26% of Dutch plan to move within 3 years; Big cities less popular as people seek peace

In the coming three years, 26% of Dutch adults want to move house. Big cities are decidedly less popular as a future place of residence as more people opt for the peace and quiet of smaller towns and the countryside, according to a study by market researcher Multiscope among 3,800 Dutch people.

A total of 3.8 million Dutch people plan to move in the coming three years. When asked where to, Multiscope noticed that the “preference is clearly shifting away from the city.” The proportion of people who want to move to a big city dropped by 10 percent, and medium-sized cities are also losing ground (-2%).

At the same time, smaller cities (+5%), villages (+3%), and the countryside (+5%) are becoming more popular. “The main driver behind these housing choices is the need for more peace and quiet (18%),” Multiscope said. “The Dutch are increasingly exchanging the hustle and bustle of the city for a quieter living environment.” Villages and the countryside typically also offer affordability and more spacious homes.

Of the Dutch who want to move to a large city, 65 percent are young adults between the ages of 18 and 35. Over half (51%) said they’re opting for big city life because they want to live close to hospitality venues.

Of the 3.8 million Dutch who plan to move, 12 percent are giving emigration serious consideration. 75 percent of this group want to emigrate to another destination within Europe. “The intention to emigrate is highest among 35- to 50-year-olds and 50- to 67-year-olds (both 15%). Among those over 67, it is significantly lower (6%),” Multiscope said.