The Nordics are known around the world for amazing natural beauty. Years of shared history also have established very strong cultural and economic ties between its countries making the region one of the most desired places to live and work in. We spoke to three Nordic nationals to gain their insights into what life is like for expats in the Nordic countries.
Cross-border commuting between Norway and Sweden is the most common case among workers in the Nordics.
Swedes are most likely to work in neighboring countries. In fact, 80 percent of Nordic citizens who commute to Denmark and Norway come from Sweden.
The typical commuter is quite young. According to recent surveys, over half of them are under the age of 35. Daily or weekly commuting is very popular for people starting out. Cross border commuters are found in all trades, but most work in the service industry.
While the general unemployment rate in Sweden is currently the highest in the Nordic countries, there are a number of high paying jobs in Sweden attracting expats. However, higher salaries in both Denmark and Norway have made commuting there to work very appealing, especially to people that live in bordering regions.
Commuting for education shows a different pattern. The Nordic countries are known for having a number of internationally ranked universities, but the tuition fees associated with them means that many students choose to commute to another Nordic country in order to avoid the risk of going into debt before entering the job market. Recent surveys have found that students at the top universities in Denmark (University of Copenhagen) or Sweden (Lund University) will pay a minimum of €6,000 per year for tuition alone. In turn, public universities in Norway do not charge tuition fees, even for international students. Depending on where you choose to study, you may be required to pay a small fee each semester, but that is normally between €30 to €60.
While employment and educational opportunities abroad certainly are a factor in the decision to commute from one country to another, the cost of living in the Nordic countries may play an even bigger role.
The cost of living in Sweden is over 30% less than for those who choose to make their home in Norway. Similarly, living in Norway is on average 10-15% more expensive than living in Denmark. Because of this, it’s clear to see why in a Swedish border municipality like Strömstad (Västra Götaland and Värmland) more than 10% of the employed population out-commutes to a Norwegian destination.
While the decision to commute may be more appealing to younger people, business professionals are more likely to move for a job.
The Nordic countries’ shared values such as openness, trust, innovation, sustainability, and humanity make it relatively easy for people to integrate. The similarities in culture mean that people from Norway can live in Sweden without speaking Swedish, while taking advantage of job opportunities in Norway. It is very common that despite not speaking the same native language, people from Denmark, Sweden, and Norway are able to understand each other with little problem.
This mutual understanding might be one reason people in the Nordics share very similar ideas when it comes to working and living together.
Despite the open borders and a large amount of shared history, it’s fair to say that the Nordic countries still each have their own unique cultures and identities. Whether it’s different spices used in preparing similar dishes, different ways people choose to relax and socialize after work or the shows on television, it still can take a while to get used to living in a new country.
Growing up in such a unique environment can certainly have an impact on the way you view others and yourself. In fact, according to Forbes, Finland, Denmark and Norway rank as the top 3 happiest places in the world.
There are a number of reasons that people may choose to live, work or study in the Nordic countries. Whether you’re looking to find a job in Norway or doing a masters program in Sweden, you may require some assistance in managing your finances while abroad. Western Union can help you to move money quickly and easily. Download the Western Union® app today and start sending money between the Nordic countries in just a couple of clicks.
