Norway is one of Europe's more expensive countries. Many Norwegians, however, as well as long-term foreign residents, would say that this high cost of living was always balanced out by the high quality of living that comes with it. However, recent polling indicates that the high expenses remain a significant barrier, with 63 percent of foreign residents rating the cost of living negatively. Indeed, the financial burden is often cited as one of the single biggest concerns foreigners have before moving to the Nordic nation.
We at The Local asked for some insight from our readers about what they think and whether the quality of life in Norway is worth the high cost of living. The poll results showed a clear division, though a majority remained positive: 61 percent of respondents voted "Yes," agreeing that life in Norway is worth the high costs, while 39 percent voted "No."
For many residents, the high prices are difficult to accept but come with undeniable societal benefits. Sebastian, a 35-year-old Oslo resident originally from Chile, expressed this duality. He noted that rent, groceries, and services cost at least 50 percent more than in most other countries, adding that he still feels "robbed" when charged 15 euros for a simple burger with just cheese and pickles. However, he finds balance in the social welfare system. His child attends kindergarten almost for free, and both his child's healthcare and his own are highly subsidized, with his personal medical expenses capped annually. Sebastian also highlighted the high level of safety, where belongings can be left unattended in parks without worry, and praised Oslo's well-connected public transport system. He concluded that if high costs are what allow a society to live worry-free, then the expense is worth it.
Similarly, Lars, an American expat living in Nordre Follo, believes the high cost of living is offset by high salaries and the benefits of taxation. Lars shared his experience of undergoing two hip operations, which cost him only his doctor visit co-payments—ranging between 150 and 375 kronor per visit—and an additional 80 dollars. During his recovery, he received his full salary for an entire year, and the public health system covered his transportation to doctors and physical therapists. Having moved from the United States, Lars feels his quality of life is vastly superior in Norway, attributing this to a collective mindset where citizens are smart enough not to vote against their own interests.
Thomas, a 40-year-old American living in Stavanger, also valued the profound sense of safety and security provided to his wife and children. He described this peace of mind as a direct byproduct of high taxation, which ensures that the basic needs of most people in the country are met.
However, not all residents feel the benefits match the financial toll. Alex argued that the exceptionally high cost of living is not always proportionate to what residents receive. He pointed out that compared to average salary levels, everyday expenses such as dining out, public and private transportation, home maintenance, and personal services are particularly costly. Furthermore, Alex noted that Norway's small domestic market limits commercial competition, resulting in fewer choices of products, retailers, and service providers, as well as a lack of direct international flight connections.
In Alesund, a 41-year-old Canadian expat named M offered a much harsher critique, stating flatly that Norway is too expensive. M criticized what they described as terrible private services, old hospitals, a poor selection in grocery stores, and schools that "don't teach anything," while also noting that parents do not always receive their guaranteed kindergarten spots.
Social class and profession also influence how expats perceive life in Norway. Ahmed, a 30-year-old Oslo resident originally from Pakistan, observed that while skilled professionals can afford a comfortable middle-class lifestyle, they still struggle to save significant amounts on a single income. For those without a skilled profession, he noted, life can get extremely tough. Ahmed described Norway as a "comfortable cage" for skilled workers, who can afford a decent standard of living but are unable to grow out of it to build substantial wealth.
Meanwhile, Adam, a 43-year-old British expat living in Bodo, warned that a weak Norwegian kroner combined with rising costs is bringing the situation closer to a tipping point, making even traveling abroad to escape the high prices more expensive. However, for Adam, having children tipped the scale in Norway's favor. Like other readers, he views quality of living as more holistic than simply prices and cost of living: "Knowing that back in the UK it's ten times more expensive for an inferior nursery, that wages are lower and that the UK is going through its own challenges and cost of living issue means we’re better off as a family overall in Norway. I accept each person has their own balance to weigh on this issue though."
