Life in the North of the Netherlands

The North of the Netherlands offers an ideal mix of living, working and culture. Its most important characteristic is that a vibrant cultural and challenging professional life is embedded in the peace and quiet of green living areas and humane cities. Whereas the population density in more crowded parts of the Netherlands can reach an average of 1014 inhabitants per square kilometre, Groningen, Drenthe and Friesland have only 207 inhabitants per square kilometre. That makes a great difference.

It makes a great difference when it comes to noise. It makes a great difference when it comes to pleasant views. It makes a great difference when it comes to traffic circulation. You will spend less time travelling, for example, to work. The North has a lot of fresh air, but also offers cheaper housing. It offers space for children to grow up in and perhaps it even offers more kind-hearted people.
Besides all this, having a good career is also important to a great number of people. In that case, Noorderlink offers perspective. Working at one of the companies connected to Noorderlink means having access to a quarter of the Northern labour market in which you can continue to grow. For a potential partner that may move with you who will also want to work, Noorderlink has developed its “partner programme.”

The North of the Netherlands is divided into three provinces, namely: Friesland, Groningen and Drenthe. Each of these three has its own specific qualities. Friesland is home to many lakes and boscage. Drenthe offers beautiful forested areas and heathland, and Groningen is known for having the most beautiful vistas under endless Dutch clouded skies. The major cities of the North are Groningen, Leeuwarden, Assen and Drachten. Besides those there are smaller, more picturesque towns. The city of Groningen is the largest of them all and  lies at the heart of the area. Because of its university it is home to a relatively young population: 20% of its inhabitants are students, and 50% is younger than 35 years. Positive side effects of this are the high density of cafes and restaurants and the large number of cyclists.

More information on living in the North of the Netherlands can be found through our external links elsewhere on this website and in YouTube clips.