Cost of Living: Amsterdam vs The Hague (2026)
Netherlands vs Netherlands — relocation comparison
Wise ✓ · Wise ✓
Sourced from Numbeo · Updated April 2026
Sources: Numbeo · UNODC · Ookla · WHO · EIU · World Bank · Freedom House · Updated April 2026
Settler Essentials
Visa stamps:Easy <90 daysModerate 3–6 moComplex 6+ mo
Sources: EIU · Freedom House · Startup Genome · IEA · official immigration portals
Reproductive Rights
Because your body shouldn't need a visa too
On request up to 24 weeks. 5-day reflection period removed in 2023.
On request up to 24 weeks. 5-day reflection period removed in 2023.
Source: Center for Reproductive Rights
The Short Version
- •Rent is 41% cheaper in The Hague ($1548/mo vs $2602/mo for a 1BR city centre).
- •Summers are slightly warmer in Amsterdam (20°C vs 20°C).
Amsterdam vs The Hague — Common Questions
Is Amsterdam cheaper than The Hague?▾
The Hague is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $1548/month in The Hague vs $2602/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, Amsterdam or The Hague?▾
The Hague is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Amsterdam has a rate of 0.73 per 100,000 and The Hague has 0.73 per 100,000.
Should I move to Amsterdam or The Hague?▾
The Hague edges ahead 74 to 66. Amsterdam isn't far behind — it depends what matters to you. See the full comparison above for rent, safety, internet speed, climate, and democracy scores to decide which city fits your priorities.
Is it easier to get residency in Amsterdam or The Hague?▾
Amsterdam: Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant (complex process, Up to 5 years). The Hague: Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant (complex process, Up to 5 years). See each city's profile page for full requirements.
What's the cost of rent in Amsterdam vs The Hague?▾
A 1-bedroom in the centre: $1548/month in The Hague, $2602/month in Amsterdam (Numbeo). That's 41% cheaper rent in The Hague.
Is healthcare better in Amsterdam or The Hague?▾
The Hague scores higher on Numbeo's Healthcare Index (83/100 vs 75/100 for Amsterdam). That index reflects resident perception of quality, cost, and access — not just whether hospitals exist but whether people trust them.
Plot twist: other matchups exist
Maybe the real city was the comparisons we made along the way.
Compare Amsterdam
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