CopenhagenvsOslo
Overall
💰+8.0%
Copenhagen is 8.0%more expensive
Rent
🏠-7.1%
Housing is 7.1% lower
Dining
🍽️+5.3%
Restaurants 5.3% pricier
Groceries
🛒+11.8%
Food shopping 11.8% more
Comparing the cost of living between Copenhagen, Denmark and Oslo, Norway reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Copenhagen is more expensive than Oslo by approximately 8.0%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Copenhagen are higher than in Oslo by 8%. A one-bedroom apartment in Copenhagen's city center costs around DKK 12,000, while the same in Oslo is approximately NOK 14,000.
Dining out in Copenhagen costs about the same compared to Oslo. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs DKK 120 in Copenhagen versus NOK 180 in Oslo.
Public transportation in Copenhagen is more affordable, with monthly passes at DKK 750 compared to NOK 770 in Oslo.
Grocery shopping in Copenhagen is more affordable by approximately 11%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Copenhagen can expect to spend approximately DKK 4,448 per month (excluding rent), while in Oslo, the same lifestyle would cost around NOK 5,944. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about DKK 15,568 monthly in Copenhagen versus NOK 20,804 in Oslo. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Copenhagen to Oslo, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Oslo to Copenhagen requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Copenhagen
Oslo
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Copenhagen more expensive than Oslo?
Yes, Copenhagen is approximately 8.0% more expensive than Oslo overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Copenhagen compared to Oslo?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Oslo salary when living in Copenhagen. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Oslo, you'd need about $53,977 in Copenhagen for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Copenhagen and Oslo?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 11%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show smaller variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Copenhagen offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Oslo provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Copenhagen if you prioritize earning potential, or Oslo for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Copenhagen vs Oslo?
In Copenhagen, a single person needs approximately DKK 13,448 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about DKK 31,568. In Oslo, these figures are NOK 16,944 for singles and NOK 39,804 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Copenhagen and Oslo in 2025 shows moderate differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Oslo to maintain your lifestyle from Copenhagen
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