Rotterdam is one of the most dynamic, multicultural cities in the Netherlands with a large international community, a twenty-first-century look, minimal level of corruption, a modernised public transport system with a great labyrinth of bike-paths, this city hosts the largest port in Europe and one of the busiest ports in Europe. The tourism in this city is lesser in comparison to the other Dutch cities even though it boasts of an energetic cultural scene and a rise in numerous eateries, cafés and nightclubs can satisfy everybody’s needs.
Since the World War II bombings, these buildings were not rebuilt but modernised which gives the structures in Rotterdam a different view than other Dutch cities. The city’s advancement focuses around adding new housing and family-friendly areas in the city centre. A thing to note about coming to this lovely city and Netherlands at large is that there is a requirement to take out affordable health insurance and at an excellent health system.
The city has a warm reception to internationals, working professionals, interns and has a big expat and student communities.
Cost of Living
In Rotterdam, eating at restaurants depends on the quality of the restaurant. Inexpensive restaurants go for as low as 7€, or up to 30€ or a more quality restaurant. A can of beer will add 3€ to 4.40€ to your bill. The market prices are lower, with bread, apples, oranges, potatoes, and tomatoes all coming in at under 2€ per kg.
Public transportation is very good with a good network of trams or buses that come at a reasonable rate. A bus or tram with a one-way ticket is 3€, one day passes for 7.50€. For locals, a good percentage prefer the OV-chipkaart.
The average monthly rent on one bedroom is 707€, for three bedrooms is 1110€. The apartments far away from the centre are relatively cheaper at about 535€ per month while three-bedrooms cost about 840€ monthly.
The monthly home bills such as water, electricity, and costs about177€ per month on the average, while an internet connection with unlimited data will add about 22€ to this amount.
Where to Live
Centre
An old city in Rotterdam, it was destroyed in world war2 by the Germans. Plans to rebuild the city begun immediately after its destruction. The centre is a modernised and a lively place to live in for any expat considering a move to Rotterdam. The modernised nature of the expat makes getting an apartment here a little bit expensive.
Kralingen
For single, young or you still want to stay around young people to enjoy the vibes of youthfulness, well Kralingen is a place to reside in as the main campus of Erasmus University finds its location at the eastern border of the neighbourhood, the students in the city consider this area accessible. The housing in Kralingen is relatively affordable considering the international feel of the area.
Hillegersberg
Located at the northeast of the city, hillegersberg escaped bombing during World War 2 left the city still with its natural look. Homes in this area are expensive and popular leading to high demand from expats. Many international schools find their home here. The estimated time in reaching the city centre is about 10mins all thanks to the excellent bus and tram network, 20mins by car though. This city situates around two fair sized lakes. During the summer there is nonstop boating and sailing while during the winter there is skating.
Oude Noorden
Oude Noorden (“Old North”), a city found in the Northeast. It’s a class of people with dynamic, multi-cultural community living here. It borders the city centre dating back to the 19th century, and they also have shopping streets with small’s bars, affordable restaurants with high-quality food. Housing is relatively cheap here, but from foresight, prices may go up due to increasing popularity.
De Esch
This neighbourhood is excellent for people that want to live close to Erasmus University and also want a sane community due to lack of good bars or restaurants. This neighbourhood may include students, lecturers or even people that want to do business that will thrive on student areas. It takes 15minutes and two trams to bring one to the city centre. Rental prices in comparison to Kralingen are lower even though it is closer to the university.
Blijdorp
Blijdorp lies just north of Central station. It is more of a residential area with high maintenance culture for the streets and buildings. It is popular amongst young couples and expats. Blijdorp’s comfort is one that is to be appreciated with its location close to shops, the city centre and international schools. The city uses the zoo is in this part as a relaxation spot.
Zuid
If you are running on a strict budget, well you have to take a look at the south side of the Mass river where you will locate Rotterdam South. You can find the cheapest accommodation in Rotterdam here, but also it has a good transportation network to the north side of the river by public transportation.
