Cost of Living in Norway

"The cost of living in Norway is generally high compared to other countries. Housing and transportation costs are especially expensive, while food and other essentials are also costly. Norway is known for having one of the highest standards of living in the world and many imported products are very expensive," wrote a person living in Norway.

"Living in Norway generally tends to be more expensive than living in the United States. This is due to the cost of goods and higher taxes. Additionally, the living expenses in Norway are increased by its high cost of living--including food, housing, transportation, and utilities. However, having a higher minimum wage and a better quality of life makes this difference more manageable. In general, the high cost of living in Norway can be offset by the higher wages and the country’s commitment to social security benefits, which makes it possible to have a comfortable lifestyle while in Norway," said one expat in Norway.

"I've never owned a house in the UK, just a holiday home. My house in Jolster is classed as a holiday home as well but it would be unfair to compare them. I'm quite certain my housing costs are massive compared to the UK. I'd estimate you need four times your UK salary to have the same standard of living in Norway. 38% will go in tax. Staple foods are twice the price. Winters are long and cold and much water is frozen driving up the price of hydro electricity. If you put a value on the time you will have to spend working out if you live in Norway or the UK, dealing with residency and citizen issues, translating documents, dealing with legacy issues from the UK that are hard to resolve until residency and citizenship issues in Norway have been settled (in my case, not settled after 22 years) you need to earn 6 times the UK salary and forget having the time to take a holiday (which would invalidate any claims you might have to living in Norway anyway)," explained one expat.

"Much higher than in the US. I have been paying 850 dollars for 3 bedroom nice apartment in chicago suburbs. Norways average is 7000 - 10000 kroner. I make 15000 kroner a month after deducted taxes," said one person in Alesund.

"The average rental price for a one bedroom apartment in Norway is generally quite high, with many of the nicer units going for around $1500 to $2000 USD each month. Two bedroom apartments cost a bit more, with nice units typically ranging between $2000 and $2500 USD each month," remarked one expat living in Norway.

"In Norway, rental homes typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, dishwasher and a washer and dryer. In some cases, the rental may also include other small kitchen appliances such as a microwave or coffee maker. In addition, many rental properties will come with air conditioning, heating, and other amenities such as TV, cable, and internet access," said one expat living in Norway.