Accommodation in Bergen

Expats moving to Bergen will likely place finding a home at the top of their priority list. Accommodation in Bergen is varied and includes everything from traditional wooden houses to modern luxury apartments. 

Bergen is divided into eight boroughs and while public transport in the city is generally excellent, the borough expats decide to live in will determine the ease of their commute. Expat parents will also need to base themselves close to the school of their choice, as public school placements are offered based on catchment areas. 

Types of accommodation in Bergen

Bergen is home to one of Europe’s largest collections of preserved wooden houses, and these are popular among families. With six universities located throughout the city, shared housing is also a sought-after type of accommodation in Bergen. In addition, apartments and townhouses are firm favourites among single expats, small families and young professionals. Expat families are also catered for with detached family homes that boast lush gardens.

Areas and suburbs in Bergen

Thanks to Bergen's stunning natural surroundings, expats are guaranteed a picturesque neighbourhood regardless of where they decide to live. The central areas, such as Bryggen, Skostredet and Sentrum, are popular among young professionals, students and single expats. Getting around in these suburbs is a breeze thanks to the reliable transport links and easily walkable city centre.

As is the case in most Norwegian cities, Bergen is designed with families in mind. Family-friendly neighbourhoods such as Nordnes, Fyllingsdalen and Bønes not only offer easy access to Bergen’s gorgeous natural landscape but also have efficient public transport.

See the page on Areas and Suburbs in Bergen for more details on the best areas to live in the city. 

Renting accommodation in Bergen

The rental market in Bergen is notoriously competitive, and expats will have to act fast once they find their dream home. The best place to start the search for accommodation is online, websites such as Finn.no and Sammen.no host a plethora of private accommodation and student housing listings. New arrivals will need to have all their paperwork in order and have three months’ worth of rent as a security deposit to secure a lease agreement.

Have a look at Norway Accommodation for full details on the rental process in Norway. 

Utilities in Bergen

Expats renting accommodation in Bergen are usually responsible for utilities, which generally include water, electricity, and internet (unless the lease specifies otherwise). New arrivals should thoroughly read their rental agreement to avoid incurring unfair or unnecessary charges, as utility costs in Bergen can be fairly high.

Electricity

Norway is divided into five energy zones, meaning electricity costs vary throughout the country. Fortunately, the electricity market is open, so users can choose between several providers and plans to guarantee themselves the best possible rate. 

Utilities will typically be connected when tenants move in, and expats can easily transfer the account into their name by providing their chosen electricity supplier with their identification documents, address, and meter point ID.

Water

Bergen’s tap water is supplied by Bergen Waterworks and is sourced from five lakes located just outside the city. The tap water is clean and safe to drink by global standards. Expats can choose between metered or stipulated water charges in Bergen, and these are paid annually. 

The invoice typically includes the subscription fee, which is based on the size of the property, and the consumption fee, which is determined by how much water a household uses.

Bins and recycling

Bergen has won multiple awards for its recycling and sustainability initiatives, so expats moving to the city will need to quickly acquaint themselves with local waste collection and recycling practices. BIR is responsible for waste management in Bergen and has both waste collection and delivery services available to the city’s residents. There are numerous recycling stations throughout the city where residents can drop off residual, hazardous, paper and glass waste.

Bins with green lids are typically for residual waste, while plastic packaging must be placed in the BIR’s recycling bags, which are available at local supermarkets. All other waste should be delivered to collection points at petrol stations or to one of the city’s recycling stations. 

See the Norway Accommodation page for more details on utilities, waste, and recycling in the country.