Netherlands

Cost of Living in Rotterdam

Monthly expenses, rent & budget analysis — Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates

COL+Rent: 47Rent: 31Groceries: 52.3Restaurant: 53.4

Monthly Budget Estimates

Minimal

$1,614/mo

Outside-center room, basic groceries, public transit

Typical

$2,187/mo

City-center 1BR, regular groceries & dining out

Comfortable

$2,709/mo

Premium apartment, frequent dining, entertainment

Monthly Costs Breakdown

CategoryCost (USD)
Rent (1BR City Center)$1,378
Rent (1BR Outside Center)$1,082
Groceries (monthly)$299
Restaurant Meal$17
Transit Pass (monthly)$87
Utilities (monthly)$168

Source: Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · Reviewed April 2026

Can You Afford Rotterdam?

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to live in Rotterdam?
A minimal monthly budget in Rotterdam is approximately $1,614, a typical budget is $2,187, and a comfortable lifestyle costs around $2,709 per month.
How much is rent in Rotterdam?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Rotterdam city center costs approximately $1,378/month. Outside the center, expect around $1,082/month.
Is Rotterdam expensive compared to New York?
Rotterdam's COL+Rent Index is 47 compared to New York's 100, meaning Rotterdam is about 53% cheaper than NYC overall.
What is the average grocery cost in Rotterdam?
Monthly groceries in Rotterdam cost approximately $299. The city's Groceries Index is 52.3 (NYC = 100).