When moving to the Netherlands, expats often look at Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or The Hague. But have you heard about Breda? This charming city in the south combines history, culture, and affordability, making it an attractive alternative for professionals and families alike.

Located just 30 minutes from Rotterdam and an hour from Amsterdam, Breda offers a high quality of life with less hustle and bustle. Whether you’re looking for an apartment in the city center, a spacious family home in a green neighborhood, or simply a more affordable option than the big cities, Breda is worth considering.

The Breda housing market

Breda’s housing market is competitive but still significantly more affordable than Amsterdam or Rotterdam. The average rent prices:

Studio Apartment – €900 - €1,200
One-Bedroom Apartment – €1,100 - €1,600
Family Home – €1,800 - €2,800

According to DutchReview, Breda comes out on top for highest disposable income in the Netherlands, due to high wages, lower cost of living, and lower rent than some of the big cities. Not bad, right?

Remember, Dutch apartments can vary dramatically depending on if they’re unfurnished (kaal), semi-furnished (gestoffeerd), or fully furnished (gemeubileerd). Unfurnished sometimes means no flooring, insulation, or even light fixtures! If you want to learn more about the sometimes confusing world of Dutch rentals, check out our blog all about it.

Check out the blog

Best neighborhoods for expats

Finding the right neighborhood is essential, and Breda has something for everyone:

Ginneken – A picturesque, upmarket neighborhood ideal for families. Its proximity to Mastbos Forest makes it perfect for those who love nature. Expect charming streets, boutique shops, and a relaxed vibe.
Belcrum – A former industrial area turned hipster hub, Belcrum is popular with young professionals and creatives. It’s close to the central train station, has a thriving arts scene, and is constantly developing.
City Center – If you love being in the heart of the action, Breda’s historic city center is a great choice. The Grote Markt with its sunny terraces and outdoor seating is always a good idea if you want to grab a bite to eat. With its blend of medieval and modern architecture, canals, and vibrant nightlife, you’ll never be bored. However, space is limited, and rental prices here tend to be higher.
Haagse Beemden – A more budget-friendly, suburban neighborhood with plenty of green space. This area is ideal for families who want more room for their money while still being well-connected to the city.

Cost of living: How Breda compares

One of Breda’s biggest advantages is its lower cost of living compared to Amsterdam or Rotterdam.

Housing – 54.9% cheaper than Amsterdam, according to Numbeo
Groceries – Expect to spend around €50-€80 per week
Dining Out – A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs €15-€25

While not as cheap as some smaller Dutch towns, Breda offers a great balance between affordability and amenities, making it an excellent choice for expats looking to enjoy Dutch life without breaking the bank.

Getting around

Like most Dutch cities, Breda is incredibly bike-friendly. Many locals commute to work and run errands on two wheels. If biking isn’t your thing, the city also has an efficient bus system, and Rotterdam is just 30 minutes away by train.

For those who frequently travel, Breda’s location is ideal—Antwerp, Brussels, and even Paris are easily accessible by train, making weekend trips abroad effortless. You might want to invest in an NS card if you're always on the go to other cities.

Things to see and do in Breda

Beyond housing and cost of living, what’s life actually like in Breda? The city is filled with hidden gems and local landmarks that make living here enjoyable.

1. The Church of Our Lady (Grote Kerk)

Breda’s iconic Gothic cathedral, dating back to the 15th century, dominates the city skyline. Whether you’re admiring it from a café terrace or exploring the stunning interior, it’s a must-see.

2. The Polish war tank

An unexpected but touching landmark, this Panther tank commemorates the Polish troops who liberated Breda in WWII. It’s a great reminder of the city’s international connections and rich history.

3. Willem III (William of Orange) statue
An iconic statue to locals, this statue of the future King of England is one of Breda’s most recognisable landmarks, and a fun photo opportunity.

4. Valkenberg Park

Right next to the city center, this green oasis is a favorite for families, joggers, and picnickers. If you love nature but don’t want to leave the city, this is the perfect spot to unwind. Don’t forget to feed the ducks!

5. Day trips from Breda

Thanks to its excellent location, Breda is a gateway to Antwerp (45 mins), Rotterdam (30 mins), and even Efteling—the Netherlands’ biggest theme park.

Is Breda Right for You?

If you’re looking for:

✅ A more affordable alternative to Amsterdam and Rotterdam

✅ A city with charm, history, and green spaces

✅ A less stressful housing market

✅ A well-connected location for travel

…then Breda could be your perfect new home!

How can I find a rental property in Breda?

One of the biggest challenges for expats moving to the Netherlands is securing a rental. High demand and limited supply mean properties go fast, often within hours of being listed.

That’s where Rentbird comes in. We use AI-powered search bots that scan over 1,400 property websites 24/7 and alert you when a new rental that fits your criteria becomes available. Instead of spending hours refreshing websites or dealing with language barriers, Rentbird gives you an edge in the housing market.

Want to secure a home faster? Try Rentbird and beat the competition.

Amy Worgan

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