Pros and Cons of Living in Oslo, Norway

Pros and Cons of Living in Oslo

Last updated on Mar 05, 2023

Summary: The pros of living in Oslo, Norway include its stunning natural beauty, excellent public transportation, and high quality of life. Oslo is also a vibrant and diverse city with a wide range of cultural activities and attractions. The city is also known for its excellent educational opportunities and healthcare system. The cons of living in Oslo include its high cost of living, which can be difficult for those on a budget. Additionally, the weather can be unpredictable and the winters can be long and dark. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Norwegian.

What are the pros and cons of living in Oslo?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Oslo responded:

"Expats and digital nomads living in Oslo appreciate the city's high quality of life, with its excellent public transportation, low crime rate, and abundance of green spaces. They also enjoy the city's vibrant cultural scene, with its many museums, galleries, and music venues. On the downside, expats and digital nomads may find the cost of living in Oslo to be quite high, and the weather can be quite cold and dark during the winter months," remarked one expat in Oslo.

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

"Expats in Oslo appreciate the city's vibrant cultural scene, with its many museums, galleries, and theaters. They also enjoy the city's stunning natural beauty, with its fjords, mountains, and forests. The locals are known for their friendly and welcoming attitude, making it easy for expats to settle in and feel at home. Additionally, Oslo is a very safe city, with low crime rates and a high quality of life. Finally, the city offers a wide range of activities and events, from outdoor activities to cultural festivals, making it an exciting place to live," replied an expat in Oslo.

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

What do expats find most challenging?

"Expats in Oslo often find the language barrier to be one of the most challenging aspects of the local culture. Norwegian is the official language, and many Norwegians do not speak English fluently. Additionally, the Norwegian culture is quite reserved and formal, which can be difficult for expats to adjust to. Furthermore, the cost of living in Oslo is quite high, making it difficult for expats to find affordable housing and other necessities. Finally, the weather in Oslo can be quite extreme, with long, dark winters and short, cool summers," said a person living in Oslo.

"Learning the language, finding a job, making sure my qualifications are legitimate," explained one expat living in Oslo.

About the Author

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.