Considerable differences in house prices between municipalities

In 2009, prices of existing owner-occupied dwellings were on average 3.3 percent down on 2008, although they were still 8.4 percent higher in 2009 than in 2005. There are considerable differences between the municipalities in the Netherlands.

Prices in Amsterdam rise most rapidly

In 10 out of the 25 largest municipalities in the Netherlands, price increases of owner-occupied dwellings were above the nationwide average in the period 2005–2009. With 21.1 and 19.3 percent respectively, Amsterdam and Utrecht topped the list. The smallest price increase was recorded in Enschede (3.3 percent).

Prices existing owner-occupied houses, 2009 versus 2005

Prices existing owner-occupied houses, 2009 versus 2005

Cheapest owner-occupied dwellings in Emmen

Average prices of houses sold in 2009 also varied notably between the largest municipalities. This is probably due to different composition of the types of dwellings sold and the local supply and demand situation. The lowest average house prices were recorded in the municipality of Emmen in 2009. Average house prices were highest in Amsterdam.

Average prices existing owner-occupied houses, 2009

Average prices existing owner-occupied houses, 2009

Thom Werkhoven