Why choose Rotterdam over other major cities

In the Netherlands in 2026, the housing market has become a chess game where every move counts. As Amsterdam struggles with satiety and Utrecht reaches the limits of its growth, Rotterdam has reinvented itself as the most dynamic and future-proof city in the country. The question is no longer whether you are moving to the Randstad, but why you should live somewhere other than the Meuse city in 2026.

Rotterdam offers a unique mix of raw energy, innovative architecture and, crucially today, a better balance between costs and quality of life. In this article, we explore why Rotterdam will be the smartest choice for professionals, families and creatives in 2026.

Affordability: More bang for your buck

Although house prices continue to rise nationwide, the data from early 2026 shows a clear gap between the capital and the port city. An average home in Amsterdam currently costs around €678,500, while Rotterdam, with an average of around €562,367, offers considerably more breathing space.

• The “Square meter” factor: In Rotterdam, you will get an average of 15% to 20% more living space for the same budget in 2026 compared to Amsterdam or Utrecht. For families, this often means the difference between a cramped apartment and a fully-fledged single-family home with a garden in neighborhoods such as Blijdorp or Hillegersberg.
• Rental market regulation: In 2026, Rotterdam is fully committed to building more than 4,000 additional affordable rental homes. Due to strict performance agreements between the municipality and corporations, rent increases for middle incomes remain more limited here than in other major cities.

Architecture and the “City that's never done”

In 2026, Rotterdam will officially be one of the most innovative cities in Europe. Where other cities derive their identity from a historic center, Rotterdam derives it from the future.

• Iconic new construction: With the recent opening of projects such as the Fenix in Katendrecht and the further development of the Zalmhaven, the 2026 skyline offers homes that are technologically superior. Think of hyper-efficient insulation, circular building materials and integrated smart home systems.
• Climate adaptation: In 2026, Rotterdam will be a global leader in water management. With innovative roof gardens (70% of the roofs are flat and are now used for greenery and energy) and water squares, you live in a city that is better prepared for the climate challenges of the future than the low-lying canal belts elsewhere.

A booming job market: The hub of innovation

In 2026, Rotterdam will no longer be just “the port”. The city has been transformed into a European tech hub, partly due to the title of Innovation Capital of Europe.

• Sectors of the future: While Amsterdam is saturated with business services, Rotterdam will dominate the CleanTech, Hydrogen and Circular economy. This attracts a new generation of highly educated professionals who want to work on tangible solutions.
• Accessibility: With the super-fast train connections, Rotterdam will be the real hub of the Benelux in 2026. Brussels, Paris and London can be reached more directly and quickly from Rotterdam Central Station than from any other Dutch station.

Comparison: Living in Rotterdam vs. Amsterdam (January 2026)

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Feature                                                                         Rotterdam                                                     Amsterdam

Average purchase price                                  ± € 562,000                                          ± € 678,500

Rent 1-bedroom apartment (center)              ± € 1,520                                               ± € 2,200

Cost of living                                                    17% cheaper than Amsterdam             Most expensive in NL

Living atmosphere                                           Modern, spacious, raw                         Historic, busy, touristy

Innovation rating 2026                                    European Summit (iCapital)                 Established order

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Lifestyle: The city of festivals and culinary diversity

In 2026, Rotterdam was named the best festival city in the world for the third time. The city is brimming with energy that is less polished than in Utrecht or Amsterdam, making for a more authentic experience.

• Culinary revolution: From the revamped Market Hall to the rise of 'Zero-waste' restaurants in West's industrial heritage, Rotterdam offers a gastronomic scene that is more progressive than the capital's in 2026.
• Green in the city: Although Rotterdam has a stone image, the investments in the Hofbogen Park and the greening of the Coolsingel were completed in 2026. Here you will find a balance between urban living and accessible nature (Kralingse Bos) that is often only accessible to the very richest in Amsterdam.

The “Human dimension” in a global city

Despite the skyscrapers, Rotterdam often feels more personal in 2026. The neighborhoods have a strong identity of their own and the municipality is strongly committed to quality of life and social cohesion through the “Performance Agreements 2026-2027”.

• Less tourism: Where Amsterdam will fight against overtourism with strict restrictions in 2026, Rotterdam welcomes visitors and new residents with open arms. You are a resident here, not an extra in an open-air museum.
• Focus on the neighborhood: In 2026, an additional €35 million was made available for the quality of life in Rotterdam neighborhoods. This translates into cleaner streets, more neighborhood parks and better facilities for local entrepreneurs.

In conclusion: Rotterdam is the smart investment

Choosing Rotterdam in 2026 is choosing growth. You are investing in a city where prices still have room for a healthy increase, where air quality is improving faster than in the rest of the Randstad, and where you simply get more home for your euro.

Whether you fall for the futuristic skyline, the opportunities in the labor market or the down-to-earth “don't prank” mentality; in 2026, Rotterdam offers a total package that will easily win the competition with other major cities. It is the only city in the Netherlands where the future is not just being planned, but where you can already live in it.

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