Strong, codified tenant rights: indefinite contracts are now the norm and a Rent Tribunal (Huurcommissie) can rule on excessive rent or deposit disputes
Security deposits are legally capped at two months' basic rent for contracts since July 2023
Universal coverage via a regulated, government-defined standard package; insurers must accept all applicants at the same premium
High-performing system: per-capita health spending over 25% above the EU average (EUR 4,848 in 2023) and treatable mortality 34% below the EU average in 2022 (OECD 2025)

Watch out for

Very tight market in major cities means listings move within hours; viewings are competitive and landlords often screen heavily
Rental scams (fake listings, requests to pay a deposit before viewing) are common, especially on social media and informal channels
Short-stay nomads usually cannot join the Dutch public/statutory system: people with a pending residence-permit application cannot take out Dutch insurance, and those on study-only status are legally not allowed to take Dutch public insurance and must use private/foreign cover
Statutory insurance only becomes available (and compulsory) once you live or work in the Netherlands and have a BSN; holders of a residence permit must take it within four months of the permit coming into force

Cost of living

Amsterdam

€2,900–€4,300/mo