Housing: The Biggest Expense

Student housing costs can differ greatly based on location:

• Amsterdam / Utrecht / Rotterdam: €500–€800 per month
• Smaller cities (e.g., Groningen, Eindhoven): €350–€600 per month

Most students live in shared apartments, student housing, or private rooms. It’s common to start your housing search early, as accommodation can be competitive, especially in larger cities. More on housing

Food & Groceries

The average student spends about €180–€250 per month on food. Cooking at home is the most affordable option, with Dutch supermarkets like Albert Heijn, Lidl, and Jumbo offering a wide variety of products.

• Basic lunch: €5–€10
• Dinner at a mid-range restaurant: €12–€20
• Coffee: €2.50–€4.00

Transportation

Most Dutch students use bicycles as their main mode of transport. A used bike can cost €100–€250 upfront.

• Public transport (if needed): €40–€100/month, depending on travel frequency
• OV-chipkaart (public transport card) is essential

Students under 18 or EU citizens may access transport discounts, and some universities offer deals.

Books & Study Materials

Expect to spend €200–€400 per year on books, depending on your course. Many students save money by buying second-hand or sharing resources.

Internet & Mobile Phone

• Internet (shared): €10–€20/month per person
• Mobile plan: €10–€30/month, depending on data usage

Internet & Mobile Phone

• Internet (shared): €10–€20/month per person
• Mobile plan: €10–€30/month, depending on data usage

Insurance

Health insurance is mandatory.

EU/EEA students with European Health Insurance Cards may not need extra coverage.

Non-EU students usually require Dutch student insurance: around €40–€120/month, depending on provider and coverage.

Leisure & Personal Spending

• Gym membership: €20–€40/month
• Streaming (e.g., Netflix): €8–€15/month
• Social activities, cinema, events: €50–€100/month (varies)

TOTAL COST

€800–€1,400

Tip: Budget more for Amsterdam and The Hague, and less for cities like Enschede or Maastricht.