Gouda - Netherlands

Located in the heart of South Holland, Gouda is a charming city that embodies the perfect blend of rich history, cultural heritage, and modern amenities. With a population of 75,000, this urban gem offers an exceptional quality of life, earning it a well-deserved spot among the most livable cities in the Netherlands. Gouda's strengths are evident in its impressive scores across various categories. The city boasts an Amenities Score of A, reflecting its excellent provision of essential services and facilities, such as high-quality public transport, local shops, and community centers. The Commute Score of B+ indicates a well-connected city with efficient public transit services, making it easy for residents to navigate the urban landscape. Gouda's cultural scene is another notable highlight, with a Culture & Entertainment Score of A. The city is renowned for its historic landmarks, including the stunning 15th-century city hall and numerous picturesque churches. Visitors can explore the charming streets, indulge in local delicacies like Gouda cheese and stroopwafels, or attend one of the many cultural events that take place throughout the year. In terms of education, Gouda excels with a Childcare & Education Score of A, offering top-notch schools and childcare facilities that cater to families' needs. The city's commitment to providing access to quality healthcare is also reflected in its Health Score of A-, ensuring residents receive excellent medical care when needed. However, like any city, Gouda faces some challenges. The Noise Score of C indicates that the city can be quite lively, especially during peak hours or special events. Additionally, the NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) Score of B- suggests that some residents might be resistant to new development projects, which could impact urban planning and growth. Despite these areas for improvement, Gouda is proactively addressing these challenges through sustainable urban development initiatives. The city's land use policies prioritize green spaces, pedestrian-friendly zones, and efficient public transport systems, contributing to a better quality of life for its residents. In conclusion, Gouda is an exceptional city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. While it faces some challenges, the city's commitment to sustainable development and improving its livability index makes it an attractive place to live, work, and visit. With its high quality of life index score and excellent rankings in various categories, Gouda is well-positioned to continue climbing the city livability ranking and global livability index.

Gouda

Country: Netherlands

Population: 75316

Elevation: 0.0 metre

Area: 18.11 square kilometre

Web: https://www.gouda.nl/

Mayor: Pieter Verhoeve

Time Zone: CET+1

Time Zone DST: CEST+2

Postcode: 2800–2809

Area code: 0182

Overall score

Total

Amenities

Childcare & Education

Commute

B+

Culture & Entertainment

Health

A-

NIMBY

B-

Noise