🇳🇱 Considering a new life in the Netherlands’ biggest port city? This guide provides every practical detail, updated costs, and step-by-step advice you’ll need to settle in Rotterdam in 2025.
What Should I Know About Living in Rotterdam at a Glance?
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- Population: About 673,000 (mid-2025 estimate), 1.2 million in the metro area
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Average Salary: Approximately €41,000 per year (Rotterdam, 2025)
- Live EUR↔GBP Rates: Latest official rates at:
- Dutch Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS), last updated in June 2025: cbs.nl
- European Central Bank, last updated in July 2025: ecb.europa.eu
- XE Financial Data Team, last updated in 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 Rotterdam from abroad?
Costs to move your belongings to Rotterdam in 2025 depend on origin country, size of shipment, and whether you ship by sea or air. The city’s major port makes it one of Europe’s most accessible international destinations. Typical rates are:
| Move Type | Delivery Time | Estimated Cost (EUR) |
| 20ft container | 2–4 weeks | €2,200 – €4,000 |
| 40ft container | 2–4 weeks | €4,100 – €6,300 |
| Air freight (1m³) | 4–7 days | €970 – €1,600 |
| 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:
“I moved from Cape Town to Rotterdam and shipped a 40ft container for €5,100 all in, including customs. The city’s port made delivery fast and paperwork was straightforward with my relocation agent’s help.” — Marleen L.
Amsterdam is the top relocation city in the Netherlands, followed by The Hague, Utrecht, and Eindhoven—all popular with expats for their dynamic cultures, jobs, and English-friendly environments.
What is the average cost of living in Rotterdam for expats?
Living in Rotterdam is typically more affordable than Amsterdam but still offers a high quality of life. Here is what a single adult can expect to pay on average in 2025:
| Expense | Monthly Cost (EUR) |
| Rent (1-bed, city center) | €1,100 – €1,800 |
| Rent (1-bed, outer neighborhoods) | €850 – €1,250 |
| Groceries | €230 – €380 |
| Public Transport (RET pass) | €85 – €110 |
| Utilities (electric/gas/water) | €115 – €180 |
Reviewed by Numbeo Rotterdam Cost of Living Team, last updated in June 2024.
Eating out is budget-friendly—expect €14–22 per meal at mid-range restaurants. Internet/mobile packages run €30–48 per month. Rotterdam has a strong cycling culture and public transport is extensive and affordable. The lively neighborhoods of Kralingen, Kop van Zuid, and Oude Noorden are loved by both locals and newcomers for their style and accessibility.
For families, international schools range from €5,000–€19,000 per year, while Dutch public schools are free and offer immersion for children.
How do I get a Dutch residence permit or visa to move to Rotterdam?
If you’re an EU/EEA or Swiss citizen, you can freely live and work in the Netherlands—just remember to register at Rotterdam’s city hall (“Gemeente Rotterdam”) for your BSN (citizen service number). For most non-EU/EEA nationals, a long-stay entry visa (“MVV”) and residence permit are needed. Options include highly skilled migrant (kennismigrant), student, family reunion, or entrepreneurship.
Step-by-step process:
- Apply for the MVV at your local Dutch consulate before departure.
- Submit documents (passport, contract/admission, proof of funds, address, Dutch health insurance).
- On arrival, register at Rotterdam’s Gemeente to obtain your BSN and, if needed, open a bank account.
- Pick up your residence card at the IND Rotterdam office.
- Permits last 1–5 years and are renewable with ongoing employment, study, or family status.
Allow at least 8–12 weeks for a decision—sometimes longer for specific categories.
Reviewed by Dutch IND Immigration Policy Team and Rotterdam Municipality, last updated in July 2025.
How do I access health insurance and medical care in Rotterdam?
All residents must take out Dutch basic health insurance (“basisverzekering”)—this is strictly enforced, even for highly skilled migrants and students. The 2025 price averages €133–€153 per adult per month, plus an annual deductible (€385). Once you have your BSN, you can choose and sign up for insurance. Extras like dental or physio care average €15–€30/month.
Rotterdam’s hospitals are cutting-edge, with English widely spoken in the medical sector, especially at Erasmus MC and expat clinics.
Reviewed by Zorginstituut Nederland, last updated in January 2025.
Real-life case:
“After my initial registration, I compared insurers online, signed up with just my BSN, and quickly scheduled GP and specialist appointments—all with English support. Claims for emergency care were fast and digital.” — Amir P.
How do I find an apartment or house to rent in Rotterdam?
The Rotterdam housing market moves quickly but is less cutthroat than Amsterdam’s. Most expats use platforms like Pararius, Funda, or certified agencies. Standard requirements are:
- Payslips (or employment contract)
- Residency permit/visa (if applicable) and identification
- 1–2 months’ deposit and first month’s rent
- Employer recommendation or personal references
Unfurnished rentals (“kaal”) are typical, so be ready to provide your own appliances or furniture unless you select a fully furnished (“gemeubileerd”) home. Kralingen (student-friendly, leafy), Delfshaven (historic and diverse), and Blijdorp (green and calm) are sought-after choices.
Reviewed by Rotterdam Real Estate Association (NVM), last updated in January 2025.
How much tax will I pay if I live and work in Rotterdam?
The Dutch income tax is progressive—up to 49.5% for high earners. Most expat professionals have tax deducted by their employer each month, though freelancers/self-employed must self-declare each spring. Many international workers qualify for the 30% ruling (a five-year tax advantage). The municipality collects its own taxes for waste collection, water board, and property ownership (if you buy).
Reviewed by Dutch Belastingdienst (Tax Authority), last updated in February 2025.
What is the process to clear customs when moving belongings to Rotterdam?
Rotterdam’s huge port makes this process efficient. If moving from outside the EU, list all shipped items in a relocation goods declaration before arrival. If you’re relocating your main residence and items are used/owned for 6+ months, they’ll be processed duty-free. New or high-value items may be subject to tax. Digital documentation and advance customs clearance dramatically speed up release.
Reviewed by Dutch Customs (Douane), last updated in February 2025.
Real-life case:
“My shipment from Canada arrived at Rotterdam’s port and cleared customs in 24 hours thanks to the digitized process. No import duties or holdups for used items.” — Esme H.
Can I bring my pet to Rotterdam and what do I need?
You can! Pets (dogs, cats, ferrets) must have a microchip, valid rabies vaccination, and EU pet passport or national vet certificate. Pets from outside the EU must enter through an approved port (including Rotterdam or Schiphol airport) and may require additional checks or tests based on origin country.
Reviewed by NVWA (Dutch Food & Consumer Safety Authority), last updated in April 2025.
How do I drive, register a car, or exchange my licence in Rotterdam?
EU/EEA licences are generally valid, but most non-EU licences expire after 185 days—start the swap application process early at Gemeente. Importing a vehicle? Have it inspected by the RDW, pay the BPM (environmental) tax, and insure/plate the car in your name. Central Rotterdam offers great transit and cycle networks, and on-street parking requires a resident permit.
Reviewed by RDW and Rotterdam Gemeente Mobility Desk, last updated in May 2025.
How do I open a Dutch bank account and get a BSN in Rotterdam?
Bring your passport, proof of Rotterdam address, and residence permit (if applicable) to open an account at ING, ABN AMRO, Rabobank, Bunq, or other Dutch banks. Your BSN is issued during city hall registration and is required for banking, healthcare, work, and tax.
Reviewed by Dutch Banking Association & IND, last updated in March 2025.
Where can I find tools and more resources before moving?
For further guidance, make use of the volume calculator, book a video survey, or explore comprehensive guides for Australia and Canada.
