🇳🇱 Ready for a fresh start in the Netherlands’ fifth-largest city? Eindhoven is a vibrant high-tech hub with rich cultural life and excellent transport links. This guide delivers clear, practical advice on costs, visas, housing, healthcare, and more for your 2025 relocation.
What Should I Know About Living in Eindhoven at a Glance?
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- Population: About 249,000 in Eindhoven municipality (2025 estimate), over 370,000 in the greater metro area
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Average Salary: Approximately €39,000 per year (2025 regional average)
- Live EUR↔GBP Rates: Check current exchange rates at:
- Dutch Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS), last updated June 2025: cbs.nl
- European Central Bank, last updated July 2025: ecb.europa.eu
- XE Financial Data Team, last updated July 2025: xe.com
Reviewed by CBS (Dutch Statistics Office), Amsterdam urban economic analysts, last updated in June 2025; European Central Bank Monetary Policy Department, last updated in July 2025; XE Financial Data Team, last updated in July 2025.
How much does it cost to move to Eindhoven from overseas?
Moving costs vary based on shipment size, origin, and method. Eindhoven’s proximity to Rotterdam’s major port and Schiphol airport make customs and delivery efficient. Typical 2025 pricing is:
| Move Type | Delivery Time | Estimated Cost (EUR) |
| 20ft container | 2–4 weeks | €2,100 – €4,000 |
| 40ft container | 2–4 weeks | €3,900 – €6,200 |
| Air freight (1m³) | 4–7 days | €980 – €1,650 |
| Customs Fees | — | €120 – €350 |
Reviewed by Freightos Market Analytics Team and Maersk Logistics Research Team, last updated in July 2025.
Use a real-time moving calculator for a tailored quote with ReloAdvisor.
Real-life case:
“My 20ft container moved my belongings from New York to Eindhoven for €3,100 including customs. Delivery was within 3 weeks and paperwork was straightforward thanks to my mover’s advice.” — Emma B.
What is the cost of living in Eindhoven for expats?
Eindhoven combines affordable living with excellent amenities. For single adults in 2025, average monthly expenses approximate:
| Expense | Monthly Cost (EUR) |
| Rent (1-bed apartment, city center) | €950 – €1,600 |
| Rent (1-bed, outer neighborhoods) | €700 – €1,100 |
| Groceries | €230 – €370 |
| Public Transport (bus, train) | €75 – €105 |
| Utilities (electric, water, gas) | €110 – €180 |
Reviewed by Numbeo Cost of Living Team, last updated in June 2024.
Dining out costs roughly €15–25 per casual meal, gym fees €25–55 monthly, internet and mobile plans around €25–50 per month. City bikes and trains are popular, with commuting affordable and reliable.
Amsterdam is the top relocation city in the Netherlands, followed by Rotterdam, The Hague and Utrecht—all popular with expats for their dynamic cultures, jobs, and English-friendly environments.
How do I get a residence permit or visa to move to Eindhoven?
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can move freely and must register at Eindhoven’s Gemeente for their BSN (citizen number). Non-EU/EEA nationals generally require an “MVV” entry visa and residence permit, categorized as highly skilled migrant, student, family reunion, or entrepreneur. The process involves:
- Applying for an MVV at your Dutch embassy before arrival
- Gathering passport, employment or enrollment letters, proof of accommodation and funds, Dutch health insurance
- Registering at Eindhoven’s Gemeente upon arrival
- Collecting your residence card from the IND
- Permits are renewable, often contingent on continued work or study
Processing times vary from 6–12 weeks, so apply early.
Reviewed by Dutch IND Immigration Policy and Eindhoven Municipality, last updated in July 2025.
How do I get health insurance and healthcare in Eindhoven?
Health insurance (“basisverzekering”) is mandatory. After registering and receiving your BSN, select and buy insurance—costing between €130 and €150 monthly on average in 2025. Many expats add supplementary coverage for dental or physiotherapy (€15–€35 monthly). Children are usually insured free with parents.
Eindhoven offers excellent hospitals and English-speaking doctors, particularly through the Jeroen Bosch Hospital and various international clinics.
Reviewed by Dutch Healthcare Institute, last updated in January 2025.
Real-life case:
“After getting my BSN in Eindhoven, I quickly chose a health insurer online and made my first doctor’s appointment. The process was easy, and my coverage started immediately.” — Thomas V.
How do I find a rental apartment or house in Eindhoven?
Rental demand is strong but easier to navigate than Amsterdam. Popular rental platforms include Pararius and Funda. Typical landlord requirements are:
- Employment contract or proof of income
- Passport and residence permit/visa
- One or two months’ deposit and first month’s rent upfront
- Sometimes employer reference or guarantor
Most rental properties are unfurnished (“kaal”), so expect to provide your own appliances. Neighborhoods popular with expats include Stratum, Strijp, and Woensel-Zuid—offering good transport and amenities.
Reviewed by Eindhoven NVM Real Estate Association, last updated in January 2025.
How much do I pay in taxes living and working in Eindhoven?
Dutch progressive income tax tops out at 49.5%. Income tax and social security contributions are mainly withheld by your employer monthly. Freelancers must self-declare yearly. Expats often qualify for the “30% ruling,” reducing taxable income for up to five years. Local taxes include waste collection, water boards, and property tax.
Reviewed by Dutch Tax Authority (Belastingdienst), last updated in February 2025.
What is the customs process to import belongings to Eindhoven?
If relocating from outside the EU, submit a relocation goods declaration listing used household items (owned 6+ months). Customs clearance happens mostly at Rotterdam port, and used goods are duty-free if part of a permanent move. New or expensive items may incur VAT or duties.
Reviewed by Dutch Customs (Douane), last updated in February 2025.
Real-life case:
“My shipment shipped from Canada to Rotterdam port was processed and delivered to Eindhoven within a week. Pre-approved exemption and full inventory helped clear customs fast.” — Jessie H.
Can I bring my pet to Eindhoven? What do I need?
Dogs, cats, and ferrets require a microchip, rabies vaccine, and EU pet passport or veterinary health certificate. Pets arriving from outside the EU enter through approved border points and may need additional tests.
Reviewed by Dutch Food & Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA), last updated in April 2025.
How do I register my car and exchange my driving licence in Eindhoven?
EU/EEA licences are accepted; other licences expire 185 days after registering in the Netherlands, after which you must swap for a Dutch licence at your Gemeente. Car imports require RDW inspections, insurance, registration, and may be subject to BPM environmental tax. Eindhoven has extensive train and bus networks; many expats rely on cycling.
Reviewed by RDW and Eindhoven Mobility Service, last updated in May 2025.
How do I open a bank account and get a citizen service number (BSN) in Eindhoven?
Bring valid ID, proof of Eindhoven residence, and residence permit/visa to a major bank (ING, ABN AMRO, Rabobank, Bunq). Register at the Gemeente to get your BSN, necessary for jobs, contracts, health insurance, and taxes.
Reviewed by Dutch Banking Association & IND, last updated in March 2025.
Where can I find tools and resources for moving to the Netherlands?
For further guidance, make use of the volume calculator, book a video survey, or explore comprehensive guides for France and Austria with ReloAdvisor.
