Ever tried comparing the cost of living in the Netherlands with other EU nations? Isn’t it one of the most affordable European nations for an international student? QS Top Universities shares that you will need somewhere between €800 and €1,000 per month in living expenses in the Netherlands.
A relatively affordable living cost, complemented by good part-time opportunities and pay, makes studying in the Netherlands one of the best student-friendly destinations.
Cost of Living in the Netherlands for Indian Students-2024 Updated
The living costs in the Netherlands for Indian students range from €975 to €1500 per month. This includes:
Transportation: This covers your monthly expenses for a Netherlands public transport pass and occasional taxi rides.
Utilities: These are your basic monthly bills for electricity, water, heating, and garbage collection in an average-sized apartment.
Accommodation: We've listed the average costs for one-bedroom and three-bedroom apartments both in the city center and outside it.
Category
Monthly Cost (Euros)
Monthly Cost (INR)
Food
Meals and groceries
258 - 310
14,000 - 15,000
Accommodation
Apartment (1 bedroom) in City
1,362.66
123,744.52
Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside city
1,086.50
98,666.15
Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City
2,141.98
194,515.35
Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside city
1,711.79
155,449.36
Transportation
Basic one-way public transport
102
9,269.45
Utilities
Basic utilities for 85m² apartment
224.43
19,525.41
Source: Numbeo
Top Universities in the Netherlands
Technical, scientific, engineering, and research-oriented courses are well-regarded in the Netherlands, offering graduate, postgraduate, and doctoral degree programs to Indian students. According to the current QS Rankings 2025, five institutions in the Netherlands are among the world’s top-ranked universities:
Name of the University
QS WUR Rankings 2025
Delft University of Technology
49
University of Amsterdam
55
Utrecht University
105
Eindhoven University of Technology
136
Leiden University
141
Wageningen University & Research
155
These universities boast world-class facilities, a vibrant & diverse student culture, and internationally qualified teachers. With its ever-improving structure and appreciation for talent, the Netherlands attracts students globally for its impressive and adaptive culture.
Delft, Utrecht, Leiden, and Amsterdam universities are among the sixteen public universities offering scholarships to international students. They provide over forty undergraduate and postgraduate English degrees, with some, like the University of Amsterdam and Leiden University, offering over 100 programs. Tuition fees for Indian students range from ₹65,000 to ₹1,50,00,000 annually, varying based on nationality.
2. Private University Tuition Fees
Holland boasts over sixty private universities offering various degree programs to Indian students. Private schools charge higher tuition than public schools ranging from 1500 to 2000 EUR per year approximately INR 1,27,000 to 1,70,000). Business colleges range from 5000 to 7000 EUR annually approximately INR 4,20,000 to 5,90,000).
3. Scholarships
Leading universities in the Netherlands offer scholarships alongside excellent infrastructure and teaching faculty. Scholarships consider students' country of origin, financial situation, and academic qualifications. Indian students aiming to study in the EU, like the Netherlands, can apply for Erasmus Mundus scholarships.
Cost of Accommodation/housing in the Netherlands
The cost of accommodation in the Netherlands is around €400 to €800 per month in 2023. Here are the options available and their associated living expenses in the Netherlands:
On-Campus Accommodation
Most universities in the Netherlands do not have dormitories, so students typically arrange their own housing. Many universities partner with housing providers and local agencies to support students, ensuring access to safe, comfortable, and convenient living arrangements. Reserved spots in various housing facilities are often available through these partnerships.
Off-Campus Accommodation
Most international students in the Netherlands opt to rent rooms in student houses, which accommodate 3 to 6 individuals. The accommodation and living costs vary based on location, size, and furnishing chosen by the student.
Housing Type
Rent per Month (€)
Rent per Month (INR)
Private Room
550-950
50008.32-86378.01
Private Room in Amsterdam
955
86832.63
University Housing
University Housing is another option for students in the Netherlands. While universities do not have on-campus accommodation, they collaborate with housing dealers to offer student housing. Thecost and facilities of university housing are generally similar to privately owned options.
Monthly Rent
Room Type
Rent per month (€)
Rent per month (INR)
Self-contained
650-900
56,000-78,000
Shared facilities
450-750
39,000-65,00
Room and Inventory
All rooms are fully furnished, ensuring a comfortable stay. Depending on the room type, you may have a private kitchen, shower, and toilet or share these facilities with other students. Upon arrival, you will receive a bed linen set and basic kitchen inventory package, making it easy to settle in right away.
University Housing Types and Pricing
Room Type
Description
Rent per Month (€)
Rent per Month (INR)
Shared Room with Shared Facilities
Shared bedroom with shared kitchen and bathroom
400-500
36,400-45,500
Private Room with Shared Facilities
Private bedroom with shared kitchen and bathroom
500-610
45,500-55,420
Private Room with Private Facilities
Private bedroom with private kitchen and bathroom
610-750
55,420-68,150
Larger Private Room (Suitable for Couples)
Larger private room with private facilities
750-1000
68,150-91,200
Cost of food and drinks in the Netherlands
The Netherlands offers affordable prices for everyday necessities. Supermarkets provide budget-friendly options for regular grocery shopping. Dining out can also be economical, with a range of prices to suit different budgets, from inexpensive meals to mid-range restaurant dining. Here’s a breakdown of average costs for common food and drink items:
Item
Average Price (€)
Average Price (INR)
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
9.00-25.00
785-2,178
Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant
50.00-110.00
4,350-8,580
McMeal at McDonalds (Combo Meal)
9.50-14.00
785-1,027
Cappuccino (regular)
2.00-4.58
177-344
Coke/Pepsi (0.33 liter bottle)
2.00-3.50
147-266
Water (0.33 liter bottle)
1.80-3.00
118-221
Milk (regular, 1 liter)
0.95-1.50
86.41-136.44
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)
1-3
90.96-272.88
Rice (white, 1kg)
1.40-3.23
127.34-293.80
Eggs (regular, 12)
2.40-4.80
218.30-436.60
Chicken Fillets (1kg)
7-14.97
636.71-1361.66
Cost of transportation in the Netherlands
The table below provides an overview of the average costs associated with public transit in the Netherlands. This includes prices for one-way tickets, monthly passes, and taxi fares, as well as the cost of gasoline and a new Toyota Corolla Sedan. These figures will help you budget for your transportation needs while studying abroad.
Item
Average Price (€)
Average Price (INR)
One-way Ticket (Local Transport)
2.10-5.00
236-413
Monthly Pass (Regular Price)
55.00-150.00
5,324-11,406
Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)
3.50
327.16
Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff)
2.40
218.10
Taxi 1 hour Waiting (Normal Tariff)
27.00
2,476.40
Gasoline (1 liter)
1.93
175.39
Toyota Corolla Sedan 1.6l 97kW Comfort (New Car)
26,000.00-34,662.00
2,234,224-2,584,456
Cost of Healthcare in the Netherlands
The Netherlands has a universal healthcare system managed by the government and private insurers. All adults living or working in the country must obtain basic health insurance from a Dutch provider, costing around €100-120 per month.
The basic plan covers standard care, such as GP visits and hospital stays, with additional treatments available for an extra fee. Healthcare allowances exist for low earners, and children under 18 are covered under their parents' insurance.
Here are some common healthcare costs in the Netherlands:
Description
Price (€)
Price Range (INR)
Basic insurance plan
100
9,081.10
One-night hospital stay (bed only)
145
13,167.60
Emergency room
256
23,247.62
Medical consultation during working hours
47
4,268.12
Medical consultation outside of working hours
92
8,354.61
Health insurance in the Netherlands for overseas students
So, when is health insurance in the Netherlands required, and when is it not? As previously noted, it is entirely dependent on your circumstances:
Short-term International Students: If the Dutch government does not consider you a resident, you typically do not need Dutch health insurance.
Non-EU/EEA Students: If you are from a non-EU/EEA country and are not working or interning, you cannot get Dutch public health insurance. In this case, purchasing private health insurance is the best alternative.
Cost of Living in the Netherlands Compared to India
When comparing the cost of living between India and the Netherlands, significant disparities become evident. Consumer prices, especially for rent, groceries, and dining, are notably higher in the netherlands.
Transportation costs are significantly elevated, with housing expenses particularly steep, especially in city centers. For instance, while the local purchasing power in the Netherlands is stronger, everyday expenses are also higher.
This comprehensive overview showcases the substantial variances in living expenses between the two countries.
Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data
€22.55
(₹2,028.51)
₹313.98
Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data)
€40.76
(₹3,666.99)
₹696.29
Rent Per Month
Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre
€1,369.95
(₹123,233.46)
₹17,197.84
Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre
1,089.64 €
(₹98,017.76)
₹10,832.42
Buy Apartment Price
Price per Square Meter to Buy an Apartment in the City
€5,616.18
(₹510,245.35)
₹149,545.72
Price per Square Meter to Buy an Apartment Outside the City
€4,024.43
(₹365,630.70)
₹82,745.59
Cost of Living In the Netherlands: City-wise Comparison
Navigating student life expenses in the Netherlands? This city-wise comparison offers approximate monthly living costs for Tilburg, Rotterdam, Delft, Utrecht, The Hague, and Amsterdam, providing insights into the varying expenses across vibrant Dutch cities.
City
Approx. Monthly Cost of Living (€)
Tilburg
€1,000 - €1,200
Rotterdam
€800 - €1,000
Delft
€800 - €1,100
Utrecht
€800 - €1,400
The Hague
€1,100 - €1,500
Amsterdam
€975 - €1,500
Tips to Save Costs in the Netherlands
Here are some tips for saving costs in the Netherlands:
Affordable Housing: Consider looking for housing outside of Amsterdam, Where rental prices tend to be lower. Cities like Groningen are known for being more affordable for students. Researching various housing options and locations can significantly impact your monthly expenses.
Establish a Budget for Essential Expenses: Create a budget that includes all necessary living expenses such as food, utilities, and communication. Having a clear understanding of your monthly expenditures will help you manage your finances more effectively.
Utilize Student Discounts: Make the most of student discounts available with your university or international student ID card. These discounts can help you save money on various expenses including dining out, entertainment, transportation, and cultural activities. Always inquire about student discounts wherever you go.
Seeking Part-Time Employment or Internships: Consider finding part-time employment or internships to supplement your income. Many universities and cities offer job opportunities specifically aimed at students. Not only will this help with your finances, but it can also provide valuable work experience and networking opportunities.
Prepare for Medical Expenses: It is essential to be prepared for medical expenses, as healthcare costs in the Netherlands can be high. Non-EU students should ensure they have medical insurance of their home country, as they are not eligible for the Dutch government’s health plan.
Work opportunities in the Netherlands For Students
If you begin working in the Netherlands during your studies, whether it is a part-time job, a paid internship, or volunteer work for which you are compensated, you will almost certainly be covered by the Wlz scheme (the Long-Term Care Act), which means you will be required to purchase Dutch health insurance. Please keep in mind that a zero-hour contract counts as a job.
SVB evaluation
If you are unsure whether the Wlz program covers you, you can seek a free assessment on the Sociale Verzekeringsbank’s website.
Will your home country’s health insurance cover you throughout your stay?
This is dependent on whether you are a member of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland:
Switzerland, the European Union, and the European Economic Area
You can apply for the European Health Insurance Card if you are from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland and plan to study in the Netherlands (EHIC). This card is free of charge, and it entitles you to free or subsidized medical care throughout Europe.
Conclusion
Studying in the Netherlands offers rich opportunities amid high living costs. Planning ahead and leveraging available resources can effectively manage expenses. While Dutch cities may be pricey, the country’s quality of life, social system, and cultural richness justify the investment. Adaptation to local practices and careful budgeting ensure a fulfilling experience without overspending.
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The cost of living in the Netherlands will depend on where you decide to reside. If you decide to stay in the Capital city, that is, Amsterdam, then it would cost you more as compared to other cities, which are comparatively less costly.
What is the average cost of living in the Netherlands?
For an Indian student, the average cost of living in the Netherlands can lie between €800 and €1,200 per month.
How much do you need to live in the Netherlands?
To live in the Netherlands without a steady income as a student, you would need significantly more funds compared to those with part-time or full-time employment. To cover expenses such as rent, food, and transportation, you'd require €800 and €1,200 per month.
What is the cost of living in the Netherlands for an Indian family?
Amsterdam, the Netherlands' capital, ranks 28th on Mercer's list of the most expensive cities to live in. The monthly cost of living in the Netherlands for an Indian family ranges from €2,610 to €4,770 (₹2,11,000 to ₹3,86,000). This includes expenses for housing, groceries, transportation, utilities, and other essentials for a comfortable family lifestyle.
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