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Monthly living expenses of London vs Amsterdam as a management consultant

Hi, I am looking at firms in these 2 regions and would like to know the rough estimate (on a relative basis) for monthly living costs in these 2 cities (assuming shared flat, public transport and same quality of living), I would also like to know the pros and cons of living in each

Also, please DO NOT comment suggesting me to use Google :) I have done my research and would like to have the opinions of folks who have lived in either/ both places preferably

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Anonymous B
on May 25, 2021

I lived in both cities, not as a consultant but anyhow.

Amsterdam is clearly more affordable, especially if you factor in the 30% rule (if youre not Dutch). Rent is c. 20% lower, while other expenses are c. 10-15% lower. If affordability is your KPI here, then go to Amsterdam. 

However, I would factor in other qualitative differences in this decision. IMO if you are moving on your own, London is easier to restart your life: there are more leisure options, larger expat communities, etc.

I would strongly recommend you to reach out to people in Linkedin living in both cities that are in a similar life moment of yours.

If youre finishing your undergrad studies, go to London! If youre starting a family, go to Amsterdam :) - but if you do the other around you'll also be fine.

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Ian
Coach
on May 25, 2021
Top US BCG / MBB Coach - 5,000 sessions |Tech, Platinion, Big 4 | 9/9 personal interviews passed | 95% candidate success

Hi there,

Having a number of close friends in both and having visited both multiple times, I can tell you that (at least personally) Amsterdam is a far more livable city.

Things are generally cheaper and closer to each other. London is simply massive. Rent is absurd and getting across the city can take ages (and create a lot of stress/headaches).

I personally prefer Amsterdam and view it as much more affordable as well.

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