Why Buying a House in the Netherlands Is Nearly Impossible for Singles
Research shows single buyers face almost no options, while dual-income households see their opportunities rise for the fourth year in a row.
The gap between single homebuyers and dual-income couples in the Netherlands is widening. Despite rising wages and lower mortgage interest rates, single earners with an average income are still virtually shut out of the housing market, while couples are finding opportunities increase year after year.
According to mortgage advice chain De Hypotheker, the average house price has climbed by 9% over the past year to €474,234. At the same time, a single person with a gross annual income of around €46,500 can borrow a maximum of €215,083: enough to afford just 2.1% of the homes on the market. That’s only a slight improvement from 1.7% in 2024.
Couples with a combined income of €85,000 fare far better, with access to a maximum mortgage of €400,608. Their share of affordable housing has risen sharply, from 29.1% last year to 35.9% in 2025. This marks the fourth consecutive year in which dual-income households have gained an advantage.
Where singles still have a chance
Singles are most likely to find an affordable home in Limburg (7%), Zeeland (6%), and Groningen (6%). By contrast, in Flevoland, Utrecht, and North Holland, less than 1% of homes are within reach. In large cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Eindhoven, chances are described as “slim to none.”
For couples, opportunities are stronger even in urban areas. In Rotterdam and The Hague, they can afford almost half of all homes for sale, while in Amsterdam, their reach extends to 21% of the housing stock.
Investor sell-offs changing the market
One factor benefiting couples is the wave of properties hitting the market as landlords sell homes following stricter rental regulations and less favourable tax policies. These former rental properties are often more affordable, creating temporary opportunities for buyers.
Still, experts warn that the effect is short-lived. “High house prices are preventing singles from benefiting from the growing housing supply,” says Mark de Rijke, commercial director of De Hypotheker.
Call for urgent action
De Rijke and other market experts argue that urgent measures are needed to improve singles’ chances. Suggestions include:
Building smaller, more affordable homes aimed at single earners.
Expanding the supply of senior housing, which would free up larger homes for younger buyers.
Supporting first-time buyers with starter loans from municipalities, though these still involve repayment obligations.
Encouraging flexible approaches, such as family contributions or searching outside the Randstad.
Mortgage expert Oscar Noorlag of Van Bruggen Adviesgroep notes that developers are slowly responding. “Contractors who once built apartment complexes for rent are now converting them into owner-occupied apartments. That’s especially important for first-time buyers, including singles.”
A market out of balance
The overall housing shortage in the Netherlands now exceeds 400,000 homes, according to De Hypotheker. While couples with two incomes are currently best positioned to buy, the outlook for single buyers remains bleak.
“Without targeted construction for singles and seniors,” says De Rijke, “this group will remain locked out of the housing market.”