If you’re considering moving to Norway, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost of living. In this article, we’ll take a look at the local currency, compare the cost of living in Norway to the UK and the USA, break down costs for singles, couples, and families of 4 in different categories, and explain the most common forms of payment in Norway.
Local Currency in Norway
The local currency in Norway is the Norwegian krone (NOK). One krone is divided into 100 øre. The Norwegian krone is a floating currency, which means its exchange rate is determined by the market and can fluctuate in value.
Cost of Living in Norway Compared to the UK and USA
According to the Numbeo cost of living index, the cost of living in Norway is generally higher than in the UK and the USA. The index takes into account factors such as housing, food, utilities, transportation, and entertainment.
As of February 2023, the index shows that the cost of living in Oslo is about 32.54% higher than in London and 47.75% higher than in New York. The cost of living in other cities in Norway varies, but generally, the cost of living in Norway is higher than in the UK and the USA.
Breakdown of Costs in Norway
To give you an idea of what you can expect to pay for different expenses in Norway, let’s break down costs for singles, couples, and families of 4 in different categories.
Housing
Housing is one of the biggest expenses in Norway. The cost of housing varies depending on where you live and the type of housing you choose. According to Numbeo, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is NOK 10,235 per month. A three-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around NOK 20,460 per month.
If you’re on a tight budget, you may be able to find a room to rent for around NOK 6,500 per month. However, keep in mind that housing in Norway is in high demand, and finding a place to live can be challenging.
Food
The cost of food in Norway is generally higher than in the UK and the USA. You can expect to pay around NOK 150 for a meal at an inexpensive restaurant and around NOK 800 for a meal at a mid-range restaurant.
If you’re on a tight budget, you can save money by shopping at supermarkets and cooking your meals. A week’s worth of groceries for one person costs around NOK 500-700.
Utilities
The cost of utilities in Norway varies depending on the size of your home and your usage. On average, you can expect to pay around NOK 1,000 per month for utilities such as electricity, water, and gas.
Leisure
The cost of leisure activities in Norway varies widely depending on what you enjoy doing. A movie ticket costs around NOK 130, and a fitness club membership costs around NOK 500-600 per month.
If you enjoy going out, expect to pay around NOK 80-100 for a beer in a bar or around NOK 140-170 for a cocktail. Entrance fees for museums and other attractions vary widely but usually range from NOK 100-150.
Transport
The cost of transport in Norway is relatively high, but the country has an excellent public transportation system. A one-way ticket on public transport in Oslo costs NOK 37, and a monthly pass costs NOK 795.
If you prefer to drive, you can expect to pay around NOK 17.80 per liter of gasoline. Car insurance is also relatively expensive, with an average cost of NOK 1,000-1,500 per month.
Clothing
The cost of clothing in Norway is generally higher than in the UK and the USA. The prices of clothing items depend on the brand and quality of the product. If you’re looking to buy new clothes on a budget, there are several affordable chain stores that offer reasonably priced clothing.
For example, H&M and Zara are popular stores where you can find fashionable clothes at an affordable price. A pair of jeans can cost around NOK 500-800, while a shirt can cost around NOK 200-300.
Household Goods
The cost of household goods in Norway varies depending on the item and brand. For example, a new television can cost anywhere from NOK 2,000 to NOK 20,000 depending on the size and features. A washing machine can cost around NOK 5,000-7,000, while a refrigerator can cost around NOK 5,000-10,000.
If you’re on a tight budget, you may be able to find used household goods on websites such as Finn.no, the Norwegian version of Craigslist. Many people sell their used items at a fraction of the cost of new items.
Forms of Payment in Norway
The most common forms of payment in Norway are cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Most stores and restaurants accept debit cards, and credit cards are accepted at larger chain stores and hotels.
Contactless payments are also becoming increasingly popular in Norway, and many stores now offer this option. Mobile payments, such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet, are also gaining popularity in Norway.
In addition to these forms of payment, Norway has a unique payment system called Vipps. Vipps is a mobile payment system that allows you to make payments by linking your bank account to the Vipps app. Many stores in Norway accept Vipps payments.
The cost of living in Norway is generally higher than in the UK and the USA. Housing, transportation, and leisure activities tend to be more expensive in Norway, while food and clothing are comparable in price.
When it comes to payment methods, Norway offers a variety of options, including cash, debit cards, credit cards, contactless payments, and Vipps.
Before you move to Norway, it’s essential to research the cost of living in your desired location and create a budget that takes into account your income and expenses. By doing so, you can ensure that you can live comfortably in Norway without breaking the bank.
