Amsterdam, with its picturesque canals, bike-friendly roads, and vibrant neighborhoods, is a fantastic place to live as a student. However, finding suitable accommodation in the Dutch capital can be a real challenge. If you’re new to the city or considering coliving as a housing solution, this guide will help you navigate the opportunities and challenges of shared housing in Amsterdam.
Why finding housing in Amsterdam is challenging
The demand for housing in Amsterdam is high, especially among students, while the supply remains limited. The combination of high rent prices and fierce competition can make the search for a place to live overwhelming.
Fortunately, coliving has emerged as a popular solution. Offering affordability, community, and convenience, coliving spaces are attracting students and expats alike. Platforms like Renthunter simplify the search process by aggregating listings from multiple rental websites, helping you find coliving options that suit your needs without unnecessary hassle.
In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of coliving, provide tips on finding the perfect shared space, and discuss the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
What is coliving?
Coliving, or shared housing, is an arrangement where residents share living spaces like kitchens, lounges, and sometimes bathrooms, while having private bedrooms. Many coliving setups are designed with community and convenience in mind, providing amenities like Wi-Fi, furnished rooms, and shared social spaces.
In Amsterdam, coliving has gained popularity due to its affordability and the opportunity to live in a supportive, social environment. Whether you’re an international student, on an exchange program, or starting your studies in a new city, coliving can make the transition much smoother.

Factors to consider before choosing coliving
1. Budget
While coliving is generally more affordable than private rentals, it’s still important to calculate your total monthly costs. Consider rent, transportation, groceries, and leisure activities. Some coliving spaces include perks like cleaning services or organized events, which can offset other expenses. Coliving spaces range from €500 to €1,200 per person per month, depending on location and facilities.
Did you know?
The Amsterdam rental market is regulated to some extent. For example:
- Huurcommissie: If you think your rent is too high, you can file a rent claim at the Huurcommissie. They can mediate and make sure you’re paying a fair price.
- Points System: Rents for rooms in shared housing are often capped based on a points system that takes into account size, facilities and location. This protects tenants from being overcharged.
Also many landlords are required to provide a rental contract and you can ask for one. If your landlord refuses, that’s a red flag.
2. Location
Amsterdam has many neighborhoods, each with its own character. Choose a location near your university or public transport. Popular areas for students are:
- De Pijp: Famous for its markets and trendy cafes.
- Oud-West: A mix of busy streets and quiet residential areas.
- Amsterdam-Noord: Up and coming with more affordable options and great access to the city via ferry or metro.
- Zuid: Close to universities and Vondelpark.
Proximity to shops, libraries and recreational spots can also make life easier.
3. Roommates
Living with others requires compatibility. Some coliving spaces match tenants based on interests and lifestyles to ensure harmony. Before committing, discuss routines, study schedules, and shared responsibilities like cleaning and groceries to avoid misunderstandings.
4. Amenities
Coliving spaces often come with a variety of amenities. Check what’s included in the rent, such as:
- Furnished rooms
- Wi-Fi
- Communal kitchens and lounges
- Laundry facilities
- Gyms or study areas
Modern coliving spaces may also feature eco-friendly designs, such as energy-efficient appliances or communal gardens, offering a more sustainable living option.
5. Lease flexibility
Many coliving arrangements offer short-term lease options, which is perfect for exchange students or those uncertain about their long-term plans. Flexibility is especially important if you need to move for internships or study abroad programs.
Living together with your friends
Living with friends can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it also requires careful planning and communication. When searching for a place together, it’s important to make sure everyone’s expectations are aligned. Start by discussing your preferences, such as location, budget, size of the space, and any non-negotiable requirements (like proximity to work or school, or pet-friendly spaces). This helps narrow down your options and ensures that everyone is on the same page from the start.
It’s also crucial to consider the dynamics of your friendship. Are you all comfortable with shared responsibilities like cleaning, grocery shopping, and paying bills? Setting clear ground rules and expectations early on can prevent potential conflicts down the line. Keep in mind that visiting places in person or having a video call to discuss the property’s pros and cons can give you a better idea of whether it will work for everyone.
When you find a place that seems ideal, make sure you all review the lease terms carefully. Discuss how you’ll divide the rent, utilities, and any shared costs. Living with friends can strengthen your bond, but it also requires effort to ensure that everyone feels comfortable and respected in the shared space.
💡 Tips : Set up a shared expense tracker to keep shared costs transparent and avoid misunderstandings.
Pros and cons of coliving
Shared accommodation offers numerous benefits, such as affordability, where rental prices are generally lower than private rentals and often include utilities. Another advantage is that you can share extra costs, like service costs This makes it a cost-effective option. Additionally, it fosters social connections as living with roommates allows for friendships to develop, especially in a new city. The convenience of furnished spaces and shared amenities saves both time and effort, making the transition smoother. The opportunity for cultural exchange with diverse roommates is another advantage, helping broaden perspectives. Furthermore, flexible lease terms in shared housing allow for greater mobility, offering short-term living options.
On the flip side, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Living in shared spaces means less privacy, which can be a challenge for some. Potential conflicts may arise between roommates due to differences in habits, preferences, or lifestyles. Another downside is limited customization, as furnished spaces typically come as-is, leaving little room for personalization. Lastly, maintaining the cleanliness of shared common areas requires cooperation among all roommates, which can be a challenge depending on the level of responsibility each person takes on.
💡Tips : Communicate with your flatmates: A good dialogue from the outset can avoid future conflicts.

Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Affordability | Less Privacy |
Social Connections | Potential Conflicts |
Convenience | Limited Customization |
Cultural Exchange | Shared Responsibilities |
Flexible Leases | |
Sharing extra costs |
How to find the perfect coliving space?
Finding the perfect coliving space can be made easier by using a variety of online resources. Start by checking out Facebook groups dedicated to housing and coliving, as these often feature listings from locals or current tenants looking for new housemates. Platforms like Kamernet, Funda, and RentHunter are also excellent tools for finding rental spaces, including coliving options. These websites allow you to filter by location, budget, and other preferences, making it easier to find spaces that match your needs. Be sure to communicate directly with landlords or current residents to get a true sense of the community and the space before making a decision.
Some tips to make your house hunting easier:
- Respond quickly: at listings most of the time the rule is: first come, first served, so be as fast as possible with reacting on listings.
- Use reliable platforms: Platforms like Kamernet, HousingAnywhere and Renthunter aggregate listings from multiple rental sites, making it easier to find a coliving space that fits your needs. Use filters for budget, location, and amenities to narrow down your options.
- Visit the property: If possible, visit the property or arrange a virtual tour to ensure it meets your expectations. Pay attention to the condition of shared spaces and the overall atmosphere.
- Read reviews: Look for reviews from previous tenants to get a sense of the community and living conditions.
- Understand the lease terms: Carefully review the contract for details about rent, deposit, and any additional fees. Ensure you’re clear on the rules for ending the lease early if needed.
📝Make sure your coliving allows registration at the municipality (Gemeente), which is essential to get your BSN – a number you need to work and access services in the Netherlands. You can check our article on this subject
FAQ: Coliving in Amsterdam
1. How much does coliving cost in Amsterdam? Coliving spaces range from €500 to €1,200 per person per month, depending on location and facilities.
2. What are the benefits of coliving for students? Coliving is affordable, social and convenient for students.
3. How can I avoid scams when searching for housing? Use trusted platforms, verify listings and never pay before signing a contract.
4. Can I register my address in a co-living space? Yes, most co-living providers allow address registration.
5. What should I look for in a co-living space? Budget, location, roommate compatibility, facilities and lease terms.
6. Are there short-term co-living options? Yes, many co-living spaces offer flexible leases for exchange students or internship holders.
Conclusion
Coliving in Amsterdam offers students an affordable, social, and convenient way to live in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. With benefits like flexible leases, furnished spaces, and built-in communities, it’s an excellent option for those looking to make the most of their student experience.
Using platforms like Kamernet, HousingAnywhere and Renthunter can simplify your search and connect you to a variety of coliving spaces that cater to your needs. Whether you’re drawn to the canals of De Pijp, the trendy vibes of Oud-West, or the affordable options in Amsterdam-Noord, coliving provides a supportive environment to thrive as a student.
By considering your budget, location, roommates, and amenities, you’ll be well-equipped to find the perfect coliving space and enjoy everything Amsterdam has to offer. Start your house hunting with Renthunter!