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Discover Haarlem: Find the Perfect Rental Neighborhood

3 weeks ago
haarlemrental
6 minutes reading time
A view of Haarlem, taken from a canal. Traditional Dutch buildings line the waterfront.

Discover Haarlem: Find the Perfect Rental Neighborhood

Discover Haarlem and Its Neighborhoods

Have you ever considered living in the city of Haarlem? Situated in the north east and just over 30 minutes from Amsterdam, this city is rich in history and brimming with cultural activities. Located on the Spaarne river, it’s given the nickname of Spaarnestad (Spaarne city), while its famous tulip flower parades give way to the affectionate nickname Bloemenstad (flower city).

It’s no wonder it’s one of the most sought-after places to live in the Netherlands. Haarlem offers a fantastic blend of historical charm and modern convenience. From the oldest museum in the Netherlands, the Teylers Museum, to bustling plazas like the Grote Markt, there’s something for everyone.

The city is divided into various neighbourhoods, each with its own unique atmosphere and amenities. Whether you’re looking for a quiet area with lots of greenery or a lively district full of nightlife options, Haarlem has it all. Let’s look at some of the best neighborhoods to rent in Haarlem.

Popular Neighborhoods and Their Features

One of the most beloved Haarlem neighborhoods is the historic city centre. Here, you’ll find stunning historic buildings, cosy cafés, and a wide range of shops. The city centre is perfect for people who want to live in the heart of the action and enjoy a vibrant atmosphere.

Another popular neighborhood is Haarlem-Noord. Known for its spacious homes and green surroundings, this area is ideal for families and those seeking a peaceful living environment. In addition, Haarlem-Noord has excellent public transport connections, making it easy to reach the city centre or other parts of Haarlem.

Haarlem Oost is a diverse and evolving area that offers a mix of older homes and newer developments, making it an attractive choice for young families and first-time renters. It’s more affordable compared to other parts of Haarlem and boasts excellent public transport connections to the city centre and Amsterdam, as well as access to green spaces like Schoterbos park.

Haarlem Zuid-West is a peaceful, residential neighbourhood popular with families and professionals seeking a quieter lifestyle. Known for its spacious homes and proximity to parks such as Haarlemmerhout, this area provides a perfect balance of tranquillity and accessibility to Haarlem’s surrounding suburbs, including Heemstede.

Haarlem-Schalkwijk is the city’s largest residential area, offering a mix of older homes and modern apartments at more affordable prices compared to central Haarlem. This neighborhood is known for its strong sense of community and ample shopping opportunities, including the popular Schalkwijk Shopping Centre.

Haarlem Station – a gray brick building with 'Haarlem' inscribed, flanked by two crests. Below, green glass offers a look into the station.

Rental Prices and Availability

Haarlem rental prices can vary significantly depending on the neighborhood and the type of property. In the historic city centre, prices are generally higher due to its popularity and central location. You can expect to pay between €1,200 and €2,500 per month for an apartment here.

In areas like Haarlem-Noord, rental prices are somewhat lower, with averages ranging from €900 to €1,800 per month. The availability of rental properties can fluctuate, but with tools like Rentbird to keep you up to date on listings, it’s never been easier to find a suitable home.

Rental prices can also depend on the type of property you're looking to rent. It may be harder to find a studio in a busy city like Haarlem, but if you keep your criteria open, the higher your chances will be.

Pros and Cons of Each Neighbourhood

The historic city centre is perfect for those who love being in the heart of the action, with plenty of shops, cafés, and cultural attractions. However, the high rental prices and constant buzz might not suit those seeking peace and quiet. Haarlem-Noord offers a more spacious and green environment, ideal for families and nature lovers, with the added benefit of lower rents—though its distance from the centre may be a drawback for some.

In Haarlem-Oost, renters will find a mix of affordability and convenience, with good transport links and access to green spaces, though it lacks the historic charm of other areas. Zuid-West provides a tranquil, suburban feel with easy access to parks like Haarlemmerhout, making it great for families, but it is further removed from the city’s lively centre. Meanwhile, Schalkwijk stands out for its affordability and strong sense of community, though it doesn’t have the same picturesque appeal as Haarlem’s older neighbourhoods. Each area offers its own unique blend of advantages and challenges, catering to a variety of lifestyles and budgets.

Tips for Finding a Rental Property in Haarlem

Finding a rental property in Haarlem can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can secure a suitable home. Here are some tips to get you started:

 • Use rental property search services like Rentbird to receive instant notifications of new listings that meet your criteria.

 • Be flexible with your search criteria. Sometimes, a small adjustment in your preferences can lead to more available options.

 • Prepare for viewings and ensure you have all necessary documents ready.

 • Consider setting up a search for multiple neighborhoods to increase your chances. For a detailed step-by-step guide, check out the step-by-step plan for finding rental properties.

With these tips and the right tools, you can find the perfect rental property in Haarlem. Whether you choose the lively city centre or the tranquil surroundings of Haarlem-Noord, there’s always a neighborhood that suits your needs.

The Takeaway

If you’ve been researching, wondering, ‘Is Haarlem a nice place to live?’ look no further.

Haarlem is a city that offers something for everyone, from the bustling historic city centre to the peaceful, green neighborhood of Haarlem-Noord. The variety of apartments in Haarlem and rental prices makes it possible to find a home that perfectly matches your lifestyle. Start your search for a rental property in Haarlem today and discover why this city is so beloved.

If you're ready to take the next step, use Rentbird to find the best rental properties in Haarlem and make this beautiful city your new home.

Amy Worgan

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