Haarlem vs. Redding: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

Haarlem Haarlem Image by:Paul Julliot
Redding Redding Image by:Florian Grewe

Haarlem boasts significantly higher quality of life scores than Redding, particularly excelling in healthcare (70.14 vs. 70.14) and climate (77.08 vs. 77.08), while Redding scores considerably lower across most other metrics like pollution, commute time, and property-to-income ratio. Haarlem's overall quality score is much higher, suggesting a generally more desirable living environment according to standard indices.

Climate Index
88.2 / 77.1
Health Care Index
77.1 / 70.1

Haarlem   Redding

Haarlem is substantially more expensive overall than Redding, with a much higher property price-to-income ratio (1.96 vs. 3.75). While Haarlem offers higher salaries, its costs for housing, daily living, and childcare are significantly elevated compared to Redding. Redding presents a much more affordable option for housing and daily expenses, though Haarlem's higher income levels may partially offset these differences.

Pollution Index
23.1 / 42
Safety Index
75.6 / 37.7

Haarlem   Redding

For daily living expenses, Redding is the clear winner. Food, transportation, utilities, and entertainment costs are all significantly lower in Redding than in Haarlem. While Haarlem offers higher salaries, the city's overall cost of living is substantially higher, making Redding a more budget-friendly choice for day-to-day expenses.

Traffic Commute Time Index
28.6 / 27.4

Haarlem   Redding

Healthcare quality is comparable between the two cities, though Haarlem's higher score might reflect slightly better facilities or accessibility. Climate is also rated similarly, suggesting comparable weather experiences. However, Redding's much higher pollution score (41.95) is a significant drawback compared to Haarlem's cleaner air.

Redding offers a significantly lower cost of living than Haarlem, particularly for housing and transportation. While Haarlem provides higher salaries and better healthcare, its overall expense makes it less affordable. Redding's lower property price-to-income ratio and cheaper daily costs make it the more financially accessible option, despite its lower quality of life scores.

HaarlemHaarlem
ReddingRedding

Local cuisine & dishes

Haarlem

PoffertjesThese are small, fluffy pancakes made with flour, eggs, and butter, cooked to a golden brown. They have a crispy exterior and a soft, spongy interior. Traditionally served dusted with powdered sugar and often topped with savory ingredients like cheese or bacon, poffertjes are a beloved treat in Haarlem.
StamppotA hearty stew made from potatoes, sausage (often rookworst), and vegetables such as kale or endive. The potatoes are mashed into the stew, creating a thick, comforting texture. Served with mustard and raw onions, this dish is a staple in Haarlem, reflecting the region's agricultural heritage.
VlaaiA traditional Dutch pie made with a buttery crust filled with spiced apples or pears. The filling is sweetened with cinnamon and sugar, baked until golden. In Haarlem, vlaai is often enjoyed warm, showcasing the local love for rich, comforting desserts.

Redding

Sizzling Fennel PizzaA crispy, thin-crust pizza topped with locally harvested fennel, caramelized onions, and a drizzle of honey. The fennel adds a licorice-like flavor and a tender crunch, while the honey balances the savory notes. Served directly from the oven in a rustic wooden box to keep it hot.
Wild Mushroom RisottoA creamy risotto made with foraged wild mushrooms from nearby forests, slow-cooked with Arborio rice and rich broth. The dish features earthy umami flavors, enhanced by locally sourced truffle oil and a hint of white wine. Traditionally served with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Honey-Lime TroutFreshly caught trout from nearby rivers, marinated in honey, lime juice, and local herbs like thyme and rosemary. The fish is grilled to perfection, with a golden crust and tender interior. Served with a side of roasted root vegetables and a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for added texture.
HaarlemHaarlem
ReddingRedding

Travel & attractions

Haarlem

Grote Kerk HaarlemA beautiful Gothic church dating back to the 14th century, located in the heart of Haarlem.
Frans Hals MuseumHouses an extensive collection of works by Frans Hals and other Dutch Golden Age painters.
Teylers MuseumOne of the oldest museums in the world, featuring a variety of scientific instruments, artworks, and historical objects.
Haarlem City HallA historic building dating back to the 17th century, located on Grote Markt square.
Sint-Bavokerk HaarlemA stunning example of Brabantine Gothic architecture with a famous stained-glass window by Jan van Scorel.

Redding

Turtle Bay Exploration ParkA 309-acre park featuring an aquarium, botanical gardens, museums, and a wildlife center.
Shasta State Historic ParkA California state historic park that preserves the sites of the earliest European settlement in Shasta County.
Whiskeytown LakeA reservoir on Whiskey Creek, offering boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities.
Sundial BridgeA pedestrian bridge designed by Santiago Calatrava, known for its unique sundial feature.
McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State ParkHome to Burney Falls, a majestic 129-foot waterfall, and offers camping, fishing, and hiking.

Real estate & living comparison

Haarlem Redding
Price per Square Meter to Buy Apartment Outside of Centre 6347.86 USD 2698.33 USD
1 Bedroom Apartment Outside of City Centre 1712.92 USD 1050 USD
3 Bedroom Apartment Outside of City Centre 2368.88 USD 1606.25 USD
Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax) 3885.52 USD 3593.33 USD
GDP Growth Rate: 0.07 USD 2.89 USD
Monthly Public Transport Pass (Regular Price) 109.86 USD 50 USD
Basic Utilities for 85 m2 Apartment (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) 250.46 USD 226.19 USD
Population 162,543 120,849

Last updated: 2026-04-21T01:48:57+00:00

More city comparisons

Comments for this comparison

Protected by reCAPTCHA. Your submission is verified automatically.