Rental homes in De Fryske Marren
View the current rental property supply in De Fryske Marren, from Joure to Lemmer and Balk. Compare prices, surface areas, and neighbourhood scores.
Renting a home in De Fryske Marren: between lakes, villages and a limited rental market
De Fryske Marren is a municipality where buying is the norm: 70% of the housing stock is owner-occupied, and only 30% is rental. Of those rental homes, the majority (23% of the total) are owned by housing associations, meaning the private sector here is relatively small. In the past twelve months, only 30 homes have been rented out in the private sector, at an average rent of €1,363 per month. The range runs from €895 to €1,750 per month, with an average floor area of 114 m². That is steep by Frisian standards, but you generally get space in return. Social housing through associations is considerably cheaper, but waiting lists are long. Want to see the current daily prices and available supply? Scroll to the overview at the top of this page.
The municipality consists of dozens of villages around the Frisian lakes, with Joure, Lemmer and Balk as the largest centres. Major employers are mainly in Joure (think Douwe Egberts/JDE) and in tourism around the lakes. Accessibility is reasonable: via the A6 and A7 you can reach Heerenveen or Sneek within half an hour, and the Frisian capital Leeuwarden can be reached in about 40 minutes. Public transport exists, but outside the main centres you are reliant on the car. That is something to keep in mind if you are looking for a rental home here.
Villages and neighbourhoods: where is the best place to rent in De Fryske Marren?
De Fryske Marren is not a city with clear neighbourhoods, but a patchwork of villages each with their own character. Residents give the municipality an average score of 7.9 on the De Fryske Marren municipal page, with notably high scores for safety (8.3), accessibility (8.3) and amenities (8.4). The score for green space is a disappointing 6.8, which is surprising for such a rural municipality, but probably relates to the open polder landscape that not everyone experiences as 'green'.
Balk, the village heart on the Luts
Balk is one of the larger villages and has a cosy centre with shops, eateries and a supermarket. The village lies on the water and attracts watersports enthusiasts in summer. Renting in Balk means village living with basic amenities within walking distance. Families appreciate the primary schools and the peaceful atmosphere. One resident writes that the community is close-knit and that you are quickly accepted if you take part in village life.
Lemmer, the gateway to the Frisian lakes
Lemmer is the most 'urban' village in the municipality, with a harbour, various shops and eateries along the lock. Here you will find relatively the most rental supply, though it remains limited. Lemmer scores well on amenities and accessibility: the A6 is nearby and there is a bus connection to Emmeloord and Heerenveen. For those wanting to rent an apartment in De Fryske Marren, Lemmer is often the first place to look, especially if you depend on amenities.
Joure, the beating heart of the municipality
Joure is effectively the main town and has the most amenities: a complete shopping centre, secondary schools, sports facilities and good connections via the A6 and A7. The village is known for the Jouster Merke and of course its coffee history. Rental homes in Joure are sought after and go quickly. The atmosphere is lively by Frisian standards, with a mix of young families and older residents.
In addition, there are the smaller villages each with their own charm. Echten and Delfstrahuizen lie on the edge of the Tjeukemeer and are popular with people seeking peace and space. Follega and Eesterga are truly small ribbon villages where supply is minimal, but the peace is complete. In Bakhuizen, on the edge of the Gaasterland hills, you live in one of the most beautiful landscapes in Friesland. The beauty score of 8.3 given by residents is clearly felt here. Those looking for more reviews and experiences from residents can visit the De Fryske Marren page where all ratings are collected.
Who is renting in De Fryske Marren suitable for, and who is it not?
Renting a home in De Fryske Marren best suits people who consciously choose the Frisian countryside. Think of homeworkers who prefer space and peace over city bustle, families who want their children to grow up in a safe environment (safety score: 8.3), or over-55s who appreciate the lakes and landscape. The largest age group in the municipality is 45-65 years, and the 65+ group is also strongly represented. That says something about the type of resident who is happy here.
Be honest with yourself: if you are looking for a vibrant nightlife, want to go to concerts or festivals regularly, or depend on good public transport, then De Fryske Marren is probably not your place. The rental supply in the private sector is small (30 rentals in a whole year), so you need to act quickly. Prepare your documents (employer's statement, payslips, ID), register with housing association Accolade for social housing, and check the supply daily. Considering buying instead? Then look at the homes for sale in De Fryske Marren, because with an average WOZ value of €323,000 and current mortgage rates, buying here can be cheaper than renting in the private sector. More information about living and life in the municipality can be found on the website of the municipality of De Fryske Marren.
Searching the rental supply in De Fryske Marren
At the top of this page you will find the current supply of rental homes in De Fryske Marren, including filters on price, floor area and energy label. Buurtje.nl combines this with neighbourhood scores and resident reviews, so you can assess not only the home but also the surroundings. Looking more broadly? Then also check the supply in neighbouring municipalities such as Heerenveen or Harlingen, or view the overview of the entire province of Fryslân.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average rent in De Fryske Marren?
In the free sector (excluding social housing), the average rent over the past 12 months was €1,363 per month. The range runs from €895 to €1,750 per month, with an average floor area of 114 m². Social housing through housing associations is significantly cheaper.
Which villages in De Fryske Marren are most popular for renting?
Joure, Lemmer and Balk have the most supply and the best amenities. Residents rate the municipality an average of 7.9, with high scores for safety (8.3) and amenities (8.4). In Joure, demand is highest due to its central location on the A6 and A7.
How quickly are rental homes in De Fryske Marren rented out?
Supply in the free sector is very limited: only 30 homes were rented out in the past year. This means a rental home here is off the market quickly. Responding quickly and having your documents ready in advance is essential.
What is the difference between social housing and the free sector in De Fryske Marren?
About 23% of all homes in De Fryske Marren are owned by housing associations (social housing), with rents below the liberalisation threshold. The free sector (7% of the total) is more expensive, averaging €1,363 per month. For social housing, you register with housing association Accolade, but expect long waiting times.
Is renting a home in De Fryske Marren suitable for families?
Yes, the municipality scores high on safety (8.3) and education (7.6). There are primary schools in most villages and secondary schools in Joure and Lemmer. The spacious homes (averaging 114 m² in the free sector) are suitable for families. Keep in mind that you may be dependent on a car for some amenities.
Can I also rent an apartment in De Fryske Marren?
The supply of apartments is limited. Most rental homes are single-family homes or larger properties. In Joure and Lemmer you have the best chance of finding an apartment. Also look at the supply in nearby Heerenveen if you are specifically looking for an apartment.
How is the accessibility of De Fryske Marren?
Residents give accessibility a score of 8.3. Via the A6 and A7 you are quickly in Heerenveen, Sneek or Leeuwarden. There are bus connections from Joure and Lemmer, but in the smaller villages you are dependent on a car. Joure station no longer exists; the nearest train station is Heerenveen.
Is it cheaper to buy than to rent in De Fryske Marren?
With an average WOZ value of €323,000 and free sector rents around €1,363 per month, buying can be cheaper in the long term, depending on your situation. Renting a home in De Fryske Marren is especially interesting if you want flexibility or are not yet sure if rural life suits you.
In our street there's a lot of togetherness, we have cosy evenings. Last night we had a New Year's drink. Very cosy... Also in summer such an evening. But the most important thing for me is... as a neighbourhood we are there for everyone. Whatever happens... Togetherness.
Auto-translated to English by AIIn case of emergency, you can knock on anyone's door
Auto-translated to English by AIIt is usually quiet and there is nice nature outside, only the roads are not so great.
Auto-translated to English by AILately more trouble from loitering youths causing nuisance. Physical and verbal violence
Auto-translated to English by AIWell good, each to their own
Auto-translated to English by AISweet, nice, always attentive
Auto-translated to English by AIWe don't have much contact with the neighbourhood because everyone keeps to themselves
Auto-translated to English by AIThe people are involved with each other. And that's how it should be. Because better a good neighbour than a distant friend!! Public transport connections are poorly arranged. Sometimes I have a 1-hour transfer time... Hope that a train station will come to Lemmer for Kampen and Zwolle.. Would be great for Frisian students
Auto-translated to English by AI
