Furnished vs Unfurnished Rentals in the Netherlands
Dutch listings use three words that change your budget dramatically. Knowing them avoids arriving in an apartment with no floor.
Updated 29 September 2026
The three types
What each term usually means:
- Gemeubileerd (furnished): furniture and appliances included
- Gestoffeerd (upholstered): floors, curtains and usually a kitchen, no furniture
- Kaal (bare): no flooring, light fittings and sometimes no kitchen
What furnishing costs
RentalHunter estimates €3,000–€8,000 to furnish a bare two-bedroom apartment if you arrive with suitcases.
Which to choose
Furnished suits short assignments and people arriving from abroad. Upholstered or bare can work for longer stays, larger households or anyone shipping their own furniture, and may widen the number of homes available.
Check the inventory
For furnished homes, ask for an inventory list and photograph everything at move-in. A signed inspection report protects your deposit.
Frequently asked questions
What does gestoffeerd mean?
An upholstered home with floors, curtains and usually a kitchen, but no furniture.
How much does it cost to furnish an apartment in the Netherlands?
Roughly €3,000–€8,000 for a bare two-bedroom (RentalHunter).
Sources and market notes
Prices are asking-price guidance, not a guarantee. Availability, furnishing, location and the individual home can change the final rent.