Renting a room in Bos en Lommer: up-and-coming, lower prices

Anyone searching for an affordable room on the edge of Amsterdam-West and the ring road will inevitably stumble upon Bos en Lommer. The neighbourhood is wedged between the Haarlemmerweg in the north, the Postjesweg in the south, the Jan van Galenstraat in the west and the Admiraal de Ruyterweg in the east.

Bos en Lommer was long a neighbourhood that Amsterdammers preferred to ignore. A high share of social housing, little greenery, no pronounced character. But over the past few years that has been changing. New restaurants and bars, renovations, a growing supply of affordable free-market rentals and a diverse local culture make the area increasingly attractive for renters who can no longer afford the surrounding districts.

What is Bos en Lommer like as a neighbourhood?

The neighbourhood does not have a single central focal point, but a few recognisable axes. The Bos en Lommerweg and the Bos en Lommerplein are the most visited spots, there's a weekly market on Wednesdays and Fridays, an Albert Heijn supermarket, and several smaller shops. The atmosphere is sober and practical.

The area around the Admiraal de Ruijterweg and the Jan van Galenstraat is a bit livelier, with more restaurants, bars and cultural activities. Here you also notice the area's transformation most: new coffee bars next to older eateries, renovated apartments next to unchanged corporation flats.

The Rembrandtpark on the southern edge of the neighbourhood is a recommendation: a large park that is relatively quiet and well maintained.

What does a room cost in Bos en Lommer?

Bos en Lommer is cheaper than most central neighbourhoods, but more expensive than Zuidoost or the Bijlmer. A room in a shared house averages EUR 750 to EUR 1,000 per month. Studios and larger rooms run up to EUR 1,000 to EUR 1,200.

The affordability makes the neighbourhood attractive for starters and students who can no longer find space in Oud-West or the Jordaan. Also check the Amsterdam room prices by neighbourhood for an up-to-date comparison.

Because part of the housing stock consists of social housing, supply on the free market is more limited than in neighbourhoods with more private ownership. But it is growing.

How accessible is Bos en Lommer?

Well connected by tram. Tram 14 runs via the Jan van Galenstraat and takes you towards the centre (Centraal Station). Tram 7 runs via the Bos en Lommerweg. Bus 21 connects the area with Amsterdam Centraal and the north of the city.

By bike you reach the centre in 20 minutes, Oud-West in 10 minutes. The location just outside the A10 ring road also means you can quickly reach the motorway, useful for those who work outside the city.

Why is Bos en Lommer becoming more popular?

The gentrification that De Pijp, Oud-West and the Jordaan went through long ago is slowly creeping towards Bos en Lommer too. Higher prices elsewhere are pushing renters across the ring road. At the same time, the city government and housing corporations are investing in improvements to public space and housing quality.

That makes getting in now in Bos en Lommer interesting for people who want a neighbourhood that is still affordable, but might not be in five years. Whoever finds a room for EUR 800 today might pay EUR 1,000 or more for the same place later.

Also read our complete guide to room hunting in Amsterdam if you want an overview of all neighbourhoods.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Bos en Lommer safe?

The neighbourhood has mixed pockets, like many urban areas. In general it is a normal and liveable part of the city. Some streets are quieter than others. Get oriented before you sign.

Which trams run through Bos en Lommer?

Tram 14 (Jan van Galenstraat towards Centraal Station) and tram 7 (Bos en Lommerweg). Both take you quickly to the centre.

Is Bos en Lommer suitable for students?

Yes, especially for HvA or UvA students who don't have a high budget. The area is affordable and easily reached by tram. Student social life takes place more in the centre, but living in Bos en Lommer combines well with that.

Is there a lot of room supply in Bos en Lommer?

Supply is smaller than in popular neighbourhoods like Oud-West, but it is growing. Through Huismaatje and Kamernet there are regularly rooms available. Social housing through Woningnet is also sometimes available here sooner than in the centre.

What is the vibe like in Bos en Lommer compared to Oud-West?

Bos en Lommer is more down-to-earth and less trendy. Fewer hip cafes, more everyday neighbourhood shops. For those who don't necessarily want to live in a "hotspot" but just want to live well and affordably, Bos en Lommer is fine. It is not Oud-West, but it doesn't have to be.