Oldenzaal - Netherlands

Oldenzaal: A Hidden Gem in the Dutch Countryside Located in the eastern province of Overijssel in the Netherlands, Oldenzaal is a charming municipality and city that has been attracting visitors for centuries. With a population of 31,958 people as of December 2022, this historic city offers a unique blend of rich cultural heritage, modern amenities, and natural beauty. Quality of Life and Livability Oldenzaal boasts an impressive quality of life index score of B-, reflecting its excellent balance between urban livability and environmental sustainability. The city's compact size and well-planned infrastructure make it easy to navigate on foot or by bike, promoting a healthy lifestyle for residents and visitors alike. Strengths: Amenities and Culture Oldenzaal's amenities score of B is a testament to the city's dedication to providing high-quality services to its citizens. From excellent schools and healthcare facilities to a vibrant cultural scene, there's something for everyone in this charming Dutch city. The city's culture and entertainment score of B- highlights its rich history, reflected in its well-preserved medieval architecture and lively festivals like the famous carnival celebrations. Commute and Transportation With a commute score of B-, Oldenzaal offers easy access to public transport, including rail connections to Hengelo and Bad Bentheim. The city's proximity to the A1 motorway from Amsterdam to Germany makes it an attractive destination for business travelers and tourists alike. Sustainable urban planning is also a priority in Oldenzaal, with initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly transportation. Challenges: Noise and NIMBYism While Oldenzaal excels in many areas, there are some challenges that the city faces. The noise score of C- indicates that some areas of the city can be quite loud, particularly near major roads and industrial zones. However, efforts are being made to address this issue through sustainable urban development projects aimed at reducing noise pollution. The NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) score of D highlights a common challenge faced by many cities: balancing growth with community concerns. Oldenzaal is working to address these issues through inclusive land use policies and urban planning initiatives that prioritize community engagement and participation. Conclusion Oldenzaal may not be the largest or most well-known city in the Netherlands, but it offers an unbeatable quality of life and a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its strong amenities score, rich cultural scene, and commitment to sustainable urban development, this charming Dutch city is an attractive destination for anyone looking for a better life index. As Oldenzaal continues to grow and develop, it's clear that this hidden gem has the potential to climb higher in the city livability ranking and become one of the most livable cities in Europe.

Former city hall of Oldenzaal

Oldenzaal

Country: Netherlands

Population: 31701

Elevation: 48.0 metre

Area: 21.95 square kilometre

Web: https://www.oldenzaal.nl/

Mayor: Patrick Welman

Postcode: 7570–7579

Area code: 0541

Overall score

Total

B-

Amenities

Childcare & Education

Commute

B-

Culture & Entertainment

B-

Health

B+

NIMBY

Noise

C-