paroolOct 29, 2026, 02:00

Number of social housing units in Amsterdam region grew by over 4,000 last year – but waiting times remain long

The social housing stock in the Amsterdam Metropolitan Area increased by over 4,000 units in 2025 due to a rise in new construction projects. Despite this growth, waiting lists for rental properties remain long and are not expected to decrease significantly in the near future.

The housing stock managed by social housing corporations in the Amsterdam Metropolitan Area grew by 4,026 units in 2025, marking a significant increase compared to previous years. This progress is attributed to a productive year for new construction, according to the Platform Corporaties Metropoolregio Amsterdam. Despite this growth, officials warn that it is insufficient to significantly reduce the current ten-year waiting lists for social housing in the region.

Beyond new construction, the report highlights improved affordability for tenants, with the average rent-to-income ratio dropping to 23.5 percent in 2025. While housing satisfaction remains stable, residents expressed concerns regarding public cleanliness, which received lower ratings than in previous years. Meanwhile, housing corporations and local officials continue to advocate for policy changes, such as the removal of corporate profit taxes, to further boost the construction of affordable housing units across the region.

Economy Business Amsterdam Netherlands

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Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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