Aalsmeer - Netherlands

Nestled in the heart of North Holland, Aalsmeer is a charming municipality that captivates with its unique blend of natural beauty and vibrant urban planning. Just 13 kilometers southwest of Amsterdam, this town boasts a rich history derived from its Dutch name, meaning "eel lake," reflective of its picturesque setting beside the expansive Westeinderplassen lake and the historic Ringvaart Canal. With its renowned status as the flower capital of the world due to hosting the largest flower auction globally, Aalsmeer is an intriguing blend of nature, commerce, and community life. Aalsmeer's quality of life index reflects a balanced urban livability experience with an overall score of B+. One of its notable strengths lies in its amenities, scoring a respectable B-. Residents and visitors alike enjoy access to various services that enhance their living experience. The town benefits from sustainable urban planning initiatives that support efficient land use and public transport systems, contributing positively to the commute score of B. Transportation in Aalsmeer is well-integrated into daily life, with an emphasis on enhancing local transport options. Although not extensively detailed, the infrastructure supports a commendable B score for commuting, indicating reliable transit services that facilitate ease of movement within and beyond the town's boundaries. The proximity to Amsterdam also offers residents additional public transit benefits. The cultural scene in Aalsmeer, while vibrant, has room for growth, as evidenced by its culture and entertainment score of B-. However, initiatives aimed at enriching community activities and local events have been promising, laying a foundation for future improvements in this area. Efforts to enhance urban livability through sustainable urban development projects continue to invigorate the town's social fabric. Health-related quality of life remains steady with a health score of B, ensuring residents have reasonable access to healthcare facilities. This aspect is crucial for maintaining an overall balanced lifestyle within the community. However, challenges persist in areas such as childcare and education, which also receive a B- score. Addressing these concerns through strategic urban redevelopment projects could significantly elevate educational opportunities and support services for families. The town faces some hurdles related to noise levels, reflected in its noise score of B, an area where sustainable urban planning can play a crucial role. Initiatives to reduce environmental disturbances are essential for improving the living quality index. Additionally, with a NIMBY score of B, Aalsmeer shows potential in balancing development and community interests through collaborative housing and land use policies. In conclusion, Aalsmeer presents a compelling mix of natural allure and urban conveniences. Its reputation as the flower capital adds an exotic charm that attracts tourists and horticulturists alike. While there are areas for growth, particularly in enhancing cultural offerings and addressing noise concerns, ongoing sustainable urban development efforts hold promise for elevating its standing in global livability rankings. As Aalsmeer continues to evolve with innovative land zoning and improved public transport services, it holds the potential to climb higher on the city livability ranking, offering a promising future for both current residents and newcomers alike.

Aerial photo of Aalsmeer, 2014

Aalsmeer

Country: Netherlands

Population: 31991

Elevation: -0.1 metre

Area: 34.4 square kilometre

Web: https://www.aalsmeer.nl/

Mayor: Gido Oude Kotte

Postcode: 1430–1433

Area code: 0297

Overall score

Total

B+

Amenities

B-

Childcare & Education

B-

Commute

Culture & Entertainment

B-

Health

NIMBY

Noise