Norway is known for its high living standards, strong social welfare system, and competitive salaries. As one of the wealthiest countries in Europe, Norway continues to attract skilled professionals from across the world. With a stable economy driven by energy, technology, maritime industries, and public services, Norway remains a top destination for workers seeking high wages and excellent work–life balance.
This comprehensive guide explores salaries in Norway in 2026 across different sectors, job roles, locations, and experience levels. Whether you are a job seeker, expatriate, employer, or researcher, this detailed overview will help you understand what employees earn in Norway today.
Average Salary in Norway 2026
In 2026, the average annual salary in Norway is approximately NOK 630,000 to NOK 670,000, which translates to about NOK 52,000 to NOK 56,000 per month.
This makes Norway one of Europe’s highest-paying countries.
After tax, typical net monthly pay ranges between NOK 36,000 and NOK 40,000, depending on tax class, municipality, and deductions.
Wages in Norway are strongly influenced by collective agreements and strong labor unions, ensuring fair pay and safe working conditions.
Minimum Wage in Norway 2026
Norway does not have a universal national minimum wage. However, several industries have regulated minimum wages through collective bargaining agreements (allmenngjorte tariffavtaler).
2026 minimum hourly wages (approximate):
- Construction: NOK 220 – 240/hour
- Cleaning Services: NOK 210 – 225/hour
- Hospitality (Hotels/Restaurants): NOK 180 – 200/hour
- Agriculture and Fishing: NOK 170 – 190/hour
- Electrical Trades: NOK 225 – 250/hour
These rates ensure that even entry-level workers receive fair compensation.
Salaries by Industry in Norway 2026
Norway’s wage level varies significantly across industries. Below are the average monthly salaries in key sectors.
1. Oil & Gas, Energy, and Offshore Industries
The energy sector remains Norway’s highest-paying industry.
- Petroleum Engineer: NOK 85,000 – 110,000/month
- Offshore Technician: NOK 60,000 – 85,000/month
- Geologist: NOK 80,000 – 105,000/month
- Subsea Engineer: NOK 90,000 – 120,000/month
Additional offshore allowances often increase total compensation substantially.
2. Information Technology (IT) and Software Development
The tech industry continues to expand, with strong demand for programmers, cybersecurity experts, and cloud engineers.
- Software Developer: NOK 55,000 – 75,000/month
- Data Scientist: NOK 65,000 – 90,000/month
- IT Project Manager: NOK 70,000 – 100,000/month
- Cybersecurity Specialist: NOK 65,000 – 95,000/month
Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim are the main tech hubs.
3. Healthcare and Medicine
Norway’s healthcare sector offers high salaries and excellent working conditions.
- Registered Nurse: NOK 42,000 – 55,000/month
- Physiotherapist: NOK 45,000 – 60,000/month
- General Practitioner: NOK 75,000 – 110,000/month
- Specialist Doctor: NOK 100,000 – 160,000/month
Specialists working privately often earn even more.
4. Engineering and Manufacturing
Engineering remains in high demand across several branches.
- Mechanical Engineer: NOK 55,000 – 75,000/month
- Civil Engineer: NOK 60,000 – 80,000/month
- Electrical Engineer: NOK 58,000 – 78,000/month
- Project Engineer: NOK 60,000 – 85,000/month
Norway’s renewable energy and infrastructure projects continue to generate strong demand.
5. Finance, Banking, and Business Services
These sectors offer competitive wages, particularly in Oslo.
- Financial Analyst: NOK 55,000 – 80,000/month
- Accountant: NOK 45,000 – 65,000/month
- Auditor: NOK 50,000 – 70,000/month
- Bank Manager: NOK 80,000 – 120,000/month
Salaries also rise significantly with bonuses in corporate roles.
6. Education and Public Sector
Norway’s public sector wages are stable, with strong benefits and job security.
- Primary School Teacher: NOK 40,000 – 50,000/month
- High School Teacher: NOK 45,000 – 55,000/month
- University Lecturer: NOK 55,000 – 75,000/month
- Public Administrator: NOK 42,000 – 55,000/month
Employee benefits, including generous parental leave, enhance compensation packages.
7. Retail, Hospitality, and Tourism
These industries have lower wages but remain important in Norway’s economy.
- Retail Assistant: NOK 30,000 – 38,000/month
- Waiter/Waitress: NOK 28,000 – 36,000/month
- Hotel Receptionist: NOK 32,000 – 40,000/month
- Store Manager: NOK 45,000 – 60,000/month
Seasonal roles in northern regions may include additional allowances.
Salaries by Region in Norway 2026
Norway’s wages vary depending on location, cost of living, and industry concentration.
1. Oslo (Highest Salaries)
- Average monthly salary: NOK 55,000 – 65,000
- Leading sectors: Technology, finance, consulting, government
Oslo remains the financial and economic heart of Norway.
2. Bergen
- Average monthly salary: NOK 50,000 – 60,000
- Strong in shipping, aquaculture, energy, and logistics
3. Stavanger
- Average monthly salary: NOK 60,000 – 70,000
- Oil & gas hub with some of the highest wages in the country
4. Trondheim
- Average monthly salary: NOK 48,000 – 58,000
- Known for technology, research, and education
5. Northern Norway (Tromsø, Bodø)
- Average monthly salary: NOK 45,000 – 55,000
- Strongest in tourism, fishing, public services, and healthcare
Higher living costs in remote regions sometimes result in regional allowances.
Key Factors Influencing Salaries in Norway
1. Education and Skill Level
Workers with higher education, certifications, or specialized skills earn significantly more.
2. Industry Demand
High-demand sectors—like energy, IT, and healthcare—pay above-average wages.
3. Experience
Senior professionals can earn 40–100% more than entry-level employees.
4. Union Protection
Collective agreements ensure strong wage standards and protect employee rights.
5. Location
Urban and industry-heavy regions typically offer higher salaries.
2026 Salary Trends in Norway
Several trends are shaping the Norwegian labor market in 2026:
- Growing demand for digital and tech skills
- Strong investments in renewable energy and sustainability
- Higher healthcare wages due to labor shortages
- Increased competition for engineers and skilled trades
- More remote and hybrid job offers across sectors
Overall, salaries in Norway continue to rise steadily, supported by economic stability and strong labor protections.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the average salary in Norway in 2026?
The average salary is approximately NOK 630,000 to NOK 670,000 annually, or NOK 52,000 to NOK 56,000 monthly.
2. Does Norway have a minimum wage?
There is no universal minimum wage, but several sectors have regulated minimum wages through collective agreements.
3. Which jobs pay the most in Norway?
Top-paying roles include petroleum engineers, specialist doctors, IT managers, and senior roles in finance and energy.
4. Are salaries higher in Oslo?
Yes. Oslo offers the highest average salaries due to its large finance, tech, and corporate sectors.
5. Is Norway a good place to work for foreigners?
Yes. Norway provides high salaries, work–life balance, safe working environments, and numerous opportunities for skilled professionals.
6. Which industries are growing the fastest in 2026?
Technology, renewable energy, healthcare, and engineering are experiencing the strongest growth.