LondonvsAmsterdam
Overall
💰-15.2%
London is 15.2%cheaper
Rent
🏠-7.7%
Housing is 7.7% lower
Dining
🍽️-13.6%
Restaurants 13.6% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-9.3%
Food shopping 9.3% less
Comparing the cost of living between London, United Kingdom and Amsterdam, Netherlands reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2026. Our comprehensive analysis shows that London is more affordable than Amsterdam by approximately 15.2%. 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 London are higher than in Amsterdam by 8%. A one-bedroom apartment in London's city center costs around £2,362, while the same in Amsterdam is approximately €2,147.
Dining out in London is notably more expensive compared to Amsterdam. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs £20 in London versus €18 in Amsterdam.
Public transportation in London is more expensive, with monthly passes at £180 compared to €99 in Amsterdam.
Grocery shopping in London is more expensive by approximately 10%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in London can expect to spend approximately £812 per month (excluding rent), while in Amsterdam, the same lifestyle would cost around €678. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about £2,841 monthly in London versus €2,374 in Amsterdam. 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 London, 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 London 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
London
Amsterdam
Frequently Asked Questions
Is London more expensive than Amsterdam?
No, London is approximately 15.2% cheaper than Amsterdam. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in London compared to Amsterdam?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 87% of your Amsterdam salary when living in London. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Amsterdam, you'd need about $43,396 in London for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between London and Amsterdam?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 16%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
London offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, London provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider London if you prioritize earning potential, or Amsterdam for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for London vs Amsterdam?
In London, a single person needs approximately £2,525 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about £5,754. In Amsterdam, these figures are €2,346 for singles and €5,074 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between London and Amsterdam in 2026 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.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Amsterdam to maintain your lifestyle from London
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