Is Oslo Expensive? The Complete Cost of Living Guide 2025
Yes, Oslo is expensive - it consistently ranks among the world's most costly cities. However, high salaries (average €50,000-60,000/year) and excellent public services help balance the higher prices. This comprehensive guide breaks down exactly what you'll spend living in Oslo, from rent and groceries to transportation and entertainment.
Prices are shown in Euros (€) for international comparison, with Norwegian Krone (kr) equivalents where relevant.
Monthly Cost of Living Summary
Single Person (excluding rent)
Budget Living
Shared housing, home cooking, minimal entertainment
€1,800/mo
Comfortable Living
1-bed apartment, moderate dining out, activities
€2,800/mo
Housing & Rent Costs in Oslo
Housing is the single largest expense in Oslo. Rental prices vary significantly by neighborhood and apartment size.
| Apartment Type | City Center | Outside Center |
|---|---|---|
| Studio (25-35m²) | €1,400 | €1,000 |
| 1-Bedroom (40-50m²) | €1,700 | €1,200 |
| 2-Bedroom (60-80m²) | €2,400 | €1,700 |
| 3-Bedroom (90-110m²) | €3,200 | €2,200 |
Additional housing costs:
- • Deposit: 2-3 months' rent (refundable)
- • Utilities: €100-200/month (heating, water, electricity)
- • Internet: €30-50/month
- • Home insurance: €15-30/month
Grocery Prices in Oslo
Groceries in Oslo are expensive compared to most European cities. Shopping at budget supermarkets (Kiwi, Rema 1000, Extra) helps save money compared to premium chains (Meny, Jacobs).
Basic Groceries
- Milk (1L) €1.80
- Bread (500g) €3.50
- Eggs (12) €4.00
- Cheese (1kg) €12.00
- Chicken (1kg) €14.00
Produce & Staples
- Apples (1kg) €3.50
- Tomatoes (1kg) €4.50
- Potatoes (1kg) €2.00
- Rice (1kg) €3.00
- Pasta (500g) €2.50
️ Restaurant & Dining Costs
Eating out in Oslo is expensive. A typical restaurant meal costs 2-3x what you'd pay in southern Europe.
Tip: Many Norwegians "pre-drink" (vorspiel) at home before going out due to high bar prices. Alcohol is particularly expensive in Norway due to taxes.
Transportation Costs
Oslo's public transport is excellent but not cheap. However, it's still more economical than owning a car.
Public Transport (Ruter)
- Single ticket (1 zone) €4.00
- 24-hour pass €12.00
- 30-day pass €85.00
- Annual pass €900
Other Transport
- Taxi (start) €10
- Taxi (per km) €2.50
- Petrol (per liter) €2.00
- City bike (seasonal) €35/year
Utilities & Bills
Average monthly costs for a 1-bedroom apartment (50-60m²):
- Electricity & heating €80-120
- Water €30-40
- Internet (fiber) €30-50
- Mobile phone €20-40
- Total utilities €160-250/month
Note: Electricity prices in Norway fluctuate significantly by season. Winter heating costs can double summer prices.
Clothing & Personal Care
Clothing
- Jeans (Levi's) €100
- Summer dress (H&M) €40
- Sneakers (Nike) €100
Personal Care
- Haircut (women) €60-100
- Haircut (men) €40-60
- Gym membership €40-70/mo
Salaries in Oslo vs Cost of Living
While Oslo is expensive, salaries are correspondingly high. After-tax income typically covers living expenses comfortably for professionals.
Average Salaries (Gross Annual)
- Entry-level professional €40,000-50,000
- Mid-level professional €50,000-70,000
- Senior professional €70,000-100,000+
- Service sector €35,000-45,000
Tax: Expect 22-38% income tax depending on salary level. However, this includes comprehensive healthcare, education, and social benefits.
Oslo vs Other Cities
How does Oslo compare to other expensive cities? (Monthly cost for single person, excluding rent)
| City | Cost/Month | vs Oslo |
|---|---|---|
| Oslo | €930 | - |
| Stockholm | €850 | -9% |
| Copenhagen | €920 | -1% |
| London | €950 | +2% |
| Berlin | €700 | -25% |