Huizen, Netherlands

Huizen sits on the edge of the Gooimeer lake in the province of North Holland, about 5 kilometers from Lelystad Airport (LEY). The town sits just 2 meters above sea level, and its climate is temperate: warm summers can reach up to 32°C, while cold winters dip to around -6°C, with an average humidity of 80%. For expats, the main draw is the Huizen Haven neighborhood, a small but welcoming waterfront area that offers a mix of modern apartments and traditional Dutch charm. With a population of 41 thousand, Huizen feels more like a large village than a city, yet it offers easy access to the broader Amsterdam region.

Living here is noticeably more affordable than in the Dutch capital, though wages are modest. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center rents for $1,250/mo, dropping to $1,050/mo outside the center; a three-bedroom in the center costs $2,300/mo, or $1,900/mo outside. The average monthly net salary is $2,579/mo, which means a single adult on a budget tier can get by on $1,180/mo total, while a mid-range lifestyle runs $1,847/mo and a comfortable one $2,287/mo. Excluding rent, a single person spends about $1,120/mo, and a family of four about $3,750/mo. Utilities run $243/mo, internet $48/mo, and a mobile plan $22/mo. Eating out is reasonable: an inexpensive restaurant meal costs $22, a three-course meal for two at a mid-range spot is $84, and a cappuccino is $4. The cost of living index sits at 74 out of 100 relative to New York City.

Safety is a strong point. Huizen has a safety index of 88 out of 100 and a crime index of just 12 out of 100, making it one of the safer places in the Netherlands. Healthcare quality is rated as excellent, and English is widely spoken, so navigating doctors, pharmacies, and hospitals is straightforward for newcomers. The expat community is small, but that can be an advantage for those who prefer a quieter, more integrated experience over a large international bubble.

For those looking to stay long-term, the Netherlands Orientation Year Visa (Zoekjaar) is the relevant path, and it requires a minimum monthly income of $1,713/mo. Getting there is easy via Lelystad Airport (LEY), just 5 kilometers away. Huizen suits digital nomads and remote workers who want a calm base with solid infrastructure: the average internet speed is 110 Mbps, and the digital nomad score is 72 out of 100. It also works well for early retirees and FIRE-minded individuals, with retiree and FIRE scores of 64 and 67 out of 100 respectively, though the overall expat score of 70 out of 100 reflects that it is not for everyone. If you value safety, excellent healthcare, and a slower pace over nightlife and big-city buzz, Huizen is a practical choice.