The best neighbourhoods in The Hague for expats offer a mix that is rare in other Dutch cities: an international community, easy access to embassies and global institutions, a beach on the doorstep, and housing that is still more affordable than Amsterdam.
Why Expats Choose The Hague
The Hague is the seat of the Dutch government and home to more than 200 international organisations, including the International Court of Justice and Europol. Around 50,000 expat family members live in and around the city. That density of international residents means infrastructure that works for you: English-speaking services, international schools, expat-focused healthcare, and a housing market that agents navigate confidently.
Property prices in The Hague are meaningfully lower than Amsterdam, which gives expat buyers more space for the same budget. The city also borders Scheveningen beach, which remains one of the practical advantages locals and newcomers both cite.
Statenkwartier: The Classic Expat Choice
Statenkwartier is the neighbourhood most expats and diplomats think of first. Wide avenues are lined with Art Nouveau mansions, embassies, and international institutions. The main shopping street, Frederik Hendriklaan (known as De Fred), is full of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants catering to an international crowd.
It is also the most expensive neighbourhood in The Hague. Buyers should expect strong competition and prices at the upper end of the city range. Best suited to families, diplomats, and senior international professionals.
Archipelbuurt: Elegance Near the City and the Beach
Archipelbuurt sits between Statenkwartier and Benoordenhout, with 19th-century townhouses, leafy streets, and a quieter atmosphere than De Fred. Bankastraat is the local shopping street. The city centre is about ten minutes by bike and Scheveningen beach is roughly fifteen.
It is popular with professionals and diplomats who want prestige and proximity to both the city and nature, often at a slightly lower price per square metre than Statenkwartier.
Benoordenhout: Green and Family-Friendly
You can get a Dutch mortgage Benoordenhout is surrounded by the Scheveningse Bosjes forest and borders Clingendael park. It is calm, green, and well suited to families. Shell’s headquarters is nearby, which makes it popular with corporate expats. The International Health Centre The Hague, which provides care specifically for expats, is based in this area.
Houses are spacious and well-maintained. Supply can be limited and competition is high, particularly for family homes.
Vogelwijk: Space, Villas and the Dunes
Vogelwijk is one of The Hague’s most sought-after residential areas, with detached and semi-detached homes from the 1920s and 1930s, many with large gardens. Kijkduin beach and the dunes are within walking distance. It is quieter and more residential than the neighbourhoods closer to De Fred, and strongly preferred by families who want outdoor space.
Prices reflect the exclusivity. Vogelwijk is not a budget choice, but for buyers prioritising space and tranquility it is consistently well regarded.
Voorburg: Family Living Just Outside the City
Voorburg is a separate municipality that borders The Hague to the east. It is quieter than the city neighbourhoods, with a mix of family homes, good Dutch and international schools, and easy access to the city centre by bike or public transport.
For expat families who want more space and a slightly lower price point than Statenkwartier or Benoordenhout, Voorburg is a practical and popular choice.
Bezuidenhout: Central and Well-Connected
Bezuidenhout is just east of the city centre, close to the WTC The Hague and Den Haag Centraal station. It has a mix of modern apartments and family homes, a lively street feel, and strong public transport links. It is popular with young professionals and corporate expats who want centrality and easy commuting.
FAQ – Buying in The Hague as an Expat
Is The Hague more affordable than Amsterdam for expat buyers?
Yes. Property prices in The Hague are generally lower than Amsterdam, offering more space for a similar budget while still being well connected and internationally oriented.
Which neighbourhood in The Hague is best for expat families?
Benoordenhout, Vogelwijk, and Voorburg are consistently popular with expat families for their green space, schools, and quieter atmosphere.
Are there international schools near the best expat neighbourhoods?
Yes. Several international schools are located in and around The Hague, particularly near Statenkwartier, Benoordenhout, Voorburg, and Wassenaar.
Can expats buy property in The Hague without speaking Dutch?
Yes. An expat buying agent guides you through the process in English, from viewings and negotiations to the notary.
