Rental homes in KNSM-eiland, Amsterdam
Check the current rental property supply on KNSM-eiland and discover if this quiet waterside neighbourhood in the Oostelijk Havengebied suits you.
Rental prices and market figures for KNSM-eiland, Amsterdam
KNSM-eiland has a fairly even split between rental (52%) and owner-occupied (48%) properties, meaning rental homes are structurally available. A large part of the rental stock is social housing: as much as 45% of all homes on the island are owned by housing associations, while only 7% belong to other landlords. For those considering renting a home in KNSM-eiland in the free sector, the average rent is €2,400 per month based on 85 rented homes in the past year. The range runs from €849 to €4,750 per month, with an average floor area of 98 m². That works out to about €24.50 per square metre. Note: this concerns only the free sector, excluding social housing.
The average WOZ value on KNSM-eiland is €581,000. That is lower than the average for the Oostelijk Havengebied district (€630,000), but higher than the Amsterdam average of €517,000. In terms of rental prices, the island is in the upper echelons of Amsterdam, comparable to nearby neighbourhoods such as Java-eiland and Sporenburg. See the overview at the top of this page for current daily prices and available rental homes.
Living in KNSM-eiland, Amsterdam
KNSM-eiland is one of the most recognisable spots in the Oostelijk Havengebied. The former site of the Royal Dutch Steamboat Company was transformed in the 1990s into a residential area with striking architecture. Think of the imposing Piraeus building by Hans Kollhoff at the head of the island, the Barcelona residential tower by Bruno Albert, and the striking block by Wiel Arets. The homes are almost all apartments, often spacious with views of the IJ or the inner harbours. The island has a quiet, almost village-like atmosphere despite the urban surroundings. Because there is only one access road (the Azartplein bridge), there is little through traffic. This makes the island remarkably quiet by Amsterdam standards.
Facilities on and around KNSM-eiland
On the island itself, daily amenities are limited. There is a small Albert Heijn on KNSM-laan and restaurant-café Kanis & Meiland is a staple for coffee or lunch. For more extensive shopping, you walk to the Azartplein bridge towards the Oostelijke Handelskade, where you will find more eateries and shops. The Lloyd Hotel on the edge of the island also attracts visitors from outside. For schools, there is primary school De Buitenkooi on the island itself. Secondary schools can be found in the adjoining neighbourhoods or in Amsterdam-Oost. For sports, the island offers a nice running route along the quays, and swimming pool Zuidoost and sports park Drieburg are easily accessible by bike. Theo van Gogh Park and the green strip along KNSM-laan provide space for walking.
Accessibility of KNSM-eiland
Accessibility is reasonable, with a caveat. Tram stop Azartplein (line 7) is within walking distance of the bridge and takes you to Amsterdam Central Station in about 20 minutes. Bus lines towards IJburg also stop at Azartplein. The island does not have its own metro station; the nearest is Amsterdam Amstel station (metro 51, 53, 54). By bike, you can reach Central Station in a quarter of an hour and the Pijp or Oost in ten minutes. Parking is permit-based and spaces are scarce, especially in the evenings. The A10 (ring road East) can be reached by car in five minutes via the Piet Heinkade.
Residents of KNSM-eiland particularly appreciate the tranquillity, the water and the architecture. On the neighbourhood page for KNSM-eiland you can read reviews from residents. A frequently heard point: "It doesn't feel like Amsterdam here, more like a small village by the water." At the same time, residents mention the limited facilities and the dependence on the single bridge as drawbacks. Compared to the lively Borneo, KNSM-eiland is quieter and slightly more secluded. Those looking for more bustle are better off on the Oostelijke Handelskade or in the Jordaan.
Does KNSM-eiland suit you as a tenant?
The largest group of residents is between 45 and 65 years old (830 out of 2,340 inhabitants), and single-person households form the majority (715). This makes the island popular among single professionals and older people seeking peace and quiet near the city. Families also live here (215 children under 15), but facilities are limited. For starters, a rental home in the free sector is pricey here. Those who want to qualify for social housing can register with housing associations via the website of the municipality of Amsterdam, but expect long waiting lists of 10 years or more. Would you rather buy? Then also check the supply of homes for sale in KNSM-eiland. Respond quickly if you find something to rent in KNSM-eiland, because apartments here sell fast. Make sure your proof of income and employer's statement are ready.
What residents say about KNSM-eiland
On the reviews and neighbourhood data for KNSM-eiland you will find ratings from residents on categories such as safety, facilities and atmosphere. The island generally scores high on tranquillity and feeling of safety, but lower on shopping options and accessibility. One resident wrote: "You have space and air here, which is rare in Amsterdam. But for groceries you really have to cross the bridge." See all reviews on the neighbourhood page for a complete picture.
Compare renting a home in KNSM-eiland with surrounding neighbourhoods
Renting in KNSM-eiland is comparable in price level to the rest of the Oostelijk Havengebied, but the atmosphere differs per neighbourhood. Java-eiland has narrower streets and more of a canal feel, while Rietlanden is closer to the centre and has a bit more urban bustle. Also check the broader supply in the Oostelijk Havengebied or search for rental homes in all of Amsterdam. Buurtje.nl combines current housing supply with resident reviews and data from more than 1,500 sources, so you can not only consider renting an apartment in KNSM-eiland, but also really know whether the neighbourhood suits you.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average rent in KNSM-eiland, Amsterdam?
The average rent in the free sector on KNSM-eiland is €2,400 per month, for an average area of 98 m² (approximately €24.50/m²). The range runs from €849 to €4,750 per month. Social housing through housing associations is considerably cheaper, but has long waiting lists.
Are there social housing units in KNSM-eiland?
Yes, 45% of the housing stock on KNSM-eiland is owned by housing associations. That is a significant share. You can register via WoningNet, but the waiting time in Amsterdam averages more than 10 years. So anyone looking for a rental home in the social sector must be patient.
What is it like to live in KNSM-eiland?
Residents describe KNSM-eiland as quiet, spacious and almost village-like. The water, striking architecture and absence of through traffic create a unique atmosphere. Downsides are the limited shopping facilities and dependence on a single access bridge.
Is KNSM-eiland suitable for singles and professionals?
Definitely. The majority of households on the island are single-person (715 out of approximately 1,100 households). The neighbourhood attracts many working professionals aged 45 to 65. The average income of €49,900 and the high labour participation rate of 67% confirm that picture.
How accessible is KNSM-eiland?
Tram 7 stops at Azartplein, within walking distance of the island, and takes you to Central Station in 20 minutes. By bike you are there in a quarter of an hour. The A10-Oost is reachable by car in five minutes. Parking is permit-based and spaces are limited, especially in the evening.
What facilities are there on KNSM-eiland?
On the island itself you will find a small Albert Heijn, primary school De Buitenkooi and a number of catering establishments such as Kanis & Meiland. For more extensive shopping, secondary schools and sports facilities, you have to cross the bridge towards the Oostelijke Handelskade or Amsterdam-Oost.
How quickly are rental homes let on KNSM-eiland?
Rental homes on KNSM-eiland generally go off the market quickly. Check the current average letting time at the top of the page. It is wise to have your documents (proof of income, employer's statement) ready and to respond immediately as soon as a home becomes available for rent.








