Why moving to Norway: High quality of life. Strong social welfare system. Spectacular natural landscapes. Low crime rate. Excellent education system. Abundant outdoor activities. Thriving job market. Progressive environmental policies. Rich cultural heritage. Comprehensive healthcare system.
High quality of life
Norway consistently ranks as one of the best places to live thanks to its remarkable quality of life, driven by a robust economy powered by oil and gas exports and extremely low unemployment rates. The nation's high purchasing power and low population density facilitate exceptional education systems and universal health care, contributing to a high standard of living. Central to this thriving lifestyle is Norway's extensive public spending on services such as health and education, supported by a strong social security system. The country also enjoys low pollution levels, reinforced by clean air and stunning natural environments. As a result, Norway offers long parental leaves, high salaries, and a low corruption index, making it an irresistibly attractive and comfortable place to reside. This harmonious blend of factors continues to bolster Norway's high GDP per capita and secure its reputation as a leading example of exceptional quality of life.
Strong social welfare system
Moving to Norway offers access to a comprehensive social welfare system, including the National Insurance Scheme, which provides social security, health care, unemployment benefits, parental benefits, and pensions, all largely funded through taxation and administered by the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (NAV). This system is designed to enhance individual autonomy, promote social mobility, and ensure a high level of social cohesion and public participation. To learn more about the various welfare services and support structures in place, you can visit the Welfare System page.
Spectacular natural landscapes
Moving to Norway offers the opportunity to experience some of the world's most spectacular natural landscapes, including deep fjords, snow-capped mountains, numerous lakes, and glaciers, as well as unique destinations like the Lofoten Islands and Jotunheimen National Park. The country's diverse geography features breathtaking sites such as Geirangerfjord, Preikestolen, and the Northern Lights, making it a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Low crime rate
Norway is an attractive destination due to its exceptionally low crime rate, with a murder rate of 0.53 per 100,000 population and an overall crime rate of approximately 25 crimes per 1,000 residents, significantly lower than global averages. The country's strong welfare system, emphasis on education, and rehabilitative justice approach contribute to its low crime rates and safe society. For more detailed information on this topic, you can visit the Crime in Norway page on Wikipedia.
Excellent education system
Norway boasts one of the world's best education systems, characterized by a 100% literacy rate, free education from kindergarten to university, and a diverse range of programs including vocational, graduate, and doctoral studies. This makes it an attractive destination for international students. For more comprehensive insights into the structure and offerings of Norway's educational framework, visit the Education System overview.
Abundant outdoor activities
Moving to Norway offers unparalleled access to abundant outdoor activities, including skiing, kayaking, dog sledding, and whale watching, set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty with mountains, fjords, and the Northern Lights. The country's diverse landscape and extensive national parks provide endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, whitewater rafting, and other adventures, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. For more inspiration on these activities, visit the website of Hurtigruten, which provides a wealth of information and ideas for your next adventure in this beautiful country.
Thriving job market
Norway offers a thriving job market characterized by a low unemployment rate of 3.5% in 2024, steady employment growth, particularly in the technology and renewable energy sectors, and a highly educated workforce, making it an attractive destination for job seekers. For more detailed insights into the current job market trends, visit the Job Report 2024 for comprehensive analysis and updates.
Progressive environmental policies
Norway is an attractive destination due to its progressive environmental policies, including ambitious targets to achieve climate neutrality by 2030 and become a low-emission society by 2050, backed by significant investments in renewable energy, particularly hydroelectric power, and a strong focus on sustainable land use and biodiversity management. For more detailed insight, you can explore the OECD Environmental Performance Reviews: Norway 2022, which provides a comprehensive analysis of Norway's strategies and achievements in fostering environmental sustainability.
Rich cultural heritage
Moving to Norway offers a rich cultural heritage, including the vibrant Sami culture, the historic Viking legacy, unique farm culture, and notable architectural sites such as wooden stave churches and traditional Hanseatic buildings, providing a deep and diverse cultural experience. To explore more about these fascinating cultural attributes, visit the FamilySearch Blog where you can discover a myriad of activities and sites that highlight Norway's incredible heritage.
Comprehensive healthcare system
Moving to Norway offers access to a comprehensive healthcare system founded on principles of universal access, decentralization, and free choice of provider, with services including emergency care, pregnancy and childbirth, medical treatment for children, and specialized care. All these services are largely financed by public funds and managed through the National Insurance Scheme.