Groningen is a city of contrasts. From bustling neighbourhoods around the centre to quiet new-build areas on the edge of the city. For some, liveliness and accessibility matter most; for others, peace and space, for example in the Stadspark of Groningen. The question, of course, is what residents themselves prefer.
We have investigated this based on residents' reviews. In this overview, you will discover which five neighbourhoods within the
Municipality of Groningen score highest according to the people who live there.
Our top 5 Best Neighbourhoods in Groningen
Noorddijk and surroundings – 8.6
A large neighbourhood on the eastern edge of the city with a remarkably high resident score. Noorddijk and surroundings is popular among people aged 25 to 45. The neighbourhood has over 7,500 homes, is relatively energy-efficient (8% below the national average) and scores above average on liveability.
Meerstad and surroundings – 8.0
A young neighbourhood by the water that is rapidly growing in popularity. Meerstad is modern, spacious and especially popular with young families. Energy consumption is 17% below average and according to the Leefbaarometer, liveability is average to good.
Oud-West – 7.9
This neighbourhood borders directly on the centre and scores well among young residents. Oud-West has a varied housing supply, a central location and energy consumption 12% lower than average. The Leefbaarometer rates the neighbourhood as average.
Oud-Noord – 7.8
Oud-Noord lies north of the centre and has more than 10,000 homes. The neighbourhood scores well among residents of different ages. Energy consumption is 24% below average. According to the Leefbaarometer, liveability is average to good.
Helpman and surroundings – 7.8
Helpman is in the south of the city and is popular with families and older people. The neighbourhood has over 10,000 homes and offers many amenities. Energy consumption is 6% below average and liveability is above average according to the Leefbaarometer.
How was this list compiled?
This top 5 is based on resident reviews on
Buurtje.nl (as of June 2025). Only neighbourhoods with at least three reviews were included. The scores reflect how residents experience their neighbourhood in terms of atmosphere, safety, amenities and overall living enjoyment.
In addition to these subjective reviews, data from the
Leefbaarometer of the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations was used. This tool assesses safety, housing stock, physical living environment and accessibility, among other things.
Together, these sources provide an up-to-date picture of the quality of living in Groningen's neighbourhoods.
Conclusion
Groningen is not just a fun student city. It offers a varied range of neighbourhoods and activities suitable for young and old. This keeps Groningen young and dynamic and ensures that most people really enjoy living in Groningen. Do you live in Groningen or are you looking for a new place to live in the city? Then check out all neighbourhoods and reviews on our site, take a look at the current
housing supply in Groningen or read our blog about
people moving from the Randstad to the north.
