What Does It Really Cost to Live in The Hague?
The Hague consistently ranks as one of the most livable cities in Europe, but how much does it actually cost to live here? As of mid-2026, we have compiled a comprehensive breakdown of monthly expenses for expats and international residents in Den Haag.
Housing Costs
Rent remains the largest monthly expense. Prices have stabilized in 2026 after the post-pandemic surge, but The Hague remains slightly cheaper than Amsterdam and Utrecht.
| Apartment Type | City Center | Outside Center |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1-Bedroom | €1,100–€1,500 | €850–€1,200 |
| 2-Bedroom | €1,500–€2,200 | €1,200–€1,700 |
| 3-Bedroom (Family) | €1,900–€2,800 | €1,500–€2,200 |
Utilities (gas, electricity, water, internet): €200–€350/month depending on season and energy efficiency rating. A well-insulated apartment (energy label A or B) can save you €100+/month in winter.
Food and Groceries
Dutch supermarkets like Albert Heijn, Jumbo, and Lidl offer competitive prices. For a single person:
- Weekly groceries (basic): €50–€70
- Weekly groceries (premium/organic): €80–€120
- Monthly grocery total: €250–€450
Eating out:
- Lunch cafe: €10–€15
- Casual dinner (one person): €20–€30
- Mid-range restaurant (three courses for two): €60–€90
- Coffee (cappuccino): €3.50–€4.50
- Beer at a bar: €4.50–€6.50
Transportation
Most residents rely on bicycles for daily transport, but public transit remains essential for longer distances.
- Second-hand bike: €80–€250 (one-time)
- HTM monthly pass (The Hague buses and trams): €65–€90 depending on zones
- NS train The Hague–Amsterdam (monthly subscription): €250–€350
- Gasoline (per liter): €1.90–€2.10
- Car parking in city center: €3.50–€5.00/hour
Tip: Get an OV-chipkaart immediately upon arrival. It works on all public transport nationwide, and subscription discounts can save you 40% on off-peak train travel.
Healthcare
Health insurance is mandatory in the Netherlands. For expats:
- Basic health insurance (basisverzekering): €140–€160/month per adult
- Deductible (eigen risico): €385/year (mandatory minimum)
- Dental insurance (additional): €15–€30/month
- International health insurance (expat-specific): €200–€400/month
Many expats qualify for the 30% ruling tax benefit, which can significantly increase net income and offset healthcare costs.
Education and Childcare
International schools are expensive but offer high-quality education aligned with IB or British/American curricula:
- International School of The Hague: €5,000–€8,000/year
- European School The Hague: €4,500–€7,500/year (subsidized for EU staff)
- Daycare (kinderopvang, full-time): €1,200–€1,800/month (before government subsidy)
- After-school care (BSO): €400–€700/month
Dutch public schools are free and generally excellent, making them a great option for families planning long-term stays.
Sample Monthly Budgets
Single Expat (Living Modestly):
- Rent (studio outside center): €950
- Utilities & internet: €220
- Groceries: €280
- Health insurance: €150
- Transport: €80
- Entertainment & eating out: €200
- Miscellaneous: €120
- Total: €2,000/month
Expat Family of Four (Comfortable):
- Rent (3-bedroom, good area): €2,200
- Utilities & internet: €320
- Groceries: €650
- Health insurance (2 adults): €300
- International school (1 child): €550
- Daycare (1 child, after subsidy): €700
- Transport: €200
- Entertainment & eating out: €350
- Miscellaneous: €250
- Total: €5,520/month
Money-Saving Tips for Expats
- Apply for the 30% ruling if eligible—it can save thousands in taxes annually
- Shop at markets: The Haagse Markt is one of Europe’s largest outdoor markets with incredibly cheap produce
- Use Too Good To Go app: Get restaurant and supermarket surplus food at 70% discount
- Get a Museumkaart: €75/year for unlimited access to 400+ museums nationwide
- Cycle more: Every car trip avoided saves parking, fuel, and maintenance costs
The Hague offers excellent value compared to Amsterdam, London, or Paris while providing a comparable quality of life. With smart budgeting, expats can live very comfortably at €2,000–€3,000/month for a single person.
