Living in the Trondheim region: What to Expect?
Trondheim ex-pats enjoying a meet-up at Digs café. Photo: Tormod Igelø Ellingsen
The Greater Trondheim region, centred around the vibrant city of Trondheim, offers a unique mix of urban conveniences, natural beauty, and cultural depth. Whether you’re a student, a young professional, or simply seeking adventure, here’s what you can expect in terms of housing, weather, outdoor activities, culture, and community life.
The Greater Trondheim region, centred around the vibrant city of Trondheim, offers a unique mix of urban conveniences, natural beauty, and cultural depth. Whether you’re a student, a young professional, or simply seeking adventure, here’s what you can expect in terms of housing, weather, outdoor activities, culture, and community life.
Housing
Finding the right place to live is important and the region’s options range from bustling city apartments to tranquil countryside homes.
Renting in Trondheim
Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs NOK 9,000-15,000 per month. Moving to areas outside the centre reduces rents to NOK 7,000-11,000. Shared housing and student accommodation are budget-friendly options.
Buying in Trondheim
Buying a flat starts at NOK 1.8 million for small studios (less than 20 square metres) and rises significantly for larger homes in prime areas. On average, property prices in the city centre are NOK 98,000 per square metre.
Buying a one bedroom apartment in Trondheim city centre will set you back between NOK 2,5 million to 3,5 million. A two bedroom apartment will cost you anywhere from NOK 3 million to 7,5 million.
A stand-alone house in the city centre will typically go for more than NOK 10 million. Moving to the outskirts of Trondheim municipality can reduce the price to around NOK 6 million and up.
Outside of Trondheim
Surrounding areas like Stjørdal, Melhus, Skaun and Malvik offer cheaper rents at NOK 6,000-8,000. Many people commute from these locations for work in Trondheim, balancing lower costs with good accessibility. Regional centres like these often provide excellent commuting options and often a more relaxed lifestyle.
Buying a home in these areas is also more affordable than what you can find in the centre of Trondheim. However - regional centres, like Stjørdal, Melhus and Orkanger, will be more expensive than rural areas. If you would like valley or mountain living, look for houses in Midtre Gauldal - whilst Indre Fosen offers fjord and coastal living on a lower budget than what you can find nearer Trondheim.
Sources: Property sales overviews, Adressa News paper articles and Finn.no
FINN.no most used for listings
The most used platform for sales and rental properties in Noirway.
Weather
The Trondheim region’s coastal climate offers a mix of experiences through the year, making it a dynamic place to live weather and season wise.
Winter
Temperatures range from 4°C to -8°C, with manageable snowfalls thanks to Trondheim’s coastal climate. Occasionally, temperatures can drop to -15°C in colder periods.
Summer
Enjoy temperatures of 12°C to 20°C, with long daylight hours. Rare heatwaves can push temperatures to 30°C, with a record high of 35°C.
Rain
Expect frequent, light rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months in September and October. Annual rainfall averages between 85 and 129 mm per month. Waterproof gear is essential, but April to June are typically drier.
YR.no
One of the most used weather services in Norway. Look for information on average temperatures and weather for the region you are interested in.
Outdoor Activities
Trondheim itself offers a range of outdoor options, from the vast trails of Bymarka to kayaking along the Nidelva River. You can enjoy urban green spaces like Ladestien, perfect for jogging or scenic walks. The region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. From fjords to forests, there’s something for everyone.
National Parks and Hiking Trails
Discover pristine nature in Skarvan and Roltdalen National Park or Forollhogna National Park, both offering fantastic opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. Trails like Jervfjellet and Skaunakjølen provide stunning views of fjords and forests.
Water Activities
Kayaking and canoeing are popular on tranquil waters like Lake Ånøya and Stjørnfjord. Salmon fishing enthusiasts can head to world-renowned rivers such as the Gaula and Orkla, which are known for their excellent catches.
Winter Adventures
Ski at Vassfjellet Vinterpark or glide through extensive cross-country skiing trails across the region. Smaller ski centres in nearby municipalities provide family-friendly options.
Coastal Exploration
The area’s fjords and coastal landscapes offer bird-watching, hiking, fishing and serene walks along picturesque shorelines.
Trondheim.com's guide
How to find activities, sights and excursions. Links to several Visit sites and the municipalities' own overviews.
Visit Trondheim
Trondheim's official Visit site. Focusing on Trondheim city and excursions from the city area.
WorkinTrondheim on Nature
WorkinTrondheim on nature, hikes and excursions. How to use your surroundings.
Cultural Highlights
In Trondheim, the vibrant cultural scene includes live music venues, cutting-edge art galleries, and regular performances at Trøndelag Theatre. The city’s rich Viking history is highlighted by iconic landmarks like Nidaros Cathedral and the Archbishop’s Palace. The region boasts a rich history and vibrant cultural scene, offering plenty to explore.
Local Festivals and Events
Celebrate at music festivals, seasonal markets, and traditional events. Highlights include Olavsfest and the Trondheim International Film Festival.
Historical Sites
Visit Viking burial grounds, medieval churches, and museums showcasing maritime and rural heritage. Nidaros Cathedral is a must-see Viking-era landmark and cultural centrepiece.
Art and Music
Enjoy galleries, folk music performances, and artisan workshops reflecting Trøndelag’s creative spirit.
Museums and Tours
Smaller museums in the surrounding areas delve into local history, from Viking traditions to rural lifestyles.
What to do - event guide
A guide of guides. Where to find information on concerts and other events in the Trondheim region.
What's on near you
Need help to find events, hobbies or gathering more local to where you live in the region. We've tried to put together a guide for you.
Community Life
Trondheim’s community life is enriched by its many cafés, vibrant student organisations, and a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers. Regular events in the city centre, such as pop-up markets and public festivals, make it easy to connect with others. The region is renowned for its inclusive and vibrant communities. Whether you’re looking to make friends, join activities, or contribute to local life, there are plenty of opportunities.
Active Organisations
Sports clubs, hiking groups, and volunteer associations provide excellent ways to connect with like-minded individuals.
Seasonal Traditions
Experience local customs such as midsummer bonfires, Christmas markets, and other celebrations that bring communities together.
Community Centres
Local hubs host workshops, cultural events, and social gatherings, fostering strong connections among residents.
Inclusive Environment
With a welcoming atmosphere, the region makes it easy for newcomers and international residents to feel at home.
Outdoor Social Activities
Shared outdoor pursuits, such as fishing clubs and skiing meetups, encourage active lifestyles and camaraderie among neighbours.
Places to hang
Need hints and tips on places to just hang and meet people?
Hubs and Communities
Becoming a part of Trondheim's social life can be an exciting way to immerse yourself in the local culture and make new connections.
Living Costs
Living costs in the Greater Trondheim region are reasonable compared to other major Norwegian cities, though still high by international standards.
Public Transport
NOK 500-800/month for a commuter pass, with discounts for students and children. Expect somewhat higher prices if you are commuting from outside “Sone A”. See AtB for more information.
Dining Out
Meals at mid-range restaurants cost NOK 200-300 per person. A movie ticket averages NOK 130 and catching a concert or a show will set you back NOK 150 up to NOK 1500 for high demand international artists.
Groceries
Prices align with the national average, and supermarkets offer a range of affordable options.
Cost of Living
Curious about what food prices look like in Norway?
Tormod Igelø Ellingsen
Trondheim.com editor
How to Trondheim?
Your guide to getting around & fitting in! From trams to local customs, we’ve got you covered!