Cost Comparison 2025

OslovsSingapore

Norway
Singapore

Overall

💰

0.0%

Oslo is 0.0%same cost

Rent

🏠

+38.5%

Housing is 38.5% higher

Dining

🍽️

-20.0%

Restaurants 20.0% cheaper

Groceries

🛒

-10.5%

Food shopping 10.5% less

Comparing the cost of living between Oslo, Norway and Singapore, Singapore reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Oslo is similarly priced than Singapore. 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 Singapore by 28%. A one-bedroom apartment in Oslo's city center costs around NOK 14,000, while the same in Singapore is approximately SGD 3,500.

Dining out in Oslo is notably more expensive compared to Singapore. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs NOK 180 in Oslo versus SGD 15 in Singapore.

Public transportation in Oslo is more expensive, with monthly passes at NOK 770 compared to SGD 120 in Singapore.

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 Singapore, the same lifestyle would cost around SGD 777. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about NOK 20,804 monthly in Oslo versus SGD 2,720 in Singapore. 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

Item
Oslo, Norway
Singapore, Singapore

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
NOK 14,000
SGD 3,500
1BR Outside Center
NOK 11,000
SGD 2,500
3BR City Center
NOK 25,000
SGD 7,000

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
NOK 180
SGD 15
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
NOK 900
SGD 100
Cappuccino
NOK 50
SGD 6
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
NOK 90
SGD 10

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
NOK 20
SGD 3
Bread (500g)
NOK 28
SGD 3
Eggs (12)
NOK 35
SGD 4
Cheese (1kg)
NOK 100
SGD 20

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
NOK 38
SGD 2
Monthly Pass
NOK 770
SGD 120
Taxi Start
NOK 120
SGD 4
Gasoline (1L)
NOK 20
SGD 3

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
NOK 1,500
SGD 200
Internet (60 Mbps)
NOK 500
SGD 50
Mobile Minute
NOK 2
SGD 0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Singapore 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 Singapore 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

Cost of Living Index95
Rent Index65
Purchasing Power Index95

Singapore

Cost of Living Index95
Rent Index90
Purchasing Power Index100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Oslo more expensive than Singapore?

The cost of living in Oslo and Singapore is relatively similar, with only minor differences in specific categories. Your actual expenses will depend on your lifestyle choices.

How much salary do I need in Oslo compared to Singapore?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 100% of your Singapore salary when living in Oslo. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Singapore, you'd need about $50,000 in Oslo for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Oslo and Singapore?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 28%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.

Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?

Singapore offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Singapore provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Oslo if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Singapore for better value.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Oslo vs Singapore?

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 Singapore, these figures are SGD 3,277 for singles and SGD 7,220 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Oslo and Singapore 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 Singapore to maintain your lifestyle from Oslo

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-15 • Data sourced from multiple providers