Why Move to Arnhem?
Arnhem is a city that surprises many with its landscape: unlike most of the flat Netherlands, Arnhem is notably hilly. As the capital of Gelderland, it sits perfectly between the Rhine river and the Veluwezoom National Park, offering a high quality of life with a strong emphasis on creativity, fashion, and nature.
The city has roughly 166,000 residents and is famous for its unique trolleybus system (the only one in the Netherlands) and its world-class Burger's Zoo. Arnhem is a major center for art and design, home to the renowned ArtEZ University of the Arts, which gives the city a vibrant, bohemian, and innovative energy.
Living in Arnhem means spending weekends in the majestic Sonsbeek Park, exploring the 'Modekwartier' (Fashion Quarter) in Klarendal, and enjoying a cost of living that is much more manageable than in the Randstad. It's a city with a deep history (the Battle of Arnhem) but a very forward-looking, sustainable mindset.
Arnhem at a Glance
- Unique hilly landscape and stunning public parks
- Creative and fashion hub with a vibrant arts scene
- Excellent quality of life with lower costs than the west
- Home to the only trolleybus network in the country
- Immediate access to the Veluwe and national parks
- Rich history combined with modern, sustainable urban design
Cost of Living
Arnhem is generally more affordable than Nijmegen or Utrecht, and significantly cheaper than Amsterdam. You can find high-quality housing in beautiful historic districts for reasonable prices. Here is what to budget in 2026:
Rental Prices
| Property Type | Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio / 1-room | €700 - €950 |
| 1-bedroom apartment | €900 - €1,300 |
| 2-bedroom apartment | €1,200 - €1,650 |
| Family house (3+ bed) | €1,500 - €2,400+ |
Buying Prices
| Property Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Apartment | €260,000 - €420,000 |
| Terraced house | €320,000 - €500,000 |
| Semi-detached / detached | €450,000 - €850,000+ |
Monthly Expenses (Single Person)
| Expense | Amount / month |
|---|---|
| Groceries | €250 - €400 |
| Health insurance | €140 - €180 |
| Public transport (monthly) | €70 - €110 |
| Utilities (gas, electric, water) | €170 - €260 |
| Internet + mobile | €50 - €80 |
| Gym membership | €30 - €65 |
Source: CBS, Funda, Pararius (2025-2026 data). Prices vary by energy label and proximity to Sonsbeek Park.
Best Neighborhoods
Arnhem has distinct neighborhoods, each with its own artistic or historic character:
Sonsbeekkwartier
Artistic, historic, greenOne of the most popular neighborhoods, known for its beautiful 19th-century architecture and proximity to the famous Sonsbeek Park. It has an artistic, upscale vibe with many creative residents.
Spijkerkwartier
Creative, grand, community-focusedA stunning historic district with grand houses and hidden city gardens. It has transformed from a rough area into one of the city's most vibrant and creative hubs, full of unique cafes and community projects.
Schuytgraaf
Modern, family-friendly, convenientA modern 'vinex' location to the south of the city. Very popular with young families and expats due to its modern housing, excellent schools, and its own train station (Arnhem Zuid).
Klarendal (Modekwartier)
Trendy, creative, urbanThe heart of Arnhem's fashion scene. Formerly a working-class area, it is now filled with designer boutiques, studios, and trendy eateries. Great for those who want a lively, urban atmosphere.
Heijenoord / Cranevelt
Quiet, green, hillyLocated on the higher, hilly parts of the city. Quiet, green, and offering great views. Very popular with families who want to be close to both the forest and the center.
Registration & BSN
You must register at the Gemeente Arnhem (Stadhuis) within 5 days of arrival. This process provides your BSN (Burgerservicenummer).
Step-by-Step
- 1 Book an appointment online via arnhem.nl.
- 2 The Stadhuis is located in the city center at Koningsstraat.
- 3 Bring your passport, birth certificate (legalized/apostilled), and rental contract.
- 4 Registration is free and usually takes about 20 minutes.
- 5 Receive your BSN immediately during the appointment.
If you are a highly skilled migrant, your employer may be able to fast-track your registration through the Expat Center East Netherlands.
Getting Around
Arnhem is a major transportation hub, featuring the only trolleybus network in the Netherlands and a stunning, award-winning central station.
Arnhem's trolleybuses are a point of local pride and the most efficient way to navigate the hilly parts of the city without a car.
Expat Community & Education
Arnhem is an international educational center, particularly in the arts. ArtEZ University of the Arts attracts students from all over the world.
For international families, education options are excellent:
- Rivers International School Arnhem: Offers a full English-language curriculum (IB) for ages 4-18.
- ArtEZ University of the Arts: A world-class institution for fashion, design, and music.
- HAN University of Applied Sciences: Offers many English-taught professional degrees.
The presence of international students and the international school makes Arnhem very welcoming for non-Dutch speakers.
Healthcare
The Rijnstate Hospital is the main healthcare provider in Arnhem, with a large, modern facility and a highly-regarded emergency department.
Arnhem has a high density of GPs (huisartsen), especially in the Spijkerkwartier and Sonsbeekkwartier. Most speak fluent English and are used to international patients.
Register with a GP immediately upon arrival. For non-emergency care during nights or weekends, contact the 'Huisartsenpost Arnhem'.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about relocating to Arnhem, answered.
Is Arnhem cheaper than Nijmegen?
Generally, yes. Arnhem often offers more space and historic character for the same price, though both cities are much cheaper than the Randstad.
What is the creative scene like in Arnhem?
It is one of the strongest in the country. Between ArtEZ and the Modekwartier, there is a constant influx of artists, designers, and creative energy.
How hilly is Arnhem really?
It's not the Alps, but there are genuine inclines in the north of the city (Sonsbeek and towards the Veluwezoom). It makes for beautiful views and a bit more of a workout on your bike!
Is Arnhem good for families?
Excellent. With Sonsbeek Park, Burger's Zoo, and the Open Air Museum (Openluchtmuseum) nearby, there is endless entertainment for children.
Can I live in Arnhem and work in Amsterdam?
Yes, it's a common commute. The train takes about 60 minutes and is a direct connection.