Apartment Rental Guide in Rotterdam

Considering a move to the Maas City? Living in Rotterdam means choosing a life in a modern city with an edgy character, impressive architecture, and boundless energy. However, finding a suitable apartment can be a challenge in this popular metropolis.

The supply is large, but so is the demand. This article is your guide. We'll take you through the diverse neighborhoods, explain how private sector rentals work, and show you how to get a handle on the current listings through HousingMatchers. Read on to discover how to successfully start your search for a rental home in Rotterdam.

Why is renting an apartment in Rotterdam so popular?

Rotterdam is a city that never stops. As Europe's largest port city and the bustling center of the province of South Holland, it attracts people from all over the world. The city is known for its drive for innovation. Where in other cities you mostly see historic canal houses, in Rotterdam, you'll marvel at skyscrapers and modern architecture. Living in Rotterdam means being part of this dynamism.

The city's popularity creates a lively rental market. There is high demand for living space, from students and first-time renters to expats and families. The city offers something for everyone: from luxurious high-rise buildings with views over the Maas to characteristic pre-war properties in neighborhoods like Blijdorp or Kralingen. Excellent public transport connections and its central location in the Randstad complete the picture. It is a place where you can work, study, and live at a high level.

What kind of apartments are available in the city?

The selection in Rotterdam is probably the most diverse in the Netherlands. When you look at the available apartments in Rotterdam, you'll see an enormous variety. In the center of Rotterdam, you'll find many modern high-rise buildings. Here you live in the middle of the action, close to shops, stations, and entertainment venues.

Modern apartment with gym on the 's-Gravenweg

€1,365 / month

‘s-Gravenweg, Rotterdam

1

54 m²

2/2/2026

Apartment

Living in the ZuideR Carré: 116 m² in Vreewijk

€2,495 / month

Leo Lashleylaan, Rotterdam

2

116 m²

In consultation

Apartment

Views of Hofplein from the 11th floor

€2,250 / month

Weena 21D, Rotterdam

2

90 m²

9/1/2025

Apartment

Spacious Living: 128m² in Oude Noorden

€1,995 / month

Bergweg, Rotterdam

4

128 m²

Immediately

Apartment

New Build on the Maas: Piekstraat Rotterdam

€1,675 / month

Piekstraat 159, Rotterdam

1

66 m²

In consultation

Apartment

New build on the 14th floor along the Maas river

€2,250 / month

Piekstraat 267, Rotterdam

1

93 m²

1/1/2026

Apartment

Looking for a bit more peace and greenery? Then the neighborhoods just outside the center, such as Hillegersberg or the Scheepvaartkwartier, offer beautiful options. In addition to regular apartments, specific housing types can also be found. Think of a loft in an old factory, a studio for a starter, or a spacious apartment with multiple bedrooms for a family. Living by the water is also very possible here.

What is the difference between social housing and private sector rental properties in Rotterdam?

When searching for a home, you often encounter the distinction between social housing and the private sector. Social housing is intended for people with lower incomes and has a maximum rent. This often involves long waiting lists. For many people looking for housing in the short term, this is not a viable option.

That's why we focus mainly on private sector rental properties in Rotterdam. In the private sector, prices are higher, but there are no waiting lists. You can respond directly if you see a property you like. Private sector landlords often set income requirements to ensure you can pay the rent. The listings on HousingMatchers largely consist of these private sector properties, allowing you to act faster and find a home that is immediately available.

In which neighborhoods can you find unique apartments?

Rotterdam has many faces, and this is reflected in its diverse neighborhoods. If you're looking to rent an apartment in Rotterdam, you'll come across various iconic and lesser-known locations.

Are you looking for absolute hustle and modernity? Then an apartment in the Central District or around the station might be for you. You'll literally live among the skyscrapers and city life. An apartment in the side streets of the large shopping areas also places you right in the center.

Are you more charmed by historical atmospheres or living by the water? Then consider an apartment on the Kop van Zuid or in the Wijnhavenkwartier. For a more stately environment, you can look at the Museumkwartier. In the Kralingen district, apartments are highly sought after due to the cozy atmosphere and proximity to the woods and lake. You can also find unique spots in Delfshaven or Oude Noorden, often with characteristic facades and canals.

How to find specific and affordable homes?

Sometimes you're looking for something very specific or trying to find that one affordable gem. Perhaps you're looking in Rotterdam-Zuid, an area that is rapidly developing and often still offers affordable options compared to the city center or North. Locations in the suburbs can also offer surprising possibilities for those who search well.

Finding cheap apartments or specific locations around squares or parks requires an active approach. Use the filters on the platform to specify your wishes. You can filter by price, neighborhood, and size. By saving your search, you stay informed about listings that meet your specific requirements.

Is renting a furnished home an option for expats?

Rotterdam is an international city and attracts many expats. For this group, or for people who need temporary accommodation, a furnished home is ideal. You can move right in, as everything from sofa to cutlery is provided. Unfurnished properties (with flooring and curtains) are the standard for longer rental periods, but the furnished segment is growing.

As an expat, it's pleasant to live in a neighborhood where you quickly feel at home and where amenities are easily accessible. The private sector offers many such apartments for rent. Whether you stay for six months or indefinitely, there is often a suitable solution to be found. Be aware that the rent for furnished homes is often slightly higher than for bare or unfurnished homes.

How does renting through a private landlord or real estate agent work?

Various types of providers are active in the Rotterdam market. You can rent an apartment through professional real estate agents who manage large complexes, but there are also many private landlords. If you rent from a private individual, the contact is often more personal. Sometimes it concerns someone who owns one or a few properties and decides to rent them out in Rotterdam.

At HousingMatchers, we collect listings from both real estate agents and private individuals. This gives you a complete overview of the market. If you want to contact the landlord, you can usually do so directly via the advertisement. Always be vigilant and ensure you make clear agreements, regardless of who the landlord is. A professional real estate agent can help draw up a watertight contract, which is beneficial for both parties.

What should you pay attention to regarding rent and additional costs?

Rent is an important part of your search. In the private sector, prices are not capped but are determined by the market. In addition to the bare rent, service costs are often added, especially in apartment complexes with an elevator or common areas. Sometimes there are also costs for a parking space.

It is wise to determine your budget beforehand. Take into account the income requirement that landlords often set; usually, your gross income must be three to four times the monthly rent. Also check whether the price includes or excludes gas, water, and electricity. By calculating carefully, you won't encounter any surprises and you'll know exactly what your monthly expenses will be.

How to increase your chances in the tight housing market?

Demand for rental properties in Rotterdam is high. If you see a beautiful home, for example, an apartment with a view of the skyline, you are often not the only interested party. Speed is therefore crucial. Make sure you can react immediately when something new comes online.

Good preparation helps with this. Make sure you have documents such as payslips, an employer's statement, and a copy of your ID ready digitally. This way, you can send them immediately if the landlord asks for them. A complete and neat application gives you an advantage over other home seekers. Also, clearly show who you are and why you are a suitable tenant.

How does HousingMatchers help you find a home?

Endlessly sifting through different websites can be frustrating. HousingMatchers makes it easier by displaying rental listings in Rotterdam in one place. We constantly scan the market for new advertisements. Whether you are looking for rental houses, studios, or apartments, you will find them here.

What are the steps from viewing to key handover?

If you've been invited for a viewing, that's a good sign. Use this moment to critically examine the property. Pay attention to the state of maintenance, the light incidence, and the atmosphere in the neighborhood. Also ask about the neighbors and any plans for the area. If you are enthusiastic, inform the real estate agent or landlord immediately.

If you are chosen, the signing of the rental contract follows. Read it carefully. It contains agreements about the rent, the duration of the contract, and the notice period. After signing and paying the first month's rent and the deposit, the key handover takes place. Often an inspection report of the property's condition is made at that point. And then the great enjoyment of your new place in Rotterdam can begin!

Key points to remember:

• Diverse offerings: Rotterdam offers everything from modern high-rises to characteristic old buildings.
• Private sector: The fastest route to a home, without waiting lists, but with income requirements.
• Location: Choose between the hustle and bustle of the city center, the grandeur of Kop van Zuid, or the atmosphere of neighborhoods like Blijdorp.
• Speed: Respond immediately to new listings and ensure your documents are ready.
• Costs: Pay close attention to the bare rent versus the total monthly costs including service charges.