OslovsCape Town
Overall
š°-47.4%
Oslo is 47.4%cheaper
Rent
š-46.2%
Housing is 46.2% lower
Dining
š½ļø-50.0%
Restaurants 50.0% cheaper
Groceries
š-52.6%
Food shopping 52.6% less
Comparing the cost of living between Oslo, Norway and Cape Town, South Africa reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Oslo is more affordable than Cape Town by approximately 47.4%. 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 Oslo are higher than in Cape Town by 86%. A one-bedroom apartment in Oslo's city center costs around NOKĀ 14,000, while the same in Cape Town is approximately ZARĀ 12,000.
Dining out in Oslo is notably more expensive compared to Cape Town. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs NOKĀ 180 in Oslo versus ZARĀ 150 in Cape Town.
Public transportation in Oslo is more affordable, with monthly passes at NOKĀ 770 compared to ZARĀ 800 in Cape Town.
Purchasing power in Oslo is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Cape Town.
Grocery shopping in Oslo is more expensive by approximately 111%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Oslo can expect to spend approximately NOKĀ 5,944 per month (excluding rent), while in Cape Town, the same lifestyle would cost around ZARĀ 5,890. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about NOKĀ 20,804 monthly in Oslo versus ZARĀ 20,615 in Cape Town. 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
š Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
š½ļø Food & Dining
š Groceries
š Transportation
š” Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Cape Town 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 Cape Town 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
Oslo
Cape Town
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Oslo more expensive than Cape Town?
No, Oslo is approximately 47.4% cheaper than Cape Town. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Oslo compared to Cape Town?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 68% of your Cape Town salary when living in Oslo. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Cape Town, you'd need about $33,929 in Oslo for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Oslo and Cape Town?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 111%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show smaller variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Oslo 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 Oslo if you prioritize earning potential, or Cape Town for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Oslo vs Cape Town?
In Oslo, a single person needs approximately NOKĀ 16,944 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about NOKĀ 39,804. In Cape Town, these figures are ZARĀ 13,890 for singles and ZARĀ 38,615 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Oslo and Cape Town in 2025 shows significant 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.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Cape Town to maintain your lifestyle from Oslo
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