How do living costs compare between Norway and the United States?
• You will likely face sticker shock the first time you go grocery shopping. If you are relocating from a major metropolitan area (e.g., New York City, San Francisco), the price change may not appear as great. I have heard Norway’s grocery store prices are comparable to Tokyo, Japan. Expect food prices to be three to four times those found in a Des Moines, Iowa supermarket. • In a grocery (e.g., RIMI, REMA, BUNN PRIS, JOKER) expect to pay 8-10 NOK for a single half-liter bottle of soda. Important: In addition, there is a one NOK deposit charged for small bottle carbonated beverages, 2.5 NOK for large bottles. • A good price for coffee in a restaurant/cafe is 10-12 NOK for a cup with no refills. • Food quality and selection will be significantly lower in Norway with the exception of dairy and bakery goods. In some countries people “live to eat.” Norwegians “eat to live,” so I suggest you lower your expectations regarding food. • Clothing prices are steep, but the quality is okay. Change
