Houses for Rent in Assen, Netherlands
House rentals at €1,050 monthly
Assen offers genuine family housing at prices that make Groningen renters jealous. Based on over 200 house listings tracked on RentHunter, the average rent sits around €1,050 per month, that's 35% cheaper than neighboring Groningen. With 63% of houses featuring gardens and an average 106 m² of living space, Assen caters to families and professionals seeking room to breathe.
The market leans heavily toward traditional family homes rather than flashy new builds. Most rentals cluster in established neighborhoods around the historic center, where tree-lined streets and proximity to local schools create the quintessential Dutch family living experience. Unlike apartment-heavy cities, Assen's rental landscape reflects its small-city character, where a proper house with a garden isn't a luxury but the norm.
Assen house market by the numbers
Average rent €1,050 monthly
Houses in Assen rent for an average of €1,050 per month, with a broad range from €200 to €3,500 depending on size and location. This puts Assen 35% below Groningen's average of €1,625, making it an attractive alternative for families.
Gardens in 63% of properties
Nearly two-thirds of rental houses come with outdoor space, reflecting Assen's suburban character and family focus. This is significantly higher than most Dutch cities where private gardens are increasingly rare.
Average 106 m² living space
Rental houses offer generous space averaging 106 m², providing room for families to spread out. Combined with the low average deposit of just 0.34 months, Assen makes family living financially accessible.
Registration allowed in 83% of listings
The vast majority of rental houses allow official registration at the address, crucial for accessing healthcare, opening bank accounts, and other administrative needs. Only 11% of listings specifically target expats, indicating a local-focused market.
Where families settle in Assen
Assen's rental neighborhoods each serve different family needs, from the historic charm near Grote Markt to the practical suburban streets around TT Circuit. Understanding the local geography helps narrow your house hunt effectively.
Historic center around Grote Markt
The medieval heart of Assen offers characterful houses within walking distance of Saturday markets, local cafés, and the Drents Museum. Properties here blend historic charm with modern family conveniences, though parking can be limited. Families appreciate the walkable lifestyle and proximity to primary schools like Openbare Basisschool De Wegwijzer. Rental houses range from renovated canal-side properties to traditional Dutch family homes with small gardens tucked behind the facades.
Torenlaan neighborhood near station
This practical area attracts commuting families thanks to Assen station's direct connections to Groningen and Zwolle. The neighborhood features post-war family houses with decent-sized gardens, making it popular with professionals who work elsewhere but prefer Assen's lower cost of living. Local amenities include several supermarkets and the weekly Tuesday market. The area strikes a balance between suburban comfort and transport convenience, with many houses offering off-street parking.
Peelo suburb with modern builds
The fastest-growing residential area in Assen, Peelo offers newer family houses built from the 1990s onward. These properties typically feature larger gardens, modern energy efficiency, and integrated garages, appealing to families seeking contemporary convenience. The area includes several child-friendly parks and is well-connected by bicycle paths to both the city center and surrounding countryside. Many houses here fall into the higher price brackets, reflecting their modern amenities and sought-after location near local schools.
Most rental houses in Assen come unfurnished, but you can find furnished houses in Groningen if you need temporary accommodation while searching for your permanent Assen home.
Documents and gemeente requirements
Securing a house in Assen requires proper documentation and understanding of local municipality procedures. Start gathering documents early as landlords expect quick responses in this competitive market.
Essential rental documents checklist
Prepare your BSN (burgerservicenummer), recent payslips covering at least three months, employment contract, and bank statements. Many Assen landlords also request a guarantor letter if your income is below three times the monthly rent. Keep digital copies ready for quick email submission when you find the right property on RentHunter.
Registration at Assen municipality
Schedule your GBA registration appointment at Assen's city hall on Marktplein within five days of moving in. Bring your signed rental contract, passport, and proof of previous address deregistration. The municipality operates efficient online booking for appointments, and staff generally accommodate both Dutch and English speakers during the registration process.
Assen follows standard Dutch tenancy law requiring landlords to provide energy certificates and structural safety documentation. Never sign a lease without seeing these legal documents first.
FAQ
What's the average cost for a family house in Assen?
Houses in Assen rent for an average of €1,050 monthly, ranging from €200 to €3,500 depending on size and location. Three-bedroom houses average €1,054 while four-bedroom properties typically cost €1,029. This makes Assen 35% cheaper than Groningen, offering excellent value for families seeking space and affordability.
How does Assen compare to Groningen for families?
Assen offers significant advantages for families over Groningen: 35% lower housing costs, 63% of houses have gardens compared to fewer garden options in the larger city, and a quieter small-town environment. The train connection to Groningen takes just 14 minutes, making it viable to live in Assen while working in the university city. Compare houses in Groningen to see the price difference yourself.
Can I find houses with gardens in Assen?
Yes, 63% of rental houses in Assen come with gardens, making it excellent for families with children or those wanting outdoor space. This is one of Assen's biggest advantages over apartment-heavy cities. Gardens range from small city courtyards in the historic center to larger suburban plots in newer developments like Peelo. When searching on rental platforms, specifically filter for 'with garden' to find these family-friendly properties.
Is Assen well-connected for commuters?
Absolutely. Assen station provides excellent connections with Groningen just 14 minutes away by train, Utrecht in 83 minutes, and Amsterdam in 94 minutes. This makes it practical to live in affordable Assen while working in major Dutch cities. The station area also offers good bicycle parking and bus connections for local transport. Many families choose Assen specifically for this combination of small-town living with big-city accessibility.







