AmsterdamvsSydney
Overall
💰+12.5%
Amsterdam is 12.5%more expensive
Rent
🏠+6.7%
Housing is 6.7% higher
Dining
🍽️+12.5%
Restaurants 12.5% pricier
Groceries
🛒+21.4%
Food shopping 21.4% more
Comparing the cost of living between Amsterdam, Netherlands and Sydney, Australia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Amsterdam is more expensive than Sydney by approximately 12.5%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Amsterdam are lower than in Sydney by 6%. A one-bedroom apartment in Amsterdam's city center costs around €1,900, while the same in Sydney is approximately A$3,000.
Dining out in Amsterdam offers significant savings compared to Sydney. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs €15 in Amsterdam versus A$20 in Sydney.
Public transportation in Amsterdam is more affordable, with monthly passes at €100 compared to A$200 in Sydney.
Grocery shopping in Amsterdam is more affordable by approximately 18%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Amsterdam can expect to spend approximately €586 per month (excluding rent), while in Sydney, the same lifestyle would cost around A$804. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about €2,050 monthly in Amsterdam versus A$2,814 in Sydney. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Amsterdam to Sydney, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Sydney to Amsterdam requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Amsterdam
Sydney
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Amsterdam more expensive than Sydney?
Yes, Amsterdam is approximately 12.5% more expensive than Sydney overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Amsterdam compared to Sydney?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Sydney salary when living in Amsterdam. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Sydney, you'd need about $56,250 in Amsterdam for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Amsterdam and Sydney?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 18%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Sydney offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Sydney provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Amsterdam if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Sydney for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Amsterdam vs Sydney?
In Amsterdam, a single person needs approximately €2,086 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about €4,550. In Sydney, these figures are A$3,004 for singles and A$6,614 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Amsterdam and Sydney in 2025 shows notable differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Sydney to maintain your lifestyle from Amsterdam
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