Moving to Tromso, Norway

"My advice would be to start looking as soon as possible or have someone help you find a place. If you live on the Island it's easy to get around by bus. If you live in Kvolya or Krokken you may need a car, but homes are cheaper to rent. Norwegians speak English so it's easy to get around and communicate. You can buy jackets, shoes, clothes, etc so no need to bring your whole wardrobe or the Arctic clothing you "think" you might need. Tromso is very beautiful and accommodating to expats (except for the Visa and Norwegian # process)," explained one expat living in Tromso, Norway.

"Tromso is located in the far north of Norway, close to the Arctic Circle, so you should be prepared for cold weather and long, dark winters. Make sure to bring warm clothes and supplies with you, as well as prepare for the transition to the colder climate. Make sure to research about the cost of living and employment opportunities to ensure you can support yourself when you are there. Also important is researching about education and healthcare options. Additionally, take the time to learn some of the language as this will make most aspects of your move and transition much easier. Lastly, get to know the locals and their culture, as this will make you feel more at home and part of the community," said one expat in Tromso.

"Finding a place to live in Tromso is easy. There are a variety of options to choose from, including privately-rented apartments and houses, social housing, student accommodation, and more. The Norwegian State Housing Bank offers subsidies and rent deduction options, and rental agencies like Finn.no and Hybelportalen offer an extensive range of rental properties. The websites of Tromso University, student unions, and NGOs such as Frifond are also good sources of information and could help you find suitable accommodation. Additionally, local newspapers and search engines such as Airbnb and Booking.com have listings of accommodation options," commented one expat who made the move to Tromso.

"We found our place to live off the internet site here in Norway Finn.no. We weren't concerned about neighborhood as much as we were concerned about finding a place to live. Its a University island so places go fast and there's not a lot available," remarked one expat in Tromso, Norway.

"Expat homes and apartments in Tromso tend to be spacious with high ceilings and large windows that allow for plenty of natural light. There are generally a variety of options for expats in terms of size, style, location and budget. Many apartments offer modern amenities such as decking/balconies, laundry facilities, storage areas, and fully equipped kitchens. In addition, some popular amenities include underfloor heating, whirlpool baths, and secure parking lots. Many apartments also offer incredible views of the mountainous landscape, which can be enjoyed from the comfort of your home. Most expat residences are located near the city center or the stunning Arctic ocean, allowing for easy access to the many activities and restaurants that Tromso has to offer," said one expat in Tromso.

"We live in a one bedroom apartment that we were able to sublease fully furnished. Typically people live in houses if available," said one expat who made the move to Tromso.

"The cost of housing in Tromso varies widely depending on location and size of the property. However, on average, rental prices for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre can range from around 5,000 to 9,000 NOK per month," remarked one expat in Tromso, Norway.

"The housing and food costs is the most expensive you will ever find in all of the world. Our small 1bdrm is $1300 and food costs are about $1200/mth for 2 people. Beers are $12/pint if that gives you any indication of food prices," said one expat in Tromso.

"Buying or renting a home in Tromso depends on several factors. If you plan to stay in the city for an extended period, such as several years, buying may be a better option. It can be expensive to buy a home in Tromso, but if you have the financial resources and can afford the up-front costs, then it may be worth it in the long run. Owning a home can also help build wealth over time, while renting typically does not. However, if you are only planning to stay in Tromso for a shorter period of time, renting may be a better choice. Renting can often be cheaper, and more flexible, than buying a home. It is also less complicated and involves less commitment. Ultimately, it is important to consider your own needs and resources when deciding whether to buy or rent a home in Tromso," said one expat in Tromso.

"Clothing and accessories suited to cold weather; gloves, hat, scarf, warm coat, quality waterproof boots, snow tires for vehicle, extra blankets, space heater, rain gear, snow chains, winter survival kit, extra layers of clothing, essential medicines, sunscreen, insect repellent, water filter, groceries, flashlight and/or candles, matches or lighter for lighting candles/fire, games and activities for entertainment, extra bedding, blankets and pillows, camping supplies if you plan to go outdoors, toiletries and personal items, local currency, guidebooks and maps of the area, laptop, electronics and chargers, camera and cleaning supplies, sturdy furniture and appliances," remarked one expat who made the move to Tromso.

"First of all, coming from California and moving to the Arctic we figured we needed to dress for extremely cold weather. I would of left all the California Arctic gear at home and waited til I got to Tromso to buy. Bring normal going out clothes, not the mountain gear you would think to wear, people dress nice here. I wish I would of brought US measuring cups/spoons in order to cook american recipes. Cold medicines are just not as strong off the shelf here," explained one expat living in Tromso, Norway.

"When visiting Tromso, it is important to be mindful of the local customs and culture to avoid cultural faux pas. To begin, wearing rugged, outdoor clothing is an important part of the culture and fashion in Tromso, and wearing more formal clothing may make you stand out. Additionally, it is customary for greetings and general communication to be formal and courteous, so maintain a polite attitude when interacting with people. Because Tromso has a diverse and multicultural population, it is important to act respectfully towards others. Refrain from talking or making jokes about race, gender, or other sensitive topics, as well as using language offensive to the local population. Lastly, in Tromso, people pride themselves on their seamanship, so shouting or making loud noises unnecessarily should be avoided," replied a member in Tromso.

"Expats are attracted to move to Tromso, due to its stunning natural beauty, including the Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun. The city offers a high quality of life, with excellent healthcare, education, and social welfare systems. Tromso is also known for its friendly and welcoming locals, making it easy for expats to integrate into the community. The city has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals, museums, and galleries to explore. Additionally, outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to the wide range of recreational activities available, such as hiking, skiing, and fishing. Despite its remote location, Tromso is well-connected to other parts of Norway and Europe, making it a convenient base for travel," commented one expat who moved to Tromso.

"Tromso, boasts a well-developed healthcare system that offers a wide range of services to its residents. The city is home to the University Hospital of North Norway (UNN), which is a leading medical institution in the region, providing high-quality care in various specialties, including emergency care, surgery, and maternity services. Additionally, there are several smaller clinics and medical centers throughout the city, offering primary care, dental care, and mental health services. Tromso's healthcare services are supported by highly trained medical professionals, many of whom speak English, ensuring that both locals and visitors can access the care they need. The Norwegian healthcare system is publicly funded, ensuring that essential services are accessible and affordable for all residents," said one expat living in Tromso, Norway.

"Medical services in Tromso, are of high quality and easily accessible to both residents and visitors. The city has a well-equipped university hospital, which provides a wide range of healthcare services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and diagnostic services. Additionally, there are several smaller clinics and medical centers throughout the city, offering primary care, dental care, and other specialized services. Healthcare professionals in Tromso are highly trained and many speak English, ensuring effective communication with patients. The Norwegian healthcare system is publicly funded, ensuring that essential medical services are available to all residents, while visitors may need to have travel insurance to cover their medical expenses. Overall, medical services in Tromso are reliable, efficient, and of high standard," commented one expat who moved to Tromso.