If you are an expat working in the Randstad, the choice often boils down to two heavyweights: the vibrant, canal-lined streets of Amsterdam or the stately, coastal charm of The Hague.
While Amsterdam remains the “cool older sibling,” 2026 has brought a shift in the real estate landscape. With the NHG limit now at €470,000 and the transfer tax exemption (Startersvrijstelling) capped at €555,000, the math is starting to favor the city by the sea.
The “Space” Factor: Square Meters for Your Budget
In Amsterdam’s popular rings (Zuid, West, or De Baarsjes), a budget of €550,000 often secures a well-maintained 50–60 m2 apartment—if you’re lucky.
In The Hague, that same €550,000 opens doors to:
- A spacious 3-bedroom family home in Leyenburg or Bezuidenhout.
- A high-end, renovated apartment in Statenkwartier near the International Zone.
- More “house” for your money, often with a private garden or a balcony that actually sees the sun.
Navigating the Search: Finding these gems in a competitive market requires local expertise. Working with a dedicated real estate agent for expats can help you identify neighborhoods that offer the best long-term ROI before they become the next “hotspot.”
The 2026 Tax Advantage
As of January 1st, 2026, the threshold for the 0% transfer tax for buyers under 35 is €555,000.
- In Amsterdam: Finding a quality home under this limit is becoming an Olympic sport. Most buyers here end up paying the 2% tax, adding roughly €12,000+ to their kosten koper.
- In The Hague: A significant portion of the expat-friendly inventory still sits comfortably under this €555k mark. This means you can keep that €12,000 in your pocket for renovations or new furniture.
Lifestyle: Work-Life Balance (and the Beach)
Amsterdam offers the hustle and the nightlife, but The Hague offers something the capital can’t: Scheveningen.
In The Hague, your “commute” to the beach is a 15-minute bike ride. For expats working at international organizations or tech hubs, the proximity to both the office and the North Sea provides a level of calm that is hard to find in the crowded streets of the capital.
The “Hidden” Nearby Gems
One of the biggest perks of looking at The Hague area in 2026 is the connectivity. If The Hague center feels too busy, places like Voorburg and Rijswijk offer even more value for money while remaining just 10 minutes from The Hague Central Station.
Verdict: Is it time to move South?
If you prioritize square footage, financial tax advantages, and a slightly more relaxed pace of life, The Hague is the clear winner for 2026. You aren’t just buying a house; you’re buying a lifestyle that actually allows you to breathe.
Ready to make your move to The Hague?
Don’t navigate the complex Dutch housing market alone. Whether you’re looking for your first apartment or a family home, I provide expert guidance tailored specifically to the international community.
Schedule a free intake call or meeting with Andres today and let’s find your perfect home in The Hague area.