Move to Amsterdam
Netherlands · Expat Guide for Tech Workers
Rent (1BR)
$1,800
Rent (2BR)
$2,500
Transport
$100/mo
Expat Community
5/5
🌟 Why Amsterdam?
- ✓ Nearly everyone speaks English - easiest non-English-speaking city for expats
- ✓ 30% ruling tax benefit significantly boosts net income
- ✓ World-class cycling infrastructure and compact, walkable city
- ✓ Strong tech scene (Booking.com, Uber, Adyen, TomTom)
🏠 Best Neighborhoods
De Pijp
Trendy, Albert Cuyp market, diverse restaurants
$2,000/mo
Jordaan
Charming canals, galleries, independent shops
$2,200/mo
Amsterdam-Oost
Multicultural, Oosterpark, up-and-coming
$1,800/mo
Amsterdam-Noord
Creative, NDSM wharf, affordable, ferry to center
$1,500/mo
✈ Airport
AMS (Amsterdam Schiphol)
☔ Weather
Maritime: mild summers (20C), cool winters (2C). Windy and rainy. Cycling in all weather.
🎓 Schools
Many options (Amsterdam International Community School, British School)
💻 Coworking
Abundant (WeWork, Spaces, TQ, B. Amsterdam)
✅ First Week Checklist
- Register at gemeente (municipality) for BSN number
- Get an OV-chipkaart for all public transport (or NS/GVB app)
- Buy or rent a bike immediately (Swapfiets, or second-hand)
- Open a bank account with BSN (ING, ABN AMRO, or Bunq)
- Apply for 30% ruling through your employer
🏗 Top Industries
Tech
Finance
Logistics
Creative
💰 Amsterdam Salary Insights
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Top tech salaries in Amsterdam