Why live in the Arendal and Grimstad region?

The Arendal and Grimstad region, located along Norway’s scenic southern coast, is a hub of cultural heritage, innovative industries, and stunning natural landscapes. From the coastal charm of Risør to the lush forests of Åmli, this region offers a rich quality of life. With excellent education opportunities, thriving industries like renewable energy and advanced manufacturing, and a growing focus on sustainability, the Arendal and Grimstad region is a welcoming place to live, work, and grow.

Living in the Arendal and Grimstad region

Residents enjoy a close connection to nature, with abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation along the coastline, in lush forests, and by scenic lakes. The region is known for its strong community spirit, festivals, and charming historic towns, making it easy to feel at home. With short commutes, a growing focus on sustainability, and a welcoming atmosphere, the Arendal and Grimstad region offers an exceptional quality of life for families, professionals, and retirees alike.

Places to live in the Arendal and Grimstad region

Activities in the Arendal and Grimstad region

Outdoor activities

• Hiking and skiing: Explore marked summit hikes in untouched wilderness or enjoy groomed ski trails in a stunning winter landscape.
• Sailing and boating: The region’s coastline is perfect for sailing and kayaking.
• Beaches and swimming: The coastal towns of Grimstad, Arendal, Tvedestrand, and Risør boast beautiful beaches, an inviting archipelago, and idyllic spots for summer relaxation.

Cultural life

• Festivals: From the Risør Wooden Boat Festival to the Arendal Canal Street Music Festival, the region is home to lively events celebrating maritime culture, music, and art.
• Museums and galleries: Discover local history at the Kuben Museum in Arendal or learn more about the father of modern drama, Henrik Ibsen, and his long-lasting impact on Grimstad.

Community events, farmers’ markets, and local libraries also provide year-round opportunities to connect with the region’s traditions and modern culture.

Study in the Arendal and Grimstad region

Primary and secondary education

Education in the Arendal and Grimstad region is overseen by local municipalities for kindergartens and primary schools (grades 1–10) and by county authorities for upper secondary schools (grades 11–13). Schools in the region focus on both academic and vocational pathways, ensuring a well-rounded education.

Upper secondary schools in the region include:

Arendal Upper Secondary School: offers a mix of general academic programs and vocational tracks, including the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.

Dahlske Upper Secondary School: provides both academic and vocational programmes. 

Tvedestrand Upper Secondary School: known for its focus on vocational education, including courses in health care and technology.

Risør Upper Secondary School: provides programs in creative arts, technology, and general studies.

Drottningborg Upper Secondary School: a private Christian boarding school, owned by the Norwegian Lutheran Mission.

International education

Arendal International School caters to students aged 6–16, offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP).

Grimstad International School is an affiliate of Arendal International School and plans to open soon for grades 1-6.

Arendal Upper Secondary School offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.

Higher education

The University of Agder (UiA) campus in Grimstad is a leading centre for higher education and research in the region. It offers bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs in fields such as:

• Renewable energy
• Engineering and technology
• Health sciences
• Business administration

The Grimstad campus works closely with local industries, including technology firms and renewable energy companies, ensuring students have access to internships, research opportunities, and industry experience.

Additionally, Fagskolen i Agder offers higher vocational education for students looking to develop specialized skills in areas such as:

• Maritime studies
• Technology and industrial production
• Construction and building technology
• Health and child development studies

Fagskolen i Agder’s programs are tailored to meet industry demands and support local economic development.

Learning Norwegian

• Aust-Agder Adult Education Centre (Aust-Agder Voksenopplæring): Located in Arendal, this centre offers courses for various levels, including preparation for Norwegian language proficiency tests like Norskprøve and Bergenstesten.
• Folkeuniversitetet Sørlandet: Provides flexible Norwegian language courses in towns such as Arendal and Grimstad, with options for evening classes and online learning.
• Språkkafé at local libraries: Libraries in Arendal, Grimstad, and Risør host informal language cafés, offering newcomers a chance to practice conversational Norwegian in a social and welcoming environment.
• Volunteer-based programs: Organizations like the Red Cross and local community centres in municipalities such as Tvedestrand and Vegårshei organize free or low-cost language sessions, focusing on everyday communication and integration.

Lifelong learning

The region also supports lifelong learning through institutions like Folkeuniversitetet Sørlandet, offering courses in Norwegian language, technical skills, and continuing education to meet the needs of residents and newcomers.

Work in the Arendal and Grimstad region

Key industries and job opportunities in the Arendal and Grimstad region

Renewable energy

The Arendal and Grimstad region plays an integral role in Norway’s renewable energy transition, contributing to advancements in energy storage, hydropower, and solar solutions. Morrow Batteries is leading the charge in developing cutting-edge battery technology, supporting renewable energy grids and electric mobility.

The region is also home to key suppliers that enable the success of renewable energy projects. Companies like Glitre Nett manage critical infrastructure for integrating renewable sources into the power grid, while Elkem Solar specialises in advanced materials for solar power systems.

Hydropower remains a cornerstone of the region's energy production, benefiting from ongoing upgrades to enhance efficiency and sustainability. These efforts are supported by collaborative networks across Southwest Norway, creating opportunities for professionals in engineering, operations, research, and sustainability management.

Process industry

The Eyde Cluster, headquartered in Arendal, unites leading process industry companies focused on sustainable manufacturing and advanced materials. Members like Fiven Norge, a producer of silicon carbide, and Aludyne Norway, specialising in lightweight components for transportation and renewable sectors, exemplify innovation in sustainable production.

The cluster promotes clean manufacturing practices and circular economy solutions, offering roles in automation, industrial operations, and environmental management. Its integration with renewable energy initiatives further strengthens the region’s competitive edge in green industry development.

Technology and manufacturing

Arendal and Grimstad are hubs for technological innovation and advanced manufacturing. Companies like Kitron produce electronics for industries including defense and energy, while MacGregor Norway develops offshore equipment critical to global energy systems.

The Future Materials Catapult Centre in Grimstad provides advanced facilities for developing and testing innovative materials, making it a cornerstone for companies exploring high-tech manufacturing. This sector offers careers in materials science, software development, and automation engineering, supported by partnerships with the University of Agder, which fosters talent and research collaboration.

Information technology and digital solutions

The Arendal and Grimstad region is home to a growing IT sector, with companies specializing in software development, cybersecurity, and digital solutions for both public and private sectors. The presence of Bliksund, a leading provider of digital solutions for emergency and healthcare services, or Skatteetaten’s IT development center in Grimstad highlights the region’s role in shaping Norway’s digital infrastructure, with opportunities in software engineering, data analytics, and IT security.

Maritime and offshore services

The Arendal and Grimstad region’s maritime industry is deeply rooted in its coastal heritage, with companies excelling in shipbuilding, marine safety, and offshore engineering. VIKING Norsafe specialises in life-saving equipment, while BW Offshore leads in floating production services for energy markets.

Additionally, suppliers and logistics providers ensure seamless operations for offshore and maritime projects, creating roles in engineering, design, project management, and operations. The industry also supports emerging renewable energy technologies, such as offshore wind, further diversifying its opportunities.

Tourism and creative industries

The Arendal and Grimstad region’s scenic coastline, cultural festivals, and historic towns make it a thriving hub for tourism and creative industries. Events like the Risør Wooden Boat Festival and Tvedestrand’s book events attract visitors from across the globe, supporting jobs in hospitality, event management, and eco-tourism.

Creative professionals also benefit from a growing demand for media production, design, and performing arts, contributing to the region’s vibrant cultural landscape.

The Arendal region’s diverse economy, driven by innovation and sustainability, offers opportunities across established and emerging industries. This dynamic environment makes it a prime location for career growth, investment, and collaboration.