OslovsCopenhagen
Overall
💰-7.4%
Oslo is 7.4%cheaper
Rent
🏠+7.7%
Housing is 7.7% higher
Dining
🍽️-5.0%
Restaurants 5.0% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-10.5%
Food shopping 10.5% less
Comparing the cost of living between Oslo, Norway and Copenhagen, Denmark reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Oslo is more affordable than Copenhagen by approximately 7.4%. 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 lower than in Copenhagen by 7%. A one-bedroom apartment in Oslo's city center costs around NOK 14,000, while the same in Copenhagen is approximately DKK 12,000.
Dining out in Oslo costs about the same compared to Copenhagen. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs NOK 180 in Oslo versus DKK 120 in Copenhagen.
Public transportation in Oslo is more expensive, with monthly passes at NOK 770 compared to DKK 750 in Copenhagen.
Grocery shopping in Oslo is more expensive by approximately 12%. 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 NOK 5,944 per month (excluding rent), while in Copenhagen, the same lifestyle would cost around DKK 4,448. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about NOK 20,804 monthly in Oslo versus DKK 15,568 in Copenhagen. 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
Oslo
Copenhagen
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Oslo more expensive than Copenhagen?
No, Oslo is approximately 7.4% cheaper than Copenhagen. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Oslo compared to Copenhagen?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 93% of your Copenhagen salary when living in Oslo. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Copenhagen, you'd need about $46,569 in Oslo for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Oslo and Copenhagen?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 12%, 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 Oslo if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Copenhagen for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Oslo vs Copenhagen?
In Oslo, a single person needs approximately NOK 16,944 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about NOK 39,804. In Copenhagen, these figures are DKK 13,448 for singles and DKK 31,568 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Oslo and Copenhagen 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.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Copenhagen to maintain your lifestyle from Oslo
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