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How to Save Hundreds of Euros per Month on Housing Costs

The cost of living reached record highs in 2026. Housing in particular is taking a huge bite out of the budgets of expats, interim professionals, and anyone searching for a place to live. The traditional route—renting an apartment in the private sector—has become unaffordable for many due to high security deposits, service charges, and an unpredictable energy market.

At The Budget Hotel, we’re seeing a shift: savvy travelers and residents are no longer choosing one-year contracts, but fully serviced long-stay options. Here’s how making a strategic choice can save you hundreds of euros every month.

1) Eliminate “Hidden Costs”

With a standard rental home, the base rent is only the beginning. In 2026, you also need to factor in:

• Energy & Water: On average €250–€350 per month.
• Internet & TV: €60–€80 for a reliable connection.
• Municipal Taxes: Varies by city, often several hundred euros per year.
• Furnishing & Depreciation: Furniture and appliances cost thousands upfront.

The Savings: In our hubs in Amsterdam West and Rotterdam, all of these costs are included. You pay one fixed amount, making your financial planning 100% predictable.

2) Location Arbitrage: The Schiphol Strategy

Many expats focus heavily on Amsterdam city center, where studio prices exceed €2,500—with no extras included. By choosing our Schiphol Airport Hub in Badhoevedorp, you may pay a higher base rate of €3,097, but you save on:

• Gym & Wellness: Save around €80 on a premium fitness membership.
• Transport: Use the free shuttle service instead of expensive parking or taxis.
• Time: Time is money—reach your workplace at Schiphol or the Zuidas within 10 minutes.

3) The “Winter Rental” Hack

Did you know the housing shortage is often even more intense during the winter months? By using our winter-specific locations in Amsterdam and Rotterdam (October through March), you benefit from rates that can be up to 40% lower than standard hotel rates in the city. For €2,000 and €1,850 per month respectively, you can live in prime locations that are normally out of reach.

4) Cooking vs. Eating Out

One underestimated saving on the Belgian Coast is having a full kitchen in our residences. Spending a month in a hotel without a kitchen forces you to eat out—costing an average of €30–€50 per day (around €1,200 per month). By cooking for yourself in your €2,500-per-month apartment, you effectively earn that amount back immediately.

Summary: What’s the Best Deal for You?

Your Priority	Best Choice	Savings Factor
Lowest Monthly Price	Rotterdam City Hub	€1,850 all-in
Maximum Luxury	Schiphol Airport Hub	Wellness & Gym included
Space & Family	Belgian Coast	Private kitchen & Pets allowed
Speed & City Access	Amsterdam West Hub	5 minutes from Amsterdam Central Station

Conclusion

Living in 2026 requires a flexible mindset. By choosing a monthly stay via The Budget Hotel, you bypass waiting lists, high deposits, and unpredictable bills.

Want a personal calculation for your situation? Contact us for tailored advice.