75 responses so far ↓

• 1 Diane Scott // Jul 27, 2008 at 9:56 am

  Wow, sort of puts living here in the U.S. in perspective doesn’t it! Yikes!

• 2 RennyBA // Jul 27, 2008 at 5:40 pm

  A very interesting subject and I think you have done quite well so far. Sorry I was late getting back to you but I hope you find my reply mail useful.

  It’s important to state that we are not talking about cost of tourism. The price level might seem very high for people in other parts of the world. Talking about cost of living you have to take income level, tax, and public services like health care - meaning what you can buy for your nett salary into consideration.

  I am not trying to paint a false picture, the prices are definitely high in Norway. But the living standard despite this, and partially because of this, is very high.

  Not to make this another post, let me give some personal examples from public health care and the education system:
  My wife from the US recieved a hip replacement 2 years after she came to Norway, with rehabilitation for 6 months without it costing us anything. Now she is almost finished with her Masters Degree, she has taken her whole college education here, at no cost to us. In fact students here get a scholarship to help pay for their living and book costs. We did take a loan but that has paid for living expenses.

• 3 DianeCA // Jul 27, 2008 at 6:10 pm

  Part of the reason it is difficult to find an answer to your question is that it takes a short economy & political lesson to understand how things fit together. You really have to see the big picture, which took me a few years to find out. What you have to compare is as Renny says what standard of living you get for your earnings. To give an example my 19 year old son took a year ‘free’ before college and worked in a preschool at a relatively low level job. His income for the year was 220,000 kr or just over 40,000 dollars. Much of the inflated prices on luxury goods like cars, alcohol, and eating out go to taxes which pay for services for the entire society, like free higher education, health care, 5 weeks vacation, one year maternity leave - shared by both parents. As well as many other things. If you want a longer answer send me an email and I will do my best. (Mrs Renny)

• 4 Kristie // Jul 28, 2008 at 10:29 pm

  @RennyBA: Of course those types of benifits are wonderful…if you use them. Then there is the person like me who is not going to school, and have not had the need for any medical care at all. And personally with the taxes being so high and the cost of everything so high, I am having a lower standard of living than I did in the US. Anyways, I know if I was to have a baby I would want to be in Norway with the ridiculous amout of maternity leave they get (with such a high percentage of pay) but I am unfortunately unable to use that wonderful service of Norway too :) Of course it is different for everyone!

• 5 Curtis // Jul 30, 2008 at 3:00 pm

  In terms of the cost of food, Norwegians spend just over 10% of their salary on such purchases. That is considerably lower than most of their European counterparts. Another example is that after one hour of work, the average Norwegian can purchase more petrol than the average Spanish, Portuguese or French worker. What I am trying to point out is that cost of living is in-line with salaries. The average Norwegian earns nearly 10′000 USD per year more than the average American, while working about one month less per year! Salaries are high, cost of living is high: it goes hand-in-hand. It is not a perfect system, but in general the cost of living is no problem for those living in Norway, unlike the large numbers of truly poor in my home country, the United States.

• 6 Ole // Jul 31, 2008 at 10:48 pm

  You have to keep in mind that the people making and serving you the world’s most expensive beer probably makes about as much money as you do. $25-30/hour is normal wage for unskilled jobs.

  Gasoline is $10/gallon, but like cars, alcohol and tobacco most of the price is taxes going back to you in terms of free health care, 1 year sick pay, free higher education, pensions etc.

  Overall I would say that the average Norwegian and the average American has about the same standard of living.

• 7 Michael Adebayo // Aug 29, 2008 at 8:12 am

  I need unskilled job in Norway, or with the Norwegian Farmer’s Union or Norwegian Small holders Farmers Union.

  Thank you

• 8 Buchner // Sep 13, 2008 at 8:44 pm

  I am looking for Truck driver job, i have working exprience , 11 years in europe and 3 years in USA. and i have 8 years as fuck lift driver also. age 42, i am a German.contact me if any person have a job for me.

• 9 Esther // Sep 13, 2008 at 8:49 pm

  I am married woman, a German, age 39,we want to move to Norway, to live and work there, if any body have a job for me pls contact me.
  I have work in production,company for over 5 years, and cleaning job for 7 years. I speak perfect English and German.

• 10 fowmy // Sep 24, 2008 at 3:50 am

  i wanna know how much taxes wil i have to pay when i di a unskilled job in norway

• 11 stromme // Sep 28, 2008 at 8:24 am

  woman are beter looking in Norway ,

• 12 AJ // Oct 14, 2008 at 4:56 am

  Speaking as a Norwegian expat (the opposite of Kristie), it’s important to know *why* prices are so high in Norway. Some things like cars, gasoline, and alcohol are primarily due to special taxes above the norm, but mostly prices are dictated by purchasing power. I.e., prices are high in Norway because Norwegians can afford them. Norwegians love to point out the lower prices in continental Europe, especially places like Spain, but they never point out the lower wages and fewer government services there at the same time.

  Rather than translate Norwegian prices into U.S. dollars or whatever else you’re familiar with, I’d rather spend my time figuring out what lifestyle I can afford if relocated to Norway.

  P.S. One interesting side-benefit of this situation is that vacations abroad are generally far more affordable than for other nationalities.

• 13 Kristie // Oct 16, 2008 at 5:13 pm

  @AJ: I agree that its better to spend your time figuring out what lifestyle you can afford in Norway is the best way to think about it. I know all Norwegians say that because of the salaries and government support that you can afford these more expensive prices - so in theory it evens out. But I have to say that I STRONGLY disagree. Even with the higher salaries here and government support, here in Norway I will NEVER be able to get my nails done like I did when I lived in LA. I am unable to go out to eat or for drinks whenever I want here because it is SO expensive it has to be planned. Where in the US I ate out every day and when I wanted to go out for drinks I never had to worry about how many I had (because of how expensive it was). And as far as drinks in Norway, not only are they incomparably expensive in bars and restaurants (to the US) but there is almost NO alcohol in them. You have to have like three or four to even feel a tiny buzz…where as in the US two is more than enough for me usually.
  So I am sorry to say, because I know Norwegians defend it with their lives…. but I do not think that the higher salaries and government support make MY quality of life any better here in Norway than it was in the US.

• 14 AJ // Oct 16, 2008 at 8:34 pm

  Kristie,

  You are, of course, completely correct. Even when you adjust for higher salaries and more government benefits, there are things that are far more expensive in Norway than the U.S. Alcohol and tobacco are heavily taxed. Combined with a relatively much higher salary for low-end jobs, restaurant visits quickly become an expensive affair, as do getting your nails done. The flip side is of course you can make ends meet working in a restaurant, which is much harder to do in the U.S.

  Whether that makes for better living, well that’s a rather subjective topic.

• 15 moni // Oct 17, 2008 at 3:53 am

  Kristie,
  how old are you?? I agree with the nails and restaurants and so forth, but in a long run what is about retirement?? health care>>> if you are fired you don’t get anything, also I already worked 23 years of my life in this country and you can lose everything, there is 5 million people losing their homes. Do you know that??? for young people is fun but for mid 30 and 40 and 50 unless you are getting a retirement from the state or federal govermment, for example i used to work 10 years for the state which i will have a pension now at the present time i work for a private company health care is high and not affordable. also if i am fired i have to start all over again and you only get 250 per week as unemployment working at least 1 year to qualify in Florida state, do you know the cost of university here only on loans, my kids will benefit better education maybe 3 different languages and the cons are horrible weather, no restaurants and no nails no beer but i can live without that because for the last 5 years we couldn’t go anywhere as a family trip because there is recession and we only focus paying a private school for my kids, why because we want a better and achieving careers for our children. Not just that in norway they can benefit with a broad opinion and they are europeans and also americans then we will have to be able to travel as family in europe and not just wait for them to grow up and then be in debt and not be able to travel at least to know what is going on in other part of the world, i have my own experiences in Erurope the weather is horrible but regardless that i am american i am also peruvian born and before i came to US, I lived in Europe in Germany and I have to tell you the proper experience, educated people and their culture was very similar to the spanish tradition, which is called culture, traditions, clothing and relating to your ancestors.

• 16 Tom // Oct 19, 2008 at 7:26 am

  Norwegians are being raped by their own government, yet they can’t see that. The nationalistic brainwash does the job. What fools are they. We have free healthcare and schools, hi, hi, hi, you morons, no you pay with your taxes for your “freebies”. And alcohol? Look at those fools getting hammered on weekends with booze being hauled from Sweden. Pathetic. And in general prices should reflect manufacturing cost plus profit. “we pay because we can afford” …and sun shines because it can too,,, Jesus!

• 17 Kristie // Oct 24, 2008 at 4:25 pm

  @moni: Moni - I totally understand all that you say. And I know its bad now in the US. Maybe it would be better for you here, but no one but you and your family can know that for sure. I know that healthcare costs in the US is a big problem, and that it is better over here for that. So are you saying that you are one of the “5 million people losing their homes”? Just curious because if your family is in a financial crisis that might make the situation different. Do you and your husband have good job offers here in Norway? That also might make the situation different. If I was you I would for sure not move here without good jobs. There is a shortage of jobs here and a lot of people are having financial problems and loosing their apartments/houses here too (the US isnt the only place having money problems). If you and your husband DO have good jobs here, well then…if you are so frightened of all of the possibilities that could happen to you where you are now…then you should think about it.
  When you originally commented you said that your husband thought that the dual nationality would benefit your children. Which I replied to that with what I thought. If there are other huge factors going in to your decision (like money problems/fears) then I dont think someone like me can advise you wisely on this decision. All I know is that it is a HUGE decision (especially when you have two kids involved). And dont forget…the Norwegian culture is not at all like the German or Spanish culture - at least as far as how people treat you on a daily basis. Its not that Norwegians are unfriendly….but they are so unfriendly. I know that doesn’t make sense, but if you move here, dont be surprised if you have a lot of trouble integrating yourself into the community and culture. It is just something to think about! But good luck and please let me know if you do decide to move here! I would love to hear how it goes for you (an who knows…maybe you will have better luck making friends with Norwegians than I have :) )!

• 18 Kristie // Oct 24, 2008 at 4:29 pm

  @AJ: I totally agree :)

• 19 terry // Nov 29, 2008 at 9:13 pm

  it seems quite expensive but what sort of income do they get

• 20 Vibeke // Dec 27, 2008 at 1:03 pm

  Yeah, stuff is more expensive in Norway, but Norwegians earn more. As with most financial concepts, it differs per situation.

  If I chose to live in the US, I could live in a bigger house and eat like I was rich, working in a normal job. However, I would not have 5 weeks of paid holiday, paid sick-days etc.

  In Norway you pay more taxes than the services would require. Our hospitals and schools do not have an especially high standard, our roads are worn out, etc. etc. But internationally recognized statistics do state year after year that Norway is (one of) the country with the highest standard of living in the world.

  The cost of alcohol is a misguided and outdated attempt at controlling the alcohol consumption (since the prohibition, hence Vinmonopolet). This has however lead to Norwegians drinking like idiots whenever possible.

  Rent is another thing which is more expensive than it needs to be. And the 25% VAT on most products sure don’t help.

  In conclusion: Norway is more expensive than it needs to be, but working any job you’ll be able to provide for yourself just fine, and you don’t have to worry about getting sick etc.

• 21 Kristie // Jan 4, 2009 at 10:24 pm

  @Vibeke: I totally agree with your well stated opinion! You put it very well. But the prices of alcohol here really just drive you to drink, dont they! It doesent make sense, but if you lived here you would understand!

• 22 Werner // Jan 14, 2009 at 4:46 am

  I’ve read a few comments here, and I can’t really agree that we norwegians are blind idiots that try to defend the goverments high taxes. When looking into the elections for example, taxes are one of the most discussed topics every time. However, the goverment to “rape” us, they don’t really lower the taxes at all, even though they promise to do so every year. But none of the political parties seem to do something about it when they sit in the big chair.

  When it comes to wage, it is somewhat dependent on where you live in the country as well. I live on the west coast of Norway, and I work on the night shift at a ship yard. I make 336 NOK per hour (47 USD). Of that, the goverment take 36% in tax, so the net income is 214 NOK per hour.

  My 80 sq meter appartment (860 sq ft) costs me about 5000 NOK per month (700 USD). On top of that is electricity, internet, telephone etc. Expensive, yes, but I can easily afford it, and I can still go out every weekend with our riddiculus alcohol prices.

• 23 Ezequiel // Jan 17, 2009 at 11:36 am

  It is true that you can’t compare prices between two countries just like that, you have to take into account salaries and quality of life. For example, I live in Argentina (I found this blog because I’m planning to move to europe while I finish grad school), and a beer (1 lt.) costs 1USD. Cheap? WRONG. It’s not so cheap when minimum wages are 300 USD more or less, and living here it’s rather expensive. For example, right now it’s hot! (it’s summer), with temperatures around 30-38ºC, and my last electrical bill was 200USD (we have energy problems here).

  Yes, Norway could be cheaper, the gonvernment could stop “raping” you, but c’mon, the perks outweigh the cons. Health care, sick days, maternity leave, excellent university education for free (yes, it’s rather great, there are several norwegian universities in europes Top 50 universities).
  It seems that complaining it’s a national sport in Argentina and in northen europe (take no offense please xD)

• 24 Jorge // Feb 10, 2009 at 4:27 am

  Kristine, are you serious? You can’t have your nails done, you can’t go out and eat every day, you can’t even have a few drinks as often as you used to do it here in USA, but do you really think you’ll be happier having those things back? I am a truck driver and I make $67000-$70000 a year. I HAVE to go out every day and eat. My wife gets her nails done whenever she feels like it, and her work doesn’t generate any income, she takes care of my children. Everything seems to be going allright and I am really thankful for the oportunities that this country provides. But, what if I lose my job? Everything will be jeopardize, everything. What if I fall and there is nobody else to blame and I have to take time off to recover? They won’t pay me a dime! My wife is pregnant and she is due this march. Will I be able to be there for her when the time comes? No! I will have to wait untill the baby is born so I could ask for some time off but of course I won’t get paid. I could take a paternity leave for trhee months, but again no pay.

  My younger brother is 24 and he just got out of college. He hasn’t join the work force yet, but his debt is more than $70000 and he will be making only $35000 a year for who knows how long. I’ve been paying over $240 a month for medical ensurence. I still have to cover %20 of any expenses. I own $290000 for my house even tho a can’t sell it for more than $180000 now. It doesn’t make any diference whatsoever if the goverment doesn’t charge us for education and health ensurance with taxes, 95% of the population can’t afort it anyway. Somebody said that if you have a job in Norway you will meet all your needs, no luxuries, but confortable, and with an unemployment rate of only 2.7% the chances that somebody will strugle in Norway are very low. So I am more than willing to sacrifice my wife’s nails, a few beers and some cigarrettes for all the SECURITY Norway offers. Unless you are a VERY shallow person, or an alcoholic you should be for grateful for education, health care and all the benefits you CAN affort and you GET by paying your taxes.

• 25 Kristie // Feb 10, 2009 at 6:28 pm

  Hey Jorge! Thanks for sharing your thoughts, but just so you know the ’security’ you think you would have in Norway might not be all it seems. Everyone seems to be praising Norway for the security they think they would/do have here, but just in case you were wondering, I am finding these basic ’securities’ very hard to come by. Plus, I am not the only one. It seems that a large number of foreigners struggle with alot of these things, and find the promised government support hard to come by (even when they have paid taxes - ridiculous taxes for over ten years). It is awfully easy to judge and call names, but just remember…the grass is always greener on the other continent. You have just touched on a very sensitive subject for me at the moment, which I think I should write about in a post soon. All I know is that in my time here, that the moment I actually need this ’security’ that Norway is supposed to provide (aka healthcare), I am finding it impossible to get. I think that all the benefits and security that you perceive Norway to have only applies to Norwegin nationals and people married to Norwegians. It is a much different story for foreigners in Norway. At least that is my experience. But thanks for sharing you thoughts!

• 26 Jorge // Feb 10, 2009 at 8:42 pm

  Look, I am deeply sorry if I went too far, or if I touched a nerve, I am sorry. But I base my opinion on facts, and the facts only. The facts are impresive to say the least. Unemployment rate: 2.4%. HDI: 0.96 1st place for 6 consecutive years and 2nd place last year. GDI nominal per capita $102.500. GINI Coefficient: 25.8. If you look at it from a neutral point of view, I can’t see how you would have a bad opinion against Norway. Now, I don’t want to base my opinion on something that one of the 0.89% who live in poverty has to say, or one of the non-existent people who live under the line of poverty has to say. All I am saying is that if some immigrants are struggling in Norway you can’t blame the economical system. Discrimination souns more like it.

  And don’t get me wrong, I wasn’t calling you names, it was just the fact that you complained for something sooooo vain (nails, drinks) that just pissed me off. I know I was out of line, I’m sorry.

• 27 Vibeke // Feb 10, 2009 at 10:14 pm

  I don’t know what Kristie is going through at the moment, so this might be completely irrelevant to her situation. Still it’s relevant to most immigrants, so I’ll write it out anyways.

  With certain exceptions for EEA citizens, you’re not automatically a member of the Norwegian Social Insurance Scheme as an immigrant to Norway. This means that as e.g. an American moving to the country, you still need your own health insurance until you’re entitled to membership. Once you are a member, certain cervices require that you have been a member for a set length of time.

  All persons working in Norway are compulsory members of the Norwegian National Insurance Scheme from their first day of work. Through the membership you are entitled a.o. to health services in Norway and can earn pension rights according to the regulations of the Norwegian National Insurance Scheme (visit http://www.nav.no for more information).

  That Kristie is being left out after 10 years of paying taxes simply sounds wrong to me. It sound like she should be entitled to every benefit, including pension rights. One thing which is absolutely certain, is that she should not be denied any kind of medical treatment if needed.

  Kristie, if you’d like to (globally) explain the problem you’re facing, I’d appreciate it. I’m trying to import my own American, and any issues I’m not aware of could show to be a problem later on.

  Jorge; I think you’re absolutely right. Complaining about drinks and nails should fire up anyone facing any real problems. You also base everything on facts. The Norwegian system is constructed to support you when you need it. The cost of this, is that you have to support the system while you can.

• 28 Kristie // Feb 10, 2009 at 11:02 pm

  HI! Thanks for your thoughts. I would guess by your answer you are Norwegian? I understand everything you so kindly explained (and yes, it is good because it is helpful for all foreigners in Norway). Unfortunately, when push comes to shove it is my expreince that what ’should’ be is often not what happens. Of course I am entiltled, and everyone will say I am. But it is getting anything done that seems to be the problem. I would love to explain the problem extensively but at the moment I dont have the time and am not sure I want to because of its personal nature. The healthcare that I am being denied is a very serious issue and the health problems I am suffering from are severe (to say the least). But you are right, no matter who you talk to at nav or otherwise, everyone says I should be treated. But somehow, dosent happen. And EVERYONE I talk to about this says ‘that is not right’. But no one can seem to fix it.
  If you are Norwegian, yourself, in my experience your ‘imported’ American should not experience any of the problems that I am having. It seems these problems are exclusively for foreigners who are NOT married to a Norwegian.
  And by the way, I’d like to comment on what you said, ‘complaining about drinks and nails should fire up anyone facing any real problems’. Sometimes it is okay to take things a little lighter. Maybe that person (me) is having ‘real problems’ too, but chooses to show ‘lighter’ differences of her life between Norway and California on her blog, While at the same time with a tongue-in-cheek attitude is laughing at her own culture shock.
  If anyone is reading my blog and taking everything SO SERIOUSLY, maybe this isnt for them. I have made it a point to not write anything about Norway that could really ‘fire’ someone up. I have made it a point to laugh at myself, my own reactions to living in a new culture and portray my experience in a light-hearted, humorous light.

• 29 Kristie // Feb 10, 2009 at 11:08 pm

  Hey Jorge, Thanks for the apology. I usually try to take things very lightly on my site, but things have been difficult for me latley here in Norway and it seems as though a lot of people just want to complain, judge and basically bitch about their lives and how it is so much better somewhere else. I do think that you hit the nail on the head with what you said though, it IS discrimination. That is exactly what it is. Anyways, I always welcome anybodys comments and thoughts. I usually dont react! But you caught me at a sensitive time :) I hope you keep reading and commenting! Thanks.

• 30 Vibeke // Feb 10, 2009 at 11:44 pm

  Kristie, it sounds like you’re going through quite a nightmare, and if it’s a result of discrimination, it’s all the more shocking and wrong. Makes me hope that instead it’s the result of the general incompetence that is found throughout the country’s entire public services. Which would still be wrong, but more forgivable.

  Bottom line is that you should get the treatment you need, and you should get it quickly without having to go through hell for it first. I hope it works out for you soon, and that you’re taken care of the way the Norwegian tax payers intend it.

  I also want to make sure you understand that I didn’t say that you talking about “drinks and nails” would in any way mean that you have no real problems or that you’re shallow. I meant to say that I understand how that could provoke, when in a situation such as Jorge’s. This is your blog, and I assume the apparent success of it, must be thanks to your tone and way of writing. It’s good, I read it :)

  My need to comment on what Jorge was saying, is that I thought his reaction was nothing to apologize for, though specifying that he wasn’t calling you personally an alcoholic or very shallow was good.

  Good luck, Kristie!

• 31 Kristie // Feb 10, 2009 at 11:58 pm

  @Vibeke:

  Vibeke, Thanks for that! And maybe it isnt discrimination, but more incompetence as you said. The only reason it feels like discrimination is that I have been told by several people including my primary doctor that the only way to get what I needed is if I ‘knew’ someone. Which makes it feel (to me) like a secretive Norwegian club that I cant get in! It has just been a bad situation. Thanks for your sympathy! And sorry if I am reacting to what you two are commenting about, but as I said, I am experiencing some very stressful situations with all of this right now so my nerves are RAW! Thanks for understanding.
  I am glad you read my blog and are commenting. I try to have a more or less ‘positive’ attitude about everything. Theres so much shit in the world already, I dont think I need to add any! Although, I have been considering writing a little about my bad experiences right now. I am kind of waiting for my ‘happy ending’ and solutions, then I can have a better tone when sharing about it :) And maybe help others going through something similar (God help them!). Anyways, Thanks so much for participating. Its always great to know people are actually reading it! Now one more reader is an actual person to me and not just a ’statistic’ :) And good luck with your ‘import’.

• 32 Stromme // Feb 11, 2009 at 12:04 am

  Americans should learn from us norwegions and stop supporting all the Immigrant Illegal immigrations and stop selling out there country..

• 33 sid // Feb 21, 2009 at 3:09 am

  i am planning to move to trondhiem from CA. the company is offering me NOK 600,000 per year. If you apply the ocnversion rate of USD to NOK it is less than what i make in the US but i am moving to norway for other reasons. would anybody know if the salary i am being offered is good enough to have a decent standard of living

• 34 H // Feb 27, 2009 at 11:45 am

  I have relocated to Oslo four months ago. Let me tell you, I was very optimistic and I understand that for Norwegians it is also frustrating to have all those foreigners around. I signed up for a Norwegian course, extremely expensive for someone that does not have a job (20,000 NOK) for 4 levels which allows you to understand and speak very basic Norwegian. I am not entitled to free classes because I am not a refugee and I am not married to Norwegian citizen. It is very difficult to get a job if you are not fluent in the Norwegian language or if you are not en engineer/IT specialist (these two can get a job with English only). The society is closed and it is VERY difficult to integrate! My partner is Norwegian so I have an opportunity to be introduced but to be quite honest nobody wants to be friends with you. They may make an initial effort to meet for a coffee once, but that is that. I am currently suffering, I cannot believe I have actually moved here and hoped all will be good. Yes, you can go skiing and skating but there is not a lot of other entertainment. Oslo as a capital sucks. And I am being optimistic here…

• 35 Stromme // Mar 1, 2009 at 2:09 am

  Sweden is great , try there

• 36 Vibeke // Mar 1, 2009 at 3:58 am

  @Sid,

  600.000 is a very decent salary. Plenty of Norwegians are making a good living on less than that.

  If you are the only income of the household, I’d recommend that you’d look into buying a house/flat soon, though, as the rent in Trondheim is kinda ridiculous.

  I’m a Norwegian with a degree, and 600.000 is more than I’ll require to take a job to provide for myself AND my partner.

• 37 William // Mar 1, 2009 at 3:39 pm

  @H hey there reading your comment I could relate about how people are here are you american? I ‘am and people seem to be cool with you when they want too but people are just rude in general I notice even with their fellow norwegians, so i guess that s how it goes here where did you come from?

• 38 sid // Mar 1, 2009 at 6:15 pm

  @vibeke. Thanks very much for responding. i was trying to look online to see what the real estate market might be but so far i have come up blank. i have only found listing for one house and at this time i do not have any idea how far this would be from my office. i have a job offer with statoil. although i visited there for an interview i did not get the chance to do any house hunting etc.

  i would greatly appreciate any leads/links to websites

  thanks

• 39 Vibeke // Mar 1, 2009 at 9:36 pm

  @Sid

  My father has worked for Statoil for 25 years now, it’s a good employer. Well done :)

  Finn.no is a good website to look for houses. You can look for rental property and for buying. It requires a bit of understanding of Norwegian, but it’ll give you a good idea of what you can get for how much money in specific areas of the country, or cities.

  Statoil seems to me to be the kind of company that would help you out with housing. I might be wrong, but it’s worth asking them if they can offer you something.

  Good luck with everything!

• 40 sid // Mar 2, 2009 at 4:50 am

  @vibeke

  thanks for responding, i guess i will have to start learning norwegian earlier than expected :-)thanks a lot for the info. statoil is helping with the inital housing but as it is a good time to buy it may be worth looking around.

• 41 Shankari // Mar 4, 2009 at 3:46 pm

  I’m just curious. How did everyone get the jobs in Norway? Is there a job site? Can someone steer me the right direction?

  I’m with Jorge. Things are very rough right now in America. It’s very difficult to get a job even with a Master’s degree. My kid is struggling to get student loans.

  I’ve heard Norwegians are stand-offish. That’s okay. I’m a bit shy myself. I used to live in Thailand where the bureaucracy was insanely slow and disorganized. That would not bother me either. I think the only thing that might bother me is the weather. Ironically, I’m from the Seattle area.

• 42 Stromme // Mar 5, 2009 at 8:33 am

  America is finished , get out while you can…

• 43 Zero Living Cost in Norway // Mar 8, 2009 at 8:32 am

  While I was reading all this I want to tell you that it is zero living cost in Norway.
  Why?
  well you people compare it with US or other capitalist countries that have no social benefits at all. In USA you have to pay for everything.
  I myself lived in Sweden for 8 yrs and shall move to norway perhaps. Why?
  ok. in norway it is free from birth till death. it means you can live in norway without job or working at all. the government has many schemes that support you throughout your life. They give you a good money for paying bills, eating and drinking . you can collect money from benefits like studybidrag,socialbidrag, and many others. If you dont want to work and want state to pay for your bills. Norway is the best country. the only problem is cold and snow.

• 44 Kristie // Mar 8, 2009 at 6:51 pm

  Hey! Thanks for the comment. It would be so great if you could tell me exactly how that works, because I dont know how to live here with the country paying for anything. I must have missed something and it would be so helpful if you could explain in greater detail what you are talking about. Thanks!

• 45 Stromme // Mar 8, 2009 at 11:28 pm

  You must be a pakistani to live free in Norway…

• 46 H // Mar 10, 2009 at 2:19 pm

  Yes, well is not really free for all, is it? If you are a Norwegian, became Norwegian by marrying into the society then I guess you have a chance for all that. I believe you have to work for minimum 3 years to claim health/sickness benefits and live on government cost. I don’t know what I expected. People are cold and look at you like you are a crazy person and they call you an immigrant, an invader - go to London instead.

• 47 sid // Mar 10, 2009 at 9:12 pm

  I see that a lot of people on this website have complaints about the attiude of locals towards the forigners. This really surprises me because when i spent 3 months in norway (Bergen), i can trully say that i found everyone to be very open and welcoming. i had no problems and made wonderful friends. Infact because i was a forgein national i thought that they went out of their to help me

  it is because of the fantastic expereince i had in Bergen i have decided to leave the US and move to norway. maybe i got lucky last time and i hope that good luck continues

• 48 MAR // Mar 10, 2009 at 10:13 pm

  @Kristie…. great blog!

  @Anyone…. If everything goes right, I will be planning to move to Norway very soon and I was looking for some guidance on the expenses.

  According to what Kristie said someone will need about 21.000 NOK (Rent, Groceries, Utilities and Transportation) I didn’t include entertainment because I thing that not everyone will have the same interests when talking about entertainment.

  I will appreciate if someone can tell me what can a couple expect to expend in Norway, like a price list, please tell me the city.

  Kristie’s List (Just for her expenses?)
  City: Oslo
  Rent………………. 12.000
  Groceries………… 5.000
  Utilities ………….. 2.000 (this includes Electricity, gas (cook), water, telephone???)
  Transportation…. 2.000
  Total:……………… 21.000 NOK

  Thanks!!

• 49 Kristie // Mar 10, 2009 at 10:20 pm

  Hey Mar, I hope you get some more specific answers than I provided in this post. If you do, please share it with us. It is a popular topic. I just wanted to clarify that those are not my personal expenses, but some quotes I took from other people on a forum to share what others had said about it. Thanks though, for the nice comment! And as I said, please share with us what you find out! Thank you.

• 50 MAR // Mar 10, 2009 at 10:36 pm

  I hope someone reply, I has been difficult to find that kind of information…I am an expat right now, and in my 8 month of living in a foreign country is when I finally can say that I know how much I am expending each month. I know it took me to much ha ha, but that’s what I’m trying to avoid the next time! Thanks!

• 51 Just Me // May 26, 2009 at 12:47 am

  I see I’m a bit late jumping into the discussion, but I’ve found it very interesting and would like to add my 2 cents as an American who is a very frequent visitor to Norway.

  First, as I mentioned, I am an American citizen. I make about $60K per year and have about 4 months of vacation per year (bingo, I teach!) I have no husband nor children, so my money is mine to spend as I wish, and traveling is how I most like to spend it. My best friend is Norwegian and lives near Oslo. I’ve been visiting Norway since she moved back there after leaving the university here nearly 20 years ago. Thus, when I visit, I (thankfully) don’t have to worry about paying for a hotel since it’s all I can do to afford the day-to-day expenses. Also, I don’t drink (again, thankfully), so that is one less expense I have to worry about.

  My own experiences with Norway and Norwegians run the gamut from absolutely wonderful to completely horrible. My first couple of visits were the worst…total culture shock in every way, shape and form. Norway, 20 years ago, was a very different place than it is now. There were very few foreigners, Norwegians were VERY reserved with strangers, the grocery stores had little in the way of variety, and restaurants — other than high end ones in hotels or little places that served roasted chicken and french fries — were scarce. There was nothing in the way of international cuisine.

  The Norwegians. During my first trip, I was almost certainly labeled as a psycho by the locals. I would greet strangers in passing, and they would just stare at me in shock. On one occasion, I met a Moroccan guy working in a grocery store and was beside myself with joy simply because he was willing to chat with me in the produce section. After just a couple moments, I noticed that my fellow (Norwegian) shoppers and pretty much parked their carts and were staring at us open-mouthed. My Norwegian friend explained to me that chatting up strangers in the grocery store just wasn’t done! I had a veeeery hard time that trip, particularly because Norwegians do a Jekyll/Hyde thing once they start drinking. Sober, they are just that — sober as hell. Once they have a few beers, they come unglued. My first trip to a club almost led to me slapping a guy who introduced him and then promptly asked me (in English) if I wanted to f*&^. My friend again explained to me that this was fairly normal behavior amongst Norwegian drunks. Howeveeeeer, once you get to know the Norwegians, they are wonderful and a lot of fun…it’s just getting to know them that’s hard. Over the years, I’ve found that they are opening up quite a lot to strangers, probably because of the influx of foreigners who have moved there over the last 15 years or so. The younger generation is much more open and much friendlier than their parents (and, I imagine, grandparents are.)

  The Foreigners. That influx of foreigners has changed Norway dramatically, in most aspects in a very good way…at least to those (like me) who appreciate diversity. There is also know much more variety in terms of food. I used to SUFFER gastronomically ever summer I spent there, but now one can find a variety of different foods to eat, though still not quite the variety you’d find in the U.S. or other European countries. The influx of foreigners has also revealed the ugly underbelly of Norway as well, since overt racism and discrimination have become common. I don’t think this speaks badly of the Norwegians as a whole, however, since most countries go through this process of adjustment and xenophobia, and from what I have seen, the young people are much more accepting than their elders. What is a little ironic to me, though, is that Norwegians are extremely generous in helping people from other countries who are in need; it just seems that that kind-heartedness only extends to people beyond their borders.

  The Prices. Norway is expensive, even for Norwegians. There is no way around this and no way to justify it by comparing wages and costs and all that. As Kristie said, very few Norwegians have money left over for the ‘perks’ in life. They live well enough, yes, but for most of them that means having money to eat, pay for transport, buy clothing once in a while, and maybe go to McDonald’s for a $12 meal or to have a kebab once a week. For example, my friend works in daycare and her husband owns a grocery store, so they earn decent money by Norwegian standards and a lot of money by American standards. But when their oven went out and the car broke down, there went the vacation in Spain they had saved for. So, no, going out to get your nails done every couple of weeks is pretty much out of the question. And to some that might seem like a frivilous concern; however, part of the reason so many Norwegians suffer from depression, I suspect, is not because of the long winters but because so few of those ‘perks’ we take for granted in the U.S. are easily available to them. Tomorrow, I’m going for a facial, a pedicure and a full set of nails, and then I’m going out to dinner with a friend. I expect that all of it will cost me about $150, but it will be well worth it because I’ll come home that night feeling relaxed and happy. Most Norwegians don’t have the opportunity for such extravagances. Hence, you have a tough week at work, and you just have to swallow it, maybe drink a couple $10 beers on the weekend, and then back to work you go. It’s not an ideal way of life, I don’t think.

  The Healthcare. Americans are in awe of free healthcare. I was too until I saw how it worked. Yes, it’s basically free in Norway, but it sucks. I have never in my life seen doctors waste so much time in treating a condition as I saw while in Norway. When I arrived in Norway at the end of May about 4 years ago, my friend’s husband had just started suffering from a persistent cough perhaps a few weeks before. By the time I got there, he’d had his first visit to the doctor. They prescribed him some cough syrup which did nothing. A couple weeks later, they prescribed something else. By that time, he was starting to lose weight as well and wasn’t sleeping because the cough was keeping him up all night. Finally, the doctor referred him to someone at the hospital. He went there, and they did a test. (One test.) Negative. He went back and they did another test. (One.) Negative. This went on for WEEKS! One test at a time. Hellooooo!!! By the beginning of August, they decided it was TB and wanted to quarantine him as well as the rest of us living in the house. Hellooooo!!! It wasn’t TB. They kept on with their tests…one at a time. By the time I left at the end of August, they were still testing away, and he was down by about 40 lbs. I mean, thank God it turned out to be something relatively minor because the guy would have been long dead and buried if not! But, my friend pointed out, that’s the price of free healthcare. As long as it’s nothing serious and hard to diagnose, it works. And that isn’t the only instance I’ve observed. Norwegian healthcare, while free, sucks. And let’s not even talk about the dental care there. Ugh. On the other hand, if you’re having a baby or are a drug addict, things are much better than in the U.S.

  All that said, I love Norway. It’s a gorgeous country, and there is nothing I enjoy more than sitting out on someone’s veranda on a summer day, chatting, drinking coffee and eating Norwegian waffles. The water comes out ice cold and clean from the taps. They have great chocolate and ice cream. People are very intelligent and educated, so you can generally have very good conversations. The bread is divine. I think my Norwegian experience is the perfect one…visit every summer and then go home!

  That’s just my take on things…from a frequent visitor’s perspective. A Norwegian would likely have a whole different take, a foreigner residing in Norway a completely different one, and a non-white foreigner forced to seek asylum there a quite distinct one alltogether.

• 52 stromme // Jul 12, 2009 at 2:58 pm

  Please dont compare Norway to the states, America is broke the infrstruckter is falling apart Jobs start at $7.00 hr if you can find one not to mention your poverty and crime rates are sky high ..

• 53 yein // Jul 22, 2009 at 11:59 am

  hello! i really enjoy reading your comments and opinions. im planning to work in norway! what scare me now is the way they will treat foriegners..ohhh man for sure i will have a hard time adjusting.
  anyway any norwegian here who is kind- hearted… pls pls teach me how to speak your language.
  i am planning to work as a nurse there in norway…i must know the language desperately…HELP pls..
  thanks

• 54 Tor Hansen // Oct 1, 2009 at 11:44 pm

  Oli you mention the standard of iving is about the sme i the US as Norway. Well you could not be more wrong my friend. Norway has the world highest standard of living an are rantes the world wealthoiest country as of 2009. Us is # 37 with a debt load of trillions that will NEVER be paid. There is no powerty in Norway. As for the lady that said she need no medical care so those benefits don’t benefit her. You have NO control when you will need health care support and it will be there when you need them at NO cost to you. Unlike US where millions go bank rupt every year just for a minor surgery. I am a Norwegian working and living in the Arctic of Canada for the past 37 years. Pay my taxes as split income to both countries. Norway have done a hell of a job looking after their people.
  You could not pay me enough money to Live and work in the US. Canada is also being very good to me that is why I split my income and pay taxes to both.

• 55 Ana // Nov 21, 2009 at 4:02 pm

  Hi!

  I loved reading the comments as I’ve never been to Norway myself. I’d like to ask about acquiring Master’s degree, it is free in Norway; if not, how much is it?

  If you’re lucky enough and get visa, can you stay as long as you have a job; how does it work?

  I appreciate any info.
  Thanx.
  Ana x

• 56 Jon // Nov 25, 2009 at 7:15 pm

  I got offered a job in Oslo Norway making 750,000.00 kroner a year. They are also offering to pay my rent for 6 months. My partner will be coming along with me as well. I wanted to know if this a good salary for the both of us to live by. My salary will be like 5% less than what I make in the States.

• 57 Tor Hansen // Nov 26, 2009 at 5:16 am

  Dear Jon
  If you will make 750,000 NK in Oslo, that is $134,400 US. From that you will pay approx $53,760.oo in taxes. Almost half, but you do not pay any other fees on top of that like Medical premiums etc. OSLO is now the worlds most expensive city to live in. I don’t know what you do fo living but the only advantage you will have is to experience living in Norway and their way of life. $134,400 living in the US will go alot further but money is not everything. What is the real reasso you want to go there..

• 58 STROMME // Nov 26, 2009 at 3:52 pm

  Just moved back to Norway after 22 years in the states, I dont think i would ever go back to america, Norway is an easy life with a lot of time for freinds and time to relax and enjoy a stress free life…
  america is no longer what is was but the 90sss where good but there long gone..

• 59 Ana // Nov 26, 2009 at 6:52 pm

  Hey :)

  Is there any Norwegian currently living in Norway :) Are postgraduate studies (Masters/PhD) free if you’re a foreigner/ EU citizen? Is it hard to get a job as a foreigner if you speak basic Norwegian, and are willing to start from the bottom?

  Thanx for any comments. I’d like to ask for a realistic account of the situation.

• 60 Jon // Nov 27, 2009 at 1:41 pm

  Tor Hansen

  I am taking this job to experience Oslo. My type of work is communications for a shipping company. I was also told that my partner will be able to work so that will be a great help because we want to enjoy this stay. The good thing is that we are coming from NYC so I may not be as in shock with the cost of living. The company has decided to give us a monthly stipend of 15,000.00 kroners for a year to rent an apartment. My fear is that 750,000.00 Kroners is a low salary to live by.

  Thanks
  Jon

• 61 Vibeke // Nov 29, 2009 at 1:43 pm

  Hey!

  Ana, visit the websites of uio.no, ntnu.no, uib.no, etc. They have plenty of information about studying in Norway.

  Jon, me and my husband are living off 30.000/month. On a yearly basis, that makes 370.000 before taxes. That’s our total income. No help for rent, no second income. We’re doing fine.

  Ok, we live in Bergen which is slightly less expensive than Oslo, but for the 15.000 you should be able to get a really nice apartment. I’m also assuming you’re going to pay taxes in Norway, which will leave you with approx. 375.00 after taxes, plus 180.000 helping for rent (compared to our 200.000).

  You will be fine, well off, well paid and damn lucky. Don’t worry. You’re good.

  With my pay we’re eating well, we go out, we buy things like tredmills and alcohol ;)

  You really are gonna be making quite a bit more than most people.

• 62 Ana // Nov 29, 2009 at 2:30 pm

  Vibeke, thanx a lot. I apprecite it. I’m interested in and have to check Norges Handelshoyskole or the Academy of Arts or Arkitektur :) It would be a life dream come true. I am currently finishing my other studies :)
  Love,
  Ana

• 63 Jon // Nov 29, 2009 at 3:38 pm

  Vibeke,

  Thank you so much for responding back. I feel much better. The 15,000.00 will be net the 750,000.00 will be taxed. My company is flying us December 5th to look at apartments. My worries were that I will be in this great country and wouldn’t be able to enjoy it because of lack of money.

• 64 Vibeke // Nov 29, 2009 at 4:16 pm

  Jon,

  As I said, you’ve got nothing to worry about, and you will be very comfortable.

  Don’t let the cold and dark discourage you when you come here. It’s as dark as it gets right now, in three more weeks it starts getting lighter again.

  The cold in Oslo can be painful, but they have proper summers there too. I’m sure you’ll love it :)

  Good luck with everything!

• 65 Vibeke // Nov 29, 2009 at 4:40 pm

  I see people ask for price lists, here’s mine.
  Household of 2, Bergen per month.

  Rent: 6.000

  Telephone: Free, provided by employer, otherwise approx kr. 150 (cell phone).

  Internet: Free by employer, otherwise kr. 300.

  Public transport: 700 (would be 1240 if both traveled daily).

  Groceries: 6000

  Utilities: 1.000 (water, electricity, garbage etc.)

  Total: about 14.000

  (note that I live about 20-25 minutes by bus from downtown, in order to pay lower rent. I do, however, live in a big apartment).

  Another few interesting prices:
  - Movie ticket kr. 110
  - Large Big Mac Menu kr. 90
  - Cocktail kr. 100 (pub/bar)
  - Beer kr. 75 (pub/bar)
  - 20 cigarettes kr. 70-75
  - Bus fair kr. 24
  - 1lb of ground beef kr. 25-30
  - 1.5 l coke kr. 20 (grocery store)
  - TV license (mandatory if you own a TV) kr. 2335/year.
  - Membership fitness club kr. 450/month
  - 70 grams of chocolate kr. 12-16

  I guess that’s costs people might encounter when coming here, so maybe interesting to some.

• 66 sinope // Nov 29, 2009 at 5:35 pm

  Well following the conversation. I am a danish citizen moving to Norway … It depends upon person to person, The reason of moving from one place to another. Mine is of course, First and foremost the nature, Norway has to offer. A lot lower taxes We pay 50 % to start with and if we are in the higher tax bracket we are forced to pay 69 % in taxes. A good and perhaps better social system than Norway but price is high…

  My int ital idea is that the cost of living would even out the taxed we pay 50 % compared to 36 % in Norway …

  When it comes to people, I found Norwegian sweetest of all the North Europeans …

• 67 Aw // Dec 1, 2009 at 8:30 am

  Ana,

  I’m am in a similar situation to you, hoping to do a Phd in Oslo.

  Masters degrees are free (except for a small admin fee), however, foreigners need to prove they can afford to stay for the duration of their studies. To do this they must deposit around 85000 kr per year into a government bank account which is then used for your living expenses.

  I’ve talked to a number of people about getting work while studying and I think it can be rather difficult unless you speak Norwegian. It sounds like there are jobs available doingt the things that Norwegians don’t want to do (cleaning etc), but better jobs require Norwegian.

  Good luck

• 68 Ana // Dec 1, 2009 at 12:24 pm

  Aw,

  thanx a lot for replying.

  My idea is to learn the language, get a job first, and then move to Norway and start writing the Master’s. I value and respect any decent job, so I’ll thank God if I get any type of work once I graduate.

  Thanx & best wishes x

• 69 Moni // Dec 7, 2009 at 6:52 pm

  Vibeke,
  I will appreciate to hear from you if you can relate to the writing previoulsy, i guess you are in Bergen right>?? or are you in the US?? Just checking?? Let me know. Regards,

• 70 Kristie // Dec 8, 2009 at 11:51 pm

  Hi Moni,

  I am not in Bergen, but Oslo. But just at the moment I am in the US. :) But will be back to Europe soon.

• 71 moni // Dec 10, 2009 at 10:37 pm

  Kristie,
  Thanks for your info. but i was trying to hook up with Vibeke, can you provide me her e-mail knowing the fact that she is Norwegian??? Thanks,

• 72 moni // Dec 10, 2009 at 10:37 pm

  Thanks for your info. but i was trying to hook up with Vibeke, can you provide me her e-mail knowing the fact that she is Norwegian??? Thanks,

• 73 Vibeke // Dec 11, 2009 at 10:13 pm

  Hey Moni,

  Sorry for not getting back to you before now.

  Yes, I’m Norwegian and I live in Bergen. My husband is from the US, and I have lived in Holland for many years, which gives me a few different angles on living in Norway.

  I guess you’re referring to your earlier post, where you, in short, state that in Norway the important things are covered, and you can feel safe and secure, though you might have to sacrifice some luxury. Did I get that right?

  There are both pros and cons to living in Norway, and your personal situation will definitely influence how you experience “the system”.

  Some very clear pros:
  - Work 8 weeks to qualify for social security and benefits (unemployment, etc).
  - Free education, and a grant (from the state) to cover basic living expenses during studies.
  - A lot of paid time off for having children.
  - Solid financial support when sick.
  - A basic pension that will keep you alive and well after retirement (though most choose to supplement this with an additional plan).
  - Free health care (I’ll come back to this later).
  - 5 weeks of paid holiday a year.

  And a few clear cons:
  -Absolutely destructive weather (cold, dark all winter, no real summer).
  -Very expensive groceries (even for Norwegian salaries)
  -Very expensive alcohol
  -Very expensive tobacco
  -Very expensive cars, fuel, insurance and taxes on cars.
  -Really high taxes

  Now, if you happen to fall outside the set plan, meaning you’re born, go to school, go to college/university, get a job and work till you retire, retire, and die, you might encounter some problems.

  For example: I moved back to Norway after 7 years abroad, but had a really hard time getting a job here (financial crisis combined with summer holidays). I managed for quite a while, but I ran out of money and I had no idea what to do. I was registered as unemployed, reported my worked hours every two weeks, and did everything according to the rules. So I went to the NAV-office (work and welfare) and asked them what they could do for me. The results I got were:
  -We can’t help you out financially because you didn’t work for 8 weeks of the first 12 weeks in the country (note that I had managed 6 weeks, but it was just a summer job).
  -We do offer schooling and career development to people, who are involuntary unemployed, but this is all developed for people with no education. You have a degree, so we can’t help you there either.
  -You are registered in our system; you apply for jobs, and that’s all we can do for you.

  Then they sent me on to the Social Office. Now this place is really for people who are incapable of getting a job, and don’t have any medical reason for it. For example: the extremely lazy, the anti social, and your generic white trash.

  They would give me a small amount every month, on certain conditions that basically means you have to surrender all your pride and sense of self worth. I would have to show up to FIA every day from 8:30 to 12:30. My husband and I jokingly referred to this as “retard class”. The point is that it’s supposed to motivate you, help you keep a healthy rhythm, give you a free breakfast, and a 20-year-old girl with high school education was supposed to teach me how to write a resume and apply for jobs. Basically it’s designed for people incapable of taking care of themselves for no apparent reason. I did not at all fit the profile this was developed for, but there’s no room for individual cases in this system.

  The supposed Free health care is another system I doubt. Yes, it’s free, but the coverage is very poor. Things not included are e.g. dental care, birth control, glasses, etc. You also have to pay a large part of the costs yourself, until you reach a certain set amount. And the things you have to pay for yourself are of course very expensive. The doctor coverage is bad and hospitals are rare, especially in rural areas. However, if something serious happens, you will not be financially ruined.

  Other bad things are that our teachers and schools aren’t especially good, our roads lack maintenance, public transport is poorly developed, etc.

  If you compare this to e.g. Holland, I don’t really see how Norway is much better. In Holland you have to pay tuition, but it’s not much and the government will support you if you can’t afford it. Everyone also gets a grant there, though it’s smaller than in Norway. As a bonus, they offer students absolutely free use of all public transportation.

  You have to pay health insurance, but the insurance companies have to accept you, everything is covered, and once again, if you can’t afford it, the government will help you out.

  When I lived in Holland I earned a lot less than here, but I still had plenty of money, and I had a proper dental plan. If I would lose my job, I’d get support. I’d get pension, time off to have children, etc. Their public transport is well developed, roads are properly maintained, doctor coverage and hospitals are good, etc.

  Now I’m back in the Norwegian system, though. So I know that if I get sick, I’ll still get paid. If I have a child, I’ll get a year off with pay. It’s Christmas, so I’m getting 50% off on my taxes this month. In other words, I know that I’m covered if anything bad or unexpected happens, and this is worth a lot.

  My household is living off a single income, which doesn’t give us much to spend. We do, however, always have a box of wine (classy, I know) in the fridge, we eat well, I just went to the dentist to get a little thing fixed, and I recently bought myself a treadmill. Not a crappy existence on a single income. We don’t have a car and we don’t own a house/apartment, though, and we’re desperately trying to save up enough money to visit my husband’s family at some point soon.

  This is turning into a really long post. Sorry about this. I’m just trying to sum up the system in a balanced way.

  In conclusion: I don’t see what would make Norway better than e.g. Holland. To have the same security when something bad happens, though, you would have to pay a fortune on insurances in the US. If you’re in the system, according to their general set of rules, you’re safe and don’t have to worry. And the 5 weeks of paid holiday, free education and time off to have kids, are awesome things that I’m very hesitant to leave behind. Oh, and if your children get sick, you will get paid time off to take care of them too. Norway is VERY social in that way.

  Norway is artificially expensive in some areas, but it does offer you peace of mind that’s worth a lot.

  While I’m writing this long, I might as well mention this:
  You see a lot of people on this forum saying that Norway will throw money at you, without you having to do anything. This isn’t quite true. If you fit a set profile (asylum seeker, permanently physically hurt, etc), or you have no ambition or resources from the get go (e.g. ruined during childhood), yes, Norway will take care plentiful care of you till the day you die. However, that’s not really an existence anyone’s dreaming of.

  Unemployment rates is Norway are really low, but these numbers are misleading because a shocking high number are permanently off sick. Norway rather places people on welfare, than to have them show up in the unemployment statistics. About 10 years ago, it was foretold that in 10 years from now 20% of the Norwegian population will be providing for the remaining 80%.

  I could go on and on. What I’m saying is that it’s not all rosy, but it’s not that bad either ?

  If there’s anything special you wonder about, feel free to ask. If not, I hope this has been to some use to someone out there!

  Thanks for your attention!

  Vibeke

• 74 moni // Dec 16, 2009 at 11:50 pm

  Vibeke,
  Thanks for the info. what does your husband do being american?? I thought that you as norwegian maybe will have a better opportunity than any other foreigner. I do understand, the welfare that there are the ones that are lazy and think that the world owns them!! it is here, in Japan, in any part of the world. I guess it is not a bad idea to have 3 nationalities which i already took care of it legally on having my children to be able to have a chance, if they opt to go overseas and do exchange student for a year, it won’t hurt. I always have in mind wherever i go, and live is a lifetime experience, you learn the language, the culture, you observe and you live it. I heard a lot about the asylum for people from different countries and it is political, and it happens even in United States, globalization to India when you want to take care of business locally, also that US has a trillion dollar in deficit however the doors are still open for those ones with computer skills as major companies as citrix, siemens, etc. barely speak english many from all over the world, and those ones who are asyle and get covered under medicaid and medicare for free, those ones who never contribute a penny in the govermment. Isn’t it funny, i think doors suppose to open to those ones who lives locally and contribute for years, and not to be in deficit and they think that the world owns them everything !!! at this point i can’t complaint but your input is well explained.
  At the same time, the only thing i know is that experience in other country is not rosy but it is a lifetime experience but if you have the chance to have different nationalities why not use it, but it is important how education is run and if it is challenged and also if the curriculum is similar to the american university in upper level, which gives you a great opportunity to have the acceptation in several countries. Thanks for the info. and I would like to hear from you. You can send me your e-mails to my home!!! Take care!!! I experience myself the weather is rainny all the time but i guess there is no paradise anywhere, the time off and the holidays are wonderful!!!!

• 75 Jan // Jan 6, 2010 at 3:51 am

  Standard Budget
  Person 1: Male between 20 and 50 years
  Person 2: Female between 20 and 50 years
  Person 3: Female 2 years
  Person 4: Male aged 6 to 9 years

  You indicated that the household has children in kindergarten, but not given household total gross income. It makes the cost of daycare is not correct.

  Individual-specific expenditure rates. months
  Expenditure on food and drink: 5704
  Expenditure on clothing and shoes: 1376
  Expenditure on health and hygiene: 1336
  Expenses for play and leisure: 2208
  Expenses for travel (collectively): 1375
  Costs of infant gear: 0
  Household-specific expenditure rates. months
  Expenses for other groceries: 490
  Expenditure on household items: 460
  Expenditure on furniture: 450
  Expenses for telephone, media usage, various leisure articles: 1620
  Expenses for car (operation and maintenance): 2000
  Expenses for day care: 777
  Total consumption
  Total consumption rates. months is kroner. 17796
  is $ 3112 for a month.

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