Why Move to Amstelveen?
Amstelveen is a premium residential city located directly south of Amsterdam. It is renowned for its high quality of life, extensive green spaces, and a remarkably diverse international community. It offers a more peaceful, suburban alternative to the capital while remaining just minutes away from its center.
The city is particularly famous for its large expat population, notably from Japan and India, which has influenced the local culture and services. From the world-class Cobra Museum of Modern Art to the sprawling Amsterdamse Bos forest, Amstelveen perfectly balances culture and nature.
Living here means enjoying some of the best shopping in the region at the award-winning Stadshart mall, excellent public transport links, and a safe, family-friendly environment. It is a city designed for a comfortable, modern lifestyle.
Amstelveen at a Glance
- Extremely green with the Amsterdamse Bos and many local parks
- Highly international community with diverse culinary and cultural options
- Excellent shopping and dining facilities at Stadshart
- Superior public transport connections to Amsterdam and Schiphol
- Safe and family-oriented neighborhoods with top-tier facilities
- Home to the prestigious Cobra Museum of Modern Art
Cost of Living
Amstelveen is a sought-after location, and housing prices reflect its proximity to Amsterdam and high standard of living. Here is a 2026 budget estimate:
Rental Prices
| Property Type | Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio / 1-room | €1,100 - €1,500 |
| 1-bedroom apartment | €1,500 - €2,000 |
| 2-bedroom apartment | €1,900 - €2,700 |
| Family house (3+ bed) | €2,600 - €4,500+ |
Buying Prices
| Property Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Apartment (1-2 bed) | €425,000 - €650,000 |
| Family house | €700,000 - €1,300,000+ |
Monthly Expenses (Single Person)
| Expense | Amount / month |
|---|---|
| Groceries | €300 - €450 |
| Health insurance | €140 - €180 |
| Public transport (GVB/Connexxion) | €80 - €150 |
| Utilities (gas, electric, water) | €180 - €280 |
| Internet + mobile | €60 - €80 |
| Gym membership | €40 - €80 |
Source: CBS, Funda, Pararius (2025-2026 data). Prices vary based on energy labels and proximity to transport hubs.
Best Neighborhoods
Amstelveen offers several high-quality residential areas. Here are the top choices for newcomers:
Stadshart (City Center)
Urban, convenient, livelyThe vibrant heart of Amstelveen. Home to the main shopping center, theater, and library. Perfect for those who want everything within walking distance and modern apartment living.
Elsrijk
Elegant, green, prestigiousA beautiful, historic neighborhood characterized by 1930s architecture and tree-lined streets. It is very close to the border of Amsterdam and extremely popular with professionals.
Westwijk
Modern, family-friendly, spaciousA modern, spacious residential area located in the south. It offers newer homes and is very popular with expat families due to its parks and proximity to international schools.
Registration & BSN
Upon moving to Amstelveen, you must register at the municipality (Gemeente Amstelveen) within 5 days. This is required to obtain your BSN (Citizen Service Number).
Step-by-Step
- 1 Book an appointment online through the Gemeente Amstelveen website.
- 2 Bring your valid passport, birth certificate (legalized/translated if necessary), and rental contract.
- 3 Receive your BSN, which is essential for work, banking, and insurance.
- 4 Register for DigiD to manage your Dutch government affairs online.
Amstelveen is known for its efficient expat services. If you are a highly skilled migrant, your employer may be able to handle this through the IN Amsterdam center.
Getting Around
Amstelveen is exceptionally well-connected to Amsterdam and the wider Randstad area.
Most residents find that a combination of cycling and public transport is sufficient for daily life, although car ownership is more common here than in central Amsterdam.
Expat Community & Schools
Amstelveen is one of the most international cities in the Netherlands. It has a very high concentration of expats, fostering a welcoming and diverse environment.
Education is a major draw for international families:
- International School of Amsterdam (ISA): One of the top international schools in the country.
- Amity International School: Offering a modern curriculum in a beautiful setting.
- Japanese and Indian community services and schools are widely available.
- Excellent local Dutch schools with support for non-native speakers.
The city hosts various international festivals and has many clubs catering to different nationalities, making it very easy to build a social network.
Healthcare
Like all residents, you must have Dutch health insurance. Monthly premiums in 2026 are approximately €140 - €180.
Amstelveen is home to the Ziekenhuis Amstelland, a high-quality hospital. You should register with a local huisarts (GP) in your neighborhood immediately upon arrival.
Most medical professionals in Amstelveen are accustomed to working with international patients and speak fluent English.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about relocating to Amstelveen, answered.
Is Amstelveen part of Amsterdam?
No, Amstelveen is a separate municipality, although it borders Amsterdam and is perfectly integrated into the Amsterdam metropolitan area.
Is it expensive to live in Amstelveen?
Yes, it is one of the more expensive cities in the Netherlands due to its high quality of life and proximity to Amsterdam, though it often offers more space for the price than the capital.
Can I live in Amstelveen without speaking Dutch?
Absolutely. Given the high international population, English is widely spoken in shops, restaurants, and by the local government.
What is the Amsterdamse Bos?
It is a massive man-made forest (three times the size of New York's Central Park) located on the border of Amstelveen and Amsterdam, offering endless recreation.
How far is Schiphol Airport from Amstelveen?
It is very close (approximately 10-15 minutes by car or 20 minutes by direct bus), making it ideal for frequent travelers.