September 25, 2026 — Nearly half of all people living in the Netherlands report experiencing some form of social nuisance within their immediate neighborhoods, ranging from disruptive neighbors to the local drug trade, according to comprehensive new figures released by the country’s national statistics office.
The findings come from the biennial Safety Monitor published on Friday by Statistics Netherlands (CBS). The nationwide survey reveals that 42% of Dutch adults encountered at least one type of anti-social behavior or neighborhood disturbance near their homes throughout 2025. The extensive report, which serves as a major barometer for crime, public safety, and livability issues across the country, highlights a growing friction within residential areas.
According to the data, the single largest category of complaints stems from loitering youth, accounting for 26% of all reported problems. Meanwhile, ongoing disputes and disturbances involving neighbors represent 20% of the total concerns registered by respondents.
The release of the Safety Monitor underscores a steady upward trend in neighborhood grievances over recent years. The CBS data indicates that the proportion of the population experiencing significant social nuisance has grown, with 14% of survey participants now reporting substantial disturbances in their neighborhoods—an increase from 12% in 2021.
While the feeling of unease touches communities across the entire country, the impact is far from evenly distributed. The figures clearly demonstrate that geography plays a massive role in the frequency and severity of reported disturbances. Residents living in densely populated urban centers bear the brunt of the issue, reporting nearly four times the volume of social nuisance compared to those living in non-urban, rural areas.
The nationwide survey continues to serve as an essential tool for local authorities, policymakers, and law enforcement agencies striving to understand the evolving dynamics of Dutch neighborhoods. As cities continue to grapple with housing pressures, public space management, and community relations, the latest figures from the CBS provide a stark reminder of the everyday challenges facing residents outside their front doors.
