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Moving to Stavanger, Norway | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Moving to Stavanger, Norway

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By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Dec 07, 2024

Summary: Expatriates are drawn to Stavanger, Norway for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and excellent quality of life. With its picturesque fjords, lush forests, and stunning coastline, Stavanger offers a unique and breathtaking landscape. The city is also home to a thriving cultural scene, with a variety of museums, galleries, and festivals to explore. Additionally, Stavanger is known for its excellent educational opportunities, with a number of universities and colleges located in the city. Finally, Stavanger is renowned for its high standard of living, with a strong economy and low cost of living. All of these factors make Stavanger an attractive destination for expatriates looking for a new home.

What do I need to know before moving to Stavanger?

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

"Before moving to Stavanger, expats should be aware that the cost of living is quite high. It is important to research the job market and the availability of housing in the area. Additionally, expats should be aware that the weather in Stavanger can be quite unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from mild to cold. It is also important to note that the majority of the population speaks Norwegian, so it is beneficial to learn some of the language before moving. Finally, expats should be aware that Stavanger is a very safe city, with low crime rates," remarked one expat in Stavanger, Norway.

How do I find a place to live in Stavanger?

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

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Stavanger is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings for apartments, houses, and other types of rental properties in the area. Additionally, you can also search for rental listings in local newspapers and on bulletin boards in the city. Additionally, you can also contact local real estate agents who can help you find a suitable place to live in Stavanger," commented one expat who made the move to Stavanger.

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

"Expat homes and apartments in Stavanger are typically modern and spacious, with large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many of the apartments have balconies or terraces, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding fjords. The interiors are often decorated with contemporary furnishings and feature high-end appliances. Expats in Stavanger can also expect to find plenty of amenities in their neighborhoods, such as grocery stores, restaurants, and parks," said one expat in Stavanger.

What is the average cost of housing in Stavanger?

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

"The cost of housing in Stavanger is generally quite high. Prices for apartments and houses in the city center tend to be higher than in the suburbs. On average, a one-bedroom apartment in Stavanger can cost anywhere from 8,000 to 12,000 Norwegian kroner per month, while a three-bedroom apartment can cost up to 20,000 Norwegian kroner per month," said one expat who made the move to Stavanger.

Should I buy or rent a home in Stavanger?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Stavanger, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Whether you should buy or rent a home in Stavanger depends on your individual circumstances. If you plan to stay in Stavanger for a long period of time, buying a home may be a better option as it can provide you with a stable and secure living situation. On the other hand, if you are only planning to stay in Stavanger for a short period of time, renting a home may be a more cost-effective option. Additionally, if you are not sure how long you will be staying in Stavanger, renting may be a better option as it allows you to be more flexible. Ultimately, the decision of whether to buy or rent a home in Stavanger, Norway should be based on your individual needs and preferences," remarked one expat in Stavanger, Norway.

What should I pack when moving to Stavanger?

We asked people living in Stavanger to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Stavanger, it is important to pack warm clothing, as the climate is quite cold. A good winter coat, gloves, and a hat are essential. It is also important to bring comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be quite hilly. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a raincoat and umbrella, as the area is known for its rainy weather. Finally, it is important to bring any necessary documents, such as a passport, visa, and other important paperwork," said one expat in Stavanger.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Stavanger?

We asked people in Stavanger if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"I always love it when I speak English to someone and get that blank stare, which means they don't know English. Poor things," replied a member in Stavanger.

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Why do people move to Stavanger?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Stavanger, they responded:

"Stavanger is an attractive destination for expats due to its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and excellent quality of life. The city is located on the southwestern coast of Norway, surrounded by mountains, fjords, and islands, making it a great place to explore the outdoors. Stavanger also has a thriving economy, with a strong focus on the oil and gas industry, as well as a vibrant cultural scene with a variety of festivals, museums, and galleries. Additionally, the city offers excellent educational opportunities, with a number of international schools and universities. Finally, Stavanger is known for its high standard of living, with a low cost of living and a high quality of life," said one expat living in Stavanger, Norway.

How are healthcare services Stavanger?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Stavanger, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Stavanger, are of high quality and easily accessible to both residents and visitors. The city is home to Stavanger University Hospital, which is a major healthcare provider in the region, offering a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and surgeries. Additionally, there are numerous public and private clinics, general practitioners, and specialist doctors available throughout the city, ensuring that patients can receive comprehensive care for various medical needs. The Norwegian healthcare system is primarily funded through taxes, ensuring that all citizens have access to affordable healthcare services. Residents of Stavanger can expect to receive free or low-cost medical care, depending on their income and age. Visitors to the city may also access healthcare services, but they may need to pay for treatments or have valid travel insurance to cover the costs. Pharmacies are widely available in Stavanger, providing prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as offering advice on minor health issues. Dental care is also readily accessible, with both public and private dental clinics offering a range of services, from routine check-ups to more specialized treatments. Mental health services are an essential part of the healthcare system in Stavanger, with various facilities and professionals available to provide support and treatment for mental health issues. This includes psychologists, psychiatrists, and specialized clinics that cater to the needs of individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Overall, healthcare services in Stavanger, Norway, are comprehensive, efficient, and of high quality, ensuring that residents and visitors can access the care they need for a wide range of medical concerns," commented one expat who moved to Stavanger.

What are medical services in Stavanger like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Stavanger, they replied:

"Medical services in Stavanger, are of high quality and easily accessible to both residents and visitors. The city has a well-equipped public healthcare system, with several hospitals, clinics, and medical centers providing a wide range of services. The Stavanger University Hospital is the main healthcare facility in the region, offering specialized care and advanced treatments. General practitioners and family doctors are available throughout the city, providing primary care services and referrals to specialists when needed. Emergency medical services are efficient and responsive, with ambulances and emergency rooms available for urgent care. Pharmacies are well-stocked and can be found throughout the city, providing prescription and over-the-counter medications. Dental care is also readily available, with numerous dental clinics offering various treatments. Healthcare in Norway is primarily funded through the public sector, with residents receiving coverage through the National Insurance Scheme. This ensures that most medical services are either free or available at a low cost for Norwegian citizens and residents. Visitors from European Union countries can also access healthcare services using the European Health Insurance Card, while those from non-EU countries may need to have private travel insurance to cover medical expenses. Overall, medical services in Stavanger are reliable, efficient, and of high quality, ensuring that residents and visitors have access to the healthcare they need," stated one expat who made the move to Stavanger.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad 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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