Rental homes in Emmen
Looking for a rental property in Emmen? Check the current listings, compare neighbourhoods based on resident reviews and find the area that suits you.
Renting a home in Emmen: what you need to know about the local rental market
With over 109,000 residents, Emmen is the largest municipality in Drenthe and has a housing stock of around 50,000 homes. Of these, 38% are rental properties, amounting to over 19,000 rental homes. The majority (28% of the total stock) is owned by housing associations such as Lefier and Domesta. The remaining 10% is rented out by private landlords and investors. In the free sector, the average rent over the past twelve months was €1,008 per month, with a range of €350 to €1,475. The average size of these homes was 99 m², which is quite spacious for that price compared to the Randstad. Check the top of this page for the current daily price and available listings. Emmen is not a city where you expect huge pressure on the housing market, but the supply in the free sector, with 145 rented homes in a year, is not overly large. Employment here is mainly in sectors such as logistics, manufacturing and the Wildlands zoo. Emmen station offers a direct train connection to Zwolle, and via the N34 and A37 you can reach Hoogeveen or Groningen relatively quickly. This makes Emmen interesting for commuters who prefer the peace of Drenthe over living in the city where they work.
The neighbourhoods of Emmen: where do you want to rent?
Emmen is not a compact city but a sprawling collection of villages, neighbourhoods and cores. Each area has its own character, and the differences are greater than you might expect. Residents of Emmen give the municipality an average score of 8.1 on Buurtje.nl, but scores vary significantly by neighbourhood. Below are the main areas for renting.
Emmen-Centrum Oost, the highest neighbourhood score
With a perfect 10.0 from residents, Emmen-Centrum Oost scores the highest. This part of the centre is close to shops, restaurants and the Rensenpark. It is compact, urban by Emmen standards, and everything is within walking distance. Renting an apartment in Emmen is best done here if you like short distances. Supply is limited, so respond quickly when something becomes available.
Emmerhout, green and affordable
Emmerhout is one of the larger residential areas and scores an 8.1 from residents. The neighbourhood was built in the 1960s and 1970s, with plenty of greenery and spacious layouts. Here you will find relatively many rental properties from housing associations, making it interesting for those looking for an affordable rental home. One resident writes that the neighbourhood is "nicely quiet with lots of greenery around you", and that is true: Emmen's overall green score is 8.8. Emmerhout is typically a family neighbourhood with primary schools and playgrounds nearby.
Bargeres, mixed and lively
The neighbourhood of Bargeres scores a 7.4 and has a more varied character. Here you will find a mix of owner-occupied homes and social housing, and the population is diverse in age and background. The Bargeres shopping centre is a local meeting point. The neighbourhood is not the most polished in Emmen, but it is fairly priced and well-connected.
Furthermore, there are interesting options outside the immediate core. Barger-Compascuum scores a striking 9.9 from residents and is a quiet village east of Emmen, suitable if you want to live truly rurally. Kern Emmen Noord scores a 9.6 and is conveniently located between the centre and the main roads. For those who want the centre: check the listings in Emmen-Centrum. At the other end of the spectrum is Angelslo with a 5.1, a neighbourhood where residents are less satisfied with liveability. That does not mean it is impossible to live there, but it is good to look into neighbourhood reviews before renting a home there. In Erica (6.5) and Emmer-Compascuum (8.1) you will find village peace at some distance from the centre. See all resident experiences on the municipality page of Emmen.
For whom is renting in Emmen a good choice?
With an average income of €31,600 and rents in the free sector around €1,008, Emmen is particularly attractive for people with a modal income who are looking for space. Families benefit from affordable homes, the green character and the presence of primary and secondary schools in almost every neighbourhood. The education score of 7.9 confirms this. Starters who are just entering the labour market can still rent a home relatively easily in Emmen without years-long waiting lists, although registering with Lefier or Domesta for social housing is advisable if your income qualifies. The labour participation rate in Emmen is 60%, which is lower than the national average. If you depend on jobs in Groningen or Zwolle, factor in travel time. For those who prefer to buy: with an average WOZ value of €240,000, buying in Emmen is relatively affordable. Then check the homes for sale in Emmen. Do you specifically need a rental home with a good energy label? Note that the average gas consumption in Emmen is 1,200 m³, which indicates reasonably insulated homes, but older rental properties in neighbourhoods like Emmerhout or Bargeres can deviate significantly. Always check the energy label before signing. On the website of the municipality of Emmen you will find information about housing permits and local regulations.
Searching for a rental home in and around Emmen
On Buurtje.nl you combine the current rental supply with neighbourhood scores and honest resident reviews, so you not only find a home but also know what it is really like in the area. Can't find what you are looking for directly in Emmen? Then also look at rental homes in neighbouring municipalities such as Coevorden, Hoogeveen or Borger-Odoorn. The provincial capital Assen is also within commuting distance. More about the region can be found on the page of Drenthe province.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average rent in Emmen?
In the private sector, the average rent in Emmen over the past 12 months was €1,008 per month, with a range from €350 to €1,475. This excludes social housing from housing associations such as Lefier and Domesta, where rents are lower.
Which neighbourhoods in Emmen are most popular for renting?
Based on resident reviews, Emmen-Centrum Oost (10.0), Barger-Compascuum (9.9) and Kern Emmen Noord (9.6) score the highest. Emmerhout (8.1) is popular due to its spacious green character and affordable supply. Angelslo scores significantly lower with a 5.1.
How quickly are rental properties in Emmen rented out?
In the private sector, 145 properties were rented out over the past 12 months. Supply is not very large, so popular homes in sought-after neighbourhoods are snapped up quickly. Keep a close eye on the current supply and respond quickly if you see something.
What is the difference between social housing and the private sector in Emmen?
About 28% of all homes in Emmen are owned by housing associations such as Lefier and Domesta. These have income requirements and waiting lists. The private sector (10% of the stock) is freely accessible but more expensive, with an average rent of €1,008 per month.
Is Emmen a suitable place to rent a home as a commuter?
Emmen has Emmen station with a direct train connection to Zwolle and good road links via the N34 and A37. The accessibility score is 8.3. For commuters to Groningen or Zwolle, it is workable, but expect a travel time of 45 to 75 minutes.
How safe is it to live in Emmen?
Residents give Emmen an 8.0 for safety. This varies by neighbourhood: quiet villages like Barger-Compascuum score high, while neighbourhoods like Angelslo score lower on liveability. Check the neighbourhood scores per district to get a good picture.
Can I find an affordable rental home in Emmen?
Yes, Emmen is one of the cheaper municipalities to rent in the Netherlands. In the private sector, rents start from €350 per month. In addition, there is a large supply of social housing through housing associations. Register in time with Lefier or Domesta for the shortest waiting time.
How much green space is there in the neighbourhoods of Emmen?
Emmen scores an 8.8 on green space, one of the highest sub-scores. Neighbourhoods like Emmerhout and Barger-Compascuum are located in a green environment with lots of forest and nature. The Bargerveen and the Amsterdamse Veld are nearby for those who enjoy walking and cycling.
There's nothing to do. Everything is super expensive in the shops. There's a doctor, pharmacy and bakery. But there's nothing for teenagers to do. Only the spot (cafe), football field, cafe. No activities or workshops for 18 years and older. The street is well lit but behind our house there's an alley and you can't see anything at all. There are a lot of drunk people. There are no neighbourhood parties. Neighbours make a lot of noise at 3am.
Auto-translated to English by AIWonderfully enjoyable place to live
Auto-translated to English by AIGood neighbours, mostly young people with children, also 2 schools, small neighbourhood shop, easily accessible doctor's practice and pharmacy. This is Zwartemeer where I and my husband live. I also live conveniently close to work within walking distance of the clients.
Auto-translated to English by AINice cosy neighbourhood, everyone welcome and not unfriendly
Auto-translated to English by AILook, it could be a lot better, but I still have to say it's a great neighbourhood. Every city has its less pleasant spots where you don't want to walk alone. In terms of schools, it's very well organised for every level and age – it's just good here! Many schools to choose from. Also for further education, it's very good here! Furthermore, the shops are excellent!
Auto-translated to English by AIWe are friendly neighbours
Auto-translated to English by AIa very good neighbourhood
Auto-translated to English by AII'm not much of a neighbourhood person. Usually the neighbours are young people and we are already at a certain age. Good accessibility by car, safe for children, really a lot of green space, the nearest piece of land
Auto-translated to English by AI
