Cost of living in Amsterdam: what every Indian student needs to know
Amsterdam, often referred to as the "Venice of the North," attracts tens of thousands of international students every academic year, and an increasing number of Indian students. There are world-class universities in Amsterdam, alongside cultural experiences that help students to grow, and a remarkably safe, diverse and tolerant atmosphere - what more could a student from India ask for? The only thing that is sometimes worrying is how expensive the cost of living in Amsterdam is, compared to Indian cities. This article is intended to help you find your way around and plan better, from budgeting to travel, particularly if this will be your first academic adventure from India to Amsterdam.
What attracts Indian students to this city?
Both the University of Amsterdam (UvA) and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU) are among the best in the world; numerous institutions note their reputation for pioneering and cutting-edge research, multiculturalism, and consideration for international students.Many Indian students choose Amsterdam for their studies, but also for lifestyle, some call it the Amsterdam of India because it is deemed to be similar to picturesque parts of the country like Kasol or Manali in the nature of its tranquility, tradition or social familiarity.
Is Amsterdam Expensive for Indian Students?
If you ask yourself, “is Amsterdam expensive?” - yes, it is, especially if you are comparing it to the relatively cheaper cost of living in India. On average, international students spend €1,200 and €1,800 per month (around ₹1,00,000 - ₹1,50,000) on expenses, including rent, food, transport and other living essentials.
Accommodation and Amsterdam Hotel Prices
Housing is our biggest cost! Costs for university dorms or shared flats range from €600 to €900 monthly. Usually, private studio or apartment rentals cost over €1000, especially in the inner-center of the city. Districts such as De Pijp and Jordaan are more convenient, but are higher in cost. Districts such as Diemen and Amsterdam-Zuidoost are on the far outskirts, but may be cheaper, although with longer travelling distances. If you are looking for a short term stay while looking for housing,Amsterdam hotel prices or hostels generally range from €30 €70 a night.
Also, keep in mind the costs that are a one-time set-up expenses like security deposits, furniture (many rentals come unfurnished), and utilities which may add another €150 - €200 a month.
Food and Grocery Expenses
Cooking at home can help you save. You can budget around €200–€300 monthly on groceries, based on your preferences for boycotting stores and dietary habits. Cheaper grocery stores, like Lidl and Jumbo, will have affordable choices, while Indian grocery shops have options you might know but cost more.
Eating out is amazing but expensive, with meals costing on average €15–€20 at less fancy places. One way to save on food is for many Indian students to begin cooking in groups and share groceries.
Transportation: Public Transit or Cycling?
Amsterdam is famously known for their cycling culture and great public transport. The monthly pass for bus, tram, and metro service costs between €70–€100. Buying a used bicycle would cost about €100–200 and only has to be paid once, and would significantly cut down Amsterdam travel cost in the long run.
Planning an Amsterdam trip cost from India? Don't forget to include budget lines for urban to urban movement to places like Rotterdam and Utrecht (typically €20- €30 per trip) and budget a small amount every month for bike maintenance or upgrades.
Health Insurance and Academic Expenses
As an international student, you will need health insurance with an expected cost range of €80-€120 monthly. Other academic supplies, like textbooks, add another €50-€100 per month. You can save a little by choosing electronic copies or used material.
Relaxation, Museums and the City
Amsterdam's cultural and social scene is lively but expensive; movie tickets are about €12 and our museums like the Van Gogh Museum or Rijksmuseum can range from €15–€25. Many places offer student discounts. We use one Paul Apps called Student Deal, as they offer lots of student prices for local attractions and entertainment.
Planning an Amsterdam vacation cost around holidays? Expect tourist-season price surges, especially in Amsterdam in December when winter festivals and Christmas markets are in full swing.
Initial and One-Time Costs When Moving from India
Starting up costs for your relocation:
- Flight from India to Amsterdam: ₹50,000–₹80,000 return (this depends on when you book and when you're traveling).
- Visa and residence permit (≈€243 or ₹20,000
- Your first accommodation, food, winter clothes, SIM card, and furniture is usually another €1,000–€2,000.
- Temporary Amsterdam ticket costs or hostel stays until permanent housing is found.
For reference, always check an Amsterdam map and get familiar with safe, student-friendly areas before you book.
Budgeting Advice for Indian Students in Amsterdam
- Track spending via an app like Splitwise or YNAB.
- Find another person to live with, and split the rent and utilities.
- Food-wise, cook in your own home and join in grocery pooling or cooking groups.
- Always can make use of student discounts for food, routes, events, and transportation.
- Employment Opportunities: You are legally permitted to work 16 hours/week for usually around €8–€10/hour.
- Book early: You can save a fortune on the cost of a tour of Amsterdam and weekend getaways if you book your transport and flights early.
FAQs
Q: Is Amsterdam pricey for Indian students?
Yes. Average living costs are about ₹1,00,000 to ₹1,50,000 per month. So, budget accordingly.
Q: What is the average monthly expense?
Approx. €1,200–€1,800: housing, food, transport, leisure.
Q: Is there any affordable housing to be found?
Yes. University dorms and shared flats in outer districts like Diemen are more economical.
Q: What’s the average Amsterdam ticket cost from India?Round-trip tickets typically cost between ₹50,000–₹80,000 depending upon when and how you book.
Q: Can students work part time?
Yes. Up to 16 hours per week during term and full-time during holidays.
