Amsterdam is a captivating metropolis that is ideal for international expats. According to Statistics Netherlands, over 400,000 residents moved to this aspirational city in 2022. In fact, among non-EU citizens, family was the major reason for immigration.
When relocating to a new country with your family members, it is vital to secure the right neighborhood – with thoroughly-planned infrastructure and essential amenities in close proximity. In this article, we will look at the main characteristics of family housing and the best family friendly areas in Amsterdam.
What Factors to Consider?
Safety
In general, this is a key priority in the Netherlands at the government level. DGB Group has ranked Amsterdam as #2 among the top 10 green cities worldwide – a well-deserved achievement that emphasizes sustainable mobility and nature protection. Moreover, Safety Index report carried out by Numbeo and Quality of living city ranking 2024 conducted by Mercer clearly show that Amsterdam is a leading European capital ensuring balanced life quality.
When choosing a safe neighborhood in Amsterdam, it's helpful to use the city's official safety map. According to recent data, Oud-Zuid, Watergraafsmeer, and the nearby suburb of Amstelveen are among the safest areas.
Social environment
The place we live in determines our lifestyle and productivity in a fast-paced urban context. This is particularly beneficial for young families and parents with small children, as it provides them with a range of opportunities for recreation and education. We advise to keep an eye on public transportation, parks, sport facilities, and multi-purpose playgrounds. Besides, a faster route to school or kindergarten will pay off as a time-saving advantage. As every individual has different preferences in mind, you can tailor these criteria to your specific needs.
If you're seeking English-language education for your child, consider the international schools in the Amsterdam area. For Dutch-language primary schools or kindergartens, you can explore options through the Amsterdam School Finder.
Sports and leisure
Make sure to analyze the surrounding area. It is great when your new apartment or house motivates you for adventures and engaging hobbies. On weekends, picture having a picnic outdoors. For some inspiration, join a workshop in creative studios – or try out sport games bringing the whole family together. You can find the sports activities you need on the map.
Flexibility
Evaluate housing accessibility: is there a barrier-free environment? Is it convenient to walk with a stroller or a dog? Is there a parking lot nearby if you move around by car? The property layout also matters: take into account the number of rooms, sufficient storage, and personal space dedicated to children.
Which Neighborhood to Choose in Amsterdam?
- Amstelveen
- Jordaan
- De Pijp
- Oud-Zuid
- Watergraafsmeer
- Amsterdam-Noord
- Houthaven
- IJburg
We are happy to share with you useful tips on how to buy your dream home in Holland and what websites to visit. Here is a selection of the main districts in Amsterdam perfect for families with children.
Amstelveen
Amstelveen is an attractive city for families with children due to its well-developed infrastructure and abundance of green spaces. Located just south of Amsterdam, it offers a peaceful and safe environment ideal for raising children.
One of Amstelveen's main advantages is its proximity to nature. The city borders the Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Forest), providing numerous opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, picnics, cycling routes, and playgrounds. Additionally, the Amstel River flows through the city, offering picturesque landscapes and opportunities to spend time outdoors.
In terms of education, Amstelveen offers a wide selection of both international and Dutch schools of high quality. The International School of Amsterdam provides education under the International Baccalaureate programs for children aged 2 to 18. Also located in the city is Amity International School Amsterdam, offering English-language education for children of various ages. For those who prefer the Dutch education system, Amstelveen has several quality public schools that provide a high level of education and comprehensive development for students.
Thus, the combination of natural resources and a variety of educational institutions makes Amstelveen an ideal place for families seeking to provide their children with favorable conditions for growth and development.
Jordaan
Treat yourself to this prestigious spot, hand-picked by high-performing expats. Here you can connect with successful mid-aged managers from global companies who have relocated with their families and appreciate utmost convenience. This thriving community offers elite real estate, where advanced infrastructure blends seamlessly with the charm of European traditions.
Authentic Dutch views will accompany you during cozy walks to Noordermarkt or Lindengracht food market. By the way, the streets close to the Brewer’s Canal are especially beautiful and feel like a picture-perfect fairytale. As a cultural phenomenon, pop into one of the “brown cafés” – historic establishments instantly recognizable by their wooden interiors and home-style regional dishes. And if your relatives are in town for a visit, you can easily take them to the world-class tourist attractions around the corner: the Anna Frank House or the Amsterdam Tulip Museum.
De Pijp
Alluring, fashionable, multicultural – De Pijp is a hip area seen as “the coolest destination in town.” Which means – Sunday brunches become a family tradition, boutique stores lure you for window shopping, and there’s always a touch of bohemian charm among those blossoming gardens. The neighborhood is also well-equipped with public transport: 15 minutes by tram, and you are at Amsterdam Central Station.
Your days will always start at the heart of a vibrant social scene. Enjoy a wonderful picnic in Sarphatipark on a day off, with its numerous food stalls and sandboxes. Get fresh produce at the Albert Cuyp Markt – or take your kids to pet cute animals at Kinderboerderij. De Pijp feels like a safe haven where you can strike a balance between residential calm and lively vibes of the Museumplein area. That’s just what a modern family wants!
Oud-Zuid
Passing through Oud-Zuid, you will see tree lined streets and beautiful homes with spacious rooms - lovely, aren't they? Unbeatable upmarket positioning facilitates all the amenities that the city has to offer: leading international schools (for example, Amsterdam International Community School), organic food markets, playgrounds and running paths of Vondelpark. One of the most sought-after addresses in Amsterdam perfectly matches a wealthy family lifestyle, as confirmed by multiple expats and locals.
It will take you 10 minutes by bike to reach Amsterdamse Bos – practically, a forest inside the city, offering horse riding, kayaking, swimming, outdoor games, and other activities that your children will love at first sight. Fancy a cozy heated terrace for a weekend dinner? Look no further than the Hilton Hotel, where Italian classics come alive against a relaxed yet elegant backdrop.
Watergraafsmer
Commuting home quickly is a must for working class parents who go to the office. Apart from that, we all want a welcoming residential atmosphere, with daycare centres and child-friendly attractions. This is when Watergraafsmeer comes into play. Only 2 miles away from downtown by subway, green and harmonious, this popular part of the city boasts Flevopark and Oosterpark, as well as bilingual schools and health facilities, among other perks. A smart choice for those seeking comfort and value for money.
Frankendael Park is another attraction welcoming both parents and children on a fine day. On a special occasion, reserve a table at De Kas, an institution that reinvents organic dining. Well-deserved, it’s recommended by the Micheline Guide: their farm-to-table approach makes every dish exciting, and your youngsters will surely be impressed by this exquisite greenhouse.
Amsterdam Noord
Imagine a perfect mix of tranquility and fun. An array of grocery stores, modern lifestyle solutions, and residential complexes – all that while staying well-connected to the city centre? The answer is closer than you might think. Hop on an iconic ferry across the IJ canal, or take a train to discover Amsterdam Noord, a longtime favorite among local residents.
This family friendly neighborhood is dotted with green spaces and gardens. We can compare it to an up-and-coming creative playground, where both entrepreneurs and families feel at home. Enormous Vliegenbos, a large city forest, includes a campsite, eco-stays and even houseboats. In addition, culinary inspiration flies in the air, with numerous hidden gems such as Euro Pizza with a garden, a French retro eatery Pompet, or laid-back Pllek with an eco-menu and spacious outdoor seating. So, let’s go out, get social, and keep exploring!
Houthavens
Nestled in the western borough, this “land of the future” is synonymous with innovative sustainability. A new name on the Amsterdam map, this group of islands is setting standards for next-generation urban development – just like De Baarsjes or Bos en Lommer some years ago. Whether it is a car-free Reval Island, the heritage-inspired Wibor, or social housing of Karlskrona – they have all transitioned from industrial sites to promising residential areas with efficient transport links.
Houthavens embraces diversity and fosters a strong sense of community. Energy-efficient buildings aim to attain a zero-emission vision. Add exceptional river views, modern architecture highlights, and a plethora of sport facilities – and we are paving the way to a better tomorrow.
Ijburg
Nicknamed “A land of wind and water', the latest addition to the ever-changing cityscape is under active development. The easternmost part of Amsterdam comprises four artificial islands – and there are more to come very soon. Young families are attracted by more affordable freshly-built housing, extra space around, a selection of kindergartens and schools, like-minded neighbors, local cafés… and the list goes on.
Many people compare it to Almere or Diemen as alternative neighborhoods for families. To make an informed decision about renting or buying property here, we suggest evaluating pros and cons. This emerging district is indeed further from the city centre, with less commuting options, so it would probably be best to get an electric bike or a car. However, it can surely suit self-employed professionals. With basic amenities at hand, you can lead an active lifestyle. If you are into water sports, head over to Strand Blijburg. As a short ride, Diemerpark and Oosterpark are nice locations to take a stroll, too.
Summing up, it comes as no surprise to see the Netherlands repeatedly included in the list of top 10 countries for raising children. A supportive local environment promotes parenting, and the family-oriented approach covers all areas of life, from kids-friendly mindset to convenient services and an emphasis on well-being from an early age.
Plenty of options, right? As simple as it may seem, when looking for your future “home sweet home”, align your choices with your goals and stay true to your family values. To approach the Dutch housing market, you can also refer to our tips on how to negotiate with a local seller in the real estate sector.
