Broad prosperity grew in the Netherlands, but inequality worsened between regions: Study

The broad prosperity in the Netherlands grew last year despite a slight drop in gross domestic product (GDP). However, the broad prosperity is unequal between various regions of the Netherlands, and that difference has increased, according to RaboResearch and the Universiteit Utrecht after research was conducted.

The researchers examined factors like income, happiness, health, and safety. According to them, broad prosperity is highest among residents of the Gooi and Vechtstreek regions. It is also high in the Achterhoek, the Veluwe, Alkmaar and surrounding areas, and Zuidwest-Overijssel. “Regions with high prosperity combine a pleasant living climate with close proximity to amenities and work opportunities in the cities,” said researcher Floris Jan Sander of RaboResearch.

Researchers added that the broad prosperity is lagging in and around large cities like The Hague, Rotterdam, and Amsterdam. Sander claims that this is due to the fact that people from there judge the safety and housing to be of a lower standard. “The limited availability and the high prices of homes lead to a lower residential satisfaction in those places.”

Broad prosperity is also judged to be worse on the edge of the Netherlands in places like Zuid-Limburg and Delfzijl and surrounding areas. According to the study, prosperity has not risen as strongly in these places as it has in other areas since 2013, which has led to an increase in inequality.