Over 200,000 Homes Empty in the Netherlands
Despite a growing housing shortage, the number of empty homes in the Netherlands keeps rising. Statistics Netherlands (CBS) reports that over 200,000 homes were vacant this summer, a 3% increase since the start of the year.
Vacancy numbers rising
On January 1, 2025, there were 194,500 empty homes. By July 1, this rose to 200,670—equivalent to 21.5 million square meters.
The largest cities have the most vacant homes:
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Amsterdam: 21,770
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Rotterdam: 10,870
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Eindhoven: 4,000
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The Hague: 2,640
Most homes do not stay empty for long. At the start of 2025, only 64,360 homes had been unoccupied for more than a year.
Government plans vacancy tax
To reduce vacancies, the Dutch government has approved a tax on homes empty for more than a year. The Association of Municipalities (VNG) hopes cities can start using it soon.
Municipalities can use energy consumption data to check if a property is truly vacant. Amsterdam is also planning a permit system for second homes starting in 2026 to reduce empty houses.
Criticism of the tax
Some experts argue the tax may not solve the problem. Edward Touw of VastgoedBelang says delays often come from municipalities, not landlords. Renovation permits or rules about dividing buildings into smaller homes can leave properties empty for long periods.
Housing expert Peter Boelhouwer adds that most empty homes are not intentionally left vacant. Some are being renovated, or heirs of deceased owners cannot find a solution.
