Living on your own sounds like freedom, but it also comes with responsibilities and unexpected expenses. If you're not careful, you could end up on a waiting list for an 8m² room without windows, paying €750 a month – plus extra costs for everything you assumed was included.
Especially in 2025, with stricter rental laws, limited availability, and soaring energy prices, it's more important than ever to know what you're getting into.
Wondering if you're truly ready to live the student life on your own? Here’s what you need to know before signing anything.
The biggest perks of living on your own are freedom, independence, and a more active social life. You’ll learn how to plan, cook, and manage your finances. Your monthly expenses will increase, but you’ll also gain budgeting skills, learn how to shop smart, and make more conscious decisions. It demands responsibility but teaches life lessons in return.
Here’s what you really need to know to make an informed decision:
Moving into student housing means you no longer live with your parents, but instead live independently or with housemates in a rented space. This could be a studio (with a private kitchen and bathroom), a room in a student house, or a single room without private facilities. You pay rent, sometimes share the kitchen or bathroom, and are responsible for your own household.
More independence
You learn how to cook, clean, budget – essential skills for later in life.
Closer to your university
No more three-hour train rides with delays or changing trains in Gouda. You can roll out of bed straight into your lecture.
Fully experience student life
Parties, drinks, study groups – it’s all much easier when you live nearby. Plus, you’ll meet new people faster.
Room to grow
You get the chance to create your own schedule and make your own decisions (and mistakes) without your parents nearby.
No parental supervision
Want to throw a party? No problem! You decide when to have fun and host your own events. How great is that?
It’s (very) expensive
Living on your own costs money. In early 2025, the average student room in the Netherlands costs around €515 per month, excluding fixed costs and groceries. In Amsterdam, the average is €780; in Enschede, it’s around €390.
You usually don’t get housing allowance
You’re only eligible for housing allowance if you live in a self-contained social housing unit. That means you must have your own entrance, kitchen, and bathroom. Plus, your rent must be under €900.07. Student rooms don’t qualify, but a studio might.
You’re responsible for everything
Empty fridge? You’ll be eating crackers. Forgot the laundry? Too bad. No one else is going to do it for you.
Shady landlords or high agency fees
You might encounter dodgy rental websites or landlords who don’t follow the rules. Think: unfair deposits, unsafe living conditions, or hidden charges.
Social pressure or loneliness
Not every housemate becomes your best friend. And if you don’t know anyone in your new city, things can get lonely.
There’s a housing shortage
Finding a room takes longer than it used to – the shortage exceeds 23,100 student homes. The search can be stressful and frustrating.
Tip: want to find a rental quickly? Check out this article.
Not every student needs to move out. Staying at home isn’t a sign of weakness, just like moving out isn’t a guarantee of freedom. The real question is: what fits your life?
Do you travel more than 90 minutes each day? Do you crave independence or want a social life outside of your studies? Do you have a part-time job or financial support? Then moving out might be worth it. But if staying home feels more comfortable and less stressful, that’s just as smart.
Still looking for a student room? Find your next place today on Kamer.nl!
Want to know the average rent in the Netherlands? Check out this article.
Curious about average rent per city? Check this article.
Want to find a rental quickly? Check this article.