What are the pros and cons of retiring in the Netherlands?
According to the Social Security Administration, more than 6,000 US seniors are receiving retirement benefits in the Netherlands. This isn’t surprising considering how highly the country ranks for quality of life.
The Netherlands is known for being a friendly, stable, and beautiful place to retire. But there are some drawbacks to consider as well.
Here are the main pros and cons of retiring in the Netherlands:
Pros of retiring in the Netherlands:
- High English proficiency: The Dutch have the highest English proficiency for non-native English speakers in the world, making it very easy for English-speakers to assimilate into the culture.
- Inclusive, welcoming culture: Dutch culture is very laid back and welcoming. There is also a healthy, diverse expat community, creating opportunities for connection.
- Easy to navigate: The Netherlands is a small country with great transportation options to get around more easily.
- Great healthcare system: The healthcare in the Netherlands is one of the best in the world. It was ranked #4 on the 2024 World Index of Healthcare Innovation.
Cons of retiring in the Netherlands:
- High tax rate: Any income you earn as an expat, regardless of retirement status, is subject to tax, which can drain pension funds.
- Housing shortage: Securing affordable accommodation in the Netherlands can be difficult due to a lack of available housing options.
- High cost of living: The cost of living in the Netherlands is 5% higher than in the US, even when rent isn’t factored into the equation.
What are the best places to retire in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands’ beautiful architecture, bike-centered commute system, and serene forests make the country an idyllic place to settle down.
But where are the best places to retire in the Netherlands? There are a few that are particularly suited to retirees:
- Delft: Delft is a university town, but it has a diverse community and access to incredible transportation systems and world-class healthcare facilities.
- Leiden: Leiden’s centuries-old architecture and cobblestone streets make it a charming and affordable place to live out your golden years.
- Tilburg: Many foreign and local retirees are drawn to Tilburg for its relaxed social atmosphere and varied cultural attractions.
What age can you retire in the Netherlands?
The official Dutch state pension age is 67 years, but if you’re coming from the US, your retirement age won’t matter. In fact, if you’re looking for permanent residency, you might want to move to the Netherlands earlier when you qualify for a “highly skilled migrant” visa.
What is the average cost of retirement in the Netherlands?
Not including rent, the cost of living is around €1,017.20 ($1,190.90) per month for a single person to retire in the Netherlands. A family of four would require €3,575.30 ($4,186.10).
Full state pension in the Netherlands is €1,612, or approximately $1,881, but it can be difficult to qualify for this unless you are an EU citizen.
Do you pay taxes after retirement in the Netherlands?
All income in the Netherlands, including retirement income, is subject to taxation.
Income tax rates range between 35.82% and 49.5%, depending on your income bracket.
What programs are there for emigrating to the Netherlands?
There’s no special retirement visa for the Netherlands. Entering the country for lengthy stays is easy because US citizens automatically qualify for a provisional residence permit (MVV) that allows stays past 90 days.
After arriving in the Netherlands, you can apply to the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) for a residence permit; however, you need to prove you have a reason to be in the country, such as work or family. You may also need a sponsor and are required to show proof of income. As of 2025, that amount is greater than €1,572.06 per month.
You can apply for Dutch citizenship if you’ve legally lived in the country for five years.
What visas do I need to retire in the Netherlands?
If you’re planning to go back and forth between a home in the Netherlands and a home in the US, it’s easy to use a Schengen visa, which allows for stays up to 90 days at a time. US citizens do not need to apply for a visa before arriving in the Netherlands.
US citizens also don’t need to apply for a provisional residence permit (MVV) if they want to stay longer than 90 days.
Alternatively, if you move to the Netherlands before you retire, you may be able to apply for residency as a highly skilled migrant worker or as a self-employed person.
What are my healthcare options in the Netherlands?
Healthcare in the Netherlands is excellent, ranking #4 in the world by the World Index of Healthcare Innovation for quality, choice, affordability, technology, and fiscal sustainability.
The Netherlands has a universal healthcare system funded by taxes, social security contributions, mandatory health insurance, and co-payments. When you move to the Netherlands, you’ll pay all of these.
For self-employed individuals, your yearly payment will be a 5.43% tax of your income. On top of that, you’ll be required to register for basic health insurance, which will cost between €145.95 and €177.50 per month. You’ll make co-payments for visits and have a deductible up to €385 per year. It’s not free, but when compared with costs in the United States, it’s quite reasonable.
You may also want to obtain supplemental health insurance to cover additional costs beyond what basic health insurance covers.
Is it safe to retire in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands is a good place to retire because it has an exceptionally low crime rate, making it considerably safe.
However, busy city areas can attract petty crime, and retirees are encouraged to exercise caution.
What is the housing market in the Netherlands?
Currently, the Dutch housing market is poised for an exciting shift due to reduced mortgage rates, increased wage growth, and other favorable economic factors. However, expect finding housing in the Netherlands to be very challenging.
Renting an apartment, you’ll find the average prices around these numbers:
- 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: €1,391.81 ($1,622.72)
- 1-bedroom apartment outside the city center: €1,140.33 ($1,329.52)
- 3-bedroom apartment in the city center: €2,318.10 ($2,702.76)
- 3-bedroom apartment outside the city center: €1,848.05 ($2,154.65)
It’s common for apartments to be rented out the day they’re listed and for more than the asking price.
Buyers may be in a slightly better position as many landlords are choosing to sell off their rentals due to higher taxes and increased restrictions on renting.
In the Netherlands, the most recent data from housing transactions in 2025 revealed an average home sale price of €474,234 ($552,914).
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