Pros and Cons of Living in Stavanger
Last updated on Mar 15, 2025
Summary: The pros of living in Stavanger, Norway include its stunning natural beauty, with mountains, fjords, and beaches all within easy reach. The city also has a vibrant cultural scene, with plenty of museums, galleries, and festivals to explore. Additionally, Stavanger is a great place to live for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and skiing. The city also has a strong economy, with a variety of job opportunities. The cons of living in Stavanger include the high cost of living, which can be difficult for those on a budget. Additionally, the city can be quite rainy and cold during the winter months, making it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities. Finally, Stavanger is a relatively small city, so those looking for a more cosmopolitan lifestyle may find it lacking.
What are the pros and cons of living in Stavanger?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Stavanger responded:
"Expats and digital nomads generally like the high quality of life, beautiful natural surroundings, and outdoor activities available in Stavanger. They appreciate the clean environment, well-maintained public spaces, and efficient public transportation system. The city's safety, low crime rate, and friendly locals also make it an attractive place to live. Additionally, Stavanger has a thriving cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and events throughout the year. On the other hand, expats and digital nomads often dislike the high cost of living in Stavanger, as Norway is known for its expensive goods and services, particularly when it comes to housing, dining out, and alcohol. The weather can also be a downside, with long, dark winters and unpredictable rain throughout the year. Some expats may find it challenging to make friends with locals, as Norwegians can be reserved and may take time to open up. Finally, the language barrier can be an issue for those who do not speak Norwegian, although many locals do speak English," said one member in Stavanger.
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William RussellWilliam Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What do expats in Stavanger appreciate most about the local culture?
"I have felt very safe living here and I have been able to let my children enjoy freedoms that I probably would not be giving them anywhere else. I appreciate the recycling system and how the Norwegians can run, bike or take there baby for a stroll in any kind of weather....which is mostly rain in Stavanger," remarked one in Stavanger.
"Expats in Stavanger appreciate the city's strong sense of community and the friendly locals. They also enjoy the city's stunning natural beauty, with its fjords, mountains, and beaches. The city's vibrant cultural scene, with its many festivals, concerts, and events, is also a draw for expats. Additionally, Stavanger is known for its excellent seafood, which is a favorite among locals and visitors alike," explained one expat.
"I appreciate the Norwegian's love of and respect for nature. I like the roundabouts as opposed to USA stoplights all over the place. I bike/walk, so I really enjoy that the sidewalks are separate from the roads and often wind off in completely different directions. I appreciate that Norwegians aren't easily offended. They have great food here as well. I also appreciate their lower crime rates. You can tell people really aren't expecting anything but the best in people they encounter," said one person in Stavanger.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
What do expats find most challenging?
"Some of their driving rules are backwards from those in the US, such as "yield to people on your right, except in roundabouts". People have stopped and waited on me multiple times when I was pulling out of the street my house is on. I wish people were more friendly and more chatty like Americans. I always say "excuse me" if I bump into someone. I have the impulse to smile at people I pass while walking, or to make a comment to a random person, such as "cute dog"," said a person living in Stavanger.
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.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Stavanger?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Stavanger?
- What is the average cost of housing in Stavanger?
- How do I meet people in Stavanger?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Stavanger?
- What should I pack when moving to Stavanger?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Stavanger?
- Will I be able to find a job in Stavanger?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Stavanger?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Stavanger?
- What is the social scene like in Stavanger?
- What advice to expats in Stavanger have about housing?
- What are medical services in Stavanger like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Stavanger?
- Is the cost of living in Stavanger high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Stavanger?
- Why do people move to Stavanger?