Living in Laakkwartier, The Hague
Laakkwartier is a student-heavy and highly diverse neighborhood known for its affordability and practical location. It offers a bustling, multicultural environment, particularly appealing to students and those seeking budget-friendly shared housing options close to educational institutions.
🏙️Lifestyle & Culture
Life in Laakkwartier is largely shaped by its student population, especially due to its proximity to The Hague University of Applied Sciences. The atmosphere is vibrant and multicultural, with a strong presence of international residents. Daily life involves quick commutes to university, exploring the diverse local shops, and enjoying affordable eateries. While it might lack the historic charm of central areas, it compensates with practical amenities and a lively, youthful energy. Social interaction often revolves around university life or shared activities with flatmates. It's an excellent choice for those prioritizing budget and convenience to education.
🏠Housing & Flatshares
Shared housing in Laakkwartier is predominantly geared towards students, with rooms typically found in converted apartments or houses shared by 3-5 students. Rents are among the most affordable in The Hague, ranging from €550-€750, with a standard deposit of one to two months' rent. Rooms can be smaller and more basic, reflecting the budget-friendly nature of the area. Demand for student housing is very high, particularly during peak season (July-September), so quick action is crucial. Many rooms are offered furnished or semi-furnished, which is convenient for international students.
🚇Getting Around
Laakkwartier benefits from good public transport connections. The Hague Hollands Spoor (Den Haag HS) train station is easily accessible, offering national rail services and numerous tram (e.g., tram 1, 15, 17) and bus lines connecting to the city center, Scheveningen, and other districts. Walkability is medium, with essential shops and the university within reach. Cycling is a popular and efficient way to get around, especially for students commuting to campuses or the city center, with dedicated bike lanes available.
🍽️Food & Nightlife
The food scene in Laakkwartier is diverse and budget-friendly, reflecting its multicultural population. You'll find a wealth of international eateries, particularly Surinamese, Turkish, and Asian restaurants, offering delicious and affordable meals. There are numerous snack bars, cafes, and local supermarkets catering to student budgets. While not a nightlife hub, there are casual pubs for an evening drink. For more entertainment, the city center is a short tram ride away, easily accessible from Den Haag HS.
Pros & Cons of Living in Laakkwartier
✓Pros
- •Most affordable rent options for shared housing in The Hague.
- •Excellent proximity to The Hague University of Applied Sciences.
- •Vibrant multicultural atmosphere with diverse, budget-friendly food.
- •Good public transport connections, especially to Den Haag HS.
- •Ideal for students and budget-conscious individuals seeking practical living.
✗Cons
- •Safety can be moderate in certain areas, particularly at night.
- •Less charming or aesthetically pleasing compared to historic districts.
- •Can be quite busy and noisy due to its urban and student population.
- •Limited large green spaces within the immediate neighborhood.
- •High competition for student rooms, especially during peak season.
💡 Insider Tips
Explore the multicultural shops and eateries around Rijswijkseplein for authentic flavors and good deals.
Utilize the train connection from Hollands Spoor for easy travel to Leiden or Delft for day trips.
For a study break, head to the nearby Park De Horsten, a beautiful royal estate offering tranquility.
✨ Highlights
🎓 Nearby Universities
The Hague University of Applied Sciences
👥 26,000 students (20% international)
📚 International Business, European Studies, IT & Design
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Inholland University of Applied Sciences The Hague
👥 5,000 students (15% international)
📚 Tourism Management, Creative Business, Applied Psychology
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