Digital Nomad Life in Oslo, Norway
Summary: Digital nomads like living in Oslo, Norway because of its high quality of life, excellent infrastructure, and vibrant culture. The city is known for its stunning natural beauty, with easy access to the fjords, mountains, and forests. Additionally, Oslo is a safe and welcoming city with a diverse population and a strong economy. The best neighborhood to live in Oslo is Frogner, which is known for its upscale residential areas, parks, and cultural attractions. Frogner is also home to some of the city's best restaurants, cafes, and shops. The approximate population of Oslo, Norway is 672,061. The weather in Oslo, Norway (Farenheit) is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s in the winter to the mid-60s in the summer. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Oslo is approximately $2,000 USD. This includes rent, food, transportation, and entertainment. The cost (in US dollars) to rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Oslo is approximately $1,500 USD per month.
How do I meet people in Oslo?
When we asked people living in Oslo about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"AWC of Oslo, Petroleum Women's Club, International Forum...there are classes offered in language, culture, arts, yoga, pilates...the list continues," explained one person living in Oslo, Norway.
"Expats in Oslo can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining meetup groups, or attending social events hosted by local organizations. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats living in Oslo," said one expat in Oslo.
What is life like in Oslo?
When we asked people living in Oslo what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Oslo is generally quite pleasant. The city is known for its high quality of life, with excellent public transportation, a vibrant cultural scene, and plenty of outdoor activities. Expats and digital nomads can find plenty of coworking spaces, cafes, and other places to work and socialize. The cost of living is relatively high, but the city offers a wide range of affordable housing options. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the city is very safe. All in all, Oslo is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a great place to live and work," remarked one member in Oslo.
Where should I live in Oslo?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"We live in the center of Oslo because it is close to the train and bus stations for us to get to work- it also has a great balcony. We also wanted two large bedrooms, and a w/d in the flat which can be tricky to find in older flats," said one person in Oslo.
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Oslo is to use online rental websites such as Finn.no or Hybel.no. These websites allow you to search for rental properties in Oslo and the surrounding areas. You can also use the search filters to narrow down your search to find the perfect place for you. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who specialize in rental properties in Oslo. They can provide you with more information about the rental market in the city and help you find the perfect place to live," said one expat who made the move to Oslo.
What do I need to know before moving to Oslo?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Oslo, they said:
"Absolutely take this opportunity... what a beautiful country and great experience. You make what you want out of it... Take advantage of a country that offers incredible outdoor activities/sports. I was never into skiing, hiking, cycling, but I am a convert...at 45 years old and ejoying what the outdoors has to offer here and have yet to see anywhere else like it in the world," said one person in Oslo.
"Before retiring in Oslo, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than in many other countries. They should also be aware of the language barrier, as Norwegian is the official language of the country. Additionally, expats should research the healthcare system in Norway, as it is different from many other countries. It is also important to research the tax system in Norway, as taxes can be high. Finally, expats should research the visa requirements for Norway, as they may need to apply for a residence permit in order to stay in the country," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Oslo.
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
What do people appreciate most about the culture in Oslo?
"Challenging myself to make this move was exciting. Doing this makes you feel like you can try other things," said one expat in Oslo.
"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," remarked one member in Oslo.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Oslo?
"Cultural arrogance -- Notion that all things Norwegian are best, without testing the differences. Fear of confrontation and honesty," said one person in Oslo.
"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," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Oslo.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Oslo for a while?
"If you plan to stay in Oslo for a while, you will need to apply for a residence permit. Depending on the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a long-term visa. You will also need to provide proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay, as well as proof of health insurance. Additionally, you may need to provide a valid passport and other documents such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate," said one person in Oslo.
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Oslo?
We asked people in Oslo if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"Asked waiters for the government instead of the bill for a couple years before learning that regeringen and regningen are different words," said one expat who made the move to Oslo.
"It is important to be aware of cultural norms when visiting Oslo. It is considered polite to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact during conversations. It is also important to dress conservatively, as clothing that is too revealing may be seen as inappropriate. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local customs and traditions, and to respect them. For example, it is considered rude to talk loudly in public places, and it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local language, and to make an effort to learn some basic phrases," explained one foreigner living in Oslo, Norway.
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
What are healthcare services like in Oslo?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Oslo, they replied:
"Don't. Pay for private. The laid-back laissez faire attitude that seems appealing when talking to Norwegians in coffee shops is quite the opposite when you are ill and need healthcare. There is no accountability and often gross errors," remarked one member in Oslo.
"Healthcare services in Oslo, are characterized by a comprehensive and universal system that is primarily funded through taxation and managed by the government. The city boasts a wide range of public and private healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialized care centers. Oslo residents have access to primary care services through general practitioners, who serve as the first point of contact for most medical concerns and can refer patients to specialists when necessary. In addition to primary care, Oslo's healthcare system offers a variety of specialized services, such as mental health care, dental care, maternity care, and rehabilitation services. Emergency care is available at several hospitals throughout the city, ensuring that residents have access to prompt medical attention in urgent situations. Preventive care and health promotion are also important aspects of Oslo's healthcare system, with various programs and initiatives aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and reducing the prevalence of chronic diseases. The city's healthcare services are known for their high quality and efficiency, with well-trained medical professionals and modern facilities. One notable aspect of healthcare in Oslo is the emphasis on patient-centered care, which prioritizes the needs and preferences of patients in the delivery of medical services. This approach is supported by a strong focus on patient rights and the involvement of patients in decision-making processes related to their care. Overall, healthcare services in Oslo, Norway, are comprehensive, accessible, and of high quality, ensuring that residents have access to the medical care they need to maintain their health and well-being," explained one expat living in Oslo, Norway.
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
What are the pros and cons of living in Oslo?
"Expats and digital nomads generally like the high quality of life, excellent public transportation, and beautiful natural surroundings in Oslo. They appreciate the city's cleanliness, safety, and well-organized infrastructure. The work-life balance, strong social welfare system, and focus on sustainability are also attractive features for many expats. The city's vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and events, offers plenty of opportunities for entertainment and socializing. Expats also enjoy the outdoor activities available in and around Oslo, such as hiking, skiing, and cycling. However, there are some aspects of living in Oslo that expats and digital nomads may dislike. The high cost of living, particularly for housing, food, and entertainment, can be a significant challenge for those on a budget. The cold and dark winters can also be difficult to adjust to, especially for those coming from warmer climates. Additionally, some expats may find it challenging to make friends and integrate into Norwegian society, as locals can be perceived as reserved and distant. The language barrier can also be an issue, as learning Norwegian can be difficult for some, although most Norwegians speak English fluently. Lastly, the job market in Oslo can be competitive, and it may be challenging for expats to find employment, particularly if they do not speak Norwegian or have specialized skills in high demand industries," explained one digital nomad living in Oslo, Norway.
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
About the Author
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.
AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world.
Get Quote
Learn about the Digital Nomad Visa for Norway and what is involved in obtaining one. This is one of the most important aspects of moving to Norway as a digital nomad.
Norway Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Norway on our Norway forum - meet people, get advice and help others.
Contribute
Help others in Norway by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Norway.
Digital Nomads in Norway offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Norway.