Renting a room in IJburg: modern living by the water

IJburg is unlike most Amsterdam neighbourhoods. No canal houses or narrow streets here, instead, you get wide boulevards, modern architecture and a watery setting on the IJmeer lake. The district consists of several artificial islands that were created in the 2000s as an expansion area of the city.

What sets IJburg apart from other outer neighbourhoods: it is entirely new construction, has its own amenities (supermarkets, schools, restaurants and bars), and has a strong sense of community. Many residents are young families and starters, it is less of a typical student neighbourhood, but it definitely has potential for renters who want to combine affordability with quality of living.

What does IJburg look like as a residential area?

IJburg consists of a few islands: Haveneiland (the largest and oldest part), Steigereiland, Rieteiland and several newer sub-areas that have been delivered in recent years. Haveneiland is by far the most populated and has most of the amenities.

The IJburglaan is the central axis of the neighbourhood, this is where the tram runs and where most shops and bars and restaurants are located. The area around the Diemerzeedijk and IJburg beach is lively in summer; in winter the neighbourhood can feel a bit deserted, which is not for everyone.

A notable feature of IJburg: almost all homes are relatively new and well insulated. Energy costs here are lower than in the average Amsterdam canal house. That saves hundreds of euros per year in total housing costs.

What does a room cost in IJburg?

By Amsterdam standards, IJburg is relatively affordable. Rooms in shared houses cost an average of EUR 700 to EUR 950 per month. Studios and small apartments start around EUR 1,000 to EUR 1,200.

That is significantly less than in the Jordaan, Oud-West or De Pijp. The lower price has to do with the greater distance to the city centre and the slightly less trendy image. But for anyone who looks soberly at quality of living per euro, IJburg is attractive.

Always check whether you are eligible for "huurtoeslag" (the Dutch government rent subsidy for lower-income tenants) if you end up in a social or mid-priced rental, IJburg's new construction also includes housing-corporation properties that qualify for this subsidy.

How accessible is IJburg from the rest of Amsterdam?

This is IJburg's biggest downside. The neighbourhood is only accessible via tram 26 (which runs via Centraal Station) or via the IJburglaan by bike or car. There is no metro and no alternative tram connection.

Tram 26 runs frequently (every 5 to 10 minutes) and gets you to Centraal Station in 20 minutes. Cycling to the centre takes 25 to 35 minutes. The A10 ring road is accessible via the IJburglaan, which is convenient for commuters with a car.

For students at the UvA (Roeterseiland campus) or the HvA, commuting from IJburg is quite manageable, tram 26 also stops at Amstelstation, where you can connect onwards. For VU Amsterdam, it is a bit more roundabout.

What are the pros and cons of living in IJburg?

Pros:

• Modern homes with good insulation and lower energy costs
• More space per euro than in most Amsterdam neighbourhoods
• Quiet, green character right by the water
• Strong local community feel and active residents' associations
• Relatively affordable for Amsterdam

Cons:

• Less central than other districts, always need tram or bike
• Limited nightlife in the area itself
• Can feel quiet, especially outside the summer months
• Less student life compared to Amsterdam-Oost or -West

Also read our comparison of Amsterdam room prices by neighbourhood for a complete picture.

How do you find a room in IJburg?

The supply in IJburg is smaller than in more central neighbourhoods, but that also means less competition. Platforms like Huismaatje and Kamernet regularly list rooms here. Facebook groups for IJburg residents are also a good source.

New construction complexes in IJburg are sometimes offered through the developer or housing corporation. Registering with Woningnet is the proper route for social housing in IJburg, there are waiting lists here too, but generally shorter than in the city centre.

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Frequently asked questions

Is IJburg suitable for students?

It can be, but it is less of a typical student neighbourhood. There are no large concentrations of student houses. For students who want quiet and don't need to be in the centre every day, it is fine. Just expect that you will always need to travel for social life.

How long does tram 26 take to Centraal Station?

About 20 minutes non-stop. The tram runs via the Piet Heinkade and stops at Amsterdam Centraal. Outside rush hour it runs every 7 to 10 minutes.

Are there supermarkets in IJburg?

Yes. On Haveneiland there is an Albert Heijn, an Aldi and several smaller shops on the IJburglaan. Basic amenities are present, but for a wider selection you need to go to the centre.

Are homes in IJburg well insulated?

Generally yes. Many homes were built after 2000 and meet modern insulation standards. Energy costs are therefore lower than in older buildings in the centre. Always check the energy label during your viewing.

Is parking free in IJburg?

In some streets yes, but in the older parts of Haveneiland paid parking has been introduced. Resident permits are available but not always guaranteed. Always check the current parking situation per street.