StockholmvsOslo
Overall
💰+11.8%
Stockholm is 11.8%more expensive
Rent
🏠+8.3%
Housing is 8.3% higher
Dining
🍽️+17.6%
Restaurants 17.6% pricier
Groceries
🛒+18.8%
Food shopping 18.8% more
Comparing the cost of living between Stockholm, Sweden and Oslo, Norway reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Stockholm is more expensive than Oslo by approximately 11.8%. 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 Stockholm are lower than in Oslo by 8%. A one-bedroom apartment in Stockholm's city center costs around SEK 15,000, while the same in Oslo is approximately NOK 14,000.
Dining out in Stockholm offers significant savings compared to Oslo. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs SEK 120 in Stockholm versus NOK 180 in Oslo.
Public transportation in Stockholm is more expensive, with monthly passes at SEK 970 compared to NOK 770 in Oslo.
Grocery shopping in Stockholm is more affordable by approximately 16%. 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 Stockholm can expect to spend approximately SEK 4,702 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 SEK 16,457 monthly in Stockholm 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 Stockholm 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 Stockholm 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
Stockholm
Oslo
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stockholm more expensive than Oslo?
Yes, Stockholm is approximately 11.8% more expensive than Oslo overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Stockholm compared to Oslo?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Oslo salary when living in Stockholm. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Oslo, you'd need about $55,882 in Stockholm for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Stockholm and Oslo?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 16%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Stockholm 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 Stockholm if you prioritize earning potential, or Oslo for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Stockholm vs Oslo?
In Stockholm, a single person needs approximately SEK 15,702 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about SEK 34,457. 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 Stockholm and Oslo in 2025 shows notable 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 Stockholm
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