Pros & Cons of Living in Molde

By Betsy Burlingame

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Summary: If you're considering a move to Molde, this article discusses the pros and cons of living in Molde.

Thinking about moving to Molde? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Molde.

Located on the western coast of Norway, Molde is a city that is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Romsdalsfjord and the Molde archipelago. It's also famous for its annual jazz festival and the Molde International Jazz Festival, which attracts jazz enthusiasts from around the world. But what is it really like to live in Molde? Like any city, there are both pros and cons to consider. Let's delve into the details.

Pros of Living in Molde

One of the biggest advantages of living in Molde is undoubtedly its natural beauty. The city is surrounded by over 222 mountain peaks, offering breathtaking views and ample opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. The Romsdalsfjord and the Molde archipelago are also major attractions, with their crystal-clear waters and abundant wildlife. For those who love nature and outdoor activities, Molde is a paradise.

Another major advantage of living in Molde is the quality of life. Norway consistently ranks among the top countries in the world for quality of life, and Molde is no exception. The city offers excellent and education, and it's known for its low crime rate and clean environment. The Norwegian welfare system also provides a high level of social security, making Molde a great place to raise a family.

Molde is also a city with a rich cultural life. The Molde International Jazz Festival is one of the most famous jazz festivals in the world, attracting top musicians and thousands of visitors each year. The city is also home to the Romsdal Museum, one of the largest folk museums in Norway, and the Molde Theatre, which offers a wide range of performances. Volunteering at these cultural institutions, such as the Romsdal Museum or the Molde Theatre, can be a great way to get involved in the community and meet new people.

Finally, Molde's economy is strong and diverse, with a mix of traditional industries like fishing and shipbuilding, as well as growing sectors like tourism and technology. The city is home to several large companies, including the shipping company Farstad Shipping and the IT company Powel, providing plenty of job opportunities. The city's strong economy also means that it has a relatively low unemployment rate, making it an attractive place for job seekers.

Cons of Living in Molde, Norway

While there are many advantages to living in Molde, there are also some downsides to consider. One of the biggest challenges is the cost of living. Norway is one of the most expensive countries in the world, and Molde is no exception. Everything from housing to groceries to transportation can be quite expensive, which can be a challenge for those on a tight budget.

The weather in Molde can also be a challenge. The city is located on the western coast of Norway, which means it gets a lot of rain. In fact, Molde is one of the rainiest cities in Norway, with an average of 200 rainy days per year. The winters can also be long and dark, with only a few hours of daylight in the deepest part of winter. This can be difficult for those who are used to more sunlight and warmer climates.

While Molde has a rich cultural life, it's still a relatively small city with a population of around 26,000 people. This means that it doesn't have the same level of amenities and entertainment options as larger cities. For example, while the Molde Theatre offers a range of performances, it doesn't have the same variety as you would find in a larger city like Oslo or Bergen. Similarly, while there are some good restaurants in Molde, the dining scene is not as diverse as in larger cities.

Finally, while the Norwegian welfare system provides a high level of social security, it also comes with high taxes. Norway has one of the highest tax rates in the world, and this can be a challenge for those who are used to lower tax rates. However, it's worth noting that these taxes fund many of the services that make Norway such a great place to live, such as healthcare and education.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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