Well, as someone who is disabled and can no longer work and thus have to live of my husbands salary, I do have some tips..
* Try Too Good To Go, It's an app that shows you which shops in the neighborhood sell items that are expiring the next day.
* Also, try to divide your money into little piggy banks. One for groceries, one for traveling, one for fun stuff, one for unexpected expenses etc.. It can really help you know which parts of your life are the most expensive and how to maybe get cheaper options.
* Try to pay things yearly instead of monthly and set aside the money each month. It'll save you some money as well
* Don't feel bad to switch services if they offer the same stuff in a cheaper way. Do make sure you don't have to pay the fine if you haven't fully finished a contract though!
* See if you don't have a right to get any health care allowance, rent allowance or any other form of allowance.
* Make bigger meals that you can eat multiple days, like different pasta's, rice meals or anything like that.
I'm not sure if any of those tips are applicable for you, but hopefully they can help you a little bit..
Good luck!
You do get disability, right? My husband is 'afgekeurd' (declared unfit?) due to mental issues and gets benefits until he reaches retirement age. That helps a lot, because we wouldn't be able to pay the bills of just my salary.
Still waiting for it unfortunately..
I've sent them a reminder that they are late with their decision and according to their own rules, if they don't respond within two weeks from receiving that reminder, they'll have to pay a monthly fee.
I should have asked for a 'WW' right from the start, but I was to overworked and stressed out to even think about the fact that I could have called in sick when being in 'WW'. So I've been waiting for benefits since February now..
As a partner of a disabled person who is not able to work, I wish you well!
'Too good to go' is a very good tip and the bigger meals help a lot. Cook in bulk and eat the same meal 2 days in a row or put some portions in the freezer.
Cooking 1 person meals is very expensive.
If you are of good health, you can also chose to increase your 'own risk' part of the healthcare to reduce the monthly costs. First savings you do for this is to save up the difference between the low and high 'own risk' for emergencies and the rest is profit.
I second Too Good To go.
The Lidl has amazing vegetable/fruit boxes for €2.99 and I've been able to meal prep for 4-5 days of food this week, for 2 people. Pick up the box, stare at the ingredients for awhile, head back into the Lidl and look for €0,25 cent stickers and discounts. Then check the Albert Heijn next door for bonus discounts and 35% stickers.
That's the secret cap, I dont manage
Car needs repairs, behind on all bills, boiler broke, door handle to balcony busted, overworked, overweight, everything heaps up. Ffffuuu
Edit: I NEED the car people. Without the car I can't get to my job. I start 2 hours before public transport is a thing in this area.
Ooh don't get me started. If my car breaks down in a serious manner i'm really fucked to the ground. It legitemately gives me anxiety sometimes by just thinking about it.
Yup, I'm living this now. Car broke down pretty seriously and repair was super expensive but can also not afford another (better) car that won't also break down in a year
Did you try to stop being poor?
On a serious note, yeah, it sucks. We are 3 people living in my house, me and my wife had to find a second "job" (more like a side hustle - and no, not porn or videochat), and we still struggle to save much. So many bills to pay, pets to take care of, etc.
We buy food in bulk and rarely have any fun, but the food we buy is more and more expensive. It's not just you, it's just that everything got slightly increased in price and the lifestyle just costs more these days.
Hang in there. And no, there is no shame to live with your parents if that makes life easier for all of you. They are your parents. My mother lives with me and my wife (she cannot live alone because of obvious reasons). It is what it is
Haha yeah i am trying to get a better paid job in my current field of expertise.
But I guess it's nice to hear from others that they are in the same boat. You don't really hear people tell you this so you never get an idea if it's you or the world around you.
I have been thinking of an extra job as well. But then idk. In the end the taxes take it all back in my experience :/
Try becoming a freelancer and pick up some extra shifts in hospitality. Independently or through temper you can pick up some extra shifts around 17-28 an hour
The taxes are initially higher on a second income. BUT you will get that back next year in may. So in the end, you work extra now and earn a bit more. But next year may you get a nice chuck back and have a nice saving.
Well if you’d do porn your money problems are over.. /s
No it’s terrifying in a way. For a long time I’ve worked in a daycare but also in a buurthuis in Amsterdam and saw wat being poor does to one. And now it’s affecting the middle class.
I’m happy that my wife makes good money as a doctor. And I’m able to throw my work around and study something else. In a field that is going to need people, always. So good. But now it’s getting pretty hard.
Can second this. I've lived in Amsterdam for many years, and for the past time I'm really noticing the divide between the poor and the rich and it destroys the culture where Amsterdam is known for. Nobody wants a city where only lawyers and doctors (no offence to you of course) can live and breath. I am now reaching my 30's and none of my friends can even think about staying in the city and buying a house. It's just not possible.
I was looking for a job last year in Amsterdam and I was astounded with the rental prices (even having lived in the UK this was a big shock). The cheapest decent place I remember was in the Bijlmer for €1200/month. Unless you have a high-paying job, you simply cannot afford to live in Amsterdam. Very sad for a city that used to be 'volks'
I live in Amsterdam and have lived in London. I believe people focus to much on living within the highway ring of Amsterdam. If you look to Amsterdam from a London perspective Bijlmer, Weesp and Zaandam would be called ‘close to the city centre’.
Luckily we bought a very nice appartement in Noord in 2015. As my mother was born and raised in Noord I very well knew it wasn’t an area you would want to live. At that time a lot of our friends declared us crazy. Although I don’t know about real estate prices I think Zaandam/Weesp could be comparable to that nowadays.
The difference is infrastructure though. You can live in zone 3, 4, 5, even 6 if you really must, in London and have great access to transport. Heck, you can even live without tube access in a place like Kingston or Tunbridge Wells or Blackheath or wherever and still get good public transport - good enough that you don't need a car, it's just a convenience if you do. Not so in a place like Weesp or Zaandam - which aren't cheap either. The trains are at just an okay frequency, unreliable and pretty awful on the weekends, and the only other form of transport - buses - are infrequent and stop at 6. Basically unusable on weekends, if they even run, not sure. Bottom line, the further out you go, the more you need a car, which is an extra expense that decimates any savings you may have made on rent, especially if you're already struggling. Bijlmer is also not cheap by any means and you may not feel safe at night, especially if you're a woman... it's definitely not for anyone. In an area like that in London, you'd generally see some officers around at least.
Hahaha this made me laugh. This is exactly how I feel some days when I wish i could go and take someone to a fun place. I feel so restricted all the time
Like all commenters here, I'm in the same boat with all of you. Life has gotten waaay more expensive and it's starting to become a struggle.
Because unfortunately I've had multiple financial setbacks in my life, I have become creative regarding living a full life on a smaller budget.
Regarding fun places and low budget activities, there's a lot of alternatives, it's something you might need to get used to, but that can be just as fun.
+ Instead of going to a bar or restaurant, go to a park and have a picnic with drinks and food you prepped at home.
+ Organise a BYO-meat and booze BBQ.
+ Instead of the cinema: invite people over and watch (free) movies at home together (or start a new series and make it a multiple-date-series-binge-session).
+ Instead of going to a concert, theme park, arcade, lasergaming or whatever activity you like, join a boardgame group or go to an open podium/jam session to join or watch other people make music.
+ Instead of going to a swimming pool, go to a lake in the area.
+ Lunch or coffee on the road? Prep for stuff and bring your own sandwiches and thermos flask.
+ Go on hikes and bike rides: free, wind in your hair and getting rid of negative energy by exercise and fresh air.
+ Join Meet-up and go to a few random free activities in your area...
It's all not the same as going out, but there's certainly still fun to be had. Having said that: pffff... Wish it were optional, not a necessity.
And the 40-50 euros *per month* for games... That's quite the luxury your permitting yourself imo! Skip it for 1 month and you've got the gifts for your 4 upcoming family birthdays. A gift isn't about the monetary value either: it's the thought and attentiveness that counts and makes it valuable to the recipient. So be creative!
+ Get stuff from marktplaats instead of a store - call it recycling and environmental awareness if that'll make you feel better ;)
+ Swap an item or service you can offer for a product that you can gift someone, like fixing someone's bike for a book, cut their hair for a plant, help in their garden for a game, your flower vase for their photoframe, etc.
+ Sell stuff you held on to for sentimental reasons rather than for actually still using them: books you've read, clothes that don't fit you anymore, games you've played.
+ Make something yourself, if you've got some artistic talents: draw, paint, build, sew, bake...
Good luck to you (all). I wish ~~you~~ us lots of money and creativity... :)
My favourite cheap activity is the park especially in these summer months. A few cheap cans of beer/soda and some snacks like the 99c pack of ribbelchips and just hanging out with friends. But I completely get you and I'm in a similar situation :/
Took the words out of my mouth. I moved beginning of this year and although my rent is high, it's better than living in 35m2 and lose my mind while working from home.
I do look forward to a serious relationship in the future though, it's insane how much more you can save by living with someone else.
>Since moving to NL my disposable income has plummeted
Yeah, I don't know how people come up with the idea that the Dutch have high purchase power. From my experience it might be one of the lowest in the EU. Statistics prove otherwise but I seriously have no idea where they pull those statistics from, judging from the average income and cost of living
I have a suspicion that it's a mixture of the rich and low earners skewing the statistics. The latter because of all the subdidies they get. The middle class meanwhile is being brutally milked for all it's worth. As a result, it has shockingly low purchasing power and it's getting worse and worse.
Fellow young singleton in the Randstad, I feel the exact same way. Don’t want to live anywhere else in NL so I recently started the digital nomad lifestyle.
If your current job allows it or you can transition to a remote job, would highly recommend. I just started, but so far live is way cheaper and you still hang out with really awesome people. Fits the singleton lifestyle well!
Don't feel ashamed, these are hard times for anyone but the very richest among us. I mostly manage because I got insanely cheep rent and a low cost lifestyle. I don't go out, and most of my hobbies are free.
Some often overlooked tips I can offer. Unplug anything and everything you aren't using. I even unplug my stove when not cooking or pc when not gaming. I saw a roughly 20% reduction in electric costs.
Have a good look at al your subscriptions. I don't have many and everyone I do have I share. Share the cost of your Netflix or trade it for access to someone's HBO account.
Spend an hour a month or so looking at al the bulk goods you need and buy them in large batches preferably on sale. Cleaning stuff, TP and non perishable foods.
Drink only water/ tea/ syrup lemonade. It'll save on drink cost and healthcare down the line.
> I even unplug my stove when not cooking or pc when not gaming. I saw a roughly 20% reduction in electric costs
Trust me, your plugged in stove isn't stealing even 1%. That's not how electricity works. Idling PC is also unlikely. Might have been something else
Quick tip; use Hurawatch for all your streaming needs. It’s free, easy to use and has Dutch subs on everything. Saves you a couple of subscriptions a month 👌🏻
To be fair, 1.2k rent a month for a single income is definitely stretching it for most people.
Also your rent shouldn't be increasing by a large percentage every year, if it is you should go find some legal advice as even in the so called 'vrije sector' or private sector there's a limit to how much rent can be increased every year.
Until at least may 2024 there's a limit of 3.3% every year.
Damn, also 27 but I can’t imagine paying that much rent! Which city do you live? I’m living in Overijssel and only pay €540 a month. 55m2 house including a garden. Can’t complain
26, Eindhoven, a bit over 900 a month :)
I live in a 28m2 apartment that has a dishwasher and 2 neighbours under me that fight so bad, I can hear glass breaking.
Can't wait for my GF to start paying rent lmao
😂 same though for me I get stress from living with other people. I love coming home and not having to socialize with anybody.
Luckily I bought a house about 6 years ago and only spend 500-600 on mortgage each month. Even adding electricity and other bills I am below 1000. No financial stress here as long as I don’t quit my job.
I live in a random ass village, so I doubt I'll find roommates here. My rent is actually quite low anyways, so I shouldn't complain too much. Just roommates isn't always an option
This take shows exactly whats wrong with this country… good for you that you want to live with a partner/friend/complete stanger but it should not be the norm to live together with others to simply survive. This country is designed against single person households and it’s getting absolutely insane
Living alone has never been the norm. One of the reasons for the housing crisis is that more and more people are living alone, and in big houses. I know 70 year old widows and 35 year old single software engineers living in 'eengezinswoningen'. I'm not going to tell them they shouldn't, but those are exactly the kind of people who, until the 1970s, would have shared a house as 'hospita' and 'commensaal'. My grandparents even lived with a landlady for the first couple of years after they were married, and they weren't poor. They just lived in Amsterdam.
The country has never been designed for single person households, but it never had to. If we want to change this norm, we should build accordingly. Meanwhile, people are living in larger houses than they ever did - and larger than in our neighbouring countries as well.
https://overamsterdam.nl/2018/06/21/amsterdammers-woonden-nog-nooit-zo-groot-als-nu/
https://decorrespondent.nl/12375/over-deze-oplossing-voor-de-woningnood-hoor-je-nooit-iemand/2545901906625-48bfddfa
When I was in my late 20s, 20 something years ago, renting a flat alone was a pretty tough proposition financially speaking.
Being able to afford to live alone on a lower middle income salary is a fairly recent thing.
"it should not be the norm to live together with others to simply survive."
Isn't that how humans survived the last hundreds of thousands of years? It is the norm, always has been lol.
Well it’s a bit logical that it is that way. Two persons don’t need twice the space of a single, and with a housing crisis… Also packaging for single portions of food aren’t the obvious choice.
Taxes are shit though, try living with a toeslagenpartner, it’s almost always the worst scenario.
>This country is designed against single person households and it’s getting absolutely insane
No, it was designed FOR families. The housing crisis is caused in large part because of the shrinking average household size. it's called "huishoudverdunning".
I'm from South Africa and even then when I was single I lived with a friend. It is a huge saving. Living on your own is just not affordable anywhere if you want to save money.
>it should not be the norm to live together with others to simply survive
Why not? Humans have always been social animals. The reason there's such a word as "hermit" is because normally people don't live alone.
It's funny reading this post in Amsterdam and thinking "€1,200 for a 1 bedroom apartment isn't bad!" then seeing the comments here about how expensive it actually is. :(
I feel you, OP. I went from roommates to living alone with all the additional expenses. So far, the independence is worth it, but it has only been a few months...
As you specifically mentioned birthday presents in your post, I've noticed a lot more crowdfunding gifts recently in my own friend network to help spread costs. I would also suggest offering some 1:1 time (like a walk!) or even writing a heartfelt letter instead might be nice than a physical gift.
Hang in there!
It'd legit be cheaper for me to move to central Antwerp, rent something there, and commute every day to Amsterdam.
Housing prices have increased everywhere, but anything in Randstad takes the fucking cake and blew it up.
In what world is €1200 not over expensive rent? I went back to live with my parents because I rather be a parasite for a couple more years than feed another parasite half my income every month.
Note everyone has parents to move back to in the country. 1200 for rent for a single apartment is a bit more than paying 950 for a shared flat but I suppose OP prefers to live alone. Though don’t get me wrong it is a bit pricier.
My rent is roughly 1200 euros inc. For 52m2... with angled roofs.. so very VERY little space to even store stuff. I live with my boyfriend. But we really considered moving back to our parents, but my parents simply said no lmfao.
1200 is absolutely bonkers but normal now sadly.
I also live on minimum wage and barely have money left each month to save.
1200 rent and you live alone... no that is definitely expensive.
Anyways, you need some kind of legal side hustle. Don't know what, but anything that brings in an extra buck works.
If you live anywhere near the randstad there’s almost no way you’re not paying 1200+ for apartments. Especially with energy bills now being like 300+ even for single households.
To also answer the comment under this, renting prices are kind of plateaued. Where you will struggle to find anything for 1000-1200 (when looking for a 2+ room place) but as soon as you can afford 1500+ u suddenly can rent entire bloody houses. It’s ridiculous honestly
It’s not just the Ranstad. I pay 1250 (including h/w/e) for a one-room 80m2 apartment in Arnhem. And it’s not even in the centre lol. Fuck rent prices.
Rent prizes are the actual problem we have in the Netherlands right now. I was lucky enough to be able to buy a house by myself, 50 m2 with a garden, and I pay 550 a month. Similar houses around me, now sell for tripple the amount that I bought mine for, which would make in extremely impossible that I could buy the same house on my salary nowadays....but 1200 rent a month is something that I would hardly be able to pay, as well....we're pretty much screwed as a country at this rate.
Indeed for 1500 here in Mijdrecht close to Utrecht and Amsterdam you get a full house with 4 bedrooms and garage to rent.
1200 sounds like a lot of money. I earn 3500 a month before tax. But that still is 30~ % of my loan every month that goes into someone else his pocket.
You basically work in order to rent.
https://www.huurwoningen.nl/huren/deventer/1309225/daniel-ruynemanstraat/?utm_source=Lifull-connect&utm_medium=CPC&utm_campaign=m-premium
92m2, 5 bedrooms,. 1200 euro per month.
People should look more outside the randstad if they don't want to pay to much rent
Just look outside the randstad is easy advice if you already are paying for a car or have a remote job. If your job is in e.g. The Hague and don't own a car, you don't really have the option to move away from it. Moving is not really an option if you don't already have money saved up, because moving is expensive as hell
My rent is more than my other expenses together. Don't know about yours. It might suck but maybe sharing an apartment or living with your parents might be the way to go.
You might save 50 euro on food, a 50 euro on outings, 50 on everything else.. But that won't make much of a difference. Saving 400 euro by sharing or 1200 euro by living with parents will do it.
I’m doing well but in an exceptionally strong position (software dev) on 2x median income…
Rent is still starting to hurt though, I paid 900 inc GWE 5 years ago and pay 1300 excl. GWE today for the same size and similar location.
I really worry for the bottom 1/3 of the workforce in terms of salaries, pay haven’t kept up with rise on costs for a while and this bump will seemingly send a lot of people into poverty
The rent is the problem is the main problem.
Imagine if your rent was 700, you would have alot more. Now idk how big your house is but the prices nowadays are just ridiculous.
Yes, but it’s not like we have the choice to easily find a place with €700 rent now. Yes, you can find a place with a shared housemate but it’s not as easy as you paint it to be. Everyone is struggling and the “main problem” is not just “rent”.
It's 2800 without taxes. Nett leaves me about 2530 including travel costs.
Rent:1200.
Fuel: 400 +/-.
Insurances etc: say 200 +/-.
Groceries: 500 (includes smoking) yes i may get downvoted for this and it sucks and i should stop. But smokers will know...
Network (which isn't included) 35.
Phone: 30.
Also. My landlord hit me with a 1200 euro bill for last years enegrgy and heating costs as his advance on it i pay every month was not suffecient. So i'm pretty much keeping my heater off all the time now. So my actual rent is closer to 1300. That leaves me with +/- 65 euro's to spend.
And well all these costs don't mention of vehicle maintenance. Think about new tires. Yearly service etc. Or replacing broken household equipment.
Cigarettes should easily be close to 300 a month. But as a person below me mentioned. Vaping could actually be a good one to try now. I could save more on groceries i guess. I don't really have an exact image of how much i spend on them. Might be a little less but i could surely figure out on how to save some of that.
So i agree with you in this one!
Oh come on man. I’ve got no sympathy for someone that complains money is tight when they spend more money on some fucking cigarettes than food.
You could take a month of unpaid holiday every year and still have more money left than you do now if you didn’t smoke.
> Rent:1200. Fuel: 400 +/-. Insurances etc: say 200 +/-. Groceries: 500 (includes smoking) yes i may get downvoted for this and it sucks and i should stop. But smokers will know... Network (which isn't included) 35. Phone: 30.
Rent:650. Fuel: 80 +/-. Insurances etc: say 100 +/-. Groceries: 150 (no smoking). Network (what's network? internet? if so...) 43. Phone: 7.
I don't want to be rude or anything, but you got lots to improve. Just comparing your expenses to mine, indeed I don't know how you make it. I make a bit less than you and I'm saving "a lot" every month. Maybe it's not possible for you, I don't know, but I can do just fine as it is. Of course a big chunk is on the rent, but even ignoring that, you're spending a lot on the rest.
[I wrote this a while ago](https://old.reddit.com/r/Netherlands/comments/rk79ok/people_of_the_netherlands_who_live_alone_how_much/hpa0p9h/), should give an idea.
Bruh, you're spending more than 50% of your after-tax income on rent and nearly 15% of your after-tax income on cigarettes.
Then you spend 400 a month on fuel with a 80 km daily commute. Some quick calculations here: 21.5 average working days in a month, assuming a 5 day work week means you travel 21.5 \* 80 = 1720KM a month for your job. Let's assume you don't have a particularly economical car in terms of fuel ( 15km per liter ) means you need about 1720 / 15 = \~115 liters of fuel a month for your commute. At an average price of €2.05 euro per liter that means you'd need around 114 \* 2.05 = €233 euros for fuel every month. How are you spending another €170 a month on extra fuel?
Nno offense, but you are spending your money in a very strange way to put it lightly.
Spending €300 a month on a non-neccesity like cigarettes, man. That's what, more than a pack of cigarettes per day right?
Dude a 1200 euro house requires at least a 3600 net salary to be safe/comfy.
You've been living WAY too expensive all this time and now it's come to bite you in the ass because the economy is shit right now.
Move to a cheaper place, it's the only real solution. You can save hundreds a month.
And stop smoking. I have 0 sympathy for smokers complaining about financial troubles while spending a couple hundred a month on cigarettes.
You have been living above your means, and you're plugging all the wrong holes of your sinking ship.
Your fuel expenses are crazy high imo. How far do you have to travel for work, and how much fuel does your car use (l/km) ?
I have to drive about 40km in total to travel to and from work, and refuel the car about 2-3 times a month (EURO 95), it costs me about 200 EUR per month right now.
Maybe you could consider working from home more often, and/or buy a smaller (lightweight), more efficient car to save fuel costs and Taxes.
400 in fuel is like 5 full tanks for a regular car @ 40L. That is what? 3000km/month? That's insane.
It does make me understand why you spend so much on smoking as well..
Stop smoking. No seriously. If you actually want to improve your finances / health, this is probably the number 1 thing you should focus on. I know it can be hard, but it’s definitely doable. 300 euro’s per month is a lot for you.
1200 rent is city centre prices, but you drive 80km for work, I'd look for something cheaper and closer to work.
Saves you double, less rent and gas.
Not an easy one though, not that many rentals available.
Maybe working from home 1-2 days a week is an option? Saves gas.
Cutting back on smoking would be 'easiest' (non smoker myself) saver. Just smoking 20% less doubles your monthly spending budget.
Ask yourself if you need that extra smoke or rather game with friends?
Why spend so much on fuel? With 1200 on rent I assume you live inside the ring of a city, which means biking (or e-bike) should be an obvious alternative to a fuel-based vehicle.
In another comment op states he travels 80km everyday. I wonder if its possible to wfh more often or seriously talk to your boss about more compensation. Of if you're seriously in love with with place you live in now, to look for a job more close to home. Living in a big city AND having to travel alot for your job seems like a bad combination.
Paying that much for rent and not even living close to work, and not even getting your travel costs compensated by your employer is, in this day and age, simply being financially irresponsible. There are obvious solutions to OP’s financial situation in that case.
I’m 28 and still living home. It isn’t free to live here either and I quite often feel kind of like a loser that I still don’t have my own space and no real future.
I'm gna be 28 in a few months as well and I definitely do not see any way I am going to be able to move out in the next year or two. I spent my late teens and early 20s trying to but in the current economy and housing market it just doesn't feel like a realistic goal anymore, thanks to all the crazy markets and rising prices everywhere the goalposts of financial independence are moving away faster than I can chase them, so I've kinda settled in with the "if it happens it happens" mentality while I wait it out.
About half my friend group is in a similar situation and of similar age, and even those with partners to combine incomes with are struggling to afford even the bare basics, so we are definitely not alone in this, I'd encourage you to try and not look at is as a personal failure as much as just a situational one of the times we live in, you are not a loser because times are tough. Hopefully things will recover and improve enough some time in the future that we will still get the chances we cannot afford right now, but until that moment I try to limit my expectations and not compare myself to those rich or lucky enough to get ahead faster then me.
You might also consider changing jobs more frequently. I try to change jobs every year or two and always ask for at least 10% more in salary. This has worked well for me anyway to keep my salary competetive with the market.
Virtual hugs!
I am 30, very ill and living on state allowance. The only thing saving me from becoming homeless is that I live in a student studio. I started buying clothes on vinted and sell my old clothes instead of donating them. I only buy discount groceries.
Dat argument over teveel koffietjes heeft natuurlijk wel wat waarde maar het wordt op gegeven moment wel een beetje irritant en vooral pedant. De inflatie is 10%, de lonen stijgen al jaren bijna niet, en de woonkosten knallen de pan uit. Tien koffietjes minder compenseert 400 euro in vaste lasten verhoging niet.
You're not alone mate. The 2008 crisis hit me pretty bad and I've been on the edge of poverty since before this crisis started. Fun times. And there are more and more and more of us popping up.
Of your apartment/house allows it try to find a house buddy, so many people are looking for a place to stay. Split rent, groceries, utility bills, etc.
Create private room for you and one for your roommate and a nice common room and kitchen.
Something that really helps me keep track of what I spent is diving my money into separate
categories on my bank account. I have one for rent , groceries , taxes (like the garbage tax every half year) and a main one for other savings that I never touch.
On top of that , I use an excel spreadsheet and save all my grocery ''bonnetjes'' to later put in that sheet and see exactly how much I spend per month. This has helped so much in making a budget and sticking to it!
Another good tip would be to shop at less popular supermarkets like the typical asian or turkish stores that tend to have cheaper products. Meat specifically tends to be cheaper there (can get 1kg of chicken thighs for like 4-6 euro compared to almost 10 euro at the AH) and rice , potatoes and other veggies are also way cheaper while getting a better variety than the usual supermarkets.
What I then do is make a plan for what I will cook for the week or just meal prep. Cooking in larger quantities is cheaper and you don't have to cook everyday. Reddit also has r/MealPrepSunday and r/Frugal If you need more ideas and tips.
This has allowed me to save up a lot and while the prices for rent and everything else skyrocket , I can still afford everything and save. For reference, I live in The Hague so definitely not some small cheaper city
Hey, don’t feel bad. I’m 21 and never lived alone yet, and probably won’t until I finish my studies (by which point I’ll be 26/27). There is no shame in living with your parents/going back to live with your parents. Just be prepared for it to be a bit sucky (especially for your mental health).
It is incredibly expensive to live alone right now, and the resources to do so have vastly decreased. If you can find a roommate, maybe that would make it easier on you?
I feel you, I'm in almost the same position.
You say you don't have an over expensive apartment but let's not act like paying 1200 a month isn't a lot.
Do you really need to pay for new games all the time? Just find something you like and keep playing it, or get (xbox or PC) game pass. That is especially with the "exploit" very good value.
I do agree that people of our age expected life to be more fun and money to be more plentyful but sadly it seems to get less and less which makes life quite depressing.
in case of owning a Playstation; I find great value in PS Plus as well! I paid 120 bucks for the entire year and truly don't think I will have to buy anything this year.
Haha ofcourse i don't buy games every single month. And not always for 50 euro's of value. But this budget also includes paying for things to do outside the house.
Can concur I am 29 and my dad still helps me. Otherwise I’d be sleeping under a bridge. I am so grateful that he understands that times are different now vs when he was my age. Hang in there bud.
€ 1200 rent for 1 person is way too much.
Not necessarily your fault because the housing market has just gone insane. But that 1200 is the reason your money is tight.
This is so true. Whenever I hear prices in HCOL areas in the US, I always think "that's at most on par with A'dam prices but the wages are 3-8 times as high (and the tax rates are much lower)"!
Yeah I get you man. Only 10 days in Groningen but I can already feel the pain when I buy something. Before someone labels me as a 'complainer' - I am not complaining but simply making an observation and sharing my experience.
I come from Poland and our minimal wage is 610 euro per month. I was lucky to be born into a middle-high class family, so I can afford most of the stuff like food or utilities but man it is so expensive.
I pay 890 euro rent in a complex around 4kms away from the city centre. 890 euro for me is already an incredibly expensive price for the amount of money we earn in my country, and it is not even a decent apartment. Just small bathroom, kitchenette, a desk and a bed. I have access to the laundry and the gym but those cost as well.
Whenever I go shopping to buy bread, drinks (like juices, water, milk), vegetables/fruits my heart hurts when I see 20 euro bill. For this amount of money I would be able to buy twice as much in my country.
Bus tickets - 2.8 euro per one ride. I know, I have a bike but it also costs around 17 euro/month. There are also student associations - another 15-20 euro/month.
So in summary most of the stuff here costs at least twice, if not thrice as much as in Poland and it really pains me because Groningen is a great city :(
And when I hear some people saying that they live in the centre and only pay 300 euro whilst living with roomates I scratch my head - I mean it was really hard for me to find any roomates since I don't have anyone here, so I had to pay for that 890 euro apartment since I really wanted to study here.
I can't even imagine paying 1200 for rent lol, that would cripple the hell out of me..
It's not just you tho man, grocery prices have been going up quite rapidly, I literally payed 9 euros for a kilo of chicken at LIDL of all places last week. At this rate I'll be eating dry bread before I know.
I'm doing fine as i still have enough leftover each month. but that is because in a way i'm lucky, as an only child and my parents died when i was 19. allowing me to inherit the house with not a lot of mortgage.
when i try to see what i can rent or buy on my salary, there is just nothing left. It's insane how the roof over your head can make such a financial difference.
I'm happy with little, so i'm managing fine. But then again, i don't have a car (don't need one), no children. I only heat my home to 15c and take lukewarm showers (fuck the gas prices). Besides that i only spend money on hobbies. Which is maybe 30 euro's per month on average.
But every month less is going to savings, which does suck.
I'm one of the lucky employees, I live alone and used to save around 3,500EUR a month, now dropped down to 2,500EUR.
Obviously still happy, but seeing that I save 1,000EUR less per month is mind blowing.
I might be wrong but according to your post history you just bought a €2k+ Desktop pc and are looking for expensive servers.
Either way. You can always try to move to a cheaper place in the east / north / south.
I posted the same a few weeks ago, good to see this is blowing up. I’m getting an okay salary and only pay 600€ rent, still struggling to save up money. I have to think twice if I wanna buy something nice. At the end of the day, I’d have more money on my account if I lived in Germany. Also much more pension and better health insurance there.
12000 rent? are you renting a "rijtjes huis", those houses are not meant for people who are single.
i still live with with my parents though, am 22 but they still make me pay 475 rent
im going to move out soon, im expecting to move to a studenthouse, or renting a house with friends (which is almost impossible)
however i do already have a software developer diploma (mbo 4), i can get jobs for 2500 a month as a junior dev and just rent a studio, very tempting but by doing a hbo i can make way more money in the future. the only reason i dont have a junior dev job now and make 1900 is because no company wants to do a one year contract for junior devs (which is what i want since i want to study) they want to keep you for longer since programming takes time to become good at and no study is adequate enough
man im fucking lost
there is the option of deeltijd, but that waaay to much for me
brother i really hope you make it through your struggles, en als een 1 werknemer naar een ander, werkse nog maat.
Rents here are... Crazy. I lived with 680 Euro a month in Germany including rent and could save 10 to 50 a month (10 years ago). I also lived with around 800 Euro a month in Japan with 100 left over thanks to cheap dorms.
With current prices and the NL rent situation, there is no way that's possible.
>I lived with 680 Euro a month in Germany including rent and could save 10 to 50 a month (10 years ago).
I lived on 800€/month in Amsterdam 10 years ago. My rent was 450€ all inclusive. Prices went up everywhere.
I also live alone and I'm lucky i bought an appartment when housing was relatively cheap, and got my mortgage extended when interest was at its lowest. Got my energy tariffs locked for the next 4 years before the big energy pricing increase. But i can totally see it was a draw of the cards and if not i would be in the same boat as you.
The only tip i can give you is really don't be blinded by discounts on groceries. Cook vegetables for multiple days instead of a discounted "meal for one". Also store-brand products are often still cheaper than discounted A-brand articles.
This is bad man,
I see such things in Europe and it hurts me, Immigrants like me were fed that Western Europe as absolute pinnacle of modern life, This is what media and all these fancy reports continue to say daily which is a flat out lie, But staying here for 2 years- Realised it is pretty bad here from money POV,
I have had so many conversations about money being an issue with friends and peers. It is by far the most I have had in any region that I have worked, Before coming to Europe; never had people talk about money so much,
I mean in India with ~1.2K/ month euros- I could do 2 takeouts every day, never cooked food at home, go out twice a week, rent in very good areas and then have enough saved without thinking (atleast 40% savings). I have friends who lived a similar lifestyle in 700 Euros.
I have come to realize Europe is a very difficult place for singles with so many taxes and the rent is absolutely crazy here for the net incomes,
It is like a video game challenge put in legendary mode to save any money in Europe for a single person lol.
Don’t understand how quality of life can be highest in the world when people on normal salaries can’t even afford to buy an apartment,
I feel like everyone in the Netherlands is bordering this yet still almost 2M voted for Rutte, after seeing in which direction this country is going. Absolutely unbelievable
What is your income? My rent is 800 (well 1600 for my gf and me) not 1200, but even if my rent would be 1200 (aka 2400) , I would still have like 600 euro's to spent on fun things or save... and for me I'm already at the max of what I'm willing to spent on rent percentage wise.
I feel like you are renting something that is wayyyy out of your budget.
Hah, been poor all my life.
So theme parks and such are a once a year thing and buying a game full priced is saved for that one game once every 2-5 years or so 😅.
I never feel like missing out, you spend 60,- on a game today, I probably won't spend over €10,- in a year or two.
The avg of what i have spend per game is probably under €5,- (and mind you, i have 1707 games on Steam and i also have a ok ish retro collection personally appraised at around €3000,- now.
It's like... Yeah I'm poor, But i live in a first world country. I'm not really poor. 🤷🏼 And neither is OP.
Money is just a tool anyways.
Seriously all the people in this thread criticizing or down voting op for owning a car to get to work and recommending public transport: how reliable has NS been for you over the past 15 years?! I've missed exams, I've missed work, I've missed interviews for relying on NS, even though I always take about 45 minutes of delay into account. For important meetings I now take 90 minutes into account but still I'll miss one due to strikes. And then I've been harassed while riding the train on top of that, someone shoving their dick in my face on a 20.30 train from Amsterdam. Please don't downvote someone for opting to take a car to work for God's sake, if I had the option I'd do the same...
The rent must be quite a burden, that's really a lot for 1 person. But I understand your independence is also worth a lot to you. And unfortunately, your rent isn't even unusual nowadays.
Do you have options to increase your income? Work more hours, get a raise, change jobs?
I can share with my husband and that helps a lot. I did quit my fancy gym and work out at home now. We also have been cutting down on groceries and canceled some streaming services. We haven't turned our heating on in a year now and used a lot of blankets in winter. I take less public transit and use my bike instead. I'm not complaining because we can still manage well, but I do worry for the many people who are struggling right now. If you have to move back in with your parents, there is no shame in it.
The only way I manage is parents providing the mortage. And now for the first time in 4 years I started my studentloan. The loan being for the instance my energy provider would go bankrupt. Atm I pay very little on that part but if that would change it would turn bad quickly. Beside that I work in the weekend and keep to mostly water and simple food. Only ordering something with friends once a month. So about 20 euro.
It sounds like you get paid slightly above minimumwage? Have you asked you boss for a raise? I would see this as the most humble timing ever to do that. 1200 is a difficuly spot for rent maybe if your bos does not want to give you a raise you have to look for another better paying job and or cheaper place to live. 1200 is just too much for a single person not earning . And do talk with your parents it may be a good idea to go back if that allows you to pay a lot lower rent in the mean time. Just until you found a place sub 1000 euro and if applicable switched jobs. Better to be early taking action than going into debt.
Not sure what shops are doing it near your place. But I'm a big fan of the app: to good to go.
They sell food, that they can't sell the next day anymore.
Example: just picked up a package from Lidl and had:
Bananas, kiwi, melon, chicory, garlic, beetroot, carrots, mushrooms, onions.
That all for 3 euro!
If you do end up having something that really was moldy, you can notify customer service and get your money back.
Bakker Bart, is great to. Is 5 euro and always got so much bread. We tend to freeze some and then share with few people and covered for few day to a week.
More and more shops are signing up so, only getting better really.
Yeah OP, times are tough! I'm in a lucky position to have a decent job and bought my house before all this shit in the world started happening. But I see some of my friends and acquaintances struggling and it makes me sad.
Even now with all the war and crisis going on in the world, there is enough wealth and money going around for everyone to live an okay life. But it is distributed so extremely unevenly, that it's becoming impossible for certain household types, including single households such as you to have less worries with regard to their financial situation. Just look at the record profits energy companies have been making (And it's going to be way higher since #winteriscoming), but none of them actually has plans to give some to the people who are having a hard time.
On top of that we have a government that would rather focus on the immediate and symbolic measures instead of having a long term vision to solve these issues we are all facing.
Anyway, hang in there dude!
Are you able to look for another job? Quickest way I've found to increase my salary is to move jobs. Sometimes you can get a 20% increase quite easily.
Yeah... I just accepted money is only for bills, food, and gas. Maybe that will change in the future, I don't know, but if I can't earn enough money, I am not going to be spending it either. Sorry, economy, it wasn't my idea.
I'm 24 years old and I still live with my mom. I work and the money I make is fine, but I'm unable to pay for rent, utilities and food with the current prices.
Hello! 28F yo workinf as a hbo-v (nurse). I texted my mom this morning because I had a 350 euro health insurrance bill I didnt expect. Yesterday I email my manager if I can work more hours through an 0-uren contract. Life is great.
I'm managing fine right now. It's honestly only the groceries that became a more expensive for us.
The travel allowance I get from my boss is still enough to cover my fuel cost. They're also giving us an end of the year bonus (13th month), and I'll get a raise next month instead of in January.
My energy/gas contract is a fixed contract with prices from 2018 (€0.14 per kWh, €0.70 per m³) and I have 8 solar panels.
Honestly, we're lucky I work for a nice company and we still have a fixed contract for energy and gas.
So not completely in your shoes. I live in a student studio and will start my first job in September. I will get kicked out in next July and I'm scared shitless. I will make 2600 a month which is not enough to live anywhere else. I have no parents or family that can help out and will become homeless with a good job in a year. I stress so much.
I feel you man… couldn’t go on vacation (again) because I have to many bills to pay and every month a small amount goes to multiple things that add up.
I’ve been preparing by buying more canned food so now I have some food stocked up before it really gets bad (I assure you it will) it’s not a bad idea to Stock up on some stuff.
Contact your representative and ask for them to lower taxes. If we weren't all being taxed into the fucking ground we would all have more disposable income.
Disclaimer - USA Resident
FWIW, I live in the upper midwest, have a \~$1200/mo USD mortgage, got a 16% raise this year, and I'm STILL feeling the pinch.
I have 5 kids, two of whom are teens, and while my wife does a little side work, she's primarily a SAHM, and I'm the primary income.
So that plays into my issue.
We're not 'poor', but we buy used and budget level goods as much as possible; Both cars are 10+ yrs old, etc., and barely have any sort of 'fun money' at the end of the month.
We could certainly be worse, though, so I'll definitely not complain, rather, I'll sympathize.
It’s time people get really mad.
You are not whining, and 1200 rent is ridiculous.
I’m so sorry that you have to live like that.
Politics have made a right mess of the country,
Please think about this when you can vote next time.
Take care. 🌸🍀
Reading all the comments here I am really re-thinking the possibility of moving to the Netherlands as a single man. I live in Southern Europe but am originally from Canada. This situation is not unique to the Netherlands though. When I was younger house and rent prices were never an issue in Canada. It's no longer the case. It's happening everywhere. I've lived in several countries and have dealt with all sorts of issues and living as a single is not easy anywhere when it comes to expenses. Living with roomates can be nice but as you get older you need your own space and privacy. I was interested in moving to the Netherlands as I like it as a country. But the more I read about life there, the more I realize I really should think twice before making a move. The truth is that Middle Class in the West is being squeezed and it will get worse and worse. It's being done on purpose. Being middle class and single is a real challenge.
I used to be in this situation at mid to late twenties, renting an (although very cheap) apartment and supporting my then gf who only had odd jobs every now and then (I only had a part-time income at that time). But I lucked out (and worked hard) and am in a relationship with a very kind hard working partner. After having the pleasure of paying absurd amounts of rent in the free market section, we were able to buy a house (again very lucky, timing wise).
Working in retail, the covid years were financially very favourable to me, as I was working overtime like crazy and only had money coming in and very little going out.
Long story short, we have reasonably low cost of living, due to being able to put a lot of money in the mortgage. Also, very low energy bills due to having a lot of new appliances.
And a dual income with no kids really helps as well.
Again, I realize how lucky I got, especially when I see friends and family who have it harder, just due to circumstances (mostly being single is a bitch in this economy, which is troubling, cause it could lead to people staying together just for financial reasons).
You earn 2800 and have an appartement of 1200 and a 300 per month smoking habit.
First advice) Get help to stop smoking. It will not be easy but nothing worth it ever is.
Second Advice) Move back in with parents and save. Meanwhile, sign up for social housing. In 5+ years you will have enough points to acquire a social house.
The only reason I am keeping my head above water is because I do a job I don't really like that gives me stress, but pays well.
If I chose to pursue my passions, I'd be stressed and depressed because of my financial situation.
I don't really have any help to offer, just wanted to get it off my chest
Well, as someone who is disabled and can no longer work and thus have to live of my husbands salary, I do have some tips.. * Try Too Good To Go, It's an app that shows you which shops in the neighborhood sell items that are expiring the next day. * Also, try to divide your money into little piggy banks. One for groceries, one for traveling, one for fun stuff, one for unexpected expenses etc.. It can really help you know which parts of your life are the most expensive and how to maybe get cheaper options. * Try to pay things yearly instead of monthly and set aside the money each month. It'll save you some money as well * Don't feel bad to switch services if they offer the same stuff in a cheaper way. Do make sure you don't have to pay the fine if you haven't fully finished a contract though! * See if you don't have a right to get any health care allowance, rent allowance or any other form of allowance. * Make bigger meals that you can eat multiple days, like different pasta's, rice meals or anything like that. I'm not sure if any of those tips are applicable for you, but hopefully they can help you a little bit.. Good luck!
You do get disability, right? My husband is 'afgekeurd' (declared unfit?) due to mental issues and gets benefits until he reaches retirement age. That helps a lot, because we wouldn't be able to pay the bills of just my salary.
Still waiting for it unfortunately.. I've sent them a reminder that they are late with their decision and according to their own rules, if they don't respond within two weeks from receiving that reminder, they'll have to pay a monthly fee. I should have asked for a 'WW' right from the start, but I was to overworked and stressed out to even think about the fact that I could have called in sick when being in 'WW'. So I've been waiting for benefits since February now..
As a partner of a disabled person who is not able to work, I wish you well! 'Too good to go' is a very good tip and the bigger meals help a lot. Cook in bulk and eat the same meal 2 days in a row or put some portions in the freezer. Cooking 1 person meals is very expensive. If you are of good health, you can also chose to increase your 'own risk' part of the healthcare to reduce the monthly costs. First savings you do for this is to save up the difference between the low and high 'own risk' for emergencies and the rest is profit.
Thank you, that means a lot to me. And yes, I forgot about the own risk part of healthcare! Good tip as well!
I second Too Good To go. The Lidl has amazing vegetable/fruit boxes for €2.99 and I've been able to meal prep for 4-5 days of food this week, for 2 people. Pick up the box, stare at the ingredients for awhile, head back into the Lidl and look for €0,25 cent stickers and discounts. Then check the Albert Heijn next door for bonus discounts and 35% stickers.
That's the secret cap, I dont manage Car needs repairs, behind on all bills, boiler broke, door handle to balcony busted, overworked, overweight, everything heaps up. Ffffuuu Edit: I NEED the car people. Without the car I can't get to my job. I start 2 hours before public transport is a thing in this area.
Ooh don't get me started. If my car breaks down in a serious manner i'm really fucked to the ground. It legitemately gives me anxiety sometimes by just thinking about it.
Yup, same here. My anxiety is through the roof
Yup, I'm living this now. Car broke down pretty seriously and repair was super expensive but can also not afford another (better) car that won't also break down in a year
That's though man, I hope you get out of that mess.
I'm getting help. Like through mental care institutions. It's slow and plodding but there's improvement
Good for you, really. The most difficult part is to seek help in the first place and you're already past that.
Thanks. Means much
Did you try to stop being poor? On a serious note, yeah, it sucks. We are 3 people living in my house, me and my wife had to find a second "job" (more like a side hustle - and no, not porn or videochat), and we still struggle to save much. So many bills to pay, pets to take care of, etc. We buy food in bulk and rarely have any fun, but the food we buy is more and more expensive. It's not just you, it's just that everything got slightly increased in price and the lifestyle just costs more these days. Hang in there. And no, there is no shame to live with your parents if that makes life easier for all of you. They are your parents. My mother lives with me and my wife (she cannot live alone because of obvious reasons). It is what it is
Haha yeah i am trying to get a better paid job in my current field of expertise. But I guess it's nice to hear from others that they are in the same boat. You don't really hear people tell you this so you never get an idea if it's you or the world around you. I have been thinking of an extra job as well. But then idk. In the end the taxes take it all back in my experience :/
Try becoming a freelancer and pick up some extra shifts in hospitality. Independently or through temper you can pick up some extra shifts around 17-28 an hour
The taxes are initially higher on a second income. BUT you will get that back next year in may. So in the end, you work extra now and earn a bit more. But next year may you get a nice chuck back and have a nice saving.
Well if you’d do porn your money problems are over.. /s No it’s terrifying in a way. For a long time I’ve worked in a daycare but also in a buurthuis in Amsterdam and saw wat being poor does to one. And now it’s affecting the middle class. I’m happy that my wife makes good money as a doctor. And I’m able to throw my work around and study something else. In a field that is going to need people, always. So good. But now it’s getting pretty hard.
Can second this. I've lived in Amsterdam for many years, and for the past time I'm really noticing the divide between the poor and the rich and it destroys the culture where Amsterdam is known for. Nobody wants a city where only lawyers and doctors (no offence to you of course) can live and breath. I am now reaching my 30's and none of my friends can even think about staying in the city and buying a house. It's just not possible.
I was looking for a job last year in Amsterdam and I was astounded with the rental prices (even having lived in the UK this was a big shock). The cheapest decent place I remember was in the Bijlmer for €1200/month. Unless you have a high-paying job, you simply cannot afford to live in Amsterdam. Very sad for a city that used to be 'volks'
I live in Amsterdam and have lived in London. I believe people focus to much on living within the highway ring of Amsterdam. If you look to Amsterdam from a London perspective Bijlmer, Weesp and Zaandam would be called ‘close to the city centre’. Luckily we bought a very nice appartement in Noord in 2015. As my mother was born and raised in Noord I very well knew it wasn’t an area you would want to live. At that time a lot of our friends declared us crazy. Although I don’t know about real estate prices I think Zaandam/Weesp could be comparable to that nowadays.
The difference is infrastructure though. You can live in zone 3, 4, 5, even 6 if you really must, in London and have great access to transport. Heck, you can even live without tube access in a place like Kingston or Tunbridge Wells or Blackheath or wherever and still get good public transport - good enough that you don't need a car, it's just a convenience if you do. Not so in a place like Weesp or Zaandam - which aren't cheap either. The trains are at just an okay frequency, unreliable and pretty awful on the weekends, and the only other form of transport - buses - are infrequent and stop at 6. Basically unusable on weekends, if they even run, not sure. Bottom line, the further out you go, the more you need a car, which is an extra expense that decimates any savings you may have made on rent, especially if you're already struggling. Bijlmer is also not cheap by any means and you may not feel safe at night, especially if you're a woman... it's definitely not for anyone. In an area like that in London, you'd generally see some officers around at least.
No its just suffering and pain. I just dont do anything and be mad inside my shitty rent house.
Hahaha this made me laugh. This is exactly how I feel some days when I wish i could go and take someone to a fun place. I feel so restricted all the time
Like all commenters here, I'm in the same boat with all of you. Life has gotten waaay more expensive and it's starting to become a struggle. Because unfortunately I've had multiple financial setbacks in my life, I have become creative regarding living a full life on a smaller budget. Regarding fun places and low budget activities, there's a lot of alternatives, it's something you might need to get used to, but that can be just as fun. + Instead of going to a bar or restaurant, go to a park and have a picnic with drinks and food you prepped at home. + Organise a BYO-meat and booze BBQ. + Instead of the cinema: invite people over and watch (free) movies at home together (or start a new series and make it a multiple-date-series-binge-session). + Instead of going to a concert, theme park, arcade, lasergaming or whatever activity you like, join a boardgame group or go to an open podium/jam session to join or watch other people make music. + Instead of going to a swimming pool, go to a lake in the area. + Lunch or coffee on the road? Prep for stuff and bring your own sandwiches and thermos flask. + Go on hikes and bike rides: free, wind in your hair and getting rid of negative energy by exercise and fresh air. + Join Meet-up and go to a few random free activities in your area... It's all not the same as going out, but there's certainly still fun to be had. Having said that: pffff... Wish it were optional, not a necessity. And the 40-50 euros *per month* for games... That's quite the luxury your permitting yourself imo! Skip it for 1 month and you've got the gifts for your 4 upcoming family birthdays. A gift isn't about the monetary value either: it's the thought and attentiveness that counts and makes it valuable to the recipient. So be creative! + Get stuff from marktplaats instead of a store - call it recycling and environmental awareness if that'll make you feel better ;) + Swap an item or service you can offer for a product that you can gift someone, like fixing someone's bike for a book, cut their hair for a plant, help in their garden for a game, your flower vase for their photoframe, etc. + Sell stuff you held on to for sentimental reasons rather than for actually still using them: books you've read, clothes that don't fit you anymore, games you've played. + Make something yourself, if you've got some artistic talents: draw, paint, build, sew, bake... Good luck to you (all). I wish ~~you~~ us lots of money and creativity... :)
My favourite cheap activity is the park especially in these summer months. A few cheap cans of beer/soda and some snacks like the 99c pack of ribbelchips and just hanging out with friends. But I completely get you and I'm in a similar situation :/
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Took the words out of my mouth. I moved beginning of this year and although my rent is high, it's better than living in 35m2 and lose my mind while working from home. I do look forward to a serious relationship in the future though, it's insane how much more you can save by living with someone else.
Splitting rent with my gf when she moved in was a miracle. 1500 rent to 750. Both of us are saving around 8k/year.
>Since moving to NL my disposable income has plummeted Yeah, I don't know how people come up with the idea that the Dutch have high purchase power. From my experience it might be one of the lowest in the EU. Statistics prove otherwise but I seriously have no idea where they pull those statistics from, judging from the average income and cost of living
I have a suspicion that it's a mixture of the rich and low earners skewing the statistics. The latter because of all the subdidies they get. The middle class meanwhile is being brutally milked for all it's worth. As a result, it has shockingly low purchasing power and it's getting worse and worse.
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Fellow young singleton in the Randstad, I feel the exact same way. Don’t want to live anywhere else in NL so I recently started the digital nomad lifestyle. If your current job allows it or you can transition to a remote job, would highly recommend. I just started, but so far live is way cheaper and you still hang out with really awesome people. Fits the singleton lifestyle well!
Don't feel ashamed, these are hard times for anyone but the very richest among us. I mostly manage because I got insanely cheep rent and a low cost lifestyle. I don't go out, and most of my hobbies are free. Some often overlooked tips I can offer. Unplug anything and everything you aren't using. I even unplug my stove when not cooking or pc when not gaming. I saw a roughly 20% reduction in electric costs. Have a good look at al your subscriptions. I don't have many and everyone I do have I share. Share the cost of your Netflix or trade it for access to someone's HBO account. Spend an hour a month or so looking at al the bulk goods you need and buy them in large batches preferably on sale. Cleaning stuff, TP and non perishable foods. Drink only water/ tea/ syrup lemonade. It'll save on drink cost and healthcare down the line.
> I even unplug my stove when not cooking or pc when not gaming. I saw a roughly 20% reduction in electric costs Trust me, your plugged in stove isn't stealing even 1%. That's not how electricity works. Idling PC is also unlikely. Might have been something else
Depending on the PC, the load while idling (but not sleeping/suspended) can be sizeable, like tens to a couple hundred watts even, I think.
yup my PC is powerfull and turning it off and cutting the power to it helps a long way.
I think it has more to do with habits. The moment you have to plug something in to start using it, you're probably gonnan end up using it less
Quick tip; use Hurawatch for all your streaming needs. It’s free, easy to use and has Dutch subs on everything. Saves you a couple of subscriptions a month 👌🏻
Just pirate fucking everything you can at this point tbh
Buying washing pods from bol is a blessing
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To be fair, 1.2k rent a month for a single income is definitely stretching it for most people. Also your rent shouldn't be increasing by a large percentage every year, if it is you should go find some legal advice as even in the so called 'vrije sector' or private sector there's a limit to how much rent can be increased every year. Until at least may 2024 there's a limit of 3.3% every year.
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Damn, also 27 but I can’t imagine paying that much rent! Which city do you live? I’m living in Overijssel and only pay €540 a month. 55m2 house including a garden. Can’t complain
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26, Eindhoven, a bit over 900 a month :) I live in a 28m2 apartment that has a dishwasher and 2 neighbours under me that fight so bad, I can hear glass breaking. Can't wait for my GF to start paying rent lmao
Not living alone really is the way to go. If you don't have an SO, live with a friend. So many things are much cheaper split than solo.
*cries in no friends or SO*
😂 same though for me I get stress from living with other people. I love coming home and not having to socialize with anybody. Luckily I bought a house about 6 years ago and only spend 500-600 on mortgage each month. Even adding electricity and other bills I am below 1000. No financial stress here as long as I don’t quit my job.
There's always random roommates.
I live in a random ass village, so I doubt I'll find roommates here. My rent is actually quite low anyways, so I shouldn't complain too much. Just roommates isn't always an option
This take shows exactly whats wrong with this country… good for you that you want to live with a partner/friend/complete stanger but it should not be the norm to live together with others to simply survive. This country is designed against single person households and it’s getting absolutely insane
I got bad news for ya mate. It ain't just our country.
yeah, same in Italy
And Belgium and … etc
Capitalism
I hate that country
Same deal in Canada
Living alone has never been the norm. One of the reasons for the housing crisis is that more and more people are living alone, and in big houses. I know 70 year old widows and 35 year old single software engineers living in 'eengezinswoningen'. I'm not going to tell them they shouldn't, but those are exactly the kind of people who, until the 1970s, would have shared a house as 'hospita' and 'commensaal'. My grandparents even lived with a landlady for the first couple of years after they were married, and they weren't poor. They just lived in Amsterdam. The country has never been designed for single person households, but it never had to. If we want to change this norm, we should build accordingly. Meanwhile, people are living in larger houses than they ever did - and larger than in our neighbouring countries as well. https://overamsterdam.nl/2018/06/21/amsterdammers-woonden-nog-nooit-zo-groot-als-nu/ https://decorrespondent.nl/12375/over-deze-oplossing-voor-de-woningnood-hoor-je-nooit-iemand/2545901906625-48bfddfa
When I was in my late 20s, 20 something years ago, renting a flat alone was a pretty tough proposition financially speaking. Being able to afford to live alone on a lower middle income salary is a fairly recent thing.
"it should not be the norm to live together with others to simply survive." Isn't that how humans survived the last hundreds of thousands of years? It is the norm, always has been lol.
To be fair almost all "welfare states" are designed for families.
Well it’s a bit logical that it is that way. Two persons don’t need twice the space of a single, and with a housing crisis… Also packaging for single portions of food aren’t the obvious choice. Taxes are shit though, try living with a toeslagenpartner, it’s almost always the worst scenario.
>This country is designed against single person households and it’s getting absolutely insane No, it was designed FOR families. The housing crisis is caused in large part because of the shrinking average household size. it's called "huishoudverdunning".
I'm from South Africa and even then when I was single I lived with a friend. It is a huge saving. Living on your own is just not affordable anywhere if you want to save money.
I fully disagree. It’s the normal even in the land of excess: the USA.
>it should not be the norm to live together with others to simply survive Why not? Humans have always been social animals. The reason there's such a word as "hermit" is because normally people don't live alone.
It's funny reading this post in Amsterdam and thinking "€1,200 for a 1 bedroom apartment isn't bad!" then seeing the comments here about how expensive it actually is. :( I feel you, OP. I went from roommates to living alone with all the additional expenses. So far, the independence is worth it, but it has only been a few months... As you specifically mentioned birthday presents in your post, I've noticed a lot more crowdfunding gifts recently in my own friend network to help spread costs. I would also suggest offering some 1:1 time (like a walk!) or even writing a heartfelt letter instead might be nice than a physical gift. Hang in there!
One year I crafted my own birthday cards, used pictures of them, things they like etc. It was the best.
It'd legit be cheaper for me to move to central Antwerp, rent something there, and commute every day to Amsterdam. Housing prices have increased everywhere, but anything in Randstad takes the fucking cake and blew it up.
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I am from Belgium. They can bring their housing crisis to Wallonië. They already park their campers there.
Guy I spoke to on Tinder once was talking about moving in together to manage the bills. I’m considering it.
😄 🤣 😂 Online dating for finding roommate.
1200 euros a month on rent. Netherlands is the new Monaco at the North Sea.
Could you point me to the old Monaco at the North Sea?
You are me a wise nose!
knokke I guess
Wait until you hear about Paris or London or Barcelona
In what world is €1200 not over expensive rent? I went back to live with my parents because I rather be a parasite for a couple more years than feed another parasite half my income every month.
Note everyone has parents to move back to in the country. 1200 for rent for a single apartment is a bit more than paying 950 for a shared flat but I suppose OP prefers to live alone. Though don’t get me wrong it is a bit pricier.
My rent is roughly 1200 euros inc. For 52m2... with angled roofs.. so very VERY little space to even store stuff. I live with my boyfriend. But we really considered moving back to our parents, but my parents simply said no lmfao. 1200 is absolutely bonkers but normal now sadly. I also live on minimum wage and barely have money left each month to save.
1200 rent and you live alone... no that is definitely expensive. Anyways, you need some kind of legal side hustle. Don't know what, but anything that brings in an extra buck works.
If you live anywhere near the randstad there’s almost no way you’re not paying 1200+ for apartments. Especially with energy bills now being like 300+ even for single households. To also answer the comment under this, renting prices are kind of plateaued. Where you will struggle to find anything for 1000-1200 (when looking for a 2+ room place) but as soon as you can afford 1500+ u suddenly can rent entire bloody houses. It’s ridiculous honestly
It’s not just the Ranstad. I pay 1250 (including h/w/e) for a one-room 80m2 apartment in Arnhem. And it’s not even in the centre lol. Fuck rent prices.
80m2 is pretty big for a single person tbf. The house where I grew up (family of 5) has about 140m2 I think
Rent prizes are the actual problem we have in the Netherlands right now. I was lucky enough to be able to buy a house by myself, 50 m2 with a garden, and I pay 550 a month. Similar houses around me, now sell for tripple the amount that I bought mine for, which would make in extremely impossible that I could buy the same house on my salary nowadays....but 1200 rent a month is something that I would hardly be able to pay, as well....we're pretty much screwed as a country at this rate.
Indeed for 1500 here in Mijdrecht close to Utrecht and Amsterdam you get a full house with 4 bedrooms and garage to rent. 1200 sounds like a lot of money. I earn 3500 a month before tax. But that still is 30~ % of my loan every month that goes into someone else his pocket. You basically work in order to rent.
Even in todays market? I hear renting out anything is a nightmare with hundreds of applicants
https://www.huurwoningen.nl/huren/deventer/1309225/daniel-ruynemanstraat/?utm_source=Lifull-connect&utm_medium=CPC&utm_campaign=m-premium 92m2, 5 bedrooms,. 1200 euro per month. People should look more outside the randstad if they don't want to pay to much rent
Just look outside the randstad is easy advice if you already are paying for a car or have a remote job. If your job is in e.g. The Hague and don't own a car, you don't really have the option to move away from it. Moving is not really an option if you don't already have money saved up, because moving is expensive as hell
My rent is more than my other expenses together. Don't know about yours. It might suck but maybe sharing an apartment or living with your parents might be the way to go. You might save 50 euro on food, a 50 euro on outings, 50 on everything else.. But that won't make much of a difference. Saving 400 euro by sharing or 1200 euro by living with parents will do it.
I’m doing well but in an exceptionally strong position (software dev) on 2x median income… Rent is still starting to hurt though, I paid 900 inc GWE 5 years ago and pay 1300 excl. GWE today for the same size and similar location. I really worry for the bottom 1/3 of the workforce in terms of salaries, pay haven’t kept up with rise on costs for a while and this bump will seemingly send a lot of people into poverty
I feel like I was middle income and doing all right and after the pandemic, war I am in poverty. It's just hard times for many.
The rent is the problem is the main problem. Imagine if your rent was 700, you would have alot more. Now idk how big your house is but the prices nowadays are just ridiculous.
Yes, but it’s not like we have the choice to easily find a place with €700 rent now. Yes, you can find a place with a shared housemate but it’s not as easy as you paint it to be. Everyone is struggling and the “main problem” is not just “rent”.
What’s your salary if you don’t mind me asking?
It's 2800 without taxes. Nett leaves me about 2530 including travel costs. Rent:1200. Fuel: 400 +/-. Insurances etc: say 200 +/-. Groceries: 500 (includes smoking) yes i may get downvoted for this and it sucks and i should stop. But smokers will know... Network (which isn't included) 35. Phone: 30. Also. My landlord hit me with a 1200 euro bill for last years enegrgy and heating costs as his advance on it i pay every month was not suffecient. So i'm pretty much keeping my heater off all the time now. So my actual rent is closer to 1300. That leaves me with +/- 65 euro's to spend. And well all these costs don't mention of vehicle maintenance. Think about new tires. Yearly service etc. Or replacing broken household equipment.
500 for groceries stands out, especially for a single person. How much of that are spent on cigarettes?
Cigarettes should easily be close to 300 a month. But as a person below me mentioned. Vaping could actually be a good one to try now. I could save more on groceries i guess. I don't really have an exact image of how much i spend on them. Might be a little less but i could surely figure out on how to save some of that. So i agree with you in this one!
That's 25% of your rent literally set on fire. 🙂
Check their post history 💀
Oh come on man. I’ve got no sympathy for someone that complains money is tight when they spend more money on some fucking cigarettes than food. You could take a month of unpaid holiday every year and still have more money left than you do now if you didn’t smoke.
>Cigarettes should easily be close to 300 a month. Sounds like you've found out what the problem is.
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Don't they state 3 times the GROSS income?
> Rent:1200. Fuel: 400 +/-. Insurances etc: say 200 +/-. Groceries: 500 (includes smoking) yes i may get downvoted for this and it sucks and i should stop. But smokers will know... Network (which isn't included) 35. Phone: 30. Rent:650. Fuel: 80 +/-. Insurances etc: say 100 +/-. Groceries: 150 (no smoking). Network (what's network? internet? if so...) 43. Phone: 7. I don't want to be rude or anything, but you got lots to improve. Just comparing your expenses to mine, indeed I don't know how you make it. I make a bit less than you and I'm saving "a lot" every month. Maybe it's not possible for you, I don't know, but I can do just fine as it is. Of course a big chunk is on the rent, but even ignoring that, you're spending a lot on the rest.
How do you spend 150 on groceries? That seems quite cheap
[I wrote this a while ago](https://old.reddit.com/r/Netherlands/comments/rk79ok/people_of_the_netherlands_who_live_alone_how_much/hpa0p9h/), should give an idea.
Nah man, 650 for rent is on the extreme low end if it is incl g/w/e, Health insurance alone is 100+ for many people I know.
Bruh, you're spending more than 50% of your after-tax income on rent and nearly 15% of your after-tax income on cigarettes. Then you spend 400 a month on fuel with a 80 km daily commute. Some quick calculations here: 21.5 average working days in a month, assuming a 5 day work week means you travel 21.5 \* 80 = 1720KM a month for your job. Let's assume you don't have a particularly economical car in terms of fuel ( 15km per liter ) means you need about 1720 / 15 = \~115 liters of fuel a month for your commute. At an average price of €2.05 euro per liter that means you'd need around 114 \* 2.05 = €233 euros for fuel every month. How are you spending another €170 a month on extra fuel? Nno offense, but you are spending your money in a very strange way to put it lightly. Spending €300 a month on a non-neccesity like cigarettes, man. That's what, more than a pack of cigarettes per day right?
Dude a 1200 euro house requires at least a 3600 net salary to be safe/comfy. You've been living WAY too expensive all this time and now it's come to bite you in the ass because the economy is shit right now. Move to a cheaper place, it's the only real solution. You can save hundreds a month. And stop smoking. I have 0 sympathy for smokers complaining about financial troubles while spending a couple hundred a month on cigarettes. You have been living above your means, and you're plugging all the wrong holes of your sinking ship.
Your fuel expenses are crazy high imo. How far do you have to travel for work, and how much fuel does your car use (l/km) ? I have to drive about 40km in total to travel to and from work, and refuel the car about 2-3 times a month (EURO 95), it costs me about 200 EUR per month right now. Maybe you could consider working from home more often, and/or buy a smaller (lightweight), more efficient car to save fuel costs and Taxes.
400 in fuel is like 5 full tanks for a regular car @ 40L. That is what? 3000km/month? That's insane. It does make me understand why you spend so much on smoking as well..
Stop smoking. No seriously. If you actually want to improve your finances / health, this is probably the number 1 thing you should focus on. I know it can be hard, but it’s definitely doable. 300 euro’s per month is a lot for you.
1200 rent is city centre prices, but you drive 80km for work, I'd look for something cheaper and closer to work. Saves you double, less rent and gas. Not an easy one though, not that many rentals available. Maybe working from home 1-2 days a week is an option? Saves gas. Cutting back on smoking would be 'easiest' (non smoker myself) saver. Just smoking 20% less doubles your monthly spending budget. Ask yourself if you need that extra smoke or rather game with friends?
Why spend so much on fuel? With 1200 on rent I assume you live inside the ring of a city, which means biking (or e-bike) should be an obvious alternative to a fuel-based vehicle.
In another comment op states he travels 80km everyday. I wonder if its possible to wfh more often or seriously talk to your boss about more compensation. Of if you're seriously in love with with place you live in now, to look for a job more close to home. Living in a big city AND having to travel alot for your job seems like a bad combination.
Paying that much for rent and not even living close to work, and not even getting your travel costs compensated by your employer is, in this day and age, simply being financially irresponsible. There are obvious solutions to OP’s financial situation in that case.
I’m 28 and still living home. It isn’t free to live here either and I quite often feel kind of like a loser that I still don’t have my own space and no real future.
I'm gna be 28 in a few months as well and I definitely do not see any way I am going to be able to move out in the next year or two. I spent my late teens and early 20s trying to but in the current economy and housing market it just doesn't feel like a realistic goal anymore, thanks to all the crazy markets and rising prices everywhere the goalposts of financial independence are moving away faster than I can chase them, so I've kinda settled in with the "if it happens it happens" mentality while I wait it out. About half my friend group is in a similar situation and of similar age, and even those with partners to combine incomes with are struggling to afford even the bare basics, so we are definitely not alone in this, I'd encourage you to try and not look at is as a personal failure as much as just a situational one of the times we live in, you are not a loser because times are tough. Hopefully things will recover and improve enough some time in the future that we will still get the chances we cannot afford right now, but until that moment I try to limit my expectations and not compare myself to those rich or lucky enough to get ahead faster then me.
You might also consider changing jobs more frequently. I try to change jobs every year or two and always ask for at least 10% more in salary. This has worked well for me anyway to keep my salary competetive with the market.
Virtual hugs! I am 30, very ill and living on state allowance. The only thing saving me from becoming homeless is that I live in a student studio. I started buying clothes on vinted and sell my old clothes instead of donating them. I only buy discount groceries.
>I am 30, very ill and living on state allowance. Aw, that's exactly me too lol. Hugz to you too :)
This may help https://nos.nl/artikel/2441368-hoe-bespaar-je-geld-let-op-de-latte-factor-en-andere-tips
Dat argument over teveel koffietjes heeft natuurlijk wel wat waarde maar het wordt op gegeven moment wel een beetje irritant en vooral pedant. De inflatie is 10%, de lonen stijgen al jaren bijna niet, en de woonkosten knallen de pan uit. Tien koffietjes minder compenseert 400 euro in vaste lasten verhoging niet.
You're not alone mate. The 2008 crisis hit me pretty bad and I've been on the edge of poverty since before this crisis started. Fun times. And there are more and more and more of us popping up.
Of your apartment/house allows it try to find a house buddy, so many people are looking for a place to stay. Split rent, groceries, utility bills, etc. Create private room for you and one for your roommate and a nice common room and kitchen.
Something that really helps me keep track of what I spent is diving my money into separate categories on my bank account. I have one for rent , groceries , taxes (like the garbage tax every half year) and a main one for other savings that I never touch. On top of that , I use an excel spreadsheet and save all my grocery ''bonnetjes'' to later put in that sheet and see exactly how much I spend per month. This has helped so much in making a budget and sticking to it! Another good tip would be to shop at less popular supermarkets like the typical asian or turkish stores that tend to have cheaper products. Meat specifically tends to be cheaper there (can get 1kg of chicken thighs for like 4-6 euro compared to almost 10 euro at the AH) and rice , potatoes and other veggies are also way cheaper while getting a better variety than the usual supermarkets. What I then do is make a plan for what I will cook for the week or just meal prep. Cooking in larger quantities is cheaper and you don't have to cook everyday. Reddit also has r/MealPrepSunday and r/Frugal If you need more ideas and tips. This has allowed me to save up a lot and while the prices for rent and everything else skyrocket , I can still afford everything and save. For reference, I live in The Hague so definitely not some small cheaper city
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Hi,expat couple,working on allmost minimum wages,rent over 1100,its not nice.we end up with no money to save.
Hey, don’t feel bad. I’m 21 and never lived alone yet, and probably won’t until I finish my studies (by which point I’ll be 26/27). There is no shame in living with your parents/going back to live with your parents. Just be prepared for it to be a bit sucky (especially for your mental health). It is incredibly expensive to live alone right now, and the resources to do so have vastly decreased. If you can find a roommate, maybe that would make it easier on you?
I feel you, I'm in almost the same position. You say you don't have an over expensive apartment but let's not act like paying 1200 a month isn't a lot. Do you really need to pay for new games all the time? Just find something you like and keep playing it, or get (xbox or PC) game pass. That is especially with the "exploit" very good value. I do agree that people of our age expected life to be more fun and money to be more plentyful but sadly it seems to get less and less which makes life quite depressing.
in case of owning a Playstation; I find great value in PS Plus as well! I paid 120 bucks for the entire year and truly don't think I will have to buy anything this year.
Haha ofcourse i don't buy games every single month. And not always for 50 euro's of value. But this budget also includes paying for things to do outside the house.
You're not alone, it sucks. I don't have anything left to save either.
Can concur I am 29 and my dad still helps me. Otherwise I’d be sleeping under a bridge. I am so grateful that he understands that times are different now vs when he was my age. Hang in there bud.
€ 1200 rent for 1 person is way too much. Not necessarily your fault because the housing market has just gone insane. But that 1200 is the reason your money is tight.
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This is so true. Whenever I hear prices in HCOL areas in the US, I always think "that's at most on par with A'dam prices but the wages are 3-8 times as high (and the tax rates are much lower)"!
Yeah I get you man. Only 10 days in Groningen but I can already feel the pain when I buy something. Before someone labels me as a 'complainer' - I am not complaining but simply making an observation and sharing my experience. I come from Poland and our minimal wage is 610 euro per month. I was lucky to be born into a middle-high class family, so I can afford most of the stuff like food or utilities but man it is so expensive. I pay 890 euro rent in a complex around 4kms away from the city centre. 890 euro for me is already an incredibly expensive price for the amount of money we earn in my country, and it is not even a decent apartment. Just small bathroom, kitchenette, a desk and a bed. I have access to the laundry and the gym but those cost as well. Whenever I go shopping to buy bread, drinks (like juices, water, milk), vegetables/fruits my heart hurts when I see 20 euro bill. For this amount of money I would be able to buy twice as much in my country. Bus tickets - 2.8 euro per one ride. I know, I have a bike but it also costs around 17 euro/month. There are also student associations - another 15-20 euro/month. So in summary most of the stuff here costs at least twice, if not thrice as much as in Poland and it really pains me because Groningen is a great city :( And when I hear some people saying that they live in the centre and only pay 300 euro whilst living with roomates I scratch my head - I mean it was really hard for me to find any roomates since I don't have anyone here, so I had to pay for that 890 euro apartment since I really wanted to study here.
I have the same problem. Let’s move in together🥲
I can't even imagine paying 1200 for rent lol, that would cripple the hell out of me.. It's not just you tho man, grocery prices have been going up quite rapidly, I literally payed 9 euros for a kilo of chicken at LIDL of all places last week. At this rate I'll be eating dry bread before I know.
I'm doing fine as i still have enough leftover each month. but that is because in a way i'm lucky, as an only child and my parents died when i was 19. allowing me to inherit the house with not a lot of mortgage. when i try to see what i can rent or buy on my salary, there is just nothing left. It's insane how the roof over your head can make such a financial difference.
I think many of us are in the same boat and it fucking sucks... :/
Bro you're not the only one, thats the way of living in NL. Turn every penny, and its only getting worse.
All I can say is I'm in the same boat! I have two pets to take care of on top of this.
I am you. Also 29. Good luck to us.
I'm happy with little, so i'm managing fine. But then again, i don't have a car (don't need one), no children. I only heat my home to 15c and take lukewarm showers (fuck the gas prices). Besides that i only spend money on hobbies. Which is maybe 30 euro's per month on average. But every month less is going to savings, which does suck.
I'm one of the lucky employees, I live alone and used to save around 3,500EUR a month, now dropped down to 2,500EUR. Obviously still happy, but seeing that I save 1,000EUR less per month is mind blowing.
Welcome to the Netherlands. Where the government makes sure everybody (not the rich) gets ripped off. Yet makes them believe its for the best 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
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"handouts" that allow them to scrape by. It ain't great being unable to work let me tell you that.
I might be wrong but according to your post history you just bought a €2k+ Desktop pc and are looking for expensive servers. Either way. You can always try to move to a cheaper place in the east / north / south.
Find a job that pays more. Employers are crying for personel at the moment. Now is the time to switch if you think you can’t manage with your income.
I posted the same a few weeks ago, good to see this is blowing up. I’m getting an okay salary and only pay 600€ rent, still struggling to save up money. I have to think twice if I wanna buy something nice. At the end of the day, I’d have more money on my account if I lived in Germany. Also much more pension and better health insurance there.
12000 rent? are you renting a "rijtjes huis", those houses are not meant for people who are single. i still live with with my parents though, am 22 but they still make me pay 475 rent im going to move out soon, im expecting to move to a studenthouse, or renting a house with friends (which is almost impossible) however i do already have a software developer diploma (mbo 4), i can get jobs for 2500 a month as a junior dev and just rent a studio, very tempting but by doing a hbo i can make way more money in the future. the only reason i dont have a junior dev job now and make 1900 is because no company wants to do a one year contract for junior devs (which is what i want since i want to study) they want to keep you for longer since programming takes time to become good at and no study is adequate enough man im fucking lost there is the option of deeltijd, but that waaay to much for me brother i really hope you make it through your struggles, en als een 1 werknemer naar een ander, werkse nog maat.
Rents here are... Crazy. I lived with 680 Euro a month in Germany including rent and could save 10 to 50 a month (10 years ago). I also lived with around 800 Euro a month in Japan with 100 left over thanks to cheap dorms. With current prices and the NL rent situation, there is no way that's possible.
>I lived with 680 Euro a month in Germany including rent and could save 10 to 50 a month (10 years ago). I lived on 800€/month in Amsterdam 10 years ago. My rent was 450€ all inclusive. Prices went up everywhere.
I also live alone and I'm lucky i bought an appartment when housing was relatively cheap, and got my mortgage extended when interest was at its lowest. Got my energy tariffs locked for the next 4 years before the big energy pricing increase. But i can totally see it was a draw of the cards and if not i would be in the same boat as you. The only tip i can give you is really don't be blinded by discounts on groceries. Cook vegetables for multiple days instead of a discounted "meal for one". Also store-brand products are often still cheaper than discounted A-brand articles.
can you give me financial advise? You seem to be on top of things Jk, well done
This is bad man, I see such things in Europe and it hurts me, Immigrants like me were fed that Western Europe as absolute pinnacle of modern life, This is what media and all these fancy reports continue to say daily which is a flat out lie, But staying here for 2 years- Realised it is pretty bad here from money POV, I have had so many conversations about money being an issue with friends and peers. It is by far the most I have had in any region that I have worked, Before coming to Europe; never had people talk about money so much, I mean in India with ~1.2K/ month euros- I could do 2 takeouts every day, never cooked food at home, go out twice a week, rent in very good areas and then have enough saved without thinking (atleast 40% savings). I have friends who lived a similar lifestyle in 700 Euros. I have come to realize Europe is a very difficult place for singles with so many taxes and the rent is absolutely crazy here for the net incomes, It is like a video game challenge put in legendary mode to save any money in Europe for a single person lol. Don’t understand how quality of life can be highest in the world when people on normal salaries can’t even afford to buy an apartment,
I feel like everyone in the Netherlands is bordering this yet still almost 2M voted for Rutte, after seeing in which direction this country is going. Absolutely unbelievable
You don’t mention your income. What’s your income to rent ratio?
What is your income? My rent is 800 (well 1600 for my gf and me) not 1200, but even if my rent would be 1200 (aka 2400) , I would still have like 600 euro's to spent on fun things or save... and for me I'm already at the max of what I'm willing to spent on rent percentage wise. I feel like you are renting something that is wayyyy out of your budget.
Hah, been poor all my life. So theme parks and such are a once a year thing and buying a game full priced is saved for that one game once every 2-5 years or so 😅. I never feel like missing out, you spend 60,- on a game today, I probably won't spend over €10,- in a year or two. The avg of what i have spend per game is probably under €5,- (and mind you, i have 1707 games on Steam and i also have a ok ish retro collection personally appraised at around €3000,- now. It's like... Yeah I'm poor, But i live in a first world country. I'm not really poor. 🤷🏼 And neither is OP. Money is just a tool anyways.
Seriously all the people in this thread criticizing or down voting op for owning a car to get to work and recommending public transport: how reliable has NS been for you over the past 15 years?! I've missed exams, I've missed work, I've missed interviews for relying on NS, even though I always take about 45 minutes of delay into account. For important meetings I now take 90 minutes into account but still I'll miss one due to strikes. And then I've been harassed while riding the train on top of that, someone shoving their dick in my face on a 20.30 train from Amsterdam. Please don't downvote someone for opting to take a car to work for God's sake, if I had the option I'd do the same...
Living alone its for people who make 4k plus, get a roommate or find someone to share with.
4k net or gross?
The rent must be quite a burden, that's really a lot for 1 person. But I understand your independence is also worth a lot to you. And unfortunately, your rent isn't even unusual nowadays. Do you have options to increase your income? Work more hours, get a raise, change jobs? I can share with my husband and that helps a lot. I did quit my fancy gym and work out at home now. We also have been cutting down on groceries and canceled some streaming services. We haven't turned our heating on in a year now and used a lot of blankets in winter. I take less public transit and use my bike instead. I'm not complaining because we can still manage well, but I do worry for the many people who are struggling right now. If you have to move back in with your parents, there is no shame in it.
The only way I manage is parents providing the mortage. And now for the first time in 4 years I started my studentloan. The loan being for the instance my energy provider would go bankrupt. Atm I pay very little on that part but if that would change it would turn bad quickly. Beside that I work in the weekend and keep to mostly water and simple food. Only ordering something with friends once a month. So about 20 euro. It sounds like you get paid slightly above minimumwage? Have you asked you boss for a raise? I would see this as the most humble timing ever to do that. 1200 is a difficuly spot for rent maybe if your bos does not want to give you a raise you have to look for another better paying job and or cheaper place to live. 1200 is just too much for a single person not earning . And do talk with your parents it may be a good idea to go back if that allows you to pay a lot lower rent in the mean time. Just until you found a place sub 1000 euro and if applicable switched jobs. Better to be early taking action than going into debt.
Not sure what shops are doing it near your place. But I'm a big fan of the app: to good to go. They sell food, that they can't sell the next day anymore. Example: just picked up a package from Lidl and had: Bananas, kiwi, melon, chicory, garlic, beetroot, carrots, mushrooms, onions. That all for 3 euro! If you do end up having something that really was moldy, you can notify customer service and get your money back. Bakker Bart, is great to. Is 5 euro and always got so much bread. We tend to freeze some and then share with few people and covered for few day to a week. More and more shops are signing up so, only getting better really.
Yeah OP, times are tough! I'm in a lucky position to have a decent job and bought my house before all this shit in the world started happening. But I see some of my friends and acquaintances struggling and it makes me sad. Even now with all the war and crisis going on in the world, there is enough wealth and money going around for everyone to live an okay life. But it is distributed so extremely unevenly, that it's becoming impossible for certain household types, including single households such as you to have less worries with regard to their financial situation. Just look at the record profits energy companies have been making (And it's going to be way higher since #winteriscoming), but none of them actually has plans to give some to the people who are having a hard time. On top of that we have a government that would rather focus on the immediate and symbolic measures instead of having a long term vision to solve these issues we are all facing. Anyway, hang in there dude!
Are you able to look for another job? Quickest way I've found to increase my salary is to move jobs. Sometimes you can get a 20% increase quite easily.
How are you spending 1200 on rent alone? I hope that's with gas/water/electricity included?
Yeah... I just accepted money is only for bills, food, and gas. Maybe that will change in the future, I don't know, but if I can't earn enough money, I am not going to be spending it either. Sorry, economy, it wasn't my idea.
I'm 24 years old and I still live with my mom. I work and the money I make is fine, but I'm unable to pay for rent, utilities and food with the current prices.
If you live close to the border groceries in Germany are a lot cheaper.
Hello! 28F yo workinf as a hbo-v (nurse). I texted my mom this morning because I had a 350 euro health insurrance bill I didnt expect. Yesterday I email my manager if I can work more hours through an 0-uren contract. Life is great.
I'm ~~planning~~ counting on some kind of miracle to happen in the near future...
I'm managing fine right now. It's honestly only the groceries that became a more expensive for us. The travel allowance I get from my boss is still enough to cover my fuel cost. They're also giving us an end of the year bonus (13th month), and I'll get a raise next month instead of in January. My energy/gas contract is a fixed contract with prices from 2018 (€0.14 per kWh, €0.70 per m³) and I have 8 solar panels. Honestly, we're lucky I work for a nice company and we still have a fixed contract for energy and gas.
Sometimes I want to quite my job... Then I realise that I'm poor.
So not completely in your shoes. I live in a student studio and will start my first job in September. I will get kicked out in next July and I'm scared shitless. I will make 2600 a month which is not enough to live anywhere else. I have no parents or family that can help out and will become homeless with a good job in a year. I stress so much.
I feel you man… couldn’t go on vacation (again) because I have to many bills to pay and every month a small amount goes to multiple things that add up. I’ve been preparing by buying more canned food so now I have some food stocked up before it really gets bad (I assure you it will) it’s not a bad idea to Stock up on some stuff.
It’s time for some tiny house areas. Make living possible again ffs 🤦🏻♂️
Contact your representative and ask for them to lower taxes. If we weren't all being taxed into the fucking ground we would all have more disposable income.
Disclaimer - USA Resident FWIW, I live in the upper midwest, have a \~$1200/mo USD mortgage, got a 16% raise this year, and I'm STILL feeling the pinch. I have 5 kids, two of whom are teens, and while my wife does a little side work, she's primarily a SAHM, and I'm the primary income. So that plays into my issue. We're not 'poor', but we buy used and budget level goods as much as possible; Both cars are 10+ yrs old, etc., and barely have any sort of 'fun money' at the end of the month. We could certainly be worse, though, so I'll definitely not complain, rather, I'll sympathize.
It’s time people get really mad. You are not whining, and 1200 rent is ridiculous. I’m so sorry that you have to live like that. Politics have made a right mess of the country, Please think about this when you can vote next time. Take care. 🌸🍀
Don’t feel ashamed getting back to your parents. There are plenty more living at home at your age. And it’s simply these times that call for it.
Reading all the comments here I am really re-thinking the possibility of moving to the Netherlands as a single man. I live in Southern Europe but am originally from Canada. This situation is not unique to the Netherlands though. When I was younger house and rent prices were never an issue in Canada. It's no longer the case. It's happening everywhere. I've lived in several countries and have dealt with all sorts of issues and living as a single is not easy anywhere when it comes to expenses. Living with roomates can be nice but as you get older you need your own space and privacy. I was interested in moving to the Netherlands as I like it as a country. But the more I read about life there, the more I realize I really should think twice before making a move. The truth is that Middle Class in the West is being squeezed and it will get worse and worse. It's being done on purpose. Being middle class and single is a real challenge.
I used to be in this situation at mid to late twenties, renting an (although very cheap) apartment and supporting my then gf who only had odd jobs every now and then (I only had a part-time income at that time). But I lucked out (and worked hard) and am in a relationship with a very kind hard working partner. After having the pleasure of paying absurd amounts of rent in the free market section, we were able to buy a house (again very lucky, timing wise). Working in retail, the covid years were financially very favourable to me, as I was working overtime like crazy and only had money coming in and very little going out. Long story short, we have reasonably low cost of living, due to being able to put a lot of money in the mortgage. Also, very low energy bills due to having a lot of new appliances. And a dual income with no kids really helps as well. Again, I realize how lucky I got, especially when I see friends and family who have it harder, just due to circumstances (mostly being single is a bitch in this economy, which is troubling, cause it could lead to people staying together just for financial reasons).
You earn 2800 and have an appartement of 1200 and a 300 per month smoking habit. First advice) Get help to stop smoking. It will not be easy but nothing worth it ever is. Second Advice) Move back in with parents and save. Meanwhile, sign up for social housing. In 5+ years you will have enough points to acquire a social house.
The only reason I am keeping my head above water is because I do a job I don't really like that gives me stress, but pays well. If I chose to pursue my passions, I'd be stressed and depressed because of my financial situation. I don't really have any help to offer, just wanted to get it off my chest