Living in Almere for Expats: A Complete Guide to the Best Neighborhoods
Moving to a new country is an adventure filled with excitement, but it also comes with a long to-do list, and at the very top is finding the perfect place to call home. If you're exploring options outside the hustle of Amsterdam, you've likely heard whispers of a modern, spacious, and green city just a short train ride away. Welcome to Almere. For those considering living in Almere for expats, this city offers a refreshing alternative with fantastic housing, abundant nature, and a welcoming atmosphere. But with several unique districts, how do you choose the right one for you and your family?
This guide is here to help. We'll take a deep dive into the main Almere neighborhoods, exploring the distinct character and lifestyle each one offers. From the vibrant city center to quiet, village-like harbors and modern coastal communities, you'll get a clear picture of what life is like across the city. Let’s find your perfect match.
Almere Stad: The Bustling Urban Heart
If you thrive on the energy of a city and want every convenience at your fingertips, Almere Stad is your destination. As the commercial and cultural center of Almere, it’s where you'll find the main train station, the largest shopping center, and a huge variety of restaurants and entertainment. It’s a place defined by its modern architecture and cosmopolitan vibe. Yet, even with its urban density, nature is never far away, with the beautiful Weerwater lake right in the center, offering a unique balance of city living and green space.
Best for: Young professionals and urbanites who prioritize convenience and a quick commute from Almere to Amsterdam. It's also a great option for families who enjoy an active, urban lifestyle.
Transport & Commute: This is the city’s main transport hub. The direct Intercity train from Almere Centrum station can get you to Amsterdam Centraal in as little as 21 minutes. The A6 motorway is also easily accessible, making it a commuter's dream.
Local Amenities: With over 400 shops, a twice-weekly market, cinemas, the KAF theater, and countless cafes and restaurants, you’ll never be short of things to do.
Pros & Cons of Almere Stad
Pro: Unbeatable public transport connections to Amsterdam, Schiphol, and Utrecht.
Pro: The city’s best selection of shops, dining, and cultural venues.
Pro: A diverse mix of modern apartments and spacious family homes.
Con: Can feel more like a functional hub than a cozy neighborhood.
Con: The international schools are located in Almere Poort, requiring a commute for families.
Con: As the city center, it can be busier and noisier than other districts.
Almere Haven: The Charming Harbor Village
Step back in time to Almere’s "City Roots." As the oldest district, Almere Haven was intentionally designed to feel like a traditional Dutch village. The atmosphere is peaceful, charming, and community-oriented. Life here revolves around the picturesque harbor, where you can find waterside restaurants, boutique shops, and sunny terraces. It’s the perfect spot for those seeking a slower pace of life, with a strong sense of community and beautiful waterfront scenery.
Best for: Families and seniors looking for a quiet, safe, and tight-knit community. Anyone who loves the outdoors will appreciate its location on the Gooimeer lake.
Transport & Commute: Almere Haven does not have its own train station. Residents rely on the frequent M1 bus line, which takes about 15-20 minutes to reach Almere Centrum station. The total commute to Amsterdam Centraal is around 40-50 minutes.
Local Amenities: The district is self-sufficient, with a lovely local shopping center, a weekly Friday market, and its own child-friendly beach. For a bigger nature escape, the Stadslandgoed de Kemphaan estate is just a short trip away.
Pros & Cons of Almere Haven
Pro: A unique, cozy village atmosphere you won't find elsewhere in Almere.
Pro: Peaceful and quiet, making it incredibly family-friendly Almere.
Pro: A beautiful harbor that serves as a hub for dining and community events.
Con: No train station means a longer, multi-step commute to Amsterdam.
Con: The housing stock is older and may be less modern than in other areas.
Con: Fewer amenities compared to the bustling city center.
Almere Buiten: The Green Family Suburb
True to its name, which means "outdoors," Almere Buiten is defined by its vast green spaces and connection to nature. This district is a paradise for families, offering spacious homes with gardens and a safe, suburban feel. It borders the spectacular Oostvaardersplassen nature reserve, a massive wetland perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting. With its colorful and unique architecture, like the famous Rainbow Neighborhood, Almere Buiten offers a living experience that is anything but boring.
Best for: Families looking for more space for their money and outdoor enthusiasts who want nature right at their doorstep.
Transport & Commute: The district is well-connected with two train stations, Almere Buiten and Almere Oostvaarders. The train to Amsterdam Centraal takes about 30-35 minutes, making it a very manageable commute.
Local Amenities: Almere Buiten has its own large shopping center and a retail park for home goods. Recreation is a highlight, with the Oostvaardersplassen, numerous parks, and family-focused venues like a swimming complex and indoor playgrounds.
Pros & Cons of Almere Buiten
Pro: Offers the best value for money when it comes to spacious family homes with gardens.
Pro: Unparalleled access to nature and outdoor activities.
Pro: A highly family-friendly Almere environment with great amenities for kids.
Con: The commute to Amsterdam is slightly longer than from the western districts.
Con: It has a distinct suburban feel, with fewer urban cultural and dining options.
Con: Being more spread out, a car can be more of a necessity for daily errands.
Almere Poort: The Modern Coastal District
As the newest and westernmost district, Almere Poort is incredibly popular with expats, and for good reason. It boasts a "hip and modern" coastal atmosphere, thanks to its location on the IJmeer lake and its direct access to the Almeerderstrand beach. The innovative DUIN neighborhood, built on artificial sand dunes, makes you feel like you're on a permanent beach holiday. This is the place for those relocating to Almere who want a modern home and the fastest possible connection to Amsterdam.
Best for: Amsterdam commuters, expats, and young families. Its location is a huge draw, as is the fact that it’s home to Almere’s international schools.
Transport & Commute: This is Poort’s biggest selling point. The train from Almere Poort station to Amsterdam Centraal takes only 25 minutes on average. By car, you can be in Amsterdam in as little as 15-20 minutes outside of rush hour.
Local Amenities: Almere Poort is home to the International School Almere (ISA) and the International Primary School Almere (IPSA). The Almeerderstrand beach is a major hub for water sports, festivals, and popular beach clubs. While local shops are growing, residents often pop over to Almere Stad for major shopping trips.
Pros & Cons of Almere Poort
Pro: The absolute fastest commute from Almere to Amsterdam.
Pro: Home to the city’s international primary and secondary schools.
Pro: A unique coastal lifestyle with a beach, dunes, and marina.
Con: The cost of renting in Almere is highest here due to high demand.
Con: As it's still developing, some areas can feel like a construction zone.
Con: Has fewer large-scale amenities and a less traditional "Dutch" feel.
Almere Hout & Oosterwold: The Rural Frontier
For those who dream of space, tranquility, and a life surrounded by nature, Almere Hout is the answer. As the city's greenest and most rural district, it’s defined by forests, quiet, and wide-open spaces. It includes Oosterwold, a unique "do-it-yourself" urban development where residents build their own homes and dedicate a large portion of their land to urban agriculture. This area is for pioneers and nature lovers who value freedom and sustainability above all else.
Best for: Self-builders, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with maximum space and autonomy.
Transport & Commute: A car is essential here. Public transport is limited and still developing. The commute to Amsterdam requires driving to a nearby train station first, with a total travel time often exceeding 60 minutes.
Local Amenities: Amenities are decentralized and community-driven. Think organic farm shops, local bakeries, and recreational hubs like the Almeerderhout forest and Stadslandgoed de Kemphaan, which has a city farm and climbing park.
Pros & Cons of Almere Hout
Pro: Unmatched access to space, forests, and a peaceful, rural environment.
Pro: The ultimate freedom in Oosterwold to design and build your own sustainable home.
Pro: A very safe area with a strong, village-like community spirit in neighborhoods like Nobelhorst.
Con: It is the most car-dependent district with very limited public transport.
Con: The longest and most complex commute to Amsterdam.
Con: Limited integrated shops and restaurants, requiring a high degree of self-sufficiency.
Summary: Which Almere Neighborhood is for You?
| Neighborhood | Vibe | Best For | Commute to Amsterdam (Train) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Almere Stad | Bustling Urban Core | Young Professionals, Urbanites | ~21-28 mins |
| Almere Haven | Charming Harbor Village | Families & Seniors Seeking Quiet | ~40-50 mins (Bus + Train) |
| Almere Buiten | Green & Spacious Suburb | Families Seeking Space & Nature | ~29-35 mins |
| Almere Poort | Modern & Coastal | Amsterdam Commuters, Expats | ~25 mins |
| Almere Hout | Rural & Experimental | Self-Builders, Nature Lovers | ~60+ mins (Car + Train) |
Making the Right Choice with New Roots Housing
Choosing a neighborhood is one of the most significant decisions you'll make when moving to Almere. Reading guides is a great start, but nothing beats having local expertise on your side. The rental market can be competitive, and navigating it from afar adds another layer of stress. This is where having a trusted partner can make all the difference.
At New Roots Housing, we specialize in helping expats find their perfect home in Almere. We understand the unique challenges you face, from figuring out the right neighborhood for your lifestyle and budget to securing a property. We offer personalized services, including virtual viewings, contract negotiation, and settling-in support, to ensure your move is as smooth and stress-free as possible. We’re not just finding you a house; we’re helping you find a community for your expat housing Almere journey.
Ready to Plant Your Roots?
Almere offers a wonderful diversity of lifestyles, from urban energy to tranquil village life and modern coastal living. There truly is a place for every expat to feel at home. We hope this guide has given you a clearer picture of your options and brought you one step closer to your new Dutch life.
Ready to find your perfect home in Almere? Contact New Roots Housing today for a consultation, and let us help you plant your roots in the Netherlands with confidence!