Find Rental Housing in Rotterdam
Rotterdam is the second city of the Netherlands and is growing rapidly. With modern architecture, a vibrant port, and Erasmus University, the city attracts more and more young professionals and students. The rental market is less tense than Amsterdam, but popular neighborhoods are quickly becoming more expensive.
Kijkie in Rotterdam
Source: automatically collected data via Kijkie. Last updated: December 28, 2025
How the rental market in Rotterdam really is
Rotterdam offers an interesting alternative for Amsterdam seekers. The city has its own character and the rental market is more accessible.
Prices by property type
A room in Rotterdam costs €500-700 per month on average. Studios start around €900 and go up to €1,200 for something in a popular neighborhood. Apartments are available from €1,200-1,400 for a one-bedroom.
The reality of searching
On average, you'll find something in Rotterdam within 2-3 months. Popular neighborhoods like Kralingen and the Center are more competitive. In Feijenoord, Delfshaven, or Charlois there's more supply and less competition.
Student housing
Erasmus University has about 30,000 students. SSH Rotterdam offers student housing, but waiting lists exist. The Kralingse Plas area is popular with students.
Seasonal patterns
August-September is busier due to new students. The port city also has many expats moving year-round.
Up-and-coming neighborhoods
Rotterdam South (Katendrecht, Kop van Zuid) is strongly emerging. Previously unpopular, now hip and still affordable. The water taxi connects the area quickly to the center.
Neighborhoods in Rotterdam
Kralingen
ExpensivePopular with students, close to Erasmus. Green neighborhood with Kralingse Plas.
Centrum
ExpensiveModern architecture, shops, nightlife. Busy but central.
Delfshaven
AffordableHistoric harbor, multicultural, affordable. Characteristic neighborhood.
Katendrecht
AverageFormer harbor district, now hip with restaurants. Fast-growing.
Rotterdam Noord
AffordableQuiet residential area, affordable, good connections.
Best strategy for Rotterdam
Budget < €800
Focus on rooms in Rotterdam South, North, or Delfshaven. Anti-squat is an option. Start 2-3 months in advance.
Budget €800 - €1.200
Studios possible in up-and-coming neighborhoods. Small apartments in Feijenoord or Charlois.
Budget > €1.200
Wide choice in center, Kralingen, or Katendrecht. Also consider Schiedam or Capelle for more space.
Also consider these places
Scam advice for Rotterdam
Vooruitbetaling
Never pay deposit or rent before seeing the property. Rotterdam has relatively many fake rentals.
Havenwijk-scams
Watch out for "too good to be true" offers in popular new neighborhoods like Katendrecht.
Valse makelaars
Check if brokers are affiliated with NVM or VBO. Always ask for identification.
Kamerverhuur fraude
For room rentals: verify the main tenant has permission to sublet.
Tips for Rotterdam
Rotterdam South is cheaper and increasingly popular - check out Katendrecht and Feijenoord
The metro quickly connects all neighborhoods to the center
Erasmus University students can search via SSH Rotterdam
Use your network - many rentals go through connections
Respond quickly but be critical - take time for viewings
How Kijkie helps in Rotterdam
Kijkie scans 284+ rental websites and sends you free alerts as soon as a property in Rotterdam becomes available that matches your preferences.
Create a free account and set up your Rotterdam alertsFAQ about Rotterdam
Is Rotterdam cheaper than Amsterdam for renting?
Yes, on average 20-30% cheaper. A room costs €500-700 (vs €650-850 in Amsterdam), studios €900-1,200 (vs €1,100-1,500).
Which neighborhood is best for Erasmus students?
Kralingen is closest to campus but expensive. Alternatives are North, Delfshaven, or even Schiedam with good public transport connection.
How long does it take to find a place in Rotterdam?
On average 2-3 months. In popular neighborhoods like Kralingen or Center it may take longer. In Rotterdam South or North it can be faster.
Is Rotterdam South safe?
Rotterdam South is improving significantly. Neighborhoods like Katendrecht and Kop van Zuid are popular and safe. Some parts of Feijenoord and Charlois are less desirable but improving.
Should I register with housing corporations in Rotterdam?
Yes, register with Woonnet Rijnmond. Waiting times vary from 5-10 years depending on the neighborhood. Registration is free.