Find Rental Housing in Haarlem
Haarlem is a beautiful historic city just 15 minutes from Amsterdam. The charming center, proximity to Zandvoort beach, and good connections make it highly desirable. The rental market is tight, comparable to Amsterdam.
Kijkie in Haarlem
Source: automatically collected data via Kijkie. Last updated: December 28, 2025
How the rental market in Haarlem really is
Haarlem is the most popular alternative to Amsterdam with corresponding prices.
Prices by property type
A room costs €600-800 per month on average - comparable to Amsterdam. Studios start at €1,100-1,400. Apartments start around €1,400-1,800.
The reality of searching
Haarlem is almost as competitive as Amsterdam. Many people search here because they can't find anything in Amsterdam. This increases pressure.
Commuter city
Many Haarlem residents work in Amsterdam. The train connection is excellent (15 min to Centraal). This makes it popular with professionals.
Beach effect
The proximity to Zandvoort (15 min train) makes Haarlem extra attractive. In summer this is a big plus.
Historic center
Like Leiden, Haarlem has a beautiful historic center with canals. Living here is expensive but highly desired.
Neighborhoods in Haarlem
Centrum
ExpensiveHistoric heart with Grote Markt. Monumental, lively, expensive.
Haarlem-Noord
AverageResidential area with good connections. Mix of housing.
Schalkwijk
AffordableLarge neighborhood in the southeast. More affordable, many facilities.
Bloemendaal (gemeente)
ExpensiveVilla neighborhood near the dunes. Exclusive, expensive, lots of green.
Haarlem Zuidwest
AverageQuiet residential area. Families, good value.
Best strategy for Haarlem
Budget < €900
Focus on rooms in Schalkwijk or Haarlem-Noord. Consider Hoofddorp or Heemstede.
Budget €900 - €1.400
Studios in outer neighborhoods possible. Small apartments in Schalkwijk.
Budget > €1.400
Choice in center or good neighborhoods. Still competitive - respond quickly.
Scam advice for Haarlem
Amsterdam-overstroom
Scammers know people search here who can't afford Amsterdam. Be alert.
Vakantieverhuur
Some properties near the beach are actually vacation rentals. Check if permanent residence is allowed.
Monumentale panden
For historic buildings, check if rental is legal.
Vooruitbetaling
Never pay without viewing. Especially not for "perfect" center properties.
Tips for Haarlem
Haarlem is almost as expensive as Amsterdam - adjust your budget
Schalkwijk is the most affordable neighborhood with good bus connections
Hoofddorp and Heemstede are good alternatives
The train to Amsterdam is reliable and fast
Respond within 30 minutes - Haarlem is very competitive
How Kijkie helps in Haarlem
Kijkie scans 284+ rental websites and sends you free alerts as soon as a property in Haarlem becomes available that matches your preferences.
Create a free account and set up your Haarlem alertsFAQ about Haarlem
Is Haarlem cheaper than Amsterdam?
Barely. Rooms cost €600-800, comparable to Amsterdam. Its popularity as an alternative keeps prices high.
How is the connection to Amsterdam?
Excellent - 15 minutes by train to Centraal. Many Haarlem residents work in Amsterdam.
Which neighborhood is most affordable?
Schalkwijk is the most affordable large neighborhood. Haarlem-Noord and Zuidwest are mid-range.
Is living close to the beach recommended?
Zandvoort and Bloemendaal are expensive. For beach proximity, better to live in Haarlem and cycle/train 15 min.
What are good alternatives to Haarlem?
Hoofddorp (10 min train), Heemstede (5 min train), and Beverwijk (15 min train) are cheaper options.