Rotterdam: the city for expats and international companies

Rotterdam is one of the most international cities in the Netherlands. Every year, thousands of expats settle in the city, drawn by the port, global business presence, and excellent connections. For companies and expats, however, there is one major challenge: the tight housing market. And that is exactly where unique opportunities arise for landlords.

Shortage of high-skilled professionals

The Dutch economy faces a structural shortage of highly skilled specialists. Sectors such as engineering, shipbuilding, energy, and finance rely heavily on international employees. Rotterdam plays a key role in this thanks to the presence of global players such as:

• Shell
• Unilever
• EY
• Damen Shipyards
• Vopak
• Stedin
• Coolblue
• Mediamarkt
• Fluor
• Van Oord

These companies bring hundreds of expats to the Rijnmond region each year. The result: strong demand for quality housing, and far too little supply.

Why expats choose Rotterdam

• Central location: direct connections to Schiphol, Brussels, and Paris.
• International schools: attractive for expat families.
• Neighborhoods with character: from upscale Hillegersberg to international Scheepvaartkwartier.
• Strong expat community: clubs, associations, and networks make integration easier.

What does this mean for landlords?

For landlords, this creates a unique opportunity. Expats are reliable tenants with stable incomes, often supported by their employers. Companies also need housing quickly and efficiently – giving landlords the security of a smooth placement.

Real-life examples

Case 1 – Fluor employee
A senior engineer from Spain moved to Rotterdam for a project at Fluor. Within a week, an apartment in Blijdorp was arranged. The landlord benefited from a company-backed tenant, providing immediate stability.

Case 2 – Mediamarkt expat
For an international manager at Mediamarkt, a family home in Kralingen was secured. Thanks to HR connections, the match was made within ten days. The landlord gained a reliable tenant with a long-term rental contract.

Conclusion: demand grows, supply remains scarce

Rotterdam continues to attract international companies and expats. The shortage of high-skilled professionals forces companies to recruit globally and all these employees need housing.

For landlords, this means: guaranteed demand, high occupancy rates, and stable tenants. Thanks to our network with international companies and expats, we connect landlords directly to trustworthy rental candidates.

Want to know if your property is suitable for expats working at international companies in Rotterdam?
Get in touch with Rotterdam Rental Service, we connect landlords with the expat housing market.