Want a personalized shortlist?
Take the 2-minute quiz and get recommended countries based on your income, lifestyle and priorities.
→ Start the quizMoving to Norway: At a Glance
Norway is in Northern Europe, with its main hub in Oslo. It’s known for a specific mix of lifestyle, work culture and affordability — and it can be a strong option for expats depending on your income level and priorities.
Key Numbers (2026)
Looking for detailed salary data? See Average Salary in Norway (2025) for comprehensive salary information, tax brackets, and profession-specific data.
Quick Links
Job Market and Career Opportunities
Why Norway Offers Europe's Highest Standard of Living
Norway consistently ranks as the world's happiest country with exceptional quality of life. With unemployment at just 3.5% and outstanding English proficiency (90%), opportunities abound for international professionals. Norway offers Europe's highest salaries, backed by oil wealth and strong economy. See detailed salary data here.
Top Industries in Norway
Oil & Gas
World leader with Equinor, Aker Solutions offering highest-paid engineering roles.
Maritime & Shipping
Global shipping leaders including Wilhelmsen and DNV GL.
Technology
Growing tech scene with companies like Opera, Kahoot and strong fintech sector.
Job Applications and Language Requirements
90% of Norwegians speak excellent English, making it ideal for international professionals. Norwegian language helpful for advancement but most international companies operate in English. Strong demand for skilled workers in engineering, tech and healthcare.
Pro Tip for Job Hunting
Finn.no and LinkedIn are main platforms. NAV.no for public sector jobs. 95% of companies offer excellent work-life balance and parental benefits.
Housing in Norway
Premium Housing Market
Norway has expensive but high-quality housing market. Average rent is €18/m², reflecting premium living standards with excellent availability (~60%). Purchase prices average €5,800/m², expensive but justified by build quality and long-term stability.
Major Cities by Housing Costs
Oslo
Bergen
Stavanger
Trondheim
Apartment Hunting - Practical Tips
- Use Finn.no: Norway's dominant housing platform
- D-number required: Norwegian ID needed for contracts
- Security deposits: Usually 3 months rent, returned after lease
- High standards: Excellent insulation, heating and build quality
Taxation and Net Salaries
Norwegian Tax System
Progressive tax with excellent public services. Average net salary ~€38,500 on €58,000 gross. High taxes fund world-class infrastructure and benefits. For comprehensive salary data including profession-specific information, see our detailed salary guide.
Income Tax Brackets 2025
| Income Bracket | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| under €23,000 | 22% |
| €23,000-58,000 | 32% |
| €58,000-100,000 | 42% |
| over €100,000 | 47.4% |
World's Best Social Benefits
Comprehensive welfare state: free healthcare and education, 12 months parental leave, generous unemployment benefits, excellent pension system funded by oil wealth.
Key Benefits:
- Free healthcare and higher education
- 12 months parental leave (49 weeks at 100%)
- Excellent public pension system
Cost of Living
Monthly Essential Costs
Groceries and Daily Items
€450/monthRema 1000, Kiwi and ICA are main chains. High prices but quality goods.
Transportation
€100/monthExcellent public transport, many cycle or walk.
Utilities
€120/monthOften included in rent, efficient systems.
Health Insurance
€0/monthFree universal healthcare funded by taxes.
Internet and Mobile
€55/monthTelenor, Telia and Ice. Excellent coverage nationwide.
Bureaucracy and Practical Matters
First Steps After Moving
D-number/National ID
Apply at Skatteetaten (Tax Administration). Required for everything. Duration: 2-4 weeks.
Bank Account
DNB, Nordea or SpareBank. Need D-number and employment contract.
Address Registration
Register address at Folkeregisteret. Required for healthcare access.
Culture and Lifestyle
Outdoor Paradise with International Community
Norway offers unmatched natural beauty with 90% English proficiency. Norwegian culture values equality, outdoor activities and work-life balance. Strong international community in major cities.
Lifestyle Characteristics
Nature & Fjords
Spectacular landscapes, Northern Lights, endless outdoor activities.
Work-Life Balance
37.5 hour work week, 5 weeks vacation minimum, flexible schedules.
Safety & Quality
One of world's safest countries with highest living standards.
Summary: Pros and Cons
Advantages
- Highest salaries in Europe (€58k)
- Excellent English proficiency (90%)
- World-class social benefits
- Spectacular nature and outdoor lifestyle
- Safest country in the world
Challenges
- Very high cost of living
- Long, dark winters
- High tax rates (32-47%)
- Expensive housing market
Final Recommendation
Best for: Professionals seeking highest salaries, world-class benefits and spectacular natural environment; must accept high living costs for premium quality of life.