Apartment Rental Guide in Groningen

Groningen! The vibrant, young, and incredibly charming capital of the North. Do you dream of feeling at home in this unique city? Renting an apartment in Groningen is a fantastic choice. But where do you start your search for suitable housing in this popular student city?

Which neighborhoods have the best apartments and how do you find an affordable place among the wide range of options? Don't panic, it could be worse! This guide is your personal roadmap through the Groningen rental apartment market. We'll show you the ins and outs, give practical tips for your search, and help you find your ideal apartment in Groningen via platforms like HousingMatchers.nl. Read on to discover how you'll soon be enjoying all the beautiful things Groningen has to offer!

Why is renting an apartment in Groningen so attractive?

Groningen has a unique charm that is hard to resist. It is the largest city in the far north, a true student city full of life and energy, yet at the same time compact and friendly. The historic city center with its canals, courtyards, and the Martinitoren ('d'Olle Grieze') exudes atmosphere, while the presence of the University of Groningen and Hanze University of Applied Sciences Groningen ensures a young, dynamic population. Living in Groningen means enjoying a rich cultural offering, countless cozy pubs and restaurants (often found around the Vismarkt, Gelkingestraat, or Zwanestraat), and a surprisingly diverse range of shops, for example, on Herestraat.

Renting an apartment in Groningen offers you the chance to be part of this vibrant community. The city is known for its down-to-earth mentality, but also for its hospitality. Facilities are excellent and the atmosphere is relaxed. Although it is a large city, it often feels like a village. The demand for good housing, and specifically apartments, is high, partly due to the many students and young professionals, but the supply is diverse and with the right approach, a great place can certainly be found. Groningen is a city where you quickly feel at home in your own apartment.

What kind of apartments can be found in Groningen?

The range of apartments in Groningen is wide and varied, fitting the diverse character of the city.

In the beautiful historic center, you will find many characteristic upstairs apartments and apartments in old buildings, sometimes with views of the canals or located on atmospheric streets such as Turftorenstraat or Speykstraat. These city center apartments are sought after but often more expensive and sometimes smaller. Also consider locations near Westersingel or Barestraat where you can find beautiful floor-through apartments.

Outside the direct center, in neighborhoods like Helpman, Oosterpoort, Schilderswijk, or Korrewegwijk, you will find a mix of pre-war multi-story apartments, post-war gallery-access flats, and more modern apartment complexes. These neighborhoods often offer more space and tranquility, and are popular with starters, families, and students looking for an apartment. There are also new construction projects with modern apartments, for example, on the outskirts of the city or in development areas. From compact studios to spacious apartments with multiple bedrooms, Groningen offers plenty of choice. You can easily search for the type of apartment that suits you via HousingMatchers.nl. All apartments in Groningen can be found here in a clear overview.

Modern apartment on the Reitdiep

€1,463 / month

Friesestraatweg 141-256, Groningen

2

89 m²

Immediately

Apartment

Apartment with garden on the Walstraat

€1,225 / month

Walstraat, Groningen

1

42 m²

2/1/2026

Apartment

Modern living on the Damsterdiep

€1,500 / month

Damsterdiep, Groningen

1

50 m²

2/1/2026

Apartment

Energy-efficient living on the Kerklaan

€1,266 / month

Kerklaan 71, Groningen

1

41 m²

2/1/2026

Apartment

Bright 1-bedroom apartment on the Oosterhamrikkade

€953 / month

Oosterhamrikkade, Groningen

1

45 m²

3/1/2026

Apartment

Apartment with terrace and A+ energy label in Groningen

€1,147 / month

Hoornsediep, Groningen

1

41 m²

2/1/2026

Apartment

How do I start my search for an apartment in Groningen?

A good start is half the battle, also when searching for an apartment in Groningen. Begin by determining your wishes and budget. What is the maximum monthly cost for the apartment (including service charges, gas/water/electricity)? How much space do you need? Which neighborhoods appeal to you? Are you looking for an apartment in the bustling center near the Vismarkt, or would you prefer a quieter living space? Does the apartment need to be available immediately? The more specific your search, the more targeted you can look for a suitable apartment.

Use the filters on the platform to refine your search based on price, location (neighborhood or even specific streets like Friesestraatweg or Riouwstraat), area, and number of rooms. It is advisable to set up search alerts. You will then receive free notifications when a new apartment becomes available that meets your criteria. This allows you to respond quickly, which is important if you want to secure an apartment in the popular city of Groningen.

Which neighborhoods in Groningen are popular for apartments?

Groningen has many nice neighborhoods, each with its own atmosphere. Where can you find the most apartments and which neighborhood suits you?

• City Center (Binnenstad): Living in the heart of the city, close to shops, catering, and culture. Many apartments and upstairs apartments in historic buildings. Lively, but can also be busy and more expensive.
• Schilderswijk & Oranjewijk: Popular, atmospheric neighborhoods just outside the center, with many characteristic apartments and floor-through apartments. Close to Noorderplantsoen.
• Oosterpoort: A beloved neighborhood southeast of the center, known for its village-like atmosphere, charming streets, and mixed buildings with many apartments for rent.
• Korrewegwijk & Indische Buurt: Lively neighborhoods northeast of the center, popular with students and starters. Diverse range of apartments, often slightly more affordable.
• Helpman: A somewhat more upscale, green neighborhood in Groningen-South, with more spacious apartments and also single-family homes. Good facilities, quieter than the center.
• Rivierenbuurt & Zeeheldenbuurt: Solid residential areas west/southwest of the center, with a mix of apartments and houses, near the City Park.
• Paddepoel & Selwerd: Typical student neighborhoods near the Zernike complex (Hanze University of Applied Sciences Groningen and University of Groningen faculties), with many student flats and affordable apartments.

Explore the different neighborhoods to see where you feel most at home. Also consider the accessibility of your work, study or other facilities when looking for an apartment.

How do you find affordable apartments in this student city?

Groningen is a true student city, which means that the demand for affordable housing, including apartments, is high. Nevertheless, there are certainly opportunities to rent an apartment without paying top dollar. The key often lies in flexibility and cleverly searching for suitable rental housing. Apartments in the absolute center are generally the most expensive. Therefore, also look at neighborhoods that are slightly further from the center, such as Paddepoel, Selwerd, Vinkhuizen, or Beijum. Here you will often find cheaper rental properties and apartments.

Also consider the size and type of living space. A studio or a one-bedroom apartment is logically cheaper than a spacious apartment with multiple rooms. Sometimes apartments are also offered that you can share with a roommate (check if the landlord allows this). Actively use the price filters on HousingMatchers.nl to only see listings within your budget. Be quick to respond if you find an affordable apartment, as these are often rented out quickly.

Who will you be in contact with when looking for an apartment in Groningen?

During your search for an apartment in Groningen, you will be in contact with the provider of the property. This could be a private landlord, who, for example, owns one or a few apartments and manages the rental themselves. More often, however, the rental is handled by a professional party, such as a property manager or a rental agent. Many owners outsource the rental of their apartment in Groningen to real estate agents specializing in rentals.

These agents place advertisements, organize viewings, screen potential tenants, and draw up the rental agreement. For you as a home seeker, it is important to know that an agent working on behalf of the landlord is not allowed to charge you a mediation fee. If you yourself engage an agent to actively search for an apartment for you (a rental agent), you will, of course, pay for that service. Via HousingMatchers.nl, you can easily contact the landlord or the offering agent.

From search to keys: How does renting an apartment in Groningen work?

You've spotted an interesting apartment in Groningen via your search on HousingMatchers.nl. What now? Respond to the advertisement, usually via a contact form or email. Clearly state your interest and briefly tell us about yourself. If you are invited, a viewing will follow. Make sure you are on time and make a good impression. Critically view the apartment: pay attention to the state of maintenance, space, light, and any defects. Ask questions to the agent or landlord.

Are you enthusiastic about the apartment after the viewing? Let us know quickly! Often you will need to provide additional information (income data, employer's statement, etc.). The landlord then chooses the most suitable candidate. If you are chosen, you will receive the rental contract for the apartment. Read it completely and carefully! Check all agreements about rent, deposit, start date, duration, and house rules. Only after signing and paying the first month's rent and deposit, will you receive the keys to your new apartment in Groningen. Time to enjoy living in this beautiful city!

Are there special considerations for students or expats looking for an apartment?

Groningen attracts many students and also an increasing number of expats. For these groups, there are a few extra points to consider when looking for an apartment or other rental property.

• Students: The demand among students is enormous. Start your search for an apartment extra early, well before the start of the academic year. Be aware that many landlords set income requirements that students sometimes find difficult to meet; a guarantee from parents may then be necessary.
• Expats: For expats unfamiliar with the city and the Dutch rental market, it can be helpful to look for a furnished apartment, although the supply is more limited and the price often higher. Make sure you fully understand the rental agreements.

For both groups: be alert to scams, especially with offers via social media or unknown websites. Never pay money upfront without certainty when looking for a home.

How do I maximize my chances of finding an apartment in Groningen?

The Groningen apartment market can be competitive. How do you ensure your search is successful and you quickly find a nice home?

• Speed: Respond immediately when you see a suitable apartment. Use alerts!
• Preparation: Make sure you have your financial data and other necessary documents ready.
• Flexibility: Be flexible in terms of neighborhood and type of apartment. Also look in Helpman or other districts outside the 'diepenring' (inner canal district).
• Clear Profile: Ensure a complete and reliable profile on platforms where you are searching.
• Polite Communication: Be polite and clear in your contact with landlords/agents.
• Realistic Budget: Know what you can afford and search specifically. Groningen also offers cheap rental properties, but be realistic.
• Full Information: Read advertisements carefully and ask targeted questions during apartment viewings.
• Use HousingMatchers: Make optimal use of the platform, filters, and the ability to contact directly.

What should I know about rental contracts and rules in Groningen?

Before you sign the contract for your apartment in Groningen, it is essential to fully understand its contents. Check the rent, service charges, deposit (usually 1 or 2 months' basic rent), the start date, and the duration of the contract (fixed-term or indefinite). Pay attention to the notice period and any specific house rules (e.g., regarding pets, smoking, or noise nuisance).

Also check who is responsible for which maintenance. Minor maintenance is usually for the tenant, major maintenance for the landlord. Know the rules for annual rent increases. As a tenant in the Netherlands, you have rights. In case of problems or uncertainties about your rental property, you can seek advice from the Legal Aid Center (Juridisch Loket) or a local tenants' association. A clear contract is the basis for pleasant living in your new apartment.

Key points to remember for your apartment search in Groningen:

• Start early: Begin your search well in advance, especially as a student.
• Use platforms: Utilize HousingMatchers.nl for current and wide listings of apartments and other properties.
• Filters & alerts: Refine your search with filters and set up alerts to respond quickly to an available apartment.
• Flexibility: Be flexible in terms of neighborhood (also look outside the city center of Groningen) and type of living space (apartment, studio, etc.).
• Budget: Determine your budget realistically and search specifically for available rental properties within that price range.
• Neighborhoods: Explore the diverse neighborhoods of Groningen (Helpman, Oosterpoort, etc.) to find your ideal place and apartment.
• Communication: Be clear, quick, and polite in your contact with agents and landlords.
• Viewing & Contract: Prepare well for the apartment viewing and read your rental contract very carefully.
• Alertness: Beware of scams; do not pay money upfront without certainty for a property.
• Persevere: Finding an apartment in Groningen can take some time, but with patience and the right approach, you'll find your home in no time!