Planning to move to Rotterdam? Here is a complete breakdown of the cost of living for expats in Rotterdam, Netherlands as of 2026. All figures are in EUR for easy cross-country comparison.
Monthly Cost Snapshot
Full Cost Breakdown
Compared to Country Average
| Category | Rotterdam | Netherlands Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR Rent (Centre) | €1,447 | €1,692 | -14% below avg |
| Total Single (Centre) | €2,350 | €2,654 | -11% below avg |
| Total Family (Centre) | €4,200 | €4,650 | -10% below avg |
| Groceries | €588 | €663 | -11% below avg |
| Transport | €141 | €109 | -12% below avg |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Rotterdam in 2026?
A single expat living in central Rotterdam should budget approximately €2,350 per month, covering rent, groceries, transport, utilities, healthcare, and entertainment. A family of four needs around €4,200/month.
How much is rent in Rotterdam for expats?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Rotterdam city centre costs around €1,447/month. Outside the centre, expect to pay approximately €1,100/month. A 3-bedroom apartment in the centre is around €3,183/month.
Is Rotterdam expensive compared to other cities in Netherlands?
Rotterdam has a cost index of 75% relative to the capital. There are 3 cities tracked in Netherlands for comparison.
Related: Netherlands Guide · Netherlands Salaries · Netherlands Cost of Living · Visa Comparison · Compare Netherlands · All Countries
Data sourced from numbeo. Last verified 2026-03-10.