Rental homes in Zuid-Holland
View the rental property supply in Zuid-Holland, from affordable options in Dordrecht to urban living in Rotterdam and Den Haag. Compare neighbourhoods by price and resident scores.
What does renting cost in South Holland and how does the market work?
South Holland is the most densely populated province in the Netherlands, with nearly 3.9 million residents spread across cities like Rotterdam, The Hague and Leiden, but also quieter areas such as Hoeksche Waard and Westland. The rental market here is substantial: 48% of all homes are rental properties, amounting to over 835,000 rental houses. Of these, 32% are owned by housing associations and 16% by other landlords. This ratio makes South Holland a province where tenants have relatively plenty of choice, although competition in the big cities is fierce.
In the free sector, the average rent over the past year was €1,918 per month, with an average floor area of 111 m². The range is enormous: from compact studios around €300 to luxury apartments and villas heading towards €12,500 per month. Renting in South Holland is therefore more expensive than the national average, especially in the Randstad urban cores. But those willing to look a bit further from the main stations can still find affordable options. The average income in the province is around €38,400, meaning a free-sector home takes a significant bite out of many households' budgets.
From Rotterdam energy to Dordrecht tranquillity: renting by municipality
South Holland has a striking diversity of municipalities. The big cities offer employment, nightlife and public transport links, while the smaller municipalities provide more space and greenery. Residents give the province an average score of 7.5 based on 1,220 reviews. Below is an overview of the main municipalities for tenants.
Rotterdam: gritty, diverse and constantly developing
Rental properties in Rotterdam are popular with starters, expats and young professionals. With 670,610 residents, it is the largest city in the province. Residents give Rotterdam a 7.2 based on 264 reviews. The city scores well on accessibility and amenities, but some neighbourhoods are perceived as less safe. One resident writes: "Rotterdam is a city where there is always something to do, but you need to look carefully at which neighbourhood you end up in." Rents vary greatly by neighbourhood: Rotterdam-Zuid is more affordable than the centre or Kralingen.
The Hague: court city with international allure
With 566,221 residents and a score of 7.4 (205 reviews), The Hague is a popular choice for those working for international organisations, the government or in the diplomatic sector. The city has a varied offering, from stately apartments in Statenkwartier to affordable flats in Laak or Moerwijk. Residents appreciate Scheveningen beach and the cultural amenities, but also mention parking pressure and crowds in popular neighbourhoods as drawbacks.
Leiden: student city with historic character
Renting an apartment in Leiden is attractive for students and knowledge workers. The city has 130,108 residents and receives a 7.5 from residents (38 reviews). The centre with its canals and the proximity of the university give Leiden a lively but compact character. The downside: supply is tight and prices are relatively high for the floor area you get.
Dordrecht: highly rated and more affordable
Strikingly, Dordrecht scores 7.9 (44 reviews), making it the highest-rated large municipality in South Holland. The oldest city in Holland offers a historic city centre, good train connections to Rotterdam and Breda, and rents that are noticeably lower than in the Randstad core. For families and those seeking peace who still want urban amenities, Dordrecht is a serious option.
In addition to these four large municipalities, there are more interesting choices. Zoetermeer (7.4 from 37 reviews) is a typical growth centre with many new-build homes and good accessibility to The Hague. Those considering renting a house in South Holland in a greener environment can look at Alphen aan den Rijn (7.7 from 15 reviews), located between Leiden and Gouda. The rental market in Delft (7.3 from 42 reviews) is popular with TU students and staff, but also with people who prefer the atmosphere of a smaller city over Rotterdam or The Hague.
In the south of the province, the Hoeksche Waard (7.8 from 32 reviews) offers a rural alternative with villages like Oud-Beijerland and 's-Gravendeel. Westland (7.8 from 24 reviews) is known for greenhouse horticulture and attracts many migrant workers, but also families who appreciate the proximity of the beach and The Hague. Nissewaard, with Spijkenisse as its core, scores 7.4 and is one of the more affordable options in the Rotterdam region. Finally, Schiedam and Leidschendam-Voorburg are interesting for those who want to live close to Rotterdam and The Hague respectively, but seek a bit more peace.
Who is renting a home in South Holland suitable for?
South Holland is par excellence a province for people who value employment and accessibility. The presence of the port of Rotterdam, the government apparatus in The Hague, universities in Leiden and Delft, and international companies throughout the region make it a logical choice for professionals, students and expats. Families looking for space but not too far from the city find a good compromise in municipalities like Dordrecht, Alphen aan den Rijn or the Hoeksche Waard.
To be fair: the rental market in South Holland is competitive. Especially in Rotterdam, The Hague and Leiden, supply is tight and dozens of people respond to the same property. Be prepared, make sure your documents are in order and be flexible on location. Those who prefer to buy can also look at homes for sale in South Holland, where the average WOZ value is €359,204. The province of South Holland's website also provides information on regional housing visions and housing regulations that may differ per municipality.
Search the current rental offering in South Holland
On Buurtje.nl you will find the current offering of rental properties in South Holland, including resident reviews and neighbourhood data per district. Filter by price, floor area or municipality to quickly see what is available. By viewing neighbourhood scores and experiences of current residents, you get an honest picture of the neighbourhood before planning a viewing. This way you avoid surprises and choose a neighbourhood that truly suits you.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average rent for a rental property in South Holland?
In the free sector, the average rent over the past year was €1,918 per month, with an average floor area of 111 m². Prices vary widely: from around €300 for small studios to €12,500 for luxury homes. In cities like Rotterdam and The Hague, you typically pay more than in municipalities such as Dordrecht or Nissewaard.
In which municipality in South Holland is it best to rent a house?
That depends on your priorities. Dordrecht scores highest among residents with a 7.9 and is more affordable than Rotterdam or The Hague. Leiden (7.5) is ideal for students, while Westland (7.8) and Hoeksche Waard (7.8) offer more space and greenery. Compare neighbourhood scores to see what suits you.
Is it difficult to find a rental home in Rotterdam or The Hague?
Yes, competition is fierce in both cities. Popular properties often attract dozens of applicants. Make sure you have income statements and references ready. Also consider surrounding municipalities like Schiedam, Leidschendam-Voorburg or Zoetermeer for a better chance.
What percentage of homes in South Holland are rental properties?
48% of the housing stock in South Holland consists of rental properties. Of these, 32% are owned by housing associations and 16% by other landlords. This makes South Holland one of the provinces with the highest share of rental homes in the Netherlands.
Where can I rent an affordable apartment in South Holland?
The most affordable options are found outside the major cities. Municipalities like Dordrecht, Nissewaard (Spijkenisse) and Alphen aan den Rijn offer lower rents than Rotterdam, The Hague or Leiden. In Schiedam and Zoetermeer, prices are also generally lower than in the central cities.
How do I compare neighbourhoods when looking to rent a home in South Holland?
Look at neighbourhood scores and resident reviews per municipality. Dordrecht, for example, scores a 7.9 while Rotterdam stands at 7.2. Additionally, the atmosphere varies greatly by district. Read experiences from current residents and pay attention to factors such as safety, amenities and accessibility.
Is renting in South Holland suitable for expats?
Absolutely, especially The Hague and Leiden have a large international community due to the presence of international organisations and universities. Rotterdam attracts many expats because of its port and business sector. Keep in mind that landlords in the free sector often require an income of at least three times the rent.
What are the pros and cons of renting in South Holland compared to buying?
Renting offers flexibility and you don't need to put up any equity. The average WOZ value in South Holland is €359,204, making buying difficult for first-time buyers. The downside of renting is that you don't build up equity and that free sector rents can be substantial, averaging €1,918 per month. Weigh both options based on your personal situation.
I live here with great pleasure. It is a quiet, green and pleasant neighbourhood where you can enjoy walking and nature. Everything you need is nearby (such as shops, public transport and other amenities). The neighbours are friendly and helpful, and there is a pleasant atmosphere. I feel safe here and can definitely recommend this neighbourhood.
Auto-translated to English by AISocial residents who are there for each other. The children have plenty of playgrounds, supermarket nearby and affordable homes. Few bad tenants so little nuisance. Nature and Wantij within a stone's throw. Couldn't be better.
Auto-translated to English by AIThe neighbourhood is quiet with little contact with the neighbours. It is otherwise relaxed, rich in nature, and of good quality. You are close to The Hague and it's a half-hour drive to Amsterdam. The lack of contact with the neighbourhood has its pros and cons. But it does provide peace. The houses are very closed off from the rest of the street, so there is little contact.
Auto-translated to English by AIGood and cosy contact with the neighbours. Nice area to live in, lots of children and playgrounds, schools also within walking distance.
Auto-translated to English by AII've lived here for a few years. There's litter on the ground. But the supermarkets are good in the neighbourhood and there's a community centre. Nice!
Auto-translated to English by AIIt's so clean and Kessler Park is also so relaxing, I never want to move again.
Auto-translated to English by AIA very nice neighbourhood. The airport is nearby, but you don't hear a thing. Zestienhovenpark is great for walking or jogging. Many families with children live here. There is a lot of greenery and you see many birds. The best neighbourhood
Auto-translated to English by AILovely place to live. Close to the sea, city centre and shops. Wide choice of schools. Good community spirit. Street parties etc.
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