Why Move to Apeldoorn?
Apeldoorn is often described as a 'large village' rather than a city, offering a peaceful and exceptionally green living environment. Located on the eastern edge of the Veluwe (the largest forested area in the Netherlands), it provides an ideal balance for those who want urban amenities combined with immediate access to nature.
The city is home to roughly 168,000 residents and is famous for its royal connections. Paleis Het Loo, the former summer residence of the Dutch Royal Family, is located here and its stunning gardens are a major local attraction. Apeldoorn is known for its spacious layout, detached housing, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Living in Apeldoorn means having the Apenheul primate park and the Julianatoren amusement park in your backyard, along with hundreds of kilometers of cycling and hiking trails. It is significantly more affordable than the Randstad, making it a top choice for families and those seeking a quieter pace of life without sacrificing career opportunities.
Apeldoorn at a Glance
- Unbeatable access to the Veluwe forest and nature
- Royal heritage with Paleis Het Loo and its gardens
- Very family-friendly with many parks and attractions
- More affordable housing and larger gardens than Randstad
- Quiet, safe, and clean urban environment
- Central location with good rail and road connections
Cost of Living
Apeldoorn is one of the more affordable major cities in the Netherlands. You will get significantly more space for your budget here than in the west. Here is what to budget in 2026:
Rental Prices
| Property Type | Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio / 1-room | €650 – €900 |
| 1-bedroom apartment | €850 – €1,200 |
| 2-bedroom apartment | €1,100 – €1,550 |
| Family house (3+ bed) | €1,400 – €2,200+ |
Buying Prices
| Property Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Apartment | €240,000 – €380,000 |
| Terraced house | €300,000 – €450,000 |
| Semi-detached / detached | €450,000 – €850,000+ |
Monthly Expenses (Single Person)
| Expense | Amount / month |
|---|---|
| Groceries | €250 – €350 |
| Health insurance | €140 – €180 |
| Public transport (monthly) | €60 – €100 |
| Utilities (gas, electric, water) | €160 – €250 |
| Internet + mobile | €50 – €70 |
| Gym membership | €30 – €55 |
Source: CBS, Funda, Pararius (2025-2026 data). Prices vary by neighborhood and plot size.
Best Neighborhoods
Apeldoorn offers a variety of living styles, from historic villas to modern family estates:
Berg en Bos
Exclusive, green, quietThe most prestigious neighborhood in Apeldoorn. It is located on the edge of the forest and features large, historic villas on spacious plots. Quiet, extremely green, and home to the Apenheul.
Osseveld
Modern, family-oriented, convenientA modern and popular residential area on the eastern side of the city. It has its own train station, several shopping centers, and many modern family homes. Excellent for commuters and young families.
Centrum
Central, mixed, activeA mix of historic architecture and modern apartment blocks. Ideal for those who want everything within walking distance. Close to the Oranjepark and the main shopping streets.
De Maten
Green, affordable, family-friendlyOne of the largest residential districts, known for its green 'hofjes' and child-friendly layout. It offers very competitive prices and has its own extensive network of parks.
Woudhuis
Modern, spacious, sustainableAdjacent to Osseveld, this newer development offers high-quality sustainable housing with a focus on space and nature integration.
Registration & BSN
Registering at the Gemeente Apeldoorn (Stadhuis) is required within 5 days of your move. This is how you obtain your BSN.
Step-by-Step
- 1 Make an appointment online via apeldoorn.nl.
- 2 The Stadhuis is located in the city center at Marktplein.
- 3 Bring your passport or ID card.
- 4 Bring your rental or purchase contract.
- 5 Receive your BSN immediately at the desk.
If you are moving from abroad, ensure your birth certificate is legalized or has an apostille, as it may be requested during registration.
Getting Around
Apeldoorn is centrally located with excellent road and rail connections. It is a major hub for the Intercity train network.
Car ownership is much easier in Apeldoorn than in the Randstad. Most houses have private driveways or ample free street parking.
Expat Community & Education
Apeldoorn is a great place for education, with several high-quality Dutch schools and regional international options.
Education options for expat families:
- International School Eerde: A prestigious international boarding school located nearby.
- Rivers International School Arnhem: Within easy reach (approx. 30 mins) for those seeking a full international curriculum.
- Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences: A highly international private university located right in Apeldoorn.
The local Dutch schools in neighborhoods like Berg en Bos and Osseveld are highly regarded for their quality and safety.
Healthcare
The Gelre Hospital (Gelre Ziekenhuizen) is the main medical facility in Apeldoorn, offering comprehensive care and a 24/7 emergency department.
General Practitioners (huisartsen) are plentiful. It is recommended to register with one as soon as you settle in, especially in the growing areas like Osseveld.
For urgent care outside of office hours, call the 'Spoedpost' located at the Gelre Hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about relocating to Apeldoorn, answered.
Is Apeldoorn a good place for expat families?
Yes, it is considered one of the best. The combination of safety, space, green surroundings, and good schools makes it highly attractive for families.
How is the housing market in Apeldoorn?
While prices are rising, it remains much more accessible than Amsterdam or Utrecht. You can often find a family house here for the price of a small apartment in the Randstad.
Do I need a car in Apeldoorn?
While the city is cycleable and has good trains, a car is more common and useful here than in the big western cities, especially for exploring the Veluwe.
What is there to do in Apeldoorn?
Key attractions include Paleis Het Loo, Apenheul, Julianatoren, and of course, the endless nature of the Veluwe for outdoor activities.
How is the commute to Amsterdam?
It takes about an hour by train or car. Many residents work in Amersfoort or Utrecht, which are much closer (25-45 mins).