Long Read

Best Suburbs in Amsterdam for Families and Young Professionals: A Messy Guide

@Silas Dean2/8/2026blog
Best Suburbs in Amsterdam for Families and Young Professionals: A Messy Guide

so, you're thinking about moving to amsterdam? cool. it's not all canals and tulips, but it's got its charm. let's dive into the best suburbs for families and young professionals. first off, safety. amsterdam ranks high on the global peace index, so you're good there. rent? well, it's not cheap. expect to shell out around €1,500 for a one-bedroom in the city center. but hey, you're not looking at the city center, right? let's talk weather. it's like a damp blanket today. gray skies, a chill in the air. but it's amsterdam, what do you expect? your neighbors? just a short flight away from the uk or a drive to germany. let's get to the good stuff.

*amstelveen

first up, amstelveen. it's got that suburban feel but with easy access to the city. schools are top-notch, and there's plenty of green space. the amstelveen subreddit is a goldmine for local tips. drunk advice from a local: "don't miss the amsterdamse bos. it's huge and perfect for a weekend picnic."

body of water under white sky


baarn

next, baarn. it's a bit further out but worth it for the quality of life. great schools, safe streets, and a strong sense of community. check out Yelp for local recs. overheard rumor: "the baarnse bos is magical in the fall. don't miss it."

black bicycle leaning on black metal fence


bussum

bussum is another solid choice. it's got a mix of old and new, with plenty of parks and cultural spots. the job market is strong, with tech and finance leading the way. something a local warned me about: "traffic can be a nightmare during rush hour. plan accordingly."

cost of living

let's talk money. here's a quick breakdown:

CategoryCost
Monthly Rent€1,200 - €1,800
Utilities€150 - €200
Groceries€200 - €300
Public Transport€90
Leisure€100 - €200


amsterdam central

if you're dead set on living in the city, check out the
jordan neighborhood. it's got that authentic amsterdam feel with plenty of cafes and shops. but be prepared to pay a premium. TripAdvisor has some great tips for exploring the area.

final thoughts*

amsterdam is a city of contrasts. it's got the old-world charm but with a modern edge. whether you're a family looking for good schools or a young professional chasing opportunities, there's a place for you. just be prepared for the weather and the rent. oh, and the bikes. there are a lot of bikes.


You might also be interested in:

About the author: Silas Dean

Sharing snippets of wisdom from my daily adventures.

Loading discussion...