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Pros and Cons of Living in Stavanger

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By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jul 04, 2025

Summary: The pros of living in Stavanger, Norway include its stunning natural beauty, with mountains, fjords, and beaches all within easy reach. The city also has a vibrant cultural scene, with plenty of museums, galleries, and festivals to explore. Additionally, Stavanger is a great place to live for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and skiing. The city also has a strong economy, with a variety of job opportunities. The cons of living in Stavanger include the high cost of living, which can be difficult for those on a budget. Additionally, the city can be quite rainy and cold during the winter months, making it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities. Finally, Stavanger is a relatively small city, so those looking for a more cosmopolitan lifestyle may find it lacking.

What are the pros and cons of living in Stavanger?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Stavanger responded:

"Expats and digital nomads generally like the high quality of life, beautiful natural surroundings, and outdoor activities available in Stavanger. They appreciate the clean environment, well-maintained public spaces, and efficient public transportation system. The city's safety, low crime rate, and friendly locals also make it an attractive place to live. Additionally, Stavanger has a thriving cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and events throughout the year. On the other hand, expats and digital nomads often dislike the high cost of living in Stavanger, as Norway is known for its expensive goods and services, particularly when it comes to housing, dining out, and alcohol. The weather can also be a downside, with long, dark winters and unpredictable rain throughout the year. Some expats may find it challenging to make friends with locals, as Norwegians can be reserved and may take time to open up. Finally, the language barrier can be an issue for those who do not speak Norwegian, although many locals do speak English," explained one expat living in Stavanger.

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

"I have felt very safe living here and I have been able to let my children enjoy freedoms that I probably would not be giving them anywhere else. I appreciate the recycling system and how the Norwegians can run, bike or take there baby for a stroll in any kind of weather....which is mostly rain in Stavanger," replied an expat in Stavanger.

"I appreciate the Norwegian's love of and respect for nature. I like the roundabouts as opposed to USA stoplights all over the place. I bike/walk, so I really enjoy that the sidewalks are separate from the roads and often wind off in completely different directions. I appreciate that Norwegians aren't easily offended. They have great food here as well. I also appreciate their lower crime rates. You can tell people really aren't expecting anything but the best in people they encounter," remarked one in Stavanger.

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What do expats find most challenging?

"The medical system. Medical care is very important and I pray that nothing more serious than what we have already gone through happens to us while we live here," replied an expat in Stavanger.

"Expats in Stavanger often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. The Norwegian language can be difficult to learn and understand, and many expats find it difficult to communicate with locals. Additionally, the Norwegian culture is quite different from many other cultures, and expats may find it difficult to adjust to the local customs and traditions. Furthermore, the cost of living in Stavanger is quite high, and expats may find it difficult to afford the local prices," remarked one in Stavanger.

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About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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