Trondheim: Norway's university city, a long way north

Who you'll meet: The university is the city's international hub. NTNU counts 3,815 international students from 114 countries across its campuses, and research jobs bring in staff from abroad too. Outside campus, the American community is small, so expect your social life to grow out of work, clubs and Norwegian classes more than an expat scene.

Healthcare: St. Olavs hospital, also called Trondheim University Hospital, serves as the local hospital for Trondheim and southern Trøndelag and works hand in hand with NTNU's medical faculty. Once you're registered in the National Population Register as a resident, you're entitled to a regular GP (fastlege). Most people with only a D-number aren't, though they can still get necessary treatment, so keep private coverage until your registration goes through. If Trondheim's GP lists are full, you're allowed to pick one in a neighboring municipality.

Remote work: Home internet runs about $50 a month. Spaces has a coworking site at Brattørkaia 17A on the harbor. Keep in mind that a remote job for a U.S. employer doesn't give you a right to live here on its own; you'll need a permit through work, study or family.

International schools: Trondheim International School teaches the International Baccalaureate to ages 6 to 16 (grades 1 to 10). It's private but publicly funded, with fees covering 15 percent of its costs. Birralee International School Trondheim, open since 1973, is a Cambridge International School teaching in English with Norwegian lessons each week. Neither covers the final high school years, so ask about options for older teens before you move.

LGBTQ expats: Same-sex couples have been able to marry in Norway since January 2009. Trondheim Pride holds its parade in September; the 2026 parade day was September 12.

Black Americans: We couldn't find reporting on Black Americans' experience in Trondheim specifically, and the community here is small. In 2015 reporting from Oslo, Black Americans said Norwegians saw them as Americans first, while hearing different talk about African immigrants. Talk with Black residents of Trondheim before you commit.

Limited mobility: Mixed, with real bright spots. The center is flat and fairly easy to get around, though some sidewalks are rough and some curbs are steep. City buses have low entrances and ramps, but the Gråkallbanen tram has no ramp. At Nidaros Cathedral, the western entrances have ramps, while the Octagon and Chapter House can't be reached by wheelchair. Visit in winter, when ice and snow change every route.

Retirement: Norway doesn't offer a permit for retirees living on their own money, so most Americans can't retire to Trondheim unless work, study or family gives them a path. Our retirement visa guide covers countries that do welcome retirees, and our Norway moving guide explains the routes Norway does offer.