The North of Europe is known for its nature and…prices. When moving to Scandinavia, the relocation budget can hit extremely high numbers. However, some cities are more affordable than the others. In this article, we’ll list the best places to live in Scandinavia if your budget is limited.
Norway
The cost of living in Scandinavia, including Norway, is high, but it pays off with good public services and social security. For example, the cost of living in Scandinavia (Norway, in this case) is around 1,141.3 EUR per month without rent payments, and if you buy only what’s needed. Add trips, restaurants and shopping to that, and the amount will double.
But it’s too early to give up. Let’s look at the three cheapest cities in Norway, which can be called the best places in Scandinavia for savvy expats.
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Sauda
It’s the best city in Scandinavia (Norway) if you’re searching for relatively cheap housing options. The price per square meter here is just 13,491 NOK compared to 73,055 NOK in Oslo. It’s one of the most affordable offers you’ll ever see in the North. It’s really tempting to buy your own property there and redecorate it into an iconic house of Scandinavia.
You can already guess why the price is so low — it’s a small town surrounded by nature and not popular among tourists and expats. It has a population of only 4,190. You can literally get to know everyone at some point. The best city in Scandinavia if you’re usually talkative to your neighbours.
Pros:
- Breathtaking nature. It’s located on the shore and is surrounded by fjords. You’ll wake up every morning feeling like a character from a movie about Vikings.
- Walkable. It’s so small you won’t even need public transportation. The size of the city saves you a lot of time, so you can spend more time observing nature.
- For active expats. There is a ski centre, an outdoor pool, and hiking routes — endless opportunities to take care of your body.
Cons:
- Lack of job opportunities. If you’re working remotely as a digital nomad that’s not a problem, but others may face real challenges.
- It gets boring. Party people will miss clubs, bars and a nightlife. You should learn how to entertain yourself before moving to Scandinavia.
- Remote. It takes around 11 hours to get from Sauda to Oslo, which is not convenient if you have to visit the capital often.
Halden
A city with cheap apartments for rent in Scandinavia. On average, a one-bedroom apartment will cost you 693.96 EUR, while in Oslo the price rockets to 1,126.12 EUR.
Pros:
- Close to Sweden. It's a border town, so you can legally sneak to Sweden for cheaper groceries and goods. Travel there to answer the question of ‘What is the best country in Scandinavia?’
- Near Oslo. An hour and a half by car and you’re already in the capital. Perfect for people with friends and business partners in Oslo.
- Surrounded by nature. Another best city in Scandinavia for forest lovers. Hiking, fishing, and kayaking spots are waiting for you to visit.
Cons:
- Limited entertainment. This town may seem boring if you're not into spending hours in the forest or fishing.
- Public transportation is less frequent. You'll need a car or a bike to avoid relying on the local buses.
- Small town. Think twice whether you’re ready to live in a small town or not. For some, remote tiny cities are the best places in Scandinavia, while others need the rush of the megapolis.
Explore:
Sweden
Sweden attracts expats like honey attracts bees. Many of those moving to Scandinavia choose Sweden for a balance between the amount of daily expenses and a calm, wealthy lifestyle. If you’re relocating alone, the cost of living in Scandinavia (Sweden) will be around 935.1 EUR per month, excluding rent. Lower than in Norway!
The housing market there is in big trouble, though. It’s hard to find a flat for rent because of the competition, especially in the huge cities.
Malmö
Malmö is not cheap-cheap, but it’s an affordable option among major Swedish cities. It’s one of the best places to live in Scandinavia if you want to live a big city life on a reasonable budget. The rent prices for a 1-bedroom apartment vary from 470 to 1,080 EUR, excluding utilities and the internet costs, which add an extra 70-190 EUR.
Pros:
- Great life. In the city ranking surveys, Malmö receives high marks from locals.
- International city. Around 1/3 of the population are foreigners. You’ll blend in easily, the best city in Scandinavia for foreigners who are afraid of not being welcomed.
- Close to Copenhagen. More travel opportunities — just cross the bridge!
Cons:
- Safety concerns. The crime rate here is higher than in the rest of Sweden.
- Segregation. Some people report that they felt left out after moving to Malmö.
- Unemployment. If you already have a job offer, that's perfect, but the locals experience trouble finding a workplace.
It’s not one of the best places in Scandinavia in terms of social security, but it can be your starting point for integration.
Umeå
Another place with cheap apartments for rent in Scandinavia. According to Numbeo, a one-bedroom flat outside of the city centre is 460.61 EUR per month — your dream house of Scandinavia may become a reality.
Pros:
- Strong academia. It’s the best city in Scandinavia for expats who want to study and pursue their career in education.
- Safe for women. Surveys report that 90% of women are not afraid to walk alone at night — which says a lot about the city.
- Nature. Outdoor lovers will not be disappointed.
Cons:
- Nortern winters. Dark and long — not every expat is ready for that. If you need sun, it’s not the best city in Scandinavia for you.
- Remote. It takes 6 to 9 hours to get to Stockholm.
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Denmark
Lastly, let’s check the cost of living in Scandinavia in Denmark. Here you’ll need around 1,098.3 EUR per month if you live alone in your own house. In terms of affordable living, it’s a middle ground between Norway and Sweden for moving to Scandinavia.
Aalborg
One of the cheapest big cities in Denmark. The price of apartments for rent in Scandinavia here ranges from 530 to 940 EUR on average (for a one-bedroom flat). It’s a very nice price for a house of Scandinavia.
Pros:
- Career opportunities. There's an active job hunt in energy, health and space technology and other sectors.
- Happy city. Aalborg is a place with the highest quality of life in Europe.
- Eco-friendly. It's a home for many green businesses, and the locals are serious about sustainable living.
Cons:
- Hard to make friends. Danes are not really open to letting people into their close circle.
- Slow-paced. A disadvantage for those who are used to living in big cities.
- Remote location. It’s complicated to get to Copenhagen.
Aarhus
The last on our list of the best places to live in Scandinavia for savvy expats is Aarhus. 1,000 EUR per month will be enough for a single person who is not renting a flat.
Pros:
- For academic weapons. You can enrol in a programme at a top-ranked university.
- Great public transportation, And very bike-friendly.
- Low crime rate. It’s like a student city where everyone is more busy having fun than robbing others.
Cons:
- Long winters. Not the best city in Scandinavia for people from the South.
- Job market. Compared to Copenhagen, it’s less diverse.
- Boring from time to time. The nightlife is present, but not as much as some may wish.
FAQ
Which is the cheapest Scandinavian country?
Sweden. As of 2025, Sweden is 18.2% cheaper than Denmark and 25% cheaper than Norway.
What is the best country in Scandinavia?
Depends on your preferences. Sweden is more budget-friendly, Denmark has an outstanding standard of living and Norway is filled with breathtaking nature.
Are salaries higher in Norway or Sweden?
An average salary is higher in Norway (around 3,141.35 EUR after tax).
Is food cheaper in Norway or Sweden?
Food prices are lower in Sweden.
How can I send money from Scandinavia?
To send money from Denmark, Norway or Sweden, join Profee. Use this online service to transfer funds at great exchange rates and with little to no fees.
