Rotterdam is the Netherlands’ second city and Europe’s largest port — and it is arguably the most architecturally interesting city in the Netherlands. Unlike Amsterdam, which was rebuilt slowly over centuries, Rotterdam was almost entirely destroyed in World War II and rebuilt from scratch, creating a skyline of bold, experimental architecture unlike anywhere else in northern Europe. For UK professionals in logistics, engineering, energy, construction and international trade, Rotterdam offers strong career opportunities, excellent connectivity and a cost of living meaningfully lower than Amsterdam.
Why UK Nationals Choose Rotterdam
- Europe’s largest port — Port of Rotterdam handles around 450 million tonnes of cargo annually. It is the beating heart of European logistics, attracting professionals in shipping, energy, engineering, supply chain and port management
- Architecture — the Markthal, Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen), Erasmus Bridge and Central Station are globally recognised architectural landmarks. Rotterdam is genuinely exciting to walk around
- Lower rents than Amsterdam — Rotterdam rents are typically 20–35% lower than equivalent Amsterdam properties, making it a practical choice for professionals who do not need to be in the capital
- Growing creative scene — Rotterdam has invested heavily in culture and creative industries. The Rotterdam Art Week, International Film Festival and a growing restaurant scene are establishing it as a genuine cultural destination
- Connections — Rotterdam Centraal has direct trains to Amsterdam (25 minutes), The Hague (25 minutes) and Antwerp, Brussels and Paris. The A15 connects directly to the port complex
Rotterdam Neighbourhoods: Where to Live
Kralingse Bos / Kralingen — One of Rotterdam’s most desirable residential areas. Green, leafy, around the Kralingse Plas lake. Popular with families and professionals. Higher rents by Rotterdam standards.
Hillegersberg — Quiet northern suburb, popular with families. Good schools, low density, green spaces. Rotterdam’s equivalent of a leafy commuter suburb.
Rotterdam Centrum / Coolsingel — City centre, convenient for work and nightlife. More apartment living, higher rents, great access to everything.
Delfshaven — Historic district (the only part of Rotterdam to survive WWII relatively intact). Charming, on the Maas river, mix of new builds and renovated historic properties. Popular with young professionals and expats.
Rotterdam Noord (Bergpolder / Blijdorp) — Affordable, diverse, popular with younger professionals. Good tram connections. Close to Rotterdam Zoo (Diergaarde Blijdorp).
Katendrecht — Former red-light district, now one of Rotterdam’s most rapidly regenerating neighbourhoods. Waterfront location, new restaurants and bars, increasingly popular with young professionals and creatives.
Cost of Living in Rotterdam
Rotterdam is significantly cheaper than Amsterdam for housing while offering comparable professional opportunities.
| Category | Monthly cost (approx.) |
|---|---|
| 1-bedroom apartment (Kralingen/Centrum) | €1,100 – €1,600 |
| 1-bedroom apartment (outer districts) | €800 – €1,200 |
| Monthly RET transport pass | ~€100 |
| Groceries (one person) | €220 – €370 |
| Eating out (mid-range) | €13 – €22 per meal |
Post-Brexit Residency in Rotterdam
The process is the same as elsewhere in the Netherlands:
1. Register at the gemeente (Rotterdam Centraal, Stadswinkel) within 5 days of arrival — you receive your BSN number 2. Apply for your residence permit at the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service) 3. Take out Dutch health insurance — compulsory within 4 months of registering 4. If working at the Port of Rotterdam or in a qualifying role, ask your employer about the 30% tax ruling (same as elsewhere in the Netherlands)
Shipping Your Belongings to Rotterdam
Rotterdam is one of the closest European destinations from the UK — and appropriately for a port city, it is an extremely well-served removal route. Easy Move’s transit time from the UK to Rotterdam is typically 1–2 working days.
Easy Move handles EU customs documentation as part of our standard removals to the Netherlands service.
For the full Netherlands guide: moving from London to the Netherlands.
👉 Get a free removal quote for your move to Rotterdam
Frequently Asked Questions: Moving to Rotterdam from the UK
Is Rotterdam better than Amsterdam for expats?
It depends on your priorities. Amsterdam has a larger expat community and more international company headquarters; Rotterdam offers lower rents, a more adventurous architectural landscape and a strong port-industry job market. Both are excellent — and both are 25 minutes apart by train, so the choice is not absolute.
Do people speak English in Rotterdam?
Yes — the Netherlands has exceptional English proficiency and Rotterdam is no exception. English is the working language in many port-related and international businesses. Dutch is still needed for daily life and integration.
Is Rotterdam safe?
Rotterdam has a higher crime rate than Amsterdam in some categories but is safe by European standards and has improved significantly over the past decade. Most expat neighbourhoods (Kralingen, Hillegersberg, Delfshaven) are very safe.
How long does a removal from the UK to Rotterdam take?
Easy Move’s transit time is typically 1–2 working days — one of the fastest in our network, reflecting Rotterdam’s proximity and excellent road connections from the UK via the Channel crossings.
What industries have the most jobs in Rotterdam?
Port and maritime logistics, energy (including a growing offshore wind and hydrogen cluster), petrochemicals, civil engineering, construction, architecture and design. The Port of Rotterdam is actively recruiting for its energy transition projects.
Ready to move? Our team handles the full process: packing, customs and delivery.