Apartments, rooms and studios for rent in Kampen
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Kampen rentals: 15% cheaper than Zwolle
Kampen offers the quieter side of Overijssel living, where centuries-old streets meet modern rental demand. Based on over 800 listings tracked on RentHunter, this IJssel-side town averages €868 per month across all accommodation types, making it 15% cheaper than nearby Zwolle.
The rental market here splits between young couples seeking affordable independence and longtime locals upgrading within town. Apartments dominate with 60% of available stock, while houses command higher prices but offer gardens that 26% of properties include. Registration is possible in 77% of rentals, reflecting Kampen's appeal to permanent residents rather than temporary stays.
What's available: apartments lead the market
- Apartments (60% of market)The dominant choice at €896 monthly for 66 m² on average. Most cluster around Oudestraat and near the historic center, with newer builds toward the train station. Apartments in Kampen range from compact city-center units to family-sized places with balconies.
- Houses (23% of market)Premium option at €953 monthly for 86 m², often with gardens in residential areas like Molenwijk. Houses in Kampen attract families and couples who want space and typically stay longer than apartment renters.
- Rooms and studios (17% combined)Limited but affordable options. Rooms in Kampen average €514 for 20 m² in shared houses, while studios in Kampen cost €806 for 34 m² of independence. Most rooms are in converted family homes near Broederweg.
Living in Kampen: small-town advantages
This IJssel-side town balances historic charm with practical living, where Saturday markets on Koornmarkt still draw locals and cycling reaches most destinations within 15 minutes.
Quick access to Zwolle and beyond
Direct trains to Zwolle take 15 minutes, connecting you to the national network and major cities. Many residents commute daily while enjoying Kampen's lower cost of living. Compared to Zwolle, you save on rent while keeping career access.
Waterside living and local rhythms
The IJssel defines daily life here. Walking paths along Kampereiland offer morning runs, while the historic center around Sint-Nicolaaskerk remains the social heart. Local cafés on Oudestraat close early, reflecting the town's family-focused culture rather than nightlife energy.
Parking and practical living:
Only 11% of rentals include parking, but street parking remains free in most residential areas outside the historic center. Most locals cycle for daily errands, with secure bike parking at the train station for commuters.
Commuting from Kampen
Kampen's train station connects directly to the national rail network via Zwolle, making it a viable base for workers across the Netherlands.
Amsterdam (59 minutes)
Regular connections via Zwolle make the capital accessible for occasional meetings or cultural visits. Consider alternatives like Almere if daily Amsterdam commutes are required, as the journey requires planning around transfer times.
Arnhem (75 minutes via Zwolle)
Eastern cities like Arnhem remain reachable but require commitment to longer journeys. Arnhem offers more direct access to eastern employment centers if Gelderland work is your focus, though Kampen provides better value for money.
NS discounts and season tickets:
Regular commuters should consider NS season tickets or off-peak subscriptions to manage costs. The Zwolle connection hub offers dal-uren discounts outside rush hours, making occasional longer journeys more affordable.
FAQ
How does Kampen compare to Zwolle for rental prices?
Kampen averages €868 monthly across all accommodation types, making it 15% cheaper than Zwolle's €1,054 average. The savings are consistent across apartments, houses, and rooms, with Kampen offering better value while maintaining train access to major cities via the 15-minute Zwolle connection.
What types of rentals are most common in Kampen?
Apartments dominate with 60% of the rental market, averaging €896 monthly for 66 m². Houses represent 23% at €953 monthly for 86 m², while rooms and studios combined make up 17%. This distribution reflects Kampen's appeal to couples and small families seeking affordable independence outside major urban centers.
Is Kampen suitable for daily commuting to major cities?
Yes, but with planning required. The direct train to Zwolle (15 minutes) provides excellent regional access and connections to the national network. Amsterdam takes 59 minutes total, Utrecht 75 minutes. Many residents successfully commute while enjoying 15% lower housing costs compared to living directly in major cities.
What should I know about parking and transportation in Kampen?
Only 11% of rental properties include parking, but street parking remains free in most residential areas outside the historic center. Cycling is the dominant local transport, with secure bike parking available at the train station for commuters. The compact size means most daily destinations are within 15 minutes by bike.