The Hague for Expats: The City to Work and Live

Expats The Hague

The Hague has long positioned itself as the international city of "Peace and Justice." There are many international organizations that use The Hague as their base. Together with the embassies and various multinationals, this makes The Hague a city with an international character. This also means that many people from abroad come to The Hague to work. A commonly used term for these people is "expats." These expats all need a place to live, and finding accommodation is not always as easy as it seems. It is therefore advisable to always work with a specialized expat rental agent.

What is an expat?

According to Wikipedia, the word expat comes from the Latin, meaning "outside the homeland." In the Netherlands, most expats live in the region of The Hague and Amsterdam. This is because these cities are home to most of the multinationals and international organizations. Expats from the US, as well as from countries such as China and India, come here temporarily, usually for 6 to 12 months, to work. Due to the temporary nature of their stay, they often rent a home or apartment.

Why do expats choose the Netherlands?

Quality of life in The Hague is among the best in the world.

The Hague for expats is the best city to live in the Netherlands.

Many expats want to live in The Hague, and why not?

The Hague is considered by expats to be more enjoyable than Amsterdam. Source: Omroep West

Rental Agent The Hague

Manon de Lange is a real estate agent in The Hague and co-owner of NVM Makelaar The Hague Real Estate Services.

For expats wishing to live in The Hague, Voorburg, or Wassenaar, it is wise to engage a rental agent or "expat agent." They know the housing market in The Hague like no one else. They also have a large network, which they use daily to find suitable housing for each client.

The Hague is globally one of the most livable cities for expats.

As reported today (13-02-2019) by both De Telegraaf and AD.

According to ECA International, a company that supports expats worldwide, Copenhagen and Bern, Switzerland, top the list, but The Hague is number three. Besides The Hague, Amsterdam (6th), Eindhoven (7th), and Rotterdam (12th) are also in the top 20.

It is not surprising for The Hague to appear on such lists. For example, in November, The Hague was ranked 11th on the list of "Best Cities in the World for Expats to Settle" by Expat City Ranking 2018.

What makes The Hague such a special and attractive city for expats?

The Hague is a green city

The Hague, also known as 's-Gravenhage, is the political center and royal residence of the Netherlands. As of January 1, 2021, the city's population reached 549,163 residents from 180 different nationalities. The city is known for its openness and royal allure. The royal family lives and works here. It is one of the greenest cities in Europe, with 116,000 trees and 885.2 hectares of parkland. The Hague is conveniently located between Schiphol Airport and Rotterdam The Hague Airport, about 30 minutes by car or train.

The Hague/Scheveningen – A City by the Sea

From the historic city center of The Hague to the Pier in Scheveningen, it’s just a 20-minute ride by public transport or bicycle. The Hague is, of course, known as a city by the sea. Additionally, The Hague offers 11 kilometers of beach and 70 beach pavilions.

The Hague as an international city

More than 200 intergovernmental and non-governmental international organizations have established themselves in The Hague. The Hague Real Estate Services is happy to assist them with housing for their expats.

Students/education in The Hague

An increasing number of international students are living in The Hague. There are now 11 international schools, such as The American School of The Hague, The British School in The Netherlands, and The International School of The Hague.

Tourism and recreation in The Hague

The Hague offers the following for the many tourists who visit the city every year:

• 61 hotels and 4,079 rooms
• 20 museums, 14 concert halls, 2 conference centers
• 8 theaters, 6 music centers
• 3,800 shops, 1,700 restaurants/cafes

Volunteer The Hague

An expat often doesn't come to The Hague alone. They usually bring a partner and children. A great way for an expat to get to know the city and make new friendships is through volunteer work. Get to know Volunteer The Hague. Volunteer The Hague matches the talents and skills of internationals with the needs of local non-profit organizations to build a more vibrant community for everyone living in The Hague area. It is powered by PEP (Participate Emancipate Professionals), an organization dedicated to inspiring residents to get involved and make a difference in the community.

Housing for expats in The Hague – rental properties

Expats often stay for a short period (short stay) in the Netherlands. Due to their short temporary stay, they usually do not buy a home. They often look for rental properties instead. A rental property in a good location is often very important to an expat. Expats prefer to live close to their work, especially in the Randstad area, to have easy access to public transport and be able to quickly return home after a long workday. Additionally, their social contacts, made through work, are often nearby.

The favorite residential locations of expats in The Hague:

Statenkwartier

Statenkwartier is located near the beach, the harbor, and the famous, lively shopping street "De Fred." The neighborhood is often referred to as the international zone, with many embassies, international organizations, and large companies located here. Built at the end of the 19th century, Statenkwartier is an attractive, upscale area for expats to live. Many houses in the area are carefully detailed and decorated both inside and out. The neighborhood has been a protected cityscape for several years.

Zeeheldenkwartier

Popular among expats in The Hague is the Zeeheldenkwartier. Here, you’ll find many small, lesser-known but very charming restaurants and bars. The area tends to attract people who prefer quieter, less trendy spots. There are sunny squares, beautiful Jugendstil buildings, and a mixed character with both affordable and expensive homes. The neighborhood is home to large townhouses, charming smaller apartments, and even a few courtyards. The Peace Palace is also located in this neighborhood. For a peaceful retreat, the Zeeheldentuin is a hidden gem, offering a green oasis for those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. You’re also close to Park Sorghvliet and the Scheveningse Bosjes.

Benoordenhout

Benoordenhout is a very quiet, green neighborhood with many pleasant streets. Because it’s a family-friendly area, it is home to many (young) families. There are good connections to Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and Utrecht. The houses here are spacious and well-maintained, and the public transport is excellent. There are forests to the north and east. The area features traditional, beautiful 1930s villas and a few single-family homes. With its spacious homes and environment, it is an excellent option for young families with children. About 30% of the properties in Benoordenhout are privately rented homes, often rented to expats. The unique Clingendael estate with a beautiful park is also located here.

Bezuidenhout

Bezuidenhout is home to many young professionals and young couples who have just graduated and are starting their careers. There are shops, lunchrooms, and delicatessens in the area. The homes in this neighborhood are reasonably priced and close to the city center, the Haagse Bos, and major roads. Around 30% of the homes in Bezuidenhout are privately rented properties.

Archipelbuurt / Willemspark

This city center with beautiful 19th-century houses and apartments is full of character, with wide streets, large townhouses, and villas. The Archipelbuurt, also known as the Indian neighborhood, is a compact area with various types of homes. You’ll find large buildings from the late 19th century as well as courtyards around Javastraat and new buildings on Burgemeester Patijnlaan. Willemspark is a historic, green villa neighborhood from 1850 with a mix of old and new homes. Many embassies are located in these neighborhoods, making them prime locations with many beautifully finished houses and apartments. Most villas are used as offices or embassies, but in the coming years, some will be converted into residences. These properties are ideal for renting to expats in The Hague.

Wassenaar

Just outside The Hague, Wassenaar remains a favorite for expat families and diplomats with large housing budgets. It is close to various international schools in a green area.

Renting a Home for or Renting to Expats in The Hague

The Hague is a beautiful city for expats to live and work. Whether you enjoy the hustle and bustle or prefer the peace, nature, and the sea, The Hague has it all. As an expat, you can only truly thrive if you have your own space to retreat to with your family and unwind. A comfortable home or apartment in a pleasant environment will make your stay in The Hague unforgettable. The rental agent The Hague Real Estate Services has a wide range of high-quality homes and apartments that will meet all your needs. Call 070-2141077 or email info@thres.nl for more information.

Real Estate Agent The Hague

Also, read our blog: The Hague Real Estate Services Makes the Difference with Extra Service.

Rental Agent The Hague:

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