Explore Southwest Norway

Stavanger

The Stavanger region offers strong career opportunities, a high quality of life, and a well-connected international community. As Norway’s leading energy hub, the region is at the forefront of the transition to renewable energy, creating demand for skilled professionals in engineering, technology, and sustainability. Other key industries include maritime, aquaculture, and digital innovation.

The region provides excellent education options, including international schools and the University of Stavanger, alongside efficient infrastructure and modern public services. With easy access to nature, cultural activities, and a welcoming environment for newcomers, the Stavanger region is an ideal place to live and work.

Kristiansand

The Kristiansand region is a key centre for industry, education, and innovation in Southern Norway. With strong job opportunities in renewable energy, manufacturing, and technology, the region attracts skilled professionals looking for career growth. The University of Agder and specialised vocational schools support a highly educated workforce, while international schools offer options for families relocating to the area.

Infrastructure is well-developed, with efficient public transport, ferry connections to Denmark, and Kristiansand Airport providing international access. The region’s coastline, forests, and cultural scene offer a balanced lifestyle, making it an attractive place to live and work.

Haugesund

The Haugesund region is a key centre for maritime industries, renewable energy, and advanced technology. With strong expertise in offshore wind, shipping, and subsea robotics, the region offers a range of job opportunities in engineering, logistics, and sustainable energy. Companies like Aibel, Deep Wind Offshore, and Solstad Offshore play a significant role in these industries.

Education is well developed, with the Western Norway University of Applied Sciences (HVL) and vocational colleges offering specialised programmes. The region’s infrastructure includes Karmsund Port and Haugesund Airport, ensuring strong connectivity. A mix of coastal towns, islands, and fjord landscapes makes it an attractive place to live and work.

Arendal and Grimstad

The Arendal and Grimstad region is a key hub for renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and maritime industries. Companies like Morrow Batteries and Kitron are at the forefront of innovation, creating strong career opportunities in engineering, technology, and sustainability. The region also benefits from a highly skilled workforce, supported by the University of Agder’s Grimstad campus and specialised vocational training.

With a mix of coastal towns and rural communities, residents enjoy a high quality of life, short commutes, and easy access to outdoor activities. Whether you seek career growth, education, or a balanced lifestyle, the Arendal and Grimstad region offers a dynamic and welcoming environment.

Egersund

The Egersund region offers a unique combination of career opportunities and stunning natural surroundings. With a strong industrial base in maritime technology, renewable energy, and aquaculture, the region is home to companies driving advancements in offshore wind, hydrogen production, and sustainable fisheries. The development of Kaupanes Industrial Park and Langholmen Energy Hub highlights its focus on innovation and green industry.

Beyond work, the region’s dramatic landscapes provide endless outdoor opportunities. The Magma UNESCO Global Geopark, scenic fjords, and vast hiking trails make it ideal for those who enjoy an active lifestyle. Whether living in a coastal town or a quiet rural area, residents benefit from short commutes, strong communities, and easy access to nature.

Lister

The Lister region offers a unique combination of career opportunities and an active outdoor lifestyle. With strong industries in renewable energy, aquaculture, and engineering, the region provides jobs in fields such as wind power, seafood production, and advanced manufacturing. Companies like AMV and Agder Energi drive innovation, while Sirdal’s tourism sector and the Lista coastline create opportunities in hospitality and outdoor recreation.

Beyond work, the region’s varied landscapes provide year-round activities, from skiing in Sirdal to surfing at Lista. With welcoming communities, short commutes, and access to both coastal and inland nature, Lister is an ideal place for those seeking a balanced way of life.

Ryfylke

Ryfylke offers a unique mix of career opportunities and outdoor living, where strong industries meet spectacular landscapes. The region has a thriving job market in aquaculture, renewable energy, and manufacturing, with companies focused on sustainable growth. Sauda’s industrial expertise, Strand’s expanding business sector, and Hjelmeland’s agricultural traditions provide diverse employment options.

Beyond work, Ryfylke’s fjords, mountains, and rivers create an ideal setting for an active lifestyle. Residents enjoy hiking, fishing, and winter sports, alongside a close-knit community spirit. Whether seeking professional development or a peaceful environment, Ryfylke combines opportunity with a high quality of life.

Setesdal

Setesdal offers a unique mix of career opportunities and a deep connection to nature. The region has strong industries in tourism, hydropower, and agriculture, with opportunities ranging from ski resort management and adventure guiding to energy production and traditional crafts. Companies like Å Energi drive innovation in renewable energy, while Setesdal’s rich cultural heritage supports local artisans and eco-tourism initiatives.

Surrounded by mountains, lakes, and forests, residents enjoy year-round outdoor activities, from hiking and rafting in summer to skiing in winter. With welcoming communities, short commutes, and a strong sense of tradition, Setesdal provides a rewarding and balanced way of life.

Jæren

Jæren offers a blend of career opportunities, a thriving town life, and open rural landscapes. The region is Norway’s agricultural hub, with strong industries in food production, advanced farming technology, and renewable energy. Manufacturing and logistics also play a key role, with local businesses driving innovation in machinery and sustainable solutions.

Bryne, the largest town in Jæren serves as a regional hub with bustling cafés, cultural venues, and shops, while the surrounding countryside offers peaceful living with vast fields, long sandy beaches, and scenic trails. With easy access to Stavanger and surrounding areas, Jæren provides an ideal balance between work, nature, and modern conveniences.