Cost of Living in Oslo
Summary: If you're moving to Oslo, understanding the the cost of living in Oslo helps you know what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.
Cost of Living | Oslo |
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Apartment Rentals | Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around 10,000 NOK (1,100 USD) per month, while rent for a three-bedroom apartment in the city center is around 17,000 NOK (1,900 USD) per month. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center is around 7,000 NOK (800 USD) per month, while rent for a three-bedroom apartment outside the city center is around 12,000 NOK (1,300 USD). |
Apartment Purchases | The average price of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around 5 million NOK (560,000 USD), while the average price of a three-bedroom apartment in the city center is around 8 million NOK (880,000 USD). The average price of a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center is around 3 million NOK (330,000 USD), while the average price of a three-bedroom apartment outside the city center is around 5 million NOK (560,000 USD). |
Transportation | Public transportation in Oslo is very efficient and affordable. A single ticket costs around 30 NOK (3.30 USD), while a monthly pass costs around 790 NOK (87 USD). Taxi fares start at around 50 NOK (5.50 USD) and the cost per kilometer is around 12 NOK (1.30 USD). |
Groceries | Groceries in Oslo are generally more expensive than in other parts of Europe. A liter of milk costs around 15 NOK (1.60 USD), a loaf of bread costs around 25 NOK (2.70 USD), a dozen eggs costs around 40 NOK (4.40 USD), a kilogram of local cheese costs around 80 NOK (8.80 USD), and a kilogram of apples costs around 40 NOK (4.40 USD). |
Restaurants | Eating out in Oslo can be quite expensive. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around 150 NOK (16.50 USD), while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs around 800 NOK (88 USD). A cappuccino costs around 30 NOK (3.30 USD) and a bottle of beer costs around 50 NOK (5.50 USD). |
Utilities | Utilities in Oslo are quite expensive. The average cost of electricity, heating, water, and garbage for a 85m2 apartment is around 1,500 NOK (165 USD) per month. The cost of internet is around 500 NOK (55 USD) per month. |
Private School Tuition | Private school tuition in Oslo is quite expensive. Preschool tuition is around 10,000 NOK (1,100 USD) per year, elementary school tuition is around 15,000 NOK (1,650 USD) per year, middle school tuition is around 20,000 NOK (2,200 USD) per year, and high school tuition is around 25,000 NOK (2,750 USD) per year. |
Monthly Budget for Retirees in Oslo
"The cost of living in Oslo is generally considered to be high. Prices for basic necessities such as food, housing, and transportation are all relatively expensive compared to other cities in Europe. Additionally, taxes are also quite high in Norway, making it even more expensive to live in Oslo," said one expat living in Oslo.
Can I live in Oslo on $1,500 a month?
"I've been living in Oslo for a few years now, and I can tell you that living on $1,500 a month is quite challenging, especially if you're used to modern amenities. However, it's not impossible if you're willing to make some sacrifices. First, you'll need to find affordable accommodation. I'd recommend looking into neighborhoods like Grorud, Stovner, or Alna, as they tend to have lower rent prices compared to more central areas like Frogner or Majorstuen. You might have to settle for a smaller apartment or share with roommates to keep costs down.Next, you'll need to be mindful of your transportation expenses. Oslo has an excellent public transportation system, but it can be pricey. I'd suggest getting a monthly pass for buses, trams, and the metro, which will save you money in the long run. Alternatively, you could consider biking or walking to work if it's not too far, as this will save you even more money.Eating out in Oslo can be quite expensive, so you'll need to cook most of your meals at home. I usually shop at discount grocery stores like Rema 1000 or Kiwi to save on groceries. It's also a good idea to take advantage of sales and discounts whenever possible.As for entertainment, you'll need to be selective about the activities you choose. Going out for drinks or to the movies can quickly add up, so I'd recommend looking for free or low-cost events and activities around the city. Oslo has many beautiful parks and outdoor spaces that you can enjoy without spending a dime.In conclusion, living comfortably on $1,500 a month in Oslo is challenging, but it can be done if you're willing to make some sacrifices and be mindful of your spending. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, cutting down on transportation costs, cooking at home, and finding low-cost entertainment options, you can make it work," commented an expat living in Oslo.
Can I live in Oslo on $3,500 a month?
"I've been living in Oslo for a few years now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices and be smart about your spending. First, you'll want to find an affordable neighborhood to live in. I'd recommend looking into areas like Grorud, Stovner, or Alna, as they tend to have lower rent prices compared to more central or upscale neighborhoods like Frogner or Majorstuen. You might also want to consider living with roommates to split the cost of rent and utilities.When it comes to transportation, I'd recommend getting a monthly public transport pass, which costs around NOK 750 (about $85) for unlimited travel within the city. This is much more cost-effective than owning a car, as gas prices and parking fees can be quite high in Oslo.For groceries, you'll want to shop at budget-friendly stores like Rema 1000, Kiwi, or Extra. These supermarkets offer lower prices compared to more upscale stores like Meny or Coop Mega. You can also save money by cooking at home more often and limiting how often you eat out, as dining in restaurants can be quite expensive in Oslo.In terms of entertainment and leisure activities, there are plenty of free or low-cost options in the city. You can take advantage of the many parks, hiking trails, and outdoor spaces that Oslo has to offer, or visit some of the city's free museums and galleries. If you're into fitness, you can find affordable gym memberships or join one of the many sports clubs in the city.Overall, living comfortably on $3,000 a month in Oslo is doable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices in terms of housing, transportation, and lifestyle choices," said one expat living in Oslo.
Can I live in Oslo on $5,000 a month?
"I've been living in Oslo for a few years now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, but you'll need to make some adjustments and be mindful of your spending. Oslo is known for being an expensive city, but there are ways to make it work.First, you'll want to find a more affordable neighborhood to live in. Some of the more expensive areas, like Frogner, Majorstuen, and Aker Brygge, might be out of your budget. Instead, consider looking for apartments in neighborhoods like Grünerløkka, Tøyen, or Bislett. These areas are still central and have a lot of great amenities, but the rent will be more reasonable.When it comes to groceries and eating out, you'll need to be more conscious of your spending. Eating out in Oslo can be quite expensive, so try to cook at home more often and take advantage of the cheaper grocery stores like Rema 1000 and Kiwi. When you do eat out, look for more budget-friendly options like kebab shops or Asian restaurants, which tend to be more affordable than traditional Norwegian restaurants.Transportation is another area where you can save money. Oslo has a great public transportation system, so you can easily get around the city without a car. A monthly pass for public transportation costs around $100, which is much cheaper than owning and maintaining a car in the city.As for entertainment and leisure activities, there are plenty of free or low-cost options in Oslo. Many of the city's museums offer free admission on certain days, and there are always free events and festivals happening throughout the year. You can also take advantage of the city's beautiful parks and outdoor spaces for activities like hiking, biking, and picnicking.In summary, living comfortably on $5,000 a month in Oslo is possible, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some adjustments to your lifestyle. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood, cooking at home more often, and taking advantage of free or low-cost activities, you can make it work and enjoy all that this beautiful city has to offer," commented an expat living in Oslo.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Best Neighborhoods for Single Digital Nomads Living in Oslo
- Pros & Cons of Living in Oslo
- Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Oslo
- 7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Oslo
- Best Bookstores and Libraries in Oslo
- Fun Classes for Expats Living in Oslo
- Public Transportation in Oslo
- Best Markets in Oslo
- Retire in Oslo Guide
- 7 Tips for Living in Oslo
- Pros & Cons of Living in Oslo
- Tips for Expats Driving in Oslo
- Cost of Living in Oslo
- Health Care in Oslo
- The Insider's Guide to Oslo
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Norway
- Best Places to Live in Norway
- Real Estate in Norway
- Pros & Cons of Living in Norway
- How to Rent a Home in Norway
- Pros and Cons of Living in Norway 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Norway