Meppel is a desirable place to live, thanks to the varied natural world, its central location, and good rail links. The cultural facilities and the presence of the hospital also make Meppel attractive. There are housing developments in Meppel and Nijeveen. The most important new development under construction in Meppel is Berggierslanden. There are schools in the municipality for primary and special education, and comprehensive schools for secondary education, intermediate, and higher vocational education. There are libraries, galleries, theaters, and cinemas; a music school; a printing museum; and an exhibition center.
Meppel is situated in an extensive landscape of stream valleys with fields and peat quarries, and all of the water and woodland make it extremely attractive for recreational purposes. Less than 10 km away, you will find the famous ‘hunebedden’ (dolmen). A little to the west, via Giethoorn, you will come across the nature reserves of De Weerribben and De Wieden, where you can enjoy water sports. National parks can be found to the north of the town.