Top 5 Affordable Neighbourhoods for Students in Rotterdam

Planning on moving and studying in Rotterdam? Great idea! 

Here is our guide to help you choose the right neighbourhood to live in while studying in Rotterdam.

Rotterdam is home to a large student community and a growing international population. It offers a vibrant and lively student life with endless things to do, from cozy cafés and study spots to lively bars and great hangouts. However, when moving to Rotterdam to study, it i’s important to consider the neighbourhood you will settle in. 

Why is this important?

The neighbourhood you choose to live in can make a huge difference to your overall student experience. Consider a good location with shorter commutes to your university, affordable shops and restaurants nearby, access to gyms and study friendly locations. However with rent prices rising across the Netherlands, finding an affordable yet comfortable place can be tricky, especially for students.

That’s why we have found the Top 5 Affordable Neighbourhoods in Rotterdam where you can live comfortably, stay safe, and still be close to everything that makes student life exciting. 

Top 5 Affordable Neighbourhoods:

1. Delfshaven

Cultural and Budget-Friendly

Delfshaven is one of Rotterdam’s most historic areas, full of character, canals, and cultural diversity. Over the past few years, it’s become a popular choice for students thanks to its lower and more affordable rents and great location for public transport, convenient for students at Hogeschool Rotterdam and Erasmus MC

• Average rent: Shared room is around €650–€900 per month whereas a private studio would potentially range from €600 to €1,000.

• Transportation: 15-20 minutes to central Rotterdam by metro.

• Local perks: Independent coffee shops, art studios, multicultural restaurants, and the famous Oude Haven area nearby.

Why it’s affordable: It’s slightly outside the central zone, so rent prices stay lower while still being well-connected to universities and hotspots.

The housing is usually shared flats cheaper than private studios or apartments. Furnished rooms or apartments will often have higher rent. However, because of this you need to be prepared for high competition for student housing, so start your search early!

2. Rotterdam Noord

Lively and Convenient

Rotterdam Noord offers the perfect mix of local charm and convenience. With many renovated older buildings, it’s become a go-to for students who want a lively environment without paying city-center prices.

• Average rent: €600–€1000 per month for a room in a shared house. However if you are looking at more convenient locations, private studios, or furnished rooms, this may be around or more than €1000.

• Transport: 10 minutes by bike and 15 minutes by tram to Rotterdam Central Station.

• Local perks: Gyms, cafés, affordable restaurants, and quick access to both Erasmus University and Hogeschool Rotterdam.

Why it’s affordable: Rotterdam Noord is slightly less touristy than central Rotterdam, making it easier to find budget-friendly shared apartments for students.

This neighbourhood has a quirky atmosphere, it is known for its creative and vibrant student life, with areas like the Hofbogen that is becoming a creative hub for food, fashion, and design. It is definitely a location to look into when finding your new student room. 

3. Lombardijen

Peaceful and Practical

If you prefer a quieter environment, Lombardijen might be perfect. It’s a residential area in the south of Rotterdam with more space, green areas, and excellent transport links to the city center.

• Average rent: €600–€900 per month for a furnished room. For private studios the cost can range from €800-€1000 per month.

• Transport: around 20 minutes to central Rotterdam by train or tram.

• Local perks: Affordable supermarkets, calm streets, and easy connections to gyms and shopping centers.

Why it’s affordable: It’s further from the city center, but housing is larger and often newer with great value for students who don’t mind a slightly longer commute.

Lombardijen is known to be a more friendly and informal location to live in, it is best for students who prefer a more relaxed and chilled living environment. This makes it a great location to find your next room. 

4. Feijenoord 

Affordable Living with a Local Vibe

Feijenoord, located on the southern side of the Maas River, is a diverse and lively neighborhood that’s becoming increasingly popular among students looking for affordable housing. It offers a more local, authentic Rotterdam experience, which is perfect if you enjoy being part of a multicultural community.

• Average rent: €600–€900 per month for a student apartment and for a room in a shared private apartment can reach over €1000 per month.

• Transport: Around 15–20 minutes to the city center by tram or metro.

• Local perks: Affordable international restaurants, Feijenoord Stadium, local markets, gyms, and easy access to the riverside for walks or bike rides.

Why it’s affordable: Feijenoord offers great value for money compared to central areas, with spacious housing and shared apartments at lower prices. Its growing popularity means it’s now attracting more students and young professionals who appreciate its mix of culture, community, and convenience. Feijenoord is definitely an option to look into when you are searching for your student home.

5. Crooswijk

Central, Creative, and Up-and-Coming

Crooswijk is located just northeast of the city center, making it one of the most conveniently located neighbourhoods for students who want to be close to everything. It has a mix of traditional Rotterdam charm and new, modern developments, attracting a growing number of students

• Average rent: Many rooms would be listed between €650–€950 per month while apartments can cost little more ranging between €900-€1500.

• Transport: Only a 5-10 minute bike ride to Erasmus University and around a 20 minute tram ride to Rotterdam Central.

• Local perks: Cozy cafés, local bakeries, small restaurants, and green spots like Het Kralingse Bos within walking distance.

Why it’s affordable: Crooswijk is still developing, so it offers a nice balance between location and price. You get the benefit of being close to the city center without paying city-center rent, plus a friendly, creative community that makes it easy to meet other students. The area also has a lively, international feel where everyone is welcomed. If you would like to be located closer to the center than this may be a place to look out for, however this can be a popular location so start looking for a room quickly!

Final Thoughts: 

Make Your Move with RentSwap

No matter which neighbourhood you choose, Rotterdam has something for every student, from quiet residential streets to lively student neighbourhoods or whether you want peace and green spaces or vibrant city life. The key is finding a verified and affordable place that fits your lifestyle.

That’s where we come in.

With RentSwap, you can find verified student housing in the Netherlands without dealing with scams or endless applications. And while you’re moving out, you can help the next tenant get your rental contract and earn €200 in the process.

RentSwap. Making student housing swaps easy.

Keywords included naturally: living cost, city guide, affordable housing, student neighbourhoods, bars, shops, restaurants, study locations, gyms, transport.