"Drammen is probably the Norwegian city that has surprised me most in recent years. When I arrived in Norway seven years ago, Drammen was described to me as an industrial town of little interest. Today it is one of the most successful urban transformations in the country. The banks of the Drammenselva have become a wonderful place for a stroll, and the proximity to Oslo makes it a smart choice for families who want space without giving up access to the capital."
— Ingrid
Why Drammen?
Drammen is a city of 101,000 inhabitants only 40 minutes from Oslo by train. Crossed by the Drammenselva river, it has undergone one of the most spectacular urban metamorphoses in Norway over the past twenty years. A former industrial town, Drammen has reinvented itself as a modern, green and pleasant city, often cited as one of the best examples of urban renewal in Scandinavia.
The city offers an ideal compromise for those who want to work in Oslo while enjoying much more affordable rents, generous green spaces and a calmer pace of life. Drammen is also a multicultural city: around 30% of its population has foreign origins, making it one of the most diverse municipalities in Norway. This openness shows in everyday life, in the variety of shops, restaurants and cultural events.
With its good schools, modern sports facilities and privileged location between the sea and the mountains, Drammen is attracting more and more young families and professionals looking for a balanced way of life.
+ Pros
- Only 40 minutes from Oslo by train (frequent services)
- Housing much cheaper than in Oslo (30 to 40% saving)
- Beautiful riverside promenade along the Drammenselva
- Major urban renewal (one of the most transformed cities in Norway)
- Excellent schools and facilities for families
- Multicultural, welcoming city
- Quick access to nature (forests, hills, fjord)
- Cons
- Historic reputation as a "dormitory town" (changing)
- Limited nightlife compared with Oslo
- Some neighbourhoods still under development
- Less rich cultural offering than in big cities
- Reliance on the train to reach Oslo
Where to live in Drammen?
Drammen is organised around the Drammenselva river, which cuts the city in two. The north bank (Bragernes) is home to the historic and commercial centre, while the south bank (Strømsø) is undergoing major change. Residential neighbourhoods spread across the surrounding hills. Here are the five main neighbourhoods to consider:
Bragernes (Centre)
The historic heart of Drammen, on the north bank of the Drammenselva. Bragernes is home to the main square (Bragernes Torg), shops, cafés and most services. The architecture mixes old buildings and modern constructions. Ideal for those who want everything within reach, with direct access to the station and public transport.
Strømsø
A multicultural district on the south bank, in the middle of a transformation. Strømsø is home to Union Brygge, the new cultural and residential district along the river. There are grocery shops from all over the world, varied restaurants and a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Prices are among the most accessible in the city centre, and the development potential is huge.
Gulskogen
A family residential district in the west of the city, with large detached houses, gardens and a convenient shopping centre. Gulskogen offers a calm, green setting while remaining well connected to the centre by bus. The park at Gulskogen GÃ¥rd, a former manor estate, is a favourite walking spot for families.
Konnerud
Perched on the hills south-west of Drammen, Konnerud is the neighbourhood for nature lovers. It is reached in a few minutes by car or bus from the centre. The area offers direct access to hiking trails and cross-country ski tracks in winter. Families appreciate its good schools and its hilltop village atmosphere.
Ã…ssiden
Located in the north-west of the city, Ã…ssiden is one of Drammen's most affordable neighbourhoods. It offers good value for money with spacious homes, several schools and sports grounds. The area is being renovated and is attracting more and more young couples looking for an affordable first home.
If you work in Oslo and commute daily, favour Bragernes or Strømsø to be close to the station. The Vy train is reliable and comfortable, but saving five minutes of walking each morning really makes a difference in the long run. For families, Gulskogen and Konnerud are my favourites: wide open spaces, good schools and a real sense of community. My husband and I have friends in Konnerud who would not go back to Oslo for anything in the world.
— IngridCost of living in Drammen
One of Drammen's main assets is its cost of living, noticeably lower than Oslo's. Housing is where the saving is most significant: expect 30 to 40% less than in Oslo for an equivalent flat. Food and transport prices are comparable to the rest of Norway, but the monthly train pass to Oslo (around 2,600 NOK with Vy) needs to be factored in if you commute daily.
| Expense | Single | Couple | Family (2 children) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing | 8,500 NOK | 11,000 NOK | 14,000 NOK |
| Food | 3,500 NOK | 5,500 NOK | 8,500 NOK |
| Transport (local + train to Oslo) | 2,000 NOK | 3,000 NOK | 3,000 NOK |
| Leisure | 2,000 NOK | 2,800 NOK | 3,500 NOK |
| Other (phone, internet, insurance) | 2,000 NOK | 2,200 NOK | 2,500 NOK |
| TOTAL | ~18,000 NOK (~$1,910 / £1,430) |
~24,500 NOK (~$2,600 / £1,940) |
~31,500 NOK (~$3,340 / £2,490) |
The monthly Brakar pass for buses in Drammen and the surrounding area costs around 750 NOK. If you commute to Oslo, the monthly Oslo-Drammen Vy pass comes to around 2,600 NOK. Some employers reimburse all or part of this cost, so remember to negotiate this when you are hired. The saving on rent more than covers the cost of transport in most cases.
For cheap grocery shopping, the Kiwi and Rema 1000 supermarkets in Strømsø also stock international products. Strømsø's multicultural market is a little treasure for finding spices, fresh vegetables and products you can't find in ordinary Norwegian supermarkets. My children love going there on Saturday mornings.
— IngridWorking in Drammen
Drammen offers a double advantage: a growing local job market and quick access to Oslo's job market. Many Drammen residents work in the capital and commute daily, but the city is also developing its own economic hubs.
Sectors that are hiring
- Healthcare and hospital: Drammen Sykehus (Drammen hospital) is one of the city's largest employers. A new regional hospital is being built at Brakerøya, which will create hundreds of additional jobs in the coming years. The sector recruits nurses, doctors, care assistants and administrative staff.
- Technology and IT: Drammen is home to several tech companies and digital service firms. The proximity of Oslo and more affordable office rents are attracting more and more startups and SMEs in the sector. The Papirbredden business park, on the riverside, has become an innovation hub.
- Logistics and transport: Thanks to its strategic position on the Oslo-south axis and its port, Drammen is an important logistics crossroads. The port of Drammen is one of Norway's main car-import ports. Transport, warehousing and distribution companies recruit here regularly.
- Public sector and education: Drammen municipality, the fylkeskommune (regional council) and schools offer many positions in administration, teaching and social services. The University of South-Eastern Norway (USN) has a campus in Drammen.
Average salaries in Drammen
| Job | Annual gross salary |
|---|---|
| Nurse | 500,000 - 620,000 NOK |
| Software developer | 600,000 - 850,000 NOK |
| Logistics manager | 550,000 - 750,000 NOK |
| Teacher | 480,000 - 600,000 NOK |
| Administrative staff | 420,000 - 550,000 NOK |
Finn.no (essential in Norway), LinkedIn, NAV.no (the public employment service), Jobbnorge.no (public sector and university positions). For the hospital sector, check the Vestre Viken HF website directly. If you are aiming for a job in Oslo while living in Drammen, widen your search to listings across the greater Oslo area.
Living in Drammen and working in Oslo is a very common way of life here. The train is comfortable (Wi-Fi, power sockets) and many commuters use the journey to work or read. Since Covid, many companies also offer the option of working from home one or two days a week, which makes the compromise even more attractive.
— IngridSchools and nurseries
Drammen has a complete, good-quality public school network. The city has more than 20 primary schools (barneskole) and several lower secondary schools (ungdomsskole). Education is free in the Norwegian public system, from year 1 to year 13. Drammen's cultural diversity is reflected in its schools, where children mix with classmates of many nationalities.
Schools and international options
- Drammen public schools: Public schools offer quality teaching with good supervision. Children who do not speak Norwegian benefit from Norwegian support classes (særskilt norskopplæring) to ease their language integration. Drammen municipality also offers a specific reception programme.
- Frydenhaug skole: A specialist school and teaching resource recognised for its inclusive approach and innovative methods.
- Access to Oslo's international schools: There is no international school in Drammen itself, but families can consider Asker International School (about 20 minutes away by train) or schools in the Oslo area such as Oslo International School and the British School of Oslo, thanks to the fast rail link. Most are private schools receiving state support, so fees are usually far below UK or US private school fees.
- University of South-Eastern Norway (USN): The Drammen campus offers programmes in health, education, social sciences and technology. Courses in English are available for international students.
Nurseries (Barnehage)
Drammen has a large number of municipal and private nurseries. The monthly fee is capped by the state (around 3,000 NOK per month for full-time). Registration is done via the municipality's online portal, generally in March for a start in August. Drammen's nurseries are known for their approach to outdoor play, typical of Norwegian pedagogy.
Drammen's public schools are really good. The advantage of the city's cultural diversity is that teachers are used to welcoming children who do not speak Norwegian yet. My friends who live in Drammen are very satisfied with how their children have integrated. If an English-language education matters to you, Asker International School and the Oslo-area international schools are within commuting distance, but honestly, children pick up Norwegian at an impressive speed in full immersion, and English-speaking kids keep up their English easily (it is taught from year 1, and TV and films are in the original version).
— IngridWhat to do in Drammen?
Drammen has changed a lot and today offers a range of varied activities. Between the river, the hills and the renovated cultural spaces, the city has plenty to appeal to sports fans, culture lovers and foodies alike.
Must-see sights
- Spiralen: A spiral tunnel cut into the mountain that leads to a spectacular viewpoint 180 metres above the city. The panoramic view over Drammen, the river and the fjord is breathtaking. In summer, the plateau offers hiking trails and picnic areas. It is Drammen's emblematic landmark.
- Bragernes Torg: The main square in the town centre, surrounded by historic buildings, cafés and restaurants. A gathering place for markets, festivals and events. The imposing Bragernes church dominates the square.
- Union Brygge: A former industrial site turned into a cultural and residential district by the river. There are art galleries, trendy restaurants, event spaces and the Drammen museum. It is the symbol of the city's urban rebirth.
- Drammen Park: A large green park in the heart of the city, ideal for family walks, picnics and outdoor activities. In winter, the ice rink attracts young and old.
Sports and nature activities
- Riverside promenade (Elveparken): Kilometres of landscaped paths along the Drammenselva, perfect for walking, jogging and cycling. The redevelopment of the riverbanks is a true model of urban renewal.
- Drammensbadet: A modern water centre with indoor and outdoor pools, slides, a sauna and a wellness area. A must for families, especially during the long winter months.
- Konnerud and the hills: Hiking trails in summer and cross-country ski tracks in winter. The hills around Drammen offer quick access to nature without leaving the city.
- Drammensfjorden: The Drammen fjord is reachable in a few minutes and offers swimming in summer, fishing and kayaking.
Cultural life
- Drammens Museum: A museum of art and local history, set in a beautiful park, with permanent and temporary exhibitions on the history of the city and the region.
- Drammens Teater: Drammen's theatre offers varied programming all year round: plays, concerts, children's shows.
- Elvefestivalen: The river festival, an annual summer event that brings the riverbanks to life with concerts, street performances and activities for the whole family.
- Union Scene: A concert hall and cultural space in the former industrial district, hosting local and international artists.
Spiralen is a must: driving up through the spiral tunnel is a unique experience, and the view at the top is really worth the detour. For a family Sunday, I recommend the walk along the river to Union Brygge, followed by a coffee in one of the waterside restaurants. In winter, Drammensbadet is our refuge: my children could spend whole hours there.
— IngridThe climate in Drammen
Drammen has a continental climate typical of eastern Norway, with clearly marked seasons. Unlike Bergen and its almost constant rain, Drammen enjoys drier weather and relatively warm summers. The city receives on average 800 mm of precipitation a year, three times less than Bergen.
Winters are cold, with average temperatures around -3°C in January and regular snowfall from November to March. The river can freeze over some years, making a magnificent sight. Summers are pleasant, with temperatures regularly reaching 20 to 25°C in July and long, bright days.
Spring generally arrives in April with the snowmelt and an explosion of green, while autumn (September-October) offers lovely colours in the surrounding hills. The amount of light varies considerably through the seasons: around 18 hours of daylight in summer against 6 hours in December.
After seven years in Norway, I can tell you that Drammen's climate is one of the most pleasant in the country. The summers are real summers (you go out in a T-shirt!), and while the winters are cold, they are also dry and often sunny, which makes all the difference for morale. Invest in good winter boots and a warm coat, but you won't need Bergen's permanent umbrella. The riverbanks under snow are simply magical.
— IngridInternational & English-speaking community in Drammen
Drammen's expat community is modest but growing, like the city itself. Many internationals living in Drammen also tap into Oslo's much larger expat scene, reachable in 40 minutes by train.
- Online groups: Search Facebook for "Expats in Drammen" and "Expats in Oslo" to find groups for practical questions and meet-ups. Meetup.com is also useful.
- InterNations Oslo: Reachable by train, the Oslo expat community organises regular social events open to people living in the wider region.
- Embassies: Most English-speaking countries (UK, US, Canada, Ireland) have their embassy in Oslo; check your government's travel site for consular services.
- Drammen Internasjonale Senter: Drammen's international centre supports newcomers of all nationalities with Norwegian courses, integration activities and multicultural events.
- Norwegian courses: Drammen municipality's introduction programme (introduksjonsprogrammet) offers free Norwegian courses for new residents. The Lingu language school in Drammen is also a recommended option.
- Local events: Drammen's multicultural events (Elvefestivalen, international markets, cultural days) are excellent opportunities to meet other expats and Norwegians who are open to the world.
Drammen is a particularly welcoming city for foreigners, thanks to its long multicultural tradition. Learning Norwegian remains the key to integration, but you will be pleasantly surprised by how open the locals are. Sports activities (football, handball, skiing) and neighbourhood associations (velforening) are the best ways to build lasting ties with your Norwegian neighbours.
What I like about Drammen is the "village" feel the city has managed to keep despite its growth. People know each other in the neighbourhoods, children play together after school, and it is easy to run into each other at the park or by the river. For an expat, it is an environment where you can fit in more easily than in a big metropolis. And if you miss big-city life, Oslo is only 40 minutes away.
— IngridQuestions about Drammen?
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