Making the move from the United States to the Netherlands can be an exciting new chapter, but one thing that often surprises American expats is just how different Dutch homes can be. From narrow staircases to compact kitchen appliances, the differences in housing aren’t just aesthetic. Here are some key things to know before you settle into your new Dutch home.

Narrow Hallways & Steep Staircases

If you're picturing a wide hallway or a spacious elevator that links to your front door, think again. While there are plenty of new apartment buildings in the Netherlands with elevators, most Dutch apartments and homes you will encounter are equipped with steep staircases and narrow hallways. These staircases can be a challenge to navigate, especially with large furniture or heavy suitcases. It’s not uncommon for staircases to feel more like ladders, particularly in older buildings.

Moving Furniture (Through the Window!)

Due to these tight spaces, moving furniture in through stairwells is often impossible. The creative Dutch solution? Move it through the window. Many homes feature a hook or pulley system built into the roof gable — a nod to the country’s historic architecture. Today, it's more common to use an external moving lift, which hoists large items up to the correct floor and through a window. When planning your move, be sure to ask your movers if they’re equipped to handle this type of access.

Small Refrigerators & Freezer Setups

Refrigerators in Dutch homes are typically much smaller than what you’re used to in the U.S. So small, in fact, that double-door models are often referred to as “American fridges.” Standard models include a compact fridge section and a small freezer compartment — often just big enough to store some ice and a few frozen essentials. Larger or separate freezers are becoming more common, but don't be surprised if your new home doesn't have one at all.

Heating (Yes). Air Conditioning (Probably Not)

Heating in Dutch homes is typically done through radiator systems or underfloor heating, both of which are often gas-powered and regulated via a thermostat. In some apartment complexes, a system known as "block heating" is used, where one central source heats multiple units.

As for cooling? Air conditioning is rare. Even in newer apartments, you shouldn’t assume one will be included. While summers in the Netherlands tend to be milder than in much of the U.S., it’s still a good idea to plan ahead with fans or portable cooling solutions if you're sensitive to heat.

Microwave/Oven Combos

Don’t expect a full-sized American oven and a separate microwave. In the Netherlands, most homes have a combination microwave/oven unit that’s smaller and more compact. These multi-function appliances are space savers, but they may take some getting used to, especially if you're used to baking or cooking larger meals. The setup reflects a cultural difference: in many Dutch households, the kitchen simply isn’t the heart of the home in the same way it is in the U.S.

Moving to a new country comes with a learning curve, and your home is no exception. But with a little preparation and the right expectations, these quirks of Dutch housing can quickly become part of the charm. At Expat Home Finders, we help Americans like you navigate the housing market.

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