Oslo, Norway

What do I need to know about living in Oslo?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Oslo, they said:

"Absolutely take this opportunity... what a beautiful country and great experience. You make what you want out of it... Take advantage of a country that offers incredible outdoor activities/sports. I was never into skiing, hiking, cycling, but I am a convert...at 45 years old and ejoying what the outdoors has to offer here and have yet to see anywhere else like it in the world," commented one expat who made the move to Oslo.

Expat Health Insurance in Norway

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.
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What do I need to know before moving to Oslo?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Oslo, they said:

"Make sure you choose a reputable company to move your stuff overseas who know how to handle all of the documents- the customs people here hold shipments for crazy amounts of time. Choose a neighborhood close to public transport. It is pricier but well worth not having to walk 20 minutes very 2 in the winter. Be open minded about flats. I have yet to see a place with more than 1 bath and double vanities don't exist. The fridges are small- overall things are smaller and it's important not to let it bother you," commented one expat who made the move to Oslo.

How do I find a place to live in Oslo?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"We live in the center of Oslo because it is close to the train and bus stations for us to get to work- it also has a great balcony. We also wanted two large bedrooms, and a w/d in the flat which can be tricky to find in older flats," added another expat who made the move to Oslo.

What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Oslo?

"Most of our expat friends have slightly larger places, but none have as nice a patio or w/d. I think overall they are comparable," added another expat in Oslo.

What is the average cost of housing in Oslo?

If you are thinking about moving to Oslo, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"To be honest I don't know what we pay, but I would estimate it to be around 3,500 dollars/month, which is certainly higher than I would expect to pay in the center of Houston," mentioned another expat in Oslo.

How do I meet people in Oslo?

When we asked people living in Oslo about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"AWC of Oslo, Petroleum Women's Club, International Forum...there are classes offered in language, culture, arts, yoga, pilates...the list continues," mentioned another expat in Oslo.

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.

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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.

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What should I bring when moving to Oslo?

People living in Oslo were asked what three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They wrote:

"I wish I had brought more clothes, more kitchen stuff like pots and pans(too expensive here) and my skis- they were not cheap to buy! I wish I had left my small kitchen appliances- I brought voltage converters and they are a pain, it would have been easier to just buy Norwegian ones. I would not have brought so many shoes- coming from Houston I have a lot of sandals and heels, both are impractical to wear most of the year," remarked another expat living in Oslo, Norway.

What do expats in Oslo appreciate most about the local culture?

"I love the people and their attitude. Most Norwegians are friendly, and I appreciate how they integrate the society," added another expat in Oslo.

"Challenging myself to make this move was exciting. Doing this makes you feel like you can try other things," remarked another expat who made the move to Oslo.

What do expats find most challenging?

"Learning the language, finding a job, making sure my qualifications are legitimate," remarked another expat who made the move to Oslo.

"Cultural arrogance -- Notion that all things Norwegian are best, without testing the differences. Fear of confrontation and honesty," explained one expat living in Oslo, Norway.

Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Oslo accepting of differences?

"After reading the other profile on Norway I was completely surpised. I have yet to experience this here and have enjoyed every minute. Yes, it can be tough here only if you make it difficult," remarked another expat who made the move to Oslo.

Expat Health Insurance in Norway

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.
GET A QUOTE