Buy or rent in The Hague?
The Hague draws a large international workforce, which keeps free-sector rents high and turnover quick. If you might be posted elsewhere in a few years, the length of stay is the input that decides it — short horizons rarely favour buying.
Typical price
€ 400.000
Typical rent
€ 1.800/mo
Price per m²
€ 5.000
What the calculator counts
Most buy-vs-rent tools stop at the mortgage payment. This one counts every Dutch cost and tax on both sides — overdrachtsbelasting, notary, VVE, OZB, maintenance, mortgage interest relief (hypotheekrenteaftrek), the eigenwoningforfait and Box 3 wealth tax on the renter's invested deposit — then compares how much wealthier you are after your chosen number of years in The Hague.
Frequently asked
Is it better to buy or rent in The Hague?
It mostly comes down to how long you stay. Over a short period the one-off buying costs (transfer tax, notary, agent) weigh heavily; over 7–10 years buying often wins in The Hague. Enter your own numbers and check the break-even year.
How much are buying costs in the Netherlands?
Budget roughly 4–6% of the price: 2% transfer tax (0% for first-time buyers under 35 up to €555,000), plus notary, valuation, mortgage advice and optionally a buying agent.
Do I pay transfer tax as a first-time buyer?
If you're 18–34, buying your first home to live in, and the price is under €555,000, you pay 0% instead of 2% — the starter exemption (startersvrijstelling).