- Downsides: Meerhoven is located further from the city center, so commuting into Eindhoven can take longer compared to other neighborhoods.

Eindhoven offers a range of diverse neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles, from the creative and trendy Strijp-S to the quiet, family-friendly Woensel-Zuid. Whether you’re looking for modern living, green spaces, or a historic charm, Eindhoven has the perfect neighborhood for expats.