Netherlands sees drop in housing cost burden and poverty rates

The proportion of disposable income that Dutch households spend on housing costs has declined, according to a report from Vastgoedjournaal. Buyers now have a lower housing cost share than renters, and long‑term renters also face a reduced burden.

In Utrecht, the municipal poverty monitor shows the share of households with an income up to 125 % of the social minimum fell from 17 % in 2014 to 13.6 % in 2024, despite a slight rise from 2023. Use of municipal support schemes has risen: U‑pas holders increased to 38,500, individual income allowances to 8,390 households, and tax waivers to 15,370 households, with 63 % of low‑income households now receiving assistance. A new campaign aims to further raise awareness of the U‑pas and simplify application procedures.