Why live in Arendal?

Arendal is the largest municipality in its region, idyllically located on the southern coast of Norway. The city’s history stretches back to the great age of sailing ships, and maritime traditions still shape its vibrant culture today. At the same time, Arendal is a modern hub for technology, industry, research, and tourism. Looking ahead, the municipality is planning for significant growth — 4,500 new jobs by 2030 — driven by an ambitious local government and forward-thinking businesses.

Rich maritime traditions, a forward-looking mindset, and an active cultural life make Arendal a standout destination on the Norwegian coast. Whether you’re enjoying freshly caught seafood by the waterfront, helping develop cutting-edge battery technology at Morrow, or simply taking in the coastal beauty from one of the region’s many islands, Arendal is ready to offer a warm welcome — and exciting possibilities for the future.

Living in Arendal

Living in Arendal offers a relaxed coastal atmosphere and a tight-knit community. The town’s scenic harbour, parks, and family-friendly events create an inviting backdrop for daily life. Thanks to its well-developed infrastructure, residents enjoy modern services while remaining close to nature. Arendal’s varied neighbourhoods each have their own unique character.

Places to live in Arendal

Activities in Arendal

Arendal offers a wealth of activities for all ages, from large-scale political and cultural events to hands-on family experiences and stunning coastal adventures. Whether you’re drawn to politics, science, art, or simply relaxing by the sea, you’ll find an abundance of things to do year-round.

Arendalsuka
Norway’s largest political gathering draws over 100,000 visitors each August for debates, talks, and discussions on current and future societal challenges. The city comes alive with a buzzing atmosphere that blends public engagement, networking, and festive summer vibes.

Scenic Archipelago and Raet National Park
Arendal’s coastal landscape is perfect for boat trips, hiking, and island exploration. One highlight is car-free Merdø, steeped in maritime history and home to pristine, family-friendly beaches. Raet National Park stretches along the coast, offering unique geological features, scenic trails, and opportunities for kayaking, swimming, and wildlife spotting.

Vitensenteret
Located on Langbryggen in downtown Arendal, this interactive science center is a playground of discovery for all ages. Explore hands-on exhibits that blend learning with fun, and look out for special workshops each weekend and during school vacations. It’s not just for kids—parents and grandparents are encouraged to dive into the experiments, too.

Bomuldsfabrikken Kunsthall
Housed in a former textile factory from 1898, Bomuldsfabrikken is one of the region’s most important venues for contemporary art. Enjoy rotating exhibitions on the ground floor and a curated collection upstairs, then stop by the small café or browse the art-focused library. A walkway from the third floor leads to Kunstarena Torbjørnsbu gruver, where nature meets creative expression in a repurposed quarry setting.

Canal Street
Since 1996, Canal Street has showcased music in some of Arendal’s most distinctive locations—lighthouses, ferry landings, and even a recycling facility have served as festival stages. Jazz, blues, and other genres flourish amid these unique backdrops, making for a festival that seamlessly fuses place, culture, and history.

TEDxArendal
An internationally recognized TEDx event that brings together speakers, volunteers, and audiences from around the globe. Hosted entirely in English, TEDxArendal celebrates “ideas worth spreading,” sparking creativity and innovation in an already forward-thinking community. With a Legacy license from TED, the event continues to break new ground and attract a diverse, global crowd.

City Adventures and Family Fun
Arendal also offers plenty of excitement in the city itself. Thrill-seekers can try stisykling (trail biking) on challenging terrain or visit trampoline parks, VR arenas, and indoor play centers. Families can learn about regional history through KUBEN’s engaging exhibits, or even stay overnight at Fengselshotellet, a former jail transformed into a quirky accommodation. For a more relaxed pace, enjoy a dip in the heated outdoor pool or ride the Glass Elevator (Glassheisen) up to Fløyheia for panoramic views of the city and archipelago.

Whether you’re exploring Norway’s largest political event, soaking up the arts at a local gallery, or island-hopping through the pristine archipelago, Arendal’s mix of culture, family-friendly attractions, and coastal beauty guarantees something new and exciting around every corner.

Local food producers, restaurants and cafés

Arendal boasts a diverse culinary scene, taking you on a journey through local flavors and international dishes alike: 

Maritime Specialties
With its coastal heritage, Arendal naturally excels in seafood. Head to the restaurants along Pollen and the harbor promenade to savor fresh fish and shellfish while watching boats drift by.

International Cuisine
Beyond local seafood, you’ll find everything from Italian pizza and pasta to Asian street food and American-style barbecue. Streetfood Arendal, for instance, lets everyone in your group choose different dishes and then enjoy them together in lively, communal surroundings.

Sweet Temptations
Heimdal Chokolade, Norway’s oldest boutique chocolate producer, delights visitors with handmade confections. Also check out local favorites like Fiskebrygga for its famous fish cakes, or Strand Café across the way for freshly made “munker.”

Study in Arendal

Arendal’s well-developed education system ensures that children and youth receive the support they need:

Kindergartens
The municipality has 52 kindergartens, providing a wide range of educational approaches and locations.

Primary Schools
Arendal has 20 primary schools, from small neighborhood campuses to larger, centrally located institutions.

Secondary Schools
Two comprehensive high schools in Arendal offer a broad selection of academic and vocational tracks.

Higher Education
The University of Agder is only a short drive away, making it easy for residents to pursue university studies and engage with active research communities.

International Education
Arendal International School offers the IB Primary Years Programme and IB Middle Years Programme. Furthermore, Arendal videregående skole offers the IB Diploma Programme.

Work in Arendal

Arendal has a diverse business landscape with opportunities spanning multiple sectors:

Technology and Industry
Morrow Batteries is building a new battery factory in Arendal, aiming for rapid expansion in the coming years. Meanwhile, Kitron is a leading, and growing, Scandinavian Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) company, Arendals Fossekompani focuses on energy and technology, and Gard is a major player in marine insurance, known for its innovative risk management.

Research and Innovation
The Institute of Marine Research operates a specialized division in Arendal, focusing on aquaculture, marine ecology, and sustainable use of ocean resources. TEDxArendal also contributes to an innovative and internationally minded community, encouraging collaboration and forward-thinking ideas.

Small and Medium-Sized Businesses
Arendal’s SMBs span offshore equipment production, tech startups, furniture-making, interior design, and services—like communications, legal, and engineering consultancies—offering a broad spectrum of career opportunities.

Tourism and Service
The travel industry thrives, especially in summer, offering job opportunities in hospitality, events, and tourism. Events like Arendalsuka draw large crowds and drive demand for services, making the city an exciting seasonal hub.

Future-Focused Growth
With 4,500 new jobs expected by 2030, Arendal is on track to become an increasingly attractive destination for startups, established companies, and professionals seeking new opportunities and a high quality of life on Norway’s southern coast.