Looking at Amsterdam for a family move in 2026? This guide focuses on neighborhoods that work with school-age kids: good schools, parks, safe streets, and realistic rents for a 3-bedroom. Suburban Amstelveen or central Zuid, the picks below are where most expat families end up.
Use our Amsterdam cost of living calculator to see which neighborhoods fit your budget.
1. Amstelveen: the international-school pick
Technically its own municipality, but well-connected to the centre. The go-to for families with kids at international schools:
- International School of Amsterdam (ISA)
- Large houses and apartments with gardens
- Amsterdamse Bos park nearby
- Safe, family-oriented atmosphere
- Rent: €2,000 - €3,500 for 3-bedroom[?]
2. Amsterdam Zuid (South)
One of the pricier areas, Zuid mixes urban convenience with family-usable streets and parks:[?]
- Vondelpark for outdoor activities
- Excellent Dutch and international schools
- Beautiful architecture and wide streets
- Close to the business district (Zuidas)
- Rent: €2,500 - €4,000+ for 3-bedroom[?]
3. Watergraafsmeer
A quiet pocket in East Amsterdam, Watergraafsmeer feels almost suburban without leaving the tram network:[?]
- Quiet, tree-lined streets
- Strong community feel
- Good local schools
- Frankendael Park
- Rent: €1,800 - €2,800 for 3-bedroom[?]
4. Oud-West
For families who want to stay central without losing access to green space and good local shops:
- Walking distance to Vondelpark
- Vibrant local shops and restaurants
- Mix of families and young professionals
- Good public transport connections
- Rent: €2,200 - €3,200 for 3-bedroom[?]
Schools
The main international options most expat families consider:
- International School of Amsterdam (ISA) - IB curriculum
- British School of Amsterdam - British curriculum
- Amsterdam International Community School - IB curriculum
- The Dutch School System - Free and highly rated
Budget reality for a family
Living in Amsterdam with a family requires a higher budget than single living:[?]
- Rent (3-bedroom): €2,000 - €4,000/month
- International school fees: €15,000 - €25,000/year
- Childcare (if needed): €1,500 - €2,000/month (subsidized)
- Family groceries: €600 - €800/month
Run the numbers for yourself
Put in your salary and see what a month in Netherlands looks like after rent and tax.
Start calculating →