OslovsJohannesburg
Overall
š°-49.5%
Oslo is 49.5%cheaper
Rent
š-50.8%
Housing is 50.8% lower
Dining
š½ļø-52.0%
Restaurants 52.0% cheaper
Groceries
š-55.8%
Food shopping 55.8% less
Comparing the cost of living between Oslo, Norway and Johannesburg, South Africa reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Oslo is more affordable than Johannesburg by approximately 49.5%. 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 Johannesburg by 103%. A one-bedroom apartment in Oslo's city center costs around NOKĀ 14,000, while the same in Johannesburg is approximately ZARĀ 10,000.
Dining out in Oslo is notably more expensive compared to Johannesburg. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs NOKĀ 180 in Oslo versus ZARĀ 130 in Johannesburg.
Public transportation in Oslo is more affordable, with monthly passes at NOKĀ 770 compared to ZARĀ 800 in Johannesburg.
Purchasing power in Oslo is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Johannesburg.
Grocery shopping in Oslo is more expensive by approximately 126%. 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 Johannesburg, the same lifestyle would cost around ZARĀ 5,314. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about NOKĀ 20,804 monthly in Oslo versus ZARĀ 18,599 in Johannesburg. 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 Johannesburg 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 Johannesburg 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
Johannesburg
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Oslo more expensive than Johannesburg?
No, Oslo is approximately 49.5% cheaper than Johannesburg. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Oslo compared to Johannesburg?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 67% of your Johannesburg salary when living in Oslo. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Johannesburg, you'd need about $33,451 in Oslo for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Oslo and Johannesburg?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 126%, 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 Johannesburg for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Oslo vs Johannesburg?
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 Johannesburg, these figures are ZARĀ 12,314 for singles and ZARĀ 33,599 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Oslo and Johannesburg 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.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Johannesburg to maintain your lifestyle from Oslo
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