Cost of Living: London vs Oslo (2026)
United Kingdom vs Norway — relocation comparison
Wise ✓
Settler Essentials
Visa stamps:Easy <90 daysModerate 3–6 moComplex 6+ mo
Sources: EIU · Freedom House · Startup Genome · IEA · official immigration portals
Reproductive Rights
Because your body shouldn't need a visa too
Requires two doctors' approval under Abortion Act 1967, but broadly available up to 24 weeks.
Source: Center for Reproductive Rights
The Short Version
- •Rent is 33% cheaper in Oslo ($2004/mo vs $3000/mo for a 1BR city centre).
- •Summers are slightly warmer in London (22°C vs 21°C).
- •Oslo is safer by homicide rate (0.1 vs 1.1 per 100k).
- •Oslo scores higher on democracy (9.8 vs 8.3 / 10 EIU).
- •Street-level English is easier in London (100/100 vs 73/100).
London vs Oslo — Common Questions
Is London cheaper than Oslo?▾
Oslo is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $2004/month in Oslo vs $3000/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, London or Oslo?▾
Oslo is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. London has a rate of 1.07 per 100,000 and Oslo has 0.15 per 100,000.
Should I move to London or Oslo?▾
Oslo scores 73 to London's 58 on livability — the gap is real. London has its charms, but the numbers favor Oslo. See the full comparison above for rent, safety, internet speed, climate, and democracy scores to decide which city fits your priorities.
Is it easier to get residency in London or Oslo?▾
London: UK Skilled Worker Visa (complex process, Up to 5 years). Oslo: no specific remote work visa. See each city's profile page for full requirements.
Can I live in London or Oslo without speaking the local language?▾
London is easier for street-level English (100/100) than Oslo (73/100). That's the score that matters for doctors, landlords, and bureaucracy. Office English can still run higher than street English in both cities.
Don't agree? Take the quiz and see what fits you.
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