Living and working in Norway: relocation made easy with KOCH Umzugslogistik

Norway – the land of majestic fjords, the midnight sun and the unique lifestyle outdoor mentality – delights with a mix of breathtaking nature, vibrant coastal cities and a deeply rooted culture of equality. For many emigrants, moving to this wealthy and progressive country becomes an exciting career step – and KOCH Moving Logistics stands by your side as a reliable partner. Discover what makes living and working in Norway so special.

Norway ranks among the wealthiest economies in Europe, driven by oil and gas production, maritime industry, hydropower and a growing technology sector. The country consistently ranks at the top in terms of productivity and competitiveness. The energy sector is booming (the industry achieved a performance of 65 percent in 2026), but industry and raw materials are also strong. The most dynamic labour markets are found in Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger and Trondheim, which are centres for renewable energy, shipping and IT. Thanks to EU freedom of movement, access to the labour market for Germans is completely straightforward, with the possibility of visa‑free entry. The Norwegian flexicurity modelflexicurity model facilitates rapid career changes while maintaining a strong social safety net.

The labour market in Norway remains extremely tight in 2026: the unemployment rate is only 3.5 to 4 percent, and there are over 100,000 job vacancies, especially in healthcare, skilled trades and the technology sector. Particularly in demand are nurses, doctors, care workers and medical professionals, as well as tradespeople such as electricians, plumbers and construction workers. Engineers and specialists for oil, gas and hydropower projects are also in high demand, as are IT professionals, including software developers, cybersecurity specialists and data analysts.

The average gross annual salary in Norway is about 68,420 euros, slightly above the German level of 66,700 euros. The weekly working time is 37.5 hours – slightly more than in Denmark, but still significantly below the German average. The work culture is characterised by flat hierarchies and personal responsibility. Statutory holiday entitlement is 25 working days (5 weeks) per year, plus numerous public holidays.

The Norwegian way of life is strongly shaped by outdoor mentality – the deep connection to the outdoors. 25 percent of Norwegians have spent a night in nature in the last year. The working atmosphere is characterised by "ta det med ro" – the serenity with which challenges are tackled. Also influential is Janteloven ("You shall not believe that you are something special"), which promotes modesty and equality. Norwegian cuisine is hearty and down‑to‑earth: smoked salmon (røkt laks), dried fish (tørrfisk), wild reindeer (villrein) and the sweet‑ish brown cheese (brunost). Cultural highlights include Constitution Day on 17 May with traditional costume parades, the Midsummer festival Sankthansaften on 23 June with huge bonfires, and the cosy Christmas season with shared traditions.

Norway offers one of the highest qualities of life in the world. However, the cost of living is about 25 to 30 percent higher than in Germany. A single person needs about 2,000 British pounds (approx. 2,320 euros) per month, a family of four about 3,572 British pounds (approx. 4,150 euros) for basic expenses (excluding rent). The public transport system is excellent: Oslo has a metro network, suburban trains, trams and ferries connecting many cities with their surroundings. Norway is also a paradise for outdoor activities with over 20,000 km of signposted hiking trails and numerous ski resorts – from the midnight sun in the north to the fjords in the west.

Norwegian work culture places great importance on equality, flat hierarchies and open communication. Unlike in Germany, everyone uses the informal "du" even in business settings; titles and formal forms of address are uncommon. Greetings are with a firm handshake and direct eye contact. Punctuality is crucial, but a small delay is treated with understanding. The dress code is more casual (business casual). The separation of work and leisure is highly valued. Norwegian Constitution Day is celebrated with children's parades and festivities that involve all citizens.

The Norwegian transport system is well developed. The state railway company Vy (formerly NSB) operates a dense network of regional and long‑distance trains connecting Oslo with Bergen, Trondheim, Stavanger and Sweden. The scenic Bergen Railway is one of the most beautiful train routes in the world. Oslo and other cities have modern metro, tram and bus systems. Norway is known for its spectacular coastal ferries, such as the Hurtigruten. The motorway network is well developed, with many cities having established low‑emission zones (miljøsone) for particularly low‑emission vehicles.

Living in Norway can vary greatly depending on the region. Rental prices in the four largest cities rose by 3.4 percent year‑on‑year in the first quarter of 2026; over the last four quarters, the increase was 7.9 percent. Rental prices began to rise sharply as early as the second quarter of 2022 with the coronavirus pandemic and have since increased by 28.9 percent. Bergen recorded the strongest growth at 8.9 percent, followed by Trondheim at 6.9 percent. In Stavanger and Sandnes, rental prices rose by 1.5 percent, and in Oslo by 2.1 percent in the first quarter. In Oslo, an average one‑bedroom rental apartment costs about 18,000 NOK (approx. 1,500‑1,550 euros) per month. The number of rental apartments advertised on Finn.no in the larger cities at the end of the first quarter of 2026 was 3,156, of which 1,699 were in Oslo.

When searching for accommodation, proof of income (the last three payslips) as well as proof of identity are generally required. The deposit is usually three months' rent. KOCH Moving Logistics supports you in navigating the Norwegian property market.

KOCH Moving Logistics supports you with your move to Norway with comprehensive services tailored to your needs. From planning to execution, our team ensures that your move runs smoothly, so you can focus on what matters most: your new life and work in Norway.

• Personal advice: Individual solutions for your move.
• Logistics expertise: Efficient planning and implementation.
• Local network:Support with integration in Norway.

KOCH Moving Logistics not only offers standardised moving services but also places special emphasis on personal advice and tailor‑made solutions. Our experts are on hand at every stage of the moving process to ensure that all your needs are met. We help you to quickly find your feet in your new surroundings and offer support with administrative matters, such as applying for the Norwegian identification number (D‑number/fødselsnummer). Experience the smooth transition to your new adventure with the comprehensive service of KOCH Moving Logistics. Contact us and start your move to Norway today!