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A Gambian’s Guide to Finding Affordable Housing in Norway

A Gambian’s Guide to Finding Affordable Housing in Norway

02 May 2025


Moving from Gambia to Norway can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. One of the biggest challenges you’ll face is securing affordable housing in a new country. In a place where rent can vary significantly, knowing where to look and what to expect can make your move a lot smoother. 

 

Additionally, while settling into your new home, you’ll want to ensure that you can send money back to family in Gambia. Services like ACE Money Transfer allow you to send money online to Gambia from Norway quickly and affordably, so you can stay connected with your loved ones without hassle.

Understanding the Norwegian Housing Market

Navigating the Norwegian housing market is essential for finding affordable living spaces. With a little knowledge, you can identify the best areas and understand the financial commitments involved.

Types of Housing Options Available

In Norway, housing options range from small shared flats and student accommodations to family apartments and detached homes. The key to finding affordable housing is understanding what’s available in your chosen area. 

Cities like Oslo and Bergen offer various rental options, but the closer you get to the city center, the more expensive the rent will be. If you’re open to living in suburban or rural areas, however, you may find cheaper rental options, and you’ll also enjoy a quieter lifestyle.

What to Expect in Terms of Rent and Costs

Rent in Norway can be quite expensive, especially in major cities like Oslo, where a small one-bedroom apartment can cost between NOK 10,000 and NOK 15,000 per month. Shared flats or student housing may offer lower prices, ranging from NOK 5,000 to NOK 8,000. 

Keep in mind that additional costs like utilities, internet, and even parking can add up. It’s important to plan ahead and budget for these extra expenses to avoid any surprises.

Best Places for Affordable Housing in Norway

The location where you choose to live in Norway has a direct impact on your rental costs. Knowing which cities and areas offer affordable housing will help you make a more informed decision.

Budget-Friendly Cities and Towns

While Oslo and Bergen are major hubs, they are also the most expensive cities in Norway. If you’re looking for affordable housing, consider smaller towns or areas located outside city centers. 

Cities like Tromsø, Stavanger, or even smaller towns like Drammen and Skien may offer cheaper housing options while still providing easy access to essential services. Living on the outskirts also allows you to experience a more relaxed pace of life.

Online Platforms and Resources

In today’s digital age, finding housing has never been easier. Websites like Finn.no, Hybel.no, and various Facebook groups dedicated to housing listings are your best bet. Many of these platforms allow you to filter your search based on your budget, location, and other preferences. 

Keep in mind that the rental market in Norway can be competitive, so it’s important to stay updated with listings and be quick to act when you find something within your budget.

Pro Tip: If you're considering moving to a budget-friendly area in Norway, look into remote jobs and opportunities for expats. Many companies now offer flexible positions that allow you to work from home while still earning a competitive salary.

Managing Finances While Settling in Norway

Managing your finances after moving to a new country can be tricky. However, once your housing is sorted, it’s important to think about supporting family members back home.

Remitting Money to Gambia

After securing your new home, the next challenge is managing your finances. If you’re supporting family members back home, you’ll need a reliable way to send money. ACE Money Transfer is an excellent choice to make an online money transfer from Norway to Gambia

ACE provides a secure, fast, and affordable way to transfer money internationally, ensuring that your family receives the support they need. Their platform is easy to use, and transfers are completed quickly, often in a matter of minutes.

Here’s Why ACE Money Transfer Is a Smart Choice

Fast Transfers with Real-Time Tracking: With ACE, you can send money instantly and track the transaction in real-time, ensuring your family receives the funds without delay.

Competitive Exchange Rates: ACE offers some of the best exchange rates available, meaning you’ll get more for your money when sending funds to Ghana from Norway. Highly Rated: With a 4.8+ rating on Trustpilot from over 129,000 reviews, ACE is committed to providing excellent service and customer satisfaction.

Wrapping Up Your Housing Journey in Norway!

Finding affordable housing in Norway may seem daunting, but with the right tools and information, it can be a smooth and rewarding process. Take your time, research your options, and don’t hesitate to lean on your community for support. 

And as you settle in and start managing your finances, don’t forget to use services like ACE Money Transfer to easily send money to Gambia from Norway, ensuring that you can continue supporting your loved ones back home without the stress. With their competitive exchange rates and low fees, ACE is an excellent choice for anyone looking to manage international transfers efficiently.

FAQs

What is the average rent in Norway?

Rent in Norway ranges from NOK 5,000 to NOK 15,000 per month, depending on the city and type of accommodation.

What are the best cities in Norway for affordable housing?

Cities like Tromsø and Stavanger, and smaller towns like Drammen and Skien offer more affordable housing than Oslo or Bergen.

How can you find rental housing in Norway?

You can find rentals on websites like Finn.no, Hybel.no, and Facebook groups for housing listings.

What documents do you need to rent a place in Norway?

You'll need proof of income, ID, and possibly a guarantor. A rental deposit is also required.

How can you send money back home to Gambia while living in Norway?

Use ACE Money Transfer for fast, secure, and affordable online money transfers from Norway to Gambia.


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