Cost of Living in Oslo

The cost of living in Norway is high and Oslo, in particular, is recognised as being one of the most expensive cities for expats. Almost everything in the Norwegian capital costs more than it would in any other Scandinavian city (second only to Copenhagen). Mercer’s Cost of Living Survey for 2019 ranked Oslo as the 61st most expensive city in the world (out of 209 cities surveyed), ranking higher than other European cities such as Munich, Madrid and Brussels.

One consolation for expats is that high salaries offset some of these costs. Salaries in Oslo tend to be higher than what is offered in other Norwegian cities. Expats should carefully calculate their budget when planning a move to Oslo.

Cost of food in Oslo

The supermarket is probably the first place that will shock any newcomers in Oslo. Because of the cold climate, most fruit and vegetables are imported. This makes fresh produce much more expensive due to import taxes. Norway does have fish, meat and dairy produce of its own, which makes these products slightly less expensive.

Because of the exorbitant prices, many Norwegians drive over the border to Sweden when they need to stock up on food supplies.

Cost of housing and transport in Oslo

Housing is the biggest expense a foreigner will have in Oslo. Prices are high, but get cheaper the further one travels from the city centre. Costs vary greatly depending on the neighbourhood. An apartment in more stylish areas like Frogner and Majorstuen will be much more expensive than one in more affordable neighbourhoods like Grønland and Grünerløkka. It is standard policy to pay a deposit along with the first month’s rent when signing a lease. Electricity bills in the winter months can push the cost of housing up significantly.

Taxi rates aren’t regulated in Oslo. Therefore, the tariffs per kilometre vary depending on the taxi company one uses. Public transport is expensive, but extremely efficient. Because of the high gasoline (petrol) prices, most expats in the city choose to use public transport over driving and owning their own car.

Cost of entertainment in Oslo

Predictably, going out in Oslo is one of the most expensive things an expat can do. Cinema and theatre tickets are incredibly costly. Eating out can also have a major impact on one’s monthly budget. Though, if one is open to doing some research and venturing out to cheaper neighbourhoods, there are more budget-friendly options to be found. Though the prices of cocktails, coffee and fast-food meals often make foreigners cringe, the high quality of products may persuade them that, ultimately, it’s worth the money.

Cost of living in Oslo chart 

Prices may vary depending on product and service provider. The list below shows average prices in October 2019.