This article takes a look at the 16 best places to retire in Norway. If you wish to skip our detailed analysis on Norway's sustainability as a retirement haven, you may go to the 5 Best Places to Retire in Norway.
Norway's Sustainability as a Retirement Haven
The captivating Scandinavian country of Norway, with its striking natural beauty, high quality of life, and strong focus on sustainability and innovation, is an excellent retirement destination. According to the 2023 Natixis Global Retirement Index, the country secured the top ranking for retirement security, an impressive improvement after having spent four years in third place. These remarkable advancements primarily stem from notable increases in life expectancy, as well as heightened investment in healthcare coverage. The 2022 data published by Statistics Norway (SSB) pertaining to the country's population reveals that approximately 10,719 American expatriates have chosen Norway as their new home.
The country is one of the largest exporters of oil and gas, contributing significantly to the country’s economy. In the year 2022, it earned record revenues from oil and gas following the Ukrainian war and the hike in energy prices. In a record-breaking achievement, Norway saw its revenues from oil and gas soar to an astounding NOK 1.5 trillion ($140 billion), increasing threefold compared to the NOK 498 billion ($48 billion) that it earned in 2021. Equinor ASA (NYSE:EQNR) has been the leading producer of oil and gas in the country, responsible for 70% of the production. While the country's substantial revenues from the fossil fuel industry are undeniable, they place Norway in a rather debatable position. This is because, despite its commitment to environmental protection laws domestically, it is indirectly contributing to global pollution through its fossil fuel exports.
Owing to the country’s technological expertise in the field of carbon capture and storage, the country has managed to develop an infrastructure for trapping and storing carbon emissions on the Norwegian continental shelf. The continental shelf has the capacity to store 400,000 tonnes of CO2 annually. Situated along the Norwegian coast, the project “Northern Lights” is such a partnership between Total Energies, Equinor ASA (NYSE:EQNR) and Shell plc (NYSE:SHEL).
Carbon capture and storage operations are set to commence in 2024, with Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) recently joining as a technology partner. This collaboration intends to scale up transportation and storage of captured carbon, contributing to the global effort to achieve a net-zero carbon future. Integrating Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) into the project introduces a technology partner with a worldwide presence, thereby enhancing the collaborative expertise and resources of the existing partners such as Shell and Equinor ASA (NYSE:EQNR). Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT)'s role involves exploring the provision of a technological framework for innovation and actively contributing to the project's further development.
In conclusion, Norway's has been committing itself to sustainability and with its cutting-edge technology. Therefore, it is a promising destination for those seeking a retirement location that aligns with a greener and more sustainable future. The country promises a wide array of benefits to those who wish to retire to the country. However, there is a dark side to living in Norway as well, literally! The country can experience extended periods of darkness during the winter months. It can also be quite expensive to live in, and expats will find that the locals are not very chatty. The diverse climate of the country can be a whole new experience for retirees altogether, characterized by long dark winters in the north and milder conditions in the south.
16 Best Places to Retire in Norway
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Methodology
To compile the list of best places to retire in Norway, we have used a number of sources such as Plan A Retirement, Where to Retire Cheaply, Pacific Prime, and Life from a Bag. We also explored expat forums such as Reddit and Quora to incorporate their opinions regarding the best places to retire in our list.
To establish our rankings, we adopted a consensus-based methodology, assigning one point for each instance a particular location was recommended by a reliable source.
Regarding the cost of living, our figures reflect the monthly expenses for an individual retiree in Norway. The cost of living includes the rent of a one-bedroom apartment in the city or town center. We gathered this financial data from a range of trusted sources, including platforms like Nomad List, Nomads Nation, and others.
Here are the best places to retire in Norway:
16. Tromsø
Insider Monkey Score: 3
Tromsø is one of the most beautiful places to live in Norway. From the Northern lights (Aurora Borealis) to pristine fjords and the unique Arctic landscapes, the city is a captivating haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking the magic of the far north. The coastal city provides retirees access to the Norwegian Sea, who love to engage in the maritime culture and other activities.
In the summers, retirees stay out and about all night under the midnight sun, or retire to bed in the city that is surrounded by mountains and sea. The cultural scene is rich, and the healthcare system is well-developed. On average, the monthly cost of living for an individual retiree is $2,840, which includes $1,130 rent.
15. Sandnes
Insider Monkey Score: 4
Revered for one of the longest pedestrian streets in Norway, Sandnes attracts retirees for its high quality of life, scenic natural beauty, and the high-quality healthcare system. It's deep fjords and mountains, fishing lakes and beaches make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The environment and air are clean here like the rest of the country, ideal for retirees to live a healthy life. Meanwhile, cycling trails, parks, walking, and fitness facilities make Sandnes an active retirement destination for seniors. On average, the monthly cost of living for an individual retiree is $2,000.
14. Lofoten
Insider Monkey Score: 4
Lofoten, an archipelago in Norway, is characterized by northern lights, the midnight sun, and small villages. Retirees can go hiking in the mountains, enjoy fishing, kayaking, and also bird watching. Lofoten embodies a picturesque backdrop characterized by crystal-clear fjords, pristine beaches, dramatic mountain peaks, and the majestic Northern lights. Retirees love the peaceful and tranquil environment it offers them. They also get to enjoy access to some of the freshest and most delicious seafood in the world.
13. Lillestrøm
Insider Monkey Score: 5
Lillestrøm is a town located near Oslo, Norway. It offers retirees a balanced mix of urban conveniences, high quality of life, and world-class healthcare. Retirees can embark on the beautiful hiking trails in the summertime, or choose cross-country skiing in winter. There is a lively shopping center, a cultural center, an outdoor swimming complex, and one of the biggest climbing parks in Scandinavia. Lillestrøm enjoys abundant natural beauty, and the lakes, fjords, and forests are ideal to embark on outdoor adventures. On average, the monthly cost of living for an individual retiree is $2,451.
12. Gjøvik
Insider Monkey Score: 5
Nestled on the western shores of Mjøsa, Norway's largest and most picturesque lake; Gjøvik is one of the best places to retire in Norway for retirees. Stunning natural landscapes embrace this town, including scenic hills, lush forests, and Lake Mjøsa. Retirees enjoy a high quality of life here, with excellent healthcare, a clean environment, and urban conveniences. Ski resorts and cross-country skiing trails are also near Gjøvik.
11. Narvik
Insider Monkey Score: 6
Narvik is an ideal place for retirees to enjoy a coastal Norwegian lifestyle. Home to beautiful fjords, majestic mountain ranges, and the Northern coast, the town is the perfect way to enjoy outdoor activities and witness the beautiful Northern lights. Winter calls for enjoying snow-based activities, with Narvikfjellet, a world-class skiing destination, located close to the town. Retirees also love to explore its cultural and war history at the Norvik War Museum.
10. Arendal
Insider Monkey Score: 6
The town of Arendal, Norway, speaks to retirees who desire a balanced mix of coastal landscapes, modern amenities, and a high quality of life. On average, the monthly cost of living for an individual retiree is $3,433, which includes $1,705 spent on rent. Retirees in Arendal love to spend time on the beach, explore museums such as Arendal Maritime Museum and Aust-Agder Cultural History Museum, enjoy the local cuisine, and visit historic sites such as Tyholmen Old Town and the Trinity Church. Fun day trips are also possible through boat tours of the many islands in the Arendal archipelago.
9. Kristiansand
Insider Monkey Score: 7
Situated in the picturesque region of Southern Norway, Kristiansand offers retirees a high-quality life, a safe environment to live in, as well as lots of opportunities to explore culture. Like the rest of the country, healthcare is well-developed here, and retirees have access to the best facilities and services. The beautiful coastline, forests, and fjords add to the beauty of retiring here. The monthly cost of living for an individual retiree is 2 percent less than the national average, which is around $2,940
8. Fredrikstad
Insider Monkey Score: 7
A tiny town located in the scenic region of Southern Norway, Fredrikstad ranks high in terms of healthcare, safety and security, and quality of life. Retirees love to explore the historic old town of Gamlebyen, famous for its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and many museums, galleries, and cafes. Retirees also love to relax, indulge in waterfront dining, and explore history and culture at places such as Isegran Island and Hanko Island. Delectable local cuisine, numerous cultural festivals, and outdoor activities make Fredrikstad one of the best places to live in Norway for expats. The monthly cost of living for an average retiree is 2 percent lower than the national average, which is around $2,850
7. Tonsberg
Insider Monkey Score: 8
One of the oldest cities in Norway, Tonsberg is revered for its natural beauty, cultural richness, and quality healthcare. The city boasts a clean and eco-friendly environment, proximity to Oslo, and a strong and friendly community for retirees. What makes the city one of the best places to retire from the USA is its coastal location along the Oslo fjord, offering expats numerous outdoor opportunities, a relaxed pace of life, and breathtaking beauty. The monthly cost of living for an average retiree is 2 percent less than the national average, which is around $2,820.
6. Ålesund
Insider Monkey Score: 9
Situated along the picturesque west coast of Norway, Ålesund is a delightful coastal town embellished by the breathtaking presence of winding fjords, majestic mountains, and idyllic islands. The unique cultural heritage of this town is reflected in its unique Art Nouveau architecture and historical buildings. Moreover, Alseund is also regarded as the gateway to some of the most beautiful natural attractions, such as the Geirangerfjord, Trollstigen, and the Atlantic Road. On average, the monthly cost of living for an individual retiree is $2,123, which includes $845 spent on rent.
