Rental homes in Smallingerland

Renting in Smallingerland: from social housing to the private sector in Drachten and surroundings

Smallingerland is a municipality in the heart of Friesland with around 56,600 residents, the vast majority of whom live in Drachten. Of the total housing stock of over 26,000 homes, approximately 40% are rental properties. This is a healthy ratio: 30% are owned by housing associations (mainly Accolade) and around 10% are offered by private landlords and investors in the private sector. In the private sector, the average rent over the past year was €1,186 per month, with a wide range from €380 to nearly €4,000 per month. This difference lies in the type of property: renting a compact apartment in Smallingerland naturally costs less than a detached rental house on the outskirts of Drachten. The average size of private sector homes was 101 m². Check the top of this page for the current daily listings and the most recent rental prices. Drachten, as the largest centre, is easily accessible via the A7 towards Groningen and Heerenveen, and has a wide range of amenities with shopping centres such as De Lawei-passage and Raadhuisplein. Major employers in the region include Philips (now Signify), Nij Smellinghe hospital, and various companies on the De Haven industrial estate. This makes renting a home in Smallingerland attractive for people working in Northeast Friesland or the Groningen region.

Neighbourhoods in Smallingerland: where do you want to live?

The municipality has very different neighbourhoods, each with its own character and atmosphere. Residents give Smallingerland as a whole an 8.0 out of 10. But scores vary per neighbourhood, and that says something about where you will feel at home. Below are the most important neighbourhoods for renters.

De Drait, spacious and green living

With a neighbourhood score of 8.7 based on 6 reviews, De Drait is one of the best-rated neighbourhoods in Drachten. This is a spacious neighbourhood on the south side with plenty of greenery, water, and families. Residents cite the peace and space as major plus points. There are primary schools nearby and the Drait Plaza shopping centre is within walking distance. Rental homes here are mainly single-family homes, often in the private sector.

Het Centrum, everything at hand

The Centre of Drachten scores a 9.0 from residents, although this is based on just one review. Still, the picture fits: you have everything within easy reach here. Shops, restaurants, the Saturday market, De Lawei theatre, and the library. For starters and singles who enjoy liveliness, the centre is a logical choice. The supply here mainly consists of apartments above shops and newer complexes on the edge of the centre.

Drachtstervaart, village-like but close by

Just outside Drachten lies Drachtstervaart, a small village core that scores a remarkable 9.6. It is quiet and village-like, but you are within a few minutes of Drachten centre. One resident describes it as "the best of both worlds: village peace with all amenities around the corner." The rental supply here is limited, so you need to be quick when something becomes available.

Other neighbourhoods worth mentioning: De Bouwen (8.4) is an older neighbourhood with many social housing units and a close-knit community. De Trisken scores a 7.5 based on 4 reviews and is a mixed neighbourhood with both rental and owner-occupied homes. De Folgeren gets a 7.0 from residents (6 reviews), a neighbourhood where opinions vary more. Some residents call it a pleasant family neighbourhood, while others feel more maintenance is needed in public spaces. De Singels (7.9) is a newer neighbourhood with a mix of housing types. For those who truly want to live rurally, Buitengebied Noord is an option, with a perfect 10.0, although that is based on just one review. View all resident experiences on the municipality page of Smallingerland to get a complete picture.

Who is renting in Smallingerland a good choice for?

Smallingerland attracts various groups. The largest age group is 45 to 65 years old, but there are also many families and a sizeable group of over-65s. With nearly 10,000 single-person households, there is certainly demand for smaller rental homes and apartments. Starters looking to rent a home in Smallingerland will find more affordable options here than in Groningen city or Leeuwarden. The average disposable income is €32,800, which matches the rental prices in the private sector, although the more expensive homes above €1,500 are mainly for dual-income households. Those who qualify for social housing can register with housing association Accolade via the website of the municipality of Smallingerland for more information on housing policy and regulations. Be honest with yourself: if you need a rental home quickly, the supply in the private sector is not huge. With 73 rented homes in the past year, you need to be alert and respond quickly. Make sure you have your proof of income, employer's statement, and ID ready. Considering buying instead? Then also check out the homes for sale in Smallingerland, because with an average WOZ value of €276,000, buying here is still relatively affordable compared to the Randstad.

Searching for a rental home in the Drachten region

On Buurtje.nl you will not only find the current rental listings, but also neighbourhood scores and resident reviews that help you choose the right neighbourhood. Want to look in the surrounding area too? Then check out rental homes in Heerenveen, Achtkarspelen or De Fryske Marren. Or explore the entire province of Friesland for more options. Rental homes in Smallingerland go quickly, so set up your search and respond immediately when something suits you.