Going abroad for work is a serious decision, especially when it comes to a country as financially demanding as Norway. On the one hand, high salaries are tempting; on the other, the cost of living in Norway is among the highest in Europe. This guide is aimed primarily at people planning to relocate to Norway who want to realistically assess their budget before departure.
Job offers in Norway on europa.jobs
Cost of living in Norway 2025 – an overall picture
Norway has been at the top of rankings of the most expensive countries to live in for years. This applies both to housing prices and to everyday expenses such as food, transport, and services. The cost of living in Norway in 2025 remains high, but it should always be analyzed in the context of earnings. For manual workers, especially in construction, industry, logistics, or the offshore sector, high prices are often offset by attractive hourly rates.
Housing costs in Oslo and other regions of Norway
The biggest expense is usually housing costs in Oslo. The capital of Norway is by far the most expensive city in the country. Renting a room often costs several thousand Norwegian kroner per month, and a studio or apartment for one person means a very heavy burden on the budget. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Oslo can cost up to 12,000 NOK per month.
Outside Oslo, the situation is more favorable. In smaller cities and industrial regions, rental prices are lower, and many employers offer employee accommodation or help with organizing it. For manual workers, this is a huge advantage that significantly reduces relocation to Norway – initial costs.
How much does food cost in Norway?
The question of how much food costs in Norway comes up very often. Grocery shopping is noticeably more expensive than in other EU countries. You will pay the most for meat, dairy products, ready-made meals, and alcohol. Fish, on the other hand—especially local products—are cheaper.
To limit expenses, many workers:
- cook for themselves,
- shop at cheaper retail chains,
- use promotions and private-label products.
Eating out is a considerable luxury, which is why, for manual workers, home cooking is the most commonly chosen option.
Food
- Weekly shopping for one person: about 1,500 NOK
- Bread: approx. 24–35 NOK
- Milk (1 liter): approx. 16–22 NOK
- Eggs (dozen): approx. 24–40 NOK
- Tomatoes (kg): 33–36 NOK
- Apples (kg): 20–29 NOK
- Water (1.5 liters): 8 NOK
Transport costs in Norway – commuting and public transport
Transport costs in Norway are also high. Public transport tickets, especially in Oslo and larger cities, are a significant monthly expense. On the other hand, public transport is well organized and punctual.
Many workers choose to use their own car, especially when working outside cities. However, it should be remembered that fuel, road tolls, and parking also generate costs. Some employers offer reimbursement for commuting expenses or employee transport—it is worth checking this before signing a contract.
Public transport prices in Norway
- Single ticket (1 zone): approx. 20–50 NOK
- Time ticket (60–120 minutes): approx. 30–70 NOK
- Day ticket: approx. 120 NOK
- Monthly pass: approx. 600–800 NOK
Fuel prices in Norway
- Petrol (per liter): approx. 20.87 NOK
- Diesel (per liter): approx. 20 NOK
Earnings in Norway vs. costs – is it worth it?
The key question is whether going abroad really makes sense. In most cases, yes. Hourly rates in Norway are many times higher than, for example, in Poland, and overtime is well paid.
If a worker has accommodation provided or shares it with others and controls expenses reasonably, it is possible to save money regularly. That is why, despite the high cost of living, Norway remains an attractive destination for earning money.
Example minimum rates (from 15.06.2025):
- Construction (skilled): 264.32 NOK/hour
- Construction (unskilled with experience): 249.00 NOK/hour
- Cleaning (over 18 years old): 236.54 NOK/hour
- Transport (freight): 229.00 NOK/hour
Taxes in Norway for migrant workers
Taxes in Norway for migrant workers are progressive, but the system is transparent. At the beginning of employment, a simplified tax system often applies, and the amount of advance payments depends on income and family situation.
It is worth remembering that taxes finance, among other things, healthcare and the social system. For many workers, this means real security and access to high-quality benefits.
Oslo – cost of living and work
Oslo – cost of living is the highest in the country, but it is also the largest labor market. For people without guaranteed accommodation, the capital can be a difficult place to start. That is why many workers choose regions outside Oslo, where costs are lower and demand for manual labor remains very high.
Cost of living guide in Norway – what to remember before departure?
Before leaving, it is worth preparing:
- a budget for the first few weeks,
- funds for a deposit and transport,
- a financial reserve for unexpected expenses.
A well-planned move to Norway helps avoid stress and allows you to focus on work.
Work in Norway – verified job offers
If you are considering going abroad and want the cost of living in Norway to be easier to manage, legal employment and a reliable employer are key.
On our europa.jobs platform, you will find up-to-date job offers in Norway aimed at manual workers, often with accommodation provided and clear employment conditions. This is a safe first step toward working and living in Norway.
