Buitenveldert, Amsterdam: Peaceful living in the South
Key Facts About Buitenveldert
- Average transaction price: €580,000 (March 2026)
- Bid premium: 8% above the asking price in 70% of sales
- Average time to sell: 50 days
- Living area: 89.6 m² on average, 3.5 rooms
Are you thinking about buying a home in Amsterdam-Zuid? If so, living in Buitenveldert is an option you should seriously consider. This green neighborhood in the Zuid district attracts families, expats, and those looking to move up the property ladder who seek tranquility without leaving the city. The neighborhood was developed in the 1950s based on the garden city concept: plenty of greenery, light, and space between the buildings. In 1972, the Floriade took place here, which definitively shaped the urban design. You can see that history reflected in the wide avenues and expansive parks. In this Buitenveldert neighborhood guide, you’ll read all about housing options, prices, amenities, and accessibility.
What kind of neighborhood is Buitenveldert?
Buitenveldert consists of two distinct areas, each with its own character. Buitenveldert-West features more high-rise buildings and large residential complexes from the post-war reconstruction period. Buitenveldert-Oost has more spacious lots with larger apartment buildings and single-family homes. Both areas benefit from Beatrixpark and Gijsbrecht van Aemstelpark, which define the neighborhood’s green character. The Amsterdamse Bos is practically just around the corner.
The modernist design doesn’t appeal to everyone, but those who value open space and greenery over historic facades will feel right at home here. The neighborhood has an international feel thanks to its proximity to the Zuidas and the VU campus.
Bid premiums: a relatively modest market
Buitenveldert does not experience the bidding frenzy seen in other parts of Amsterdam-Zuid. In 70% of all transactions (592 out of 847 sales), buyers offer an average of 8% above the asking price. This is modest compared to neighborhoods like De Pijp or Oud-West, where bids 15–25% above the asking price are common.
Factors that influence bidding:
- Location near a park: homes near Beatrixpark or Amsterdamse Bos are more desirable
- Renovation Report: Renovated homes fetch €1,000 more per square meter
- Housing type: single-family homes in Oost are in high demand
- Condominium Market Report: Complexes with recent maintenance work attract more bids
Types of housing and price trends
The housing inventory consists mainly of:
Apartment buildings from the 1950s–1970s
- Mid-range apartments (€500,000 – €700,000)
- Larger family apartments with 4+ rooms (€700,000 – €1,000,000)
- Penthouse apartments with a balcony or rooftop terrace (starting at €1,200,000)
Single-family homes in Buitenveldert-Oost
- Townhouses with gardens (€800,000 – €1,500,000)
- Detached villas (€1,500,000 – €3,700,000)
- Corner homes with an extra garden (€900,000 – €1,800,000)
New construction projects
Occasionally, small-scale new construction projects emerge as part of the redevelopment of older complexes. These cost an average of €8,000–€9,000 per square meter.
Buying a home in Buitenveldert: Who is it for?
Families with children will find spacious homes here, good elementary schools such as Montessori Buitenveldert and CBS De Hoeksteen, and safe play areas in the parks.
Expats and international professionals appreciate the proximity to the Zuidas (a 15-minute bike ride) and the easy access to Schiphol Airport (25 minutes). The international atmosphere is evident in the streetscape.
Those who have outgrown the hustle and bustle of downtown but want to stay within the Ring will find a great alternative here.
Students benefit from the proximity to VU and UvA, combined with apartments that are relatively affordable by Amsterdam standards.
Seniors will find single-story homes, a peaceful environment, and the VU Medical Center within walking distance. The presence of family doctors and pharmacies in the neighborhood makes daily healthcare easily accessible.
Accessibility and public transportation
Buitenveldert is conveniently located for those who regularly need to travel out of the city. The A10 South is just a 3- to 5-minute drive away, with access to Utrecht (25 minutes) or Schiphol (20 minutes).
Public transportation: Which lines stop at Buitenveldert?
- Tram 5: to Central Station (18 minutes)
- Buses 62 and 65: connect the neighborhood with Amstelveen and Ouderkerk
- Metro Line 51: to Zuid/WTC Station (8 minutes)
- North-South Line: via Zuid Station to Noord or Centraal (12 minutes)
Parking: Permits and Fees
Paid parking is in effect in parts of Buitenveldert:
- Parking permit: €186 per year (March 2026)
- Visitor passes: €3.50 per day
- Waiting lists: may occur on popular streets
There are parking garages available at the Gelderlandplein shopping center: €2.50 per hour, €15 per day.
Amenities: shops, sports, and healthcare
Daily amenities
- Gelderlandplein: Albert Heijn XL, Jumbo, Etos, Action, and over 50 other stores
- Local shops: bakery, butcher, and produce store on Buitenveldertselaan
- Fitness centers: David Lloyd, Basic Fit, Amstelpark Tennis Park
- Medical care
- VU Medical Center: a 5-minute walk from most homes
- Emergency Medical Center: 15 Dr. Kuyperlaan
- Pharmacy: multiple locations near Gelderlandplein
Education and Child Care
- Elementary schools: Montessori Buitenveldert, CBS De Hoeksteen, IKC Buitenveldert
- Childcare: Partou, Kibeo, various private childcare centers
- International school: near ISA (International School of Amsterdam)
Restaurants, bars, and nightlife: limited but growing
The selection of restaurants and bars remains limited:
- Restaurants: Café de Jutter, Restaurant Cornelis, Asia Today
- Cafés: Grand Café Gelderlandplein, lunchrooms in the shopping center
- Nightlife: limited – downtown and Zuidas are 15–20 minutes away
For a more vibrant nightlife scene, head to the Zuidas or downtown, both of which are easily accessible by tram or metro.
Checklist: What should you look for when making a purchase?
For viewing
□ Review the homeowners’ association minutes from the past 2 years □ Request the long-term maintenance plan □ Check parking permit availability □ Explore the neighborhood on different days and at different times
During the viewing
□ Check the condition of the window frames and the boiler □ Check for noise pollution (air traffic from Schiphol Airport) □ Measure the rooms yourself □ Ask about recent renovations to the building
For bid
□ Have a local expert perform an appraisal □ Check the structural condition of older complexes □ Calculate homeowners’ association fees as part of monthly expenses □ Investigate planned maintenance work for the complex
Pros and cons of living in Buitenveldert
Benefits
- Plenty of green space: Beatrixpark, Amsterdamse Bos, wide avenues
- Good schools: three elementary schools, with international programs nearby
- Excellent access: tram, metro, and highway nearby
- Relative tranquility: little traffic, quiet streets
- Medical facilities: VU Medical Center within walking distance
- Modest bid increases: 8% on average vs. 15–25% elsewhere
Disadvantages
- Older buildings: many complexes from the 1950s–1970s require maintenance
- Limited dining options: few restaurants and cafés in the immediate vicinity
- Homeowners' association fees: can be high for larger complexes
- Modernist architecture: it's not to everyone's taste
- Shopping Center: Gelderlandplein Is Functional but Not Inviting
Conclusion: a sustainable choice for peace and quiet and green spaces
Buitenveldert combines green living with proximity to the city. For those looking for a spacious apartment or single-family home in a quiet neighborhood within the Ring, this neighborhood is worth considering. Market figures show stability: an average of 50 days on the market, 8% of properties selling above the asking price, and prices ranging from €556,000 (East) to €593,000 (West).
When buying a home, pay attention to the condition of the building, any renovation plans, and the amount of the homeowners’ association fee. A real estate agent in Amsterdam-Zuid can help you find the right home and assess its structural condition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Buitenveldert
Are there waiting lists for housing in Buitenveldert? The waiting list for public housing is 8–12 years. Owner-occupied homes become available regularly.
How much are homeowners' association fees in Buitenveldert? On average, €150–300 per month, depending on the complex and amenities. An elevator and a doorman increase the fees.
Is Buitenveldert a good fit for young couples? Yes, especially for those looking for a quiet place. The nightlife is elsewhere, but it’s easy to get to the city center.
What schools are there in the neighborhood? Three elementary schools, including a Montessori school. Secondary schools are located in neighboring neighborhoods.
How safe is Buitenveldert? It ’s a safe neighborhood with low crime rates. There’s a strong sense of community among families.
Can I park without a permit? Sort of. Some parts of the neighborhood have free parking, while others have paid parking.
Are there any construction plans that could affect property values? Small renovation projects are planned. No large-scale demolition or new construction.
How much does a complete renovation cost? On average, €3,000 per square meter for a full renovation. The investment pays for itself in the property’s resale value.