The Best Places To Live In Norway For Expats
Norway is known for its natural beauty and high standard of living, and it is one of the safest countries in the world. If you’re an expat wanting to move to Norway but aren’t sure where, here’s a list of the best places to live in Norway: Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, Stavanger, Drammen, and several other locations.
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Norway is ranked as the 17th Safest Country in the World in 2022 which is great to know as a potential expat moving there. Norway is also an attractive country for its active outdoor lifestyle, low crime rate, universal healthcare, and its reputation as a great place to raise a family.
Moving to a new country is a difficult task, let alone choosing a city tailored for you. In this article, we will make it simple by exploring our list of the top 10 best places to live in Norway.
We’ll learn a little about each city, including their common weather patterns, transportation methods, and average costs of living. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions.
If by the end of the article you’re not sure Norway is the place for you, we recommend reading about the best places to live in Switzerland and the Czech Republic.
The Top Places For Expats To Live In Norway
If you’re an expat, digital nomad, or retiree considering moving to Norway, you’ll want to check out our list of the best places for you to live. After doing some careful research, we recommend considering Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, Stavanger, Drammen, and more.
What makes the perfect place depends on the type of living you consider perfect. Do you like a quiet countryside home? Do you like the hustle and bustle of a city-center? Do you spend your time out in the nightlife? Or do you spend your time digging in the dirt of your garden?
You know yourself best, so we invite you to imagine the lifestyle you want as you go through the following cities. So without further ado, let’s dig in to those top places!
Oslo
Let’s start off with the capital city of Norway, Oslo. Just like many capital cities, Oslo is an ideal city for many expats. While it’s true that the capital is more expensive to live in, let’s not forget that there are more job opportunities and higher pay compared to other cities.
Weather
When it comes to the weather in Oslo, it usually snows during the winter months between December and March. Oslo doesn’t get a lot of rain, but there will be days when it does. While summers are warm, temperatures won’t rise over 77 degrees fahrenheit.
Transportation
There are many transportation options in Oslo for locals and expats, including trains, trams, buses, and ferries. Oslo S is in charge of the train system that connects to other parts of Norway, and T-Bane runs the metro.
Cost of Living
Just like other capital cities around the world, rent is very expensive in Oslo. A private one bedroom apartment is about 10,000 NOK ($925 USD), a 2 bedroom is nearly 14,000 NOK ($1,295 USD), and a 3 bedroom unit is 17,000 NOK ($1,573 USD).
Do keep in mind that rental prices will lower when you move to the outskirts of Oslo. The price can drop to 8,000 NOK ($745 USD).
There are many apartments in Oslo, and sharing with others is common among the younger crowd, especially students. That is a much cheaper option when compared to private apartments.
Bergen
Bergen, located on the west coast, boasts a thriving arts, music, and cultural scene. The city is set against a beautiful mountain, and as the second-largest city in Norway, it is a multicultural hub with plenty of expats.
Weather
The weather in Bergen is one of the city’s drawbacks as it rains throughout the year. Average temperatures are above freezing, making the climate milder during winter. As for summer, the average temperature doesn’t get higher than 68 degrees fahrenheit, but it does happen occasionally.
Transportation
You don’t need a private car to get around in Bergen, but if you have a family or live further away from the station or city center, it’s always good to consider owning a car. That said, the Skyss buses can take you around Bergen, Hordaland, and the Bergen Light Trail.
They can also drive you to and from the airport.
Cost of Living
Like all Norwegian cities, Bergen offers a wide variety of choices. These range from rented basements, called hybels, to large family homes. An apartment near the city center will start around NOK 9,000 per month ($842 USD).
Trondheim
Trondheim, Norway’s third-largest city, is centrally located. This city dates all the way back to the 11th century, and is less well-known compared to Bergen and Oslo. Trondheim is one of Norway’s most scenic cities with its green hills and vibrant colored buildings.
Weather
In Trondheim, the winter months will be cold, cloudy, and possibly snowy. The summers are cool, wet, and generally cloudy. Temperatures during winter range from 23 to 37 degrees fahrenheit while the summer is between 53 to 86 degrees.
Transportation
Trondheim’s main public transportation system isn’t the train but a bus system. Three different lines were opened in 2019, and they are all connected in the city center through different district lines at various intersections.
The city also has one tram line that is helpful to residents of Bysen. People who live close to a station, particularly in the eastern suburbs, can benefit from local trains too.
There is also a good network of bike lanes that is constantly expanding. A bike rental system is available in several locations throughout the city center, university campus, and inner suburbs.
Cost of Living
The cost of living depends on your lifestyle. A one bedroom apartment in the heart of Trondheim can cost between 10,000 NOK ($925 USD) and 12,000 NOK ($1,117 USD) per month, whereas a similar apartment outside the city center might cost between 8,000 ($745 USD) and 10,000 NOK ($925 USD) per month.
Stavanger
Stavanger is a coastal city located in southwestern Norway, and it is the fourth-largest city in the country. Expats who love to live in a beautiful natural city with high quality of life would feel at home in Stavanger.
Oil and gas has played a big part in Stavanger and Norway for a long time, and it has significantly contributed to Norway’s enormous wealth and economic growth. This attracts many people, as well as businesses to the city.
Weather
Summer is warm with average temperatures of 68 degrees fahrenheit, occasionally rising to 77 degrees. Also expect some rainfall during the summer months. Meanwhile, winter is overcast with average temperatures under 46 degrees. It can get very cold to the point it snows in Stavanger.
Transportation
Buses are the most common way to get around the city, but another popular choice of transportation is cycling. Bike lines can be found spread across the city. You may also want to try riding a ferry.
Cost of Living
Stavanger housing expenses are similar to other cities in Norway. Rental prices for a one bedroom apartment average between 12,000 NOK ($1,117 USD) to 15,000 NOK ($1,406 USD) per month. The majority of apartments are in good condition.
Drammen
Drammen is only a 40 minute train ride from the capital, Oslo, and it is one of Norway’s top cities. It offers expats a stunning experience by the river. The area has historically been a port and industrial hub, however, it is now much cleaner and more suited to tourists and expats alike.
Weather
The winters in Drammen are long, freezing, and snowy, while the summers are comfortable with some light clouds. The average temperature is between 23 to 68 degrees fahrenheit.
Transportation
Drammen has a good transportation system. You can use the train or you can take one of the several types of buses. Drammen is walkable too with many places in a short radius.
Cost of Living
Housing expenses in Drammen depend on your style of home, but compared to the US, they are quite affordable! Living in the outskirts or suburbs is less pricey than compared to the city center. For the standard one bedroom apartment, it will cost on average about 1,000 NOK ($93 USD).
A 3 bedroom apartment will come out to be around 2,000 NOK ($187 USD).
Tromsø
Tromsø, nestled above the Arctic Circle, offers expats a unique blend of breathtaking natural phenomena and a lively cultural scene. Known for its spectacular Northern Lights in winter and the midnight sun during summer, this city promises an experience like no other.
Weather Winters in Tromsø are long and frosty, often accompanied by heavy snowfall, while summers remain cool with a touch of the midnight sun’s magic.
Transportation A well-connected network of buses and ferries makes getting around easy, and many residents take advantage of local bike lanes in the warmer months.
Cost of Living While rental prices can be higher in the city center, more affordable options exist on the outskirts. Expect a one-bedroom apartment to range from around 11,000 NOK to 13,000 NOK monthly.
Kristiansand
Kristiansand in southern Norway is celebrated for its charming coastal vibe and family-friendly atmosphere. Its relaxed pace combined with a vibrant cultural calendar makes it a favorite among expats seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Weather The climate in Kristiansand is milder than in northern parts, with cool winters and pleasantly warm summers that rarely exceed 75°F.
Transportation Local buses and trams provide convenient travel within the city, and the port area offers easy access to ferries for intercity travel.
Cost of Living Housing costs here are competitive compared to larger cities. A centrally located one-bedroom apartment typically costs between 9,000 NOK and 11,000 NOK per month.
Ålesund
Ålesund is a coastal gem famed for its Art Nouveau architecture and scenic waterfront. This picturesque town provides a serene setting where history and modern living harmoniously coexist.
Weather Expect cool, damp winters with occasional snowfall and mild, breezy summers that add to the town’s maritime charm.
Transportation The compact size of Ålesund makes it easy to navigate on foot, though a reliable bus system is available for longer journeys.
Cost of Living Living costs are moderate; a one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages around 10,000 NOK per month, with more budget-friendly options available on the outskirts.
Lillehammer
Famed for hosting the 1994 Winter Olympics, Lillehammer blends Olympic legacy with small-town charm. Its blend of cultural events and close proximity to nature make it an appealing choice for expats.
Weather Lillehammer experiences crisp, snowy winters ideal for winter sports, while summers are cool and refreshing, perfect for outdoor exploration.
Transportation A network of buses and regional trains ensures that Lillehammer remains well connected, and its compact town center is very walkable.
Cost of Living The cost of living is relatively affordable compared to the larger cities, with a one-bedroom apartment in the heart of Lillehammer costing around 9,000 to 11,000 NOK per month.
Bodø
Bodø, often referred to as the gateway to the Arctic, offers a dynamic mix of rugged natural landscapes and urban convenience. Its growing cultural scene coupled with year-round outdoor activities makes it an increasingly popular choice for expats.
Weather Bodø endures chilly, snowy winters and cool summers, with a climate that perfectly suits those who enjoy an active, outdoor lifestyle.
Transportation Residents benefit from a comprehensive bus system, supplemented by regional flights that connect Bodø to the rest of the country.
Cost of Living Housing expenses in Bodø are competitive; expect a centrally located one-bedroom apartment to cost roughly between 10,000 NOK and 12,000 NOK monthly.
Conclusion
More and more expats are considering moving to Norway due to its stunning landscapes, safety, friendly people, and outdoor activities. Adding that to each city’s unique attractions, and we can see why it is so appealing. However, if you are unsure about Norway, Croatia is another great option.
Before you move across the globe, you’ll want to secure international health insurance so you and your family are well cared for. Pacific Prime is happy to help you find the right healthcare plan in Norway to meet your needs. Get a free quote today!
You may also be interested in reading our article about the best places to live in Europe.
Safe travels!
FAQ
Is Norway a desirable location for expats?
Expats favor Norway as a location to call home. It’s one of the safest places on earth, has a good economy, and a great quality of life. It is also quite affordable, especially when compared to the average costs of living in the United States.
Which region in Norway is considered the safest for living?
Norway is known as a safe country with very low crime rates and high quality of living. Expats should feel very comfortable living in Norway. According to the World Population Review, Norway is ranked as the 17th Safest Country in the World in 2022.
Would American expats find Norway a favorable place to live?
Norway isn’t just a safe place, but also a very happy country. The environment is stunning with its mountains, rivers, and classic buildings. Healthcare, job opportunities, and income are equally as good. Americans would definitely consider Norway a favorable place to live.
Is obtaining Norwegian citizenship a difficult process?
As it is more difficult than in other European nations, many foreigners require assistance in getting citizenship in Norway. Prior to applying, you must have lived legally in Norway for at least 7 years. Additionally, you must have at least a basic command of Norwegian.
Serena earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of British Columbia, Canada. As such, she is an avid advocate of mental health and is fascinated by all things psychology (especially if it’s cognitive psychology!).
Her previous work experience includes teaching toddlers to read, writing for a travel/wellness online magazine, and then a business news blog. These combined experiences give her the skills and insights she needs to explain complex ideas in a succinct way. Being the daughter of an immigrant and a traveler herself, she is passionate about educating expats and digital nomads on travel and international health insurance.
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How can expats in Norway navigate the local real estate market to find suitable housing, and are there specific agencies or online platforms recommended for expats?
Navigating the real estate market in Norway as an expat can be simplified by utilizing popular online platforms such as Finn.no and Hybel.no, which offer a range of rental options tailored to various budgets and preferences. Partnering with relocation agencies like Nytt Hjem or local real estate agents can also be beneficial, as they have expertise in the local market and can help expats secure housing efficiently. Additionally, it’s important to understand rental agreements and costs, which can vary significantly between cities like Oslo and smaller towns like Drammen.
For a smooth transition to living in Norway, consider securing international health insurance. Reach out to Pacific Prime’s team through our Contact Us page for tailored advice and assistance with your insurance needs.
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