Cost of living in Oslo: rent and everyday budget (official figures)

The two biggest questions are rent and everyday spending. Here are the official numbers rather than guesses.

Rent (Statistics Norway, 2025)

Average monthly rent in Oslo and Bærum from SSB's rental market survey (Leiemarkedsundersøkelsen):

Size	Oslo & Bærum	Bergen	Whole country
1 room	NOK 10,090	NOK 7,510	NOK 8,770
2 rooms	NOK 15,260	NOK 11,870	NOK 11,790
3 rooms	NOK 19,030	NOK 13,720	NOK 13,910
4 rooms	NOK 23,200	NOK 17,110	NOK 15,640

SSB notes that a 2-room unit in Oslo and surroundings averaged 29% more than the national average. Inside Oslo it varies too: SSB estimates a standard 50 m² 2-room flat at NOK 16,700/month in Frogner, Ullern, Sentrum and St. Hanshaugen versus NOK 14,500 in Søndre Nordstrand, Grorud, Stovner and Alna.

Everyday spending (SIFO reference budget 2026)

SIFO at OsloMet publishes a yearly "reference budget" for a reasonable standard of living. It excludes housing and electricity. For 2026 (prices collected February 2026):

Household (no car)	Per month
Single woman, 25–50	NOK 12,599
Single man, 25–50	NOK 12,909
Couple, 25–50	NOK 21,678

Use SIFO's calculator for your own household.

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Electricity – not in SIFO's budget; prices are higher in winter. See electricity.
Deposit – up to six months' rent, see renting an apartment.
Phone and internet – see mobile and broadband.

Cost of living in Oslo: rent and everyday budget (official figures)

Rent (Statistics Norway, 2025)

Everyday spending (SIFO reference budget 2026)

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Sources