Utrecht

Moving to Utrecht

Utrecht is the fourth largest city in the Netherlands and is centrally located in the country. The city is known for its beautiful canals, student atmosphere and excellent accessibility. Utrecht is growing rapidly, especially around the Leidsche Rijn area.

inhabitants
374,000
Province
Utrecht
companies active
94
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Utrecht in numbers

How Utrecht compares to the other cities we have a guide for.

What moving to Utrecht costs

Supply per service in Utrecht

Neighborhoods and neighbourhoods

The city center of Utrecht is compact and atmospheric with wharf cellars along the canals. Lombok and the Rivierenwijk are multicultural neighborhoods with a lively atmosphere. Wittevrouwen and Oudwijk are popular with families.

Leidsche Rijn is the largest new construction district in the Netherlands and offers modern homes with lots of greenery. De Uithof (Utrecht Science Park) attracts students and knowledge workers.

Cost of living

Utrecht is the second most expensive city in the Netherlands. Rental prices in the private sector are between 1,200 and 1,900 euros per month. The city center is the most expensive. Leidsche Rijn and Vleuten-De Meern offer relatively more space for your money.

Education

Utrecht is home to Utrecht University (the largest in the Netherlands), the Utrecht University of Applied Sciences and the High School for the Arts. There are more than 120 primary schools and several international options, including the International School Utrecht.

Healthcare

The UMC Utrecht is the largest academic hospital in the Netherlands. There is also the Diakonessenhuis and the St. Antonius Hospital (Leidsche Rijn). The city has a good network of general practices.

Accessibility and transport

Utrecht Centraal is the largest train station in the Netherlands - from Utrecht you can reach every city in the country within an hour. The light rail connects the city center with Nieuwegein and IJsselstein. Cycling is king in Utrecht, with wide cycle paths and the largest bicycle shed in the world at the station.

Moving tips for Utrecht

The city center of Utrecht has narrow streets and steep stairs - a moving lift is often necessary here. You can apply for parking exemptions via utrecht.nl. Moving in Leidsche Rijn is logistically easier thanks to wider roads and lifts.

Moving tips

  • Start looking for a home early - Utrecht has a tight housing market.
  • Apply for a parking exemption in time, especially in the city center.
  • Take out an OV-fiets subscription - Utrecht Central Station is the hub of the Netherlands.
  • Consider Leidsche Rijn if you are looking for more space at an affordable price.

Frequently asked questions

Is Utrecht expensive to live in?
Utrecht is the second most expensive city in the Netherlands. Expect rental prices of 1,200-1,900 euros in the private sector. Leidsche Rijn and Vleuten-De Meern are relatively more affordable.
What makes Utrecht attractive to move to?
The central location, compact city center, excellent public transport, university and cozy atmosphere make Utrecht particularly popular. From Utrecht you can be anywhere in the Netherlands within an hour.

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