Moving to Stavanger

Surrounded by islands off the southwest coast of Norway, Stavanger is well known for its majestic natural beauty and rich culture that seamlessly blends old traditions with modern life.

Expats moving to Stavanger will find themselves in one of the most picturesque Norwegian cities, where industry and family life peacefully co-exist.

Living in Stavanger as an expat

Stavanger rose to fame as Norway’s oil capital, and expats often relocate to Stavanger to work in the city’s oil and gas as well as renewable energy sectors. The city boasts a thriving job market, where newcomers can secure opportunities in a range of industries, including tourism, food manufacturing and fisheries.

With the fjords to the south and the ocean a stone’s throw away, the lifestyle in Stavanger is concentrated around outdoor activities. Foodies and culture buffs will also enjoy living here, owing to the vibrant culinary and street art scenes in Stavanger.

Expats who prefer a cosmopolitan life will also not be left wanting for anything. There are plenty of opportunities for retail therapy or dancing the night away at a local bar or pub. Getting around in Stavanger is also reasonably straightforward, as the city boasts a comprehensive and reliable public transport network.

Finding a Job in Stavanger
Lifestyle in Stavanger

Cost of living in Stavanger

The cost of living in Stavanger is incredibly high, but lucrative salaries from the oil industry tend to make up for this. Stavanger is a compact city, so accommodation in the city can be pricey and challenging to find.

While public transport can be pricey, cost-conscious commuters can purchase monthly tickets to minimise costs. Another option for getting around in Stavanger is to drive, but high petrol prices and the cost of purchasing, maintaining and insuring a car can mount up.

Fortunately, the lifestyle in Stavanger is largely focused on connecting with nature and the outdoors, which makes for budget-friendly entertainment.

Cost of Living in Stavanger
Transport and Driving in Stavanger

Families and children in Stavanger

Expat parents will love raising their children in Stavanger. Much like the rest of Norway, Stavanger is built around family life. 

Public education in Stavanger is exceptional, and it is free of charge. While Norway’s public schools offer excellent facilities and teaching standards, expats should note that the primary language of instruction is Norwegian. Nonetheless, Norway offers language tuition lessons for non-native speakers, so expat children have a good chance of successfully adapting to their new environment.

Parents who would like their children to learn a globally recognised curriculum with English as a first language can enrol their children in one of the three international schools in Stavanger and the neighbouring city of Sandnes. These schools offer the International Baccalaureate programme.

Education and Schools in Stavanger

Climate in Stavanger

The weather in Stavanger is defined by cool summers and mild winters due to the city’s temperate maritime climate. December to February marks the winter period, where temperatures can drop to freezing and snow can fall. Expats should be sure to pack their umbrellas and prepare for lots of rainfall during this time, while summer is marked by humidity.

Climate Chart for Stavanger

Expats moving to Stavanger can truly find the best of both worlds: modern conveniences and facilities, but with unspoilt natural landscapes and rich traditions to boot.