Rental homes in Blokhuisplein, Leeuwarden
Discover the current rental property listings in Blokhuisplein and compare prices, neighbourhood data, and resident reviews on one clear page.
Rental prices and market figures for Blokhuisplein, Leeuwarden
Blokhuisplein is one of the most pronounced rental markets in Leeuwarden: as much as 96% of the housing stock consists of rental properties, compared to just 4% owner-occupied homes. Of those rental properties, 69% are owned by housing associations, meaning social housing sets the tone here. The remaining 27% falls under other landlords, including private and commercial parties.
In the free sector (excluding social housing), the average rent in Blokhuisplein over the past year was €833 per month, with a range of €610 to €1,295 per month. The average property size was 119 m², resulting in a rent of approximately €7 per m² per month. That is modest compared to many other city-centre locations in the Netherlands. The WOZ value is €134,000, clearly lower than the district average of the Binnenstad (€157,000) and significantly below the municipal average of Leeuwarden (€234,000). This reflects the character of the neighbourhood: relatively affordable, with a large share of social housing. For the current supply and daily average rent, see the overview at the top of this page.
Living in Blokhuisplein, Leeuwarden
Blokhuisplein is a compact, urban neighbourhood in the heart of Leeuwarden, directly adjacent to the historic centre. The name refers to the striking Blokhuispoort complex, a former sixteenth-century prison that has been converted into a vibrant cultural hotspot with studios, catering and events. This combination of historic architecture and new use gives the neighbourhood its own unmistakable character.
The buildings largely consist of older city properties, many of them apartments in former residential and commercial buildings. New construction is scarce; the neighbourhood exudes the atmosphere of an old city centre with narrow streets, varied facades and little greenery at street level. With 570 residents and 332 homes, it is a small, densely built neighbourhood. The vast majority of households are single-person (410 out of approximately 500 households), and 48% of residents are between 25 and 45 years old. Students and young adults are strongly represented, partly due to the proximity of the NHL Stenden complex and the city-centre location.
Facilities in Blokhuisplein
Daily shopping can be done within walking distance: the city centre of Leeuwarden, including an Albert Heijn on the Nieuwestad and various specialist shops, is just around the corner. For a wider supermarket selection, the Zaailand shopping centre is a short bike ride away. Primary schools are available in the broader city centre; for secondary education and vocational/university colleges, several institutions are reachable within a few minutes by bike. Sports facilities are limited within the neighbourhood itself, but the Cambuurstadion and various sports clubs are a short distance away. The Blokhuispoort offers a unique cultural programme with exhibitions, concerts and a lively catering strip. For daily entertainment, terraces and shops, the city centre is directly accessible.
Accessibility
Leeuwarden station is about a ten-minute walk away, with direct trains to Groningen, Zwolle and Harlingen. Several bus lines stop in or directly near the neighbourhood, making the rest of the city easily accessible. By bike, you can reach the Wilhelminaplein or the Oldehove within five minutes. Car drivers can quickly access the N31 towards Sneek and the A32 towards Meppel via the Wirdumerdijk and the Harlingerstraatweg. Parking in the neighbourhood is largely paid or permit-based; private parking space at homes is rare. If you travel by car daily, it is advisable to check this in advance.
Residents appreciate the central location and lively environment, but also point out the parking pressure and limited greenery. One resident writes on the neighbourhood page of Blokhuisplein: "Everything is close by here, but it is not the quietest place to live. For those who love urban living, it is fine." Compared to the nearby neighbourhood Oldehove, which has a slightly more residential character, Blokhuisplein is more distinctly a place where living and urban activity intermingle. Nieuwestad borders it directly and has a more commercial character with a higher retail offering.
Does renting in Blokhuisplein suit you?
Blokhuisplein mainly attracts young singles, students and starters who want to live centrally without having to cycle far. Families with children or people seeking peace and space will feel less at home here. The share of social housing is high, but waiting lists at housing associations in Leeuwarden can be long. Register in time via the regional associations. For free-sector rental properties in Blokhuisplein, it is wise to respond quickly: supply is limited and demand from young adults and starters is structurally present. Prepare your documents (payslips, employer's statement) in advance. Those considering buying can also look at owner-occupied homes in Blokhuisplein, although supply there is minimal. Also check the available rental properties in the broader rental properties in Binnenstad if you want more choice.
What residents say about Blokhuisplein
Residents generally rate Blokhuisplein positively for location and liveliness, but less enthusiastically for peace and parking convenience. The neighbourhood scores well on accessibility and facilities, partly thanks to its direct proximity to the city centre. One resident describes the atmosphere as: "Central, compact and always something to do, but not for everyone." See all reviews and scores per category on the reviews and neighbourhood data of Blokhuisplein. You won't find this kind of resident review anywhere else at neighbourhood level.
Compare rental properties in and around Blokhuisplein
Those considering renting an apartment in Blokhuisplein but also wanting to explore other options can look at surrounding neighbourhoods. De Waag and Grote Kerkbuurt offer a similar urban character, sometimes with a bit more space. For a different type of living environment, districts such as Oud-Oost or Sonnenborgh en omgeving are worth considering, with more greenery and a quieter streetscape. The full supply for the municipality can be found via rental properties in Leeuwarden. Buurtje.nl combines current housing supply with resident reviews and neighbourhood data, so you not only find a home but also know whether the neighbourhood suits you. More about the municipality can be found on the website of Leeuwarden municipality.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average rent in Blokhuisplein, Leeuwarden?
In the free sector (excluding social housing), the average rent in Blokhuisplein over the past year was €833 per month, with a range of €610 to €1,295 per month. The average property size was 119 m², which works out to about €7 per m² per month. Social housing is generally cheaper, but it requires registration and waiting lists with housing associations.
Are there social housing properties in Blokhuisplein?
Yes, Blokhuisplein has a high proportion of social housing: 69% of the housing stock is owned by housing associations. To qualify for a social housing property, you must be registered with a housing association active in Leeuwarden, such as WoonFriesland. Be prepared for waiting lists, as demand for affordable rental properties in the city centre is high.
What is it like to live in Blokhuisplein?
Blokhuisplein is a compact, urban neighbourhood right in the centre of Leeuwarden, with a lively character partly thanks to the Blokhuispoort as a cultural hub. Residents appreciate the central location and the level of amenities, but also mention parking pressure and limited green space as drawbacks. The neighbourhood mainly attracts young singles and starters.
Is Blokhuisplein suitable for students and starters?
Blokhuisplein is particularly a neighbourhood for students and young starters. Nearly half of the residents are between 25 and 45 years old, and more than 80% of households are single-person. The proximity to NHL Stenden, the station and the city centre makes it attractive for those who want to live centrally without a car. Families with children or people seeking peace and quiet are less suited to the character of this neighbourhood.
How accessible is Blokhuisplein?
Leeuwarden station is about a ten-minute walk away, with connections to Groningen, Zwolle and Harlingen. Several bus routes run through or near the neighbourhood. By bike, you are in the city centre within five minutes. By car, you have quick access to the N31 and A32 via the Wirdumerdijk. Parking is paid or permit-based; private parking space at properties is rare.
What amenities are there in Blokhuisplein?
Daily shopping is possible within walking distance via supermarkets in the city centre, including an Albert Heijn on the Nieuwestad. The Blokhuispoort offers culture, hospitality and events. Primary and secondary schools are available in the wider city centre. Sports facilities are limited in the neighbourhood itself, but are widely available within a short bike ride.
How quickly are rental properties rented out in Blokhuisplein?
The free sector rental supply in Blokhuisplein is limited: 22 free sector properties were rented out over the past year. Due to the combination of a small stock and constant demand from young adults and starters, it is wise to respond quickly to new listings. Make sure you have documents such as payslips and an employer's statement ready to respond immediately.
