How one young expat is earning 2,300/month at Aldi in the Netherlands and loving her life abroad
2 min read
Moving abroad for better opportunities and life experiences isn’t just something in travel blogs — it’s happening right now for young workers across Europe. Take the case of Aldi, a 20-something who left her home country after a “crisis of purpose” and has spent the past five months working and living in the Netherlands cleaning retail stores.
What’s striking about Aldi’s story is how it combines steady income with flexibility and travel freedom. Rather than being tied down by a strict schedule, she works an average of 40 hours per week with a “zero-hours” contract — which means her workdays vary week to week, giving her freedom to balance work and life.
Earning and Lifestyle
Aldi earns €14.75 per hour, and after taxes she takes home around €2,300 per month — and some months up to €2,800, depending on how many weekends she works. She emphasizes that it’s not a grueling physical job; rather, it’s focused on store maintenance and cleaning tasks that keep shops running smoothly.
One of the most appealing aspects of her job is the flexibility and perks: she chooses her days off and earns 50% extra pay on weekends. When her shifts take her to other cities, the company even covers hotel and meals, turning work trips into mini travel experiences across the Netherlands.
This type of work abroad is becoming increasingly attractive to young people who want financial independence, cultural exposure, and a lifestyle that makes room for personal growth and travel — all without long-term commitment to a single employer or location.
For those considering a similar step, Aldi’s example shows that it’s possible to balance work with exploration and still earn enough to live comfortably, save money, and enjoy the perks of a new country. It’s a modern take on work-life balance — not just working to live, but living while you work.
Key Takeaway: Earning €2,300+ per month with work flexibility and travel opportunities is not a myth — it’s reality for some expats in the Netherlands.
