When newcomers arrive in the Netherlands, one of the first surprises is often the cost of groceries. Many wonder whether Albert Heijn, the country’s largest supermarket chain, is genuinely expensive or if it simply feels that way compared to other stores. The Dutch Supermarket Landscape The Netherlands has several major supermarket chains, each with its […]
Is Albert Heijn really that Expensive in the Netherlands? Read More »
In this article, I reveal the cheapest supermarket in the Netherlands, how prices compare across popular chains, and what to expect when shopping there. Aldi: The Undisputed Champion of Cheap When it comes to low prices, Aldi consistently ranks as the cheapest supermarket in the Netherlands. This German discount chain has built its reputation
I’ve always had a complicated relationship with saving money. It’s not that I’m a super frugal person or allergic to spending — okay, maybe I’m a little bit cheap sometimes (hah!) — but deep down, there’s something else driving me. Whenever I think about spending, I remind myself of one thing: a euro saved today
If you’re planning to live in the Netherlands, you’ve probably asked yourself whether it’s better to rent or buy a house. With interest rates, property prices, and taxes constantly changing, making the right decision is not easy. To help you, I’ve created a free Google Spreadsheet that compares the financial impact of renting versus buying
In the Netherlands, income tax is levied through the box system. This system divides different types of income into three boxes, each with its own tax rates and rules. This ensures that taxation is distributed more fairly, depending on the type of income a person has. In this article, we explain how taxation works per
Three Boxes: How Does Income Tax Work in the Netherlands? Read More »
1. Introduction The Dutch job market has undergone significant transformations in recent decades, adapting to global economic shifts, technological advancements, and changing societal values. As one of Europe’s most robust economies, the Netherlands has maintained a resilient labor market characterized by high employment rates, a strong emphasis on work-life balance, and a growing focus on
The Dutch housing market between 2010 and 2025 underwent significant transformations shaped by economic cycles, government interventions, and shifting demographics. This period marked fluctuations from crisis recovery to soaring prices, raising questions about affordability, sustainability, and housing policy. 1. Recovery from the Financial Crisis (2010-2014) In 2010, the global financial crisis (2008-2009) still weighed heavily
