What does it really cost to live in the Netherlands? Complete family budget for 2026

How much do you need to earn to live comfortably in the Netherlands as a family of 3–4? This article provides a straightforward, up-to-date estimate for 2026. We cover rent, food, transport, insurance, taxes, benefits and even entertainment, with practical figures and ways to save.

1. Rent — the biggest expense

In 2026 rent remains the main budget burden. Average city prices for a family apartment with 2–3 bedrooms:

Tip: renting through an intermediary that includes registration can cost €200–500 more, but gives you an official address and the option of receiving travel expense compensation.

2. Utilities and internet

For a family of four (2 adults and 2 children):

• Electricity + gas — €220–380/month (more in winter)
• Water — €50–80
• Internet + TV — €50–90
• Waste tax (afvalstoffenheffing) — €25–50

Total: €350–600/month (average €450)

3. Food and groceries

For a family of four:

• Groceries at Albert Heijn / Jumbo / Lidl — €650–950/month
• Cafés/takeaways 2–3 times a week — €150–300
• Baby food / nappies — €100–200

Total: €900–1,450/month (average €1,100)

4. Transport

If you work far from home, you may receive a reimbursement:

• OV-chipkaart (public transport) — €120–280/month per person
• Car (fuel/electricity + insurance) — €200–450

With reiskostenvergoeding, transport may cost almost nothing (up to €500 in compensation).

5. Insurance and healthcare

Mandatory basic insurance (basisverzekering):

• Adult — €140–170/month
• Child under 18 — free

Total for a family of four: €280–340/month

6. Taxes, benefits and refunds

Average household income (2 adults, €4,000–6,000 net):

• Income tax — 37–49.5%
• Refunds: zorgtoeslag (up to €200/month), huurtoeslag (up to €400/month), kinderbijslag (up to €300/quarter per child)

Net after taxes and refunds: €3,200–5,200/month

7. Other costs (clothing, entertainment, unexpected expenses)

Average household spending:

• Clothing / shoes — €150–300
• Entertainment / cafés / cinema — €200–400
• Unexpected expenses — €200–500

Total: €550–1,200/month

Total budget for a family of four (2026)

Conclusion: a family of four needs around **€4,500–6,000 net** per month to live comfortably. With benefits and reimbursements, spending could be reduced to €3,800–5,000.