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kommunevapenWhy live in Hå?

 

Hå is a municipality in southwestern Norway, set along the beautiful Jæren coastline. Known for its rolling farmland, sandy beaches, and vibrant community spirit, Hå combines rural tranquillity with modern conveniences. Whether you’re visiting the historic Hå gamle prestegard, enjoying outdoor adventures by the sea, or looking to settle in a friendly local environment, Hå offers a laid-back pace of life that still looks toward the future.

Experience

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Daily life
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Activities
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Education
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Job Opportunities
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Living in

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Daily life

Everyday life in Hå blends cultural heritage, strong volunteer networks, and an active outdoors scene. Local centres offer essential services like shops, cafés, and medical facilities, while the railway and good road links make it easy to commute to larger towns. Whether you prefer open farmland or proximity to the sea, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere where tradition meets progress.

Places to live in

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Varhaug

The administrative centre of Hå, Varhaug has shops, local government services, and a range of housing options within easy reach of cultural activities.

nærbø

Nærbø

A bustling village known for its sports facilities, community events, and family-friendly environment. It offers plenty of amenities and is a short trip from both beaches and farmland.

Vigrestad

Vigrestad

A quieter village surrounded by green fields and open skies. Residents enjoy a close-knit community and easy access to outdoor pursuits.

Ogna

Ogna

A coastal area with beautiful sandy beaches, Ogna is a paradise for nature lovers. Whether you enjoy swimming, surfing, or hiking, this part of Hå brings you close to the sea.

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  • Scenic costal landscape
  • The historic heritage town of Egersund
  • Sogndalsstrand cultural heritage area
  • Magma UNESCO Global Geopark
  • Salmon fishing
  • Ski trails and alpine center
  • One of the best natural harbours in Norway

 

Activities in

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Activities

Hå is home to an array of cultural, recreational, and outdoor activities:

  • Culture and community
    • Hå gamle prestegard: A historic site offering art exhibitions, concerts, and cultural programmes throughout the year.
    • Libraries and culture school: The local library and culture school provide workshops, courses, and events for all ages.
    • Community involvement: Festivals, fairs, and volunteering initiatives bring neighbours together, celebrating the region’s heritage and creativity.
  • Sports and leisure
    • Swimming pools: Indoor pools across Hå offer swimming lessons and fun family outings, perfect for staying active year-round.
    • Outdoor life: Explore the sandy beaches along the Jæren coast, discover inland trails on foot or by bike, and take in the region’s wide-open landscapes.

Meeting places: Sports arenas, community halls, and local clubs regularly host exercise classes, social gatherings, and cultural activities.

Local food

Agriculture lies at the heart of Hå’s identity, and local farm shops offer fresh produce and homemade goods that go straight from the field to your table. Some highlights include:

Locals are passionate about farm-to-table fare, and you’ll also find fresh seafood reflecting Hå’s coastal location. Many cafés and restaurants incorporate these ingredients into their menus, creating a dynamic culinary scene.

Activities in Haugesund Region

The Stavanger region is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

  • Hiking & outdoors: Year-round trails through forests, mountains, and coastal paths. Winter? Perfect for skiing.
  • Cultural vibe: Festivals and events for all ages, from music to local traditions.
  • Recreation for everyone: Join sports clubs or enjoy activities for all age groups, from kids to seniors.

Experience the beauty and community of Haugesund—there’s something for everyone!

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Lifestyle, nature, and recreation

The Haugesund region boasts diverse natural landscapes, a vibrant cultural scene, and a thriving recreational environment. Enjoy numerous activities and festivals catering to all ages, from children to adults.

The Haugesund region offers stunning hiking and natural areas year-round, whether you prefer gravel paths, forests, mountains, or coastal walks. 

 

Study in

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Education

Hå places a strong emphasis on educational development, with options designed to help families and young people thrive:

  • Kindergartens
    Both municipal and private kindergartens focus on creating a nurturing environment, offering children a positive start to their educational journey.
  • Primary and lower secondary schools
    Spread across the municipality, these schools combine modern teaching methods with close community ties, reflecting the practical aspects of life in a coastal, agriculturally driven region.
  • Upper secondary schools
    Though Hå does not host a major upper secondary facility, older students can easily commute by bus or train to institutions in neighbouring areas. Bryne vidaregående (to the north) and Dalane vidaregående (to the south) both offer a broad range of academic and vocational programmes, ensuring learners can choose paths that align with their interests and career goals.
  • Further opportunities
    For those seeking higher education, convenient transport links connect Hå to the University of Stavanger, offering bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programmes in various fields. Additionally, the Høgskulen for Grøn Utvikling in Bryne provides specialised courses focused on sustainable development.

This combination of accessible upper secondary schools and nearby higher education institutions means residents can chart an educational journey that fits their ambitions—whether they aspire to hands-on careers in local industry or university-level studies with an eye toward innovation and sustainability.

 

Work in

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Job opportunities

Hå’s economy is grounded in its farming heritage but has expanded well beyond traditional agriculture into various fields. While local producers still supply the region with fresh meat, dairy, and vegetables, modern industry, construction, and technology firms also thrive here. Below is an overview of some of the main sectors offering opportunities for newcomers:

 

Food processing and production
Companies like Tine and Prima Jæren transform locally sourced ingredients into products distributed across Norway, creating roles for food technologists, production specialists, and quality-assurance professionals. Working in this sector often involves cutting-edge research on how to maximise natural resources—ensuring Hå’s strong agricultural roots continue to evolve.

 

Construction and infrastructure
Large contractors such as Risa shape the local landscape by building roads, housing developments, and public facilities. Positions range from engineering and project management to skilled trades like carpentry or masonry. Demand in this sector remains steady, reflecting Hå’s ongoing growth and the need to maintain and improve community amenities.

 

Mechanical and engineering services
Firms such as TKS design and manufacture barn equipment and machinery, blending technical innovation with modern farming requirements. Other engineering and metalwork companies serve a broader clientele, employing welders, machinists, and technicians. These roles play a key part in maintaining and improving vital local infrastructure.

 

Green solutions and sustainability
An emerging focus on sustainability and eco-friendly solutions is evident at Ivar Biogas in Grødaland, where organic waste is converted into renewable energy, and at BioSirk, which explores new ways to reuse and recycle resources. These ventures provide opportunities for individuals interested in renewable energy, waste management, and circular economy models—key areas shaping the municipality’s future.

 

Additional industries
Beyond these core areas, smaller and medium-sized enterprises across fields like logistics, automotive services, and financial consulting add to Hå’s diverse employment landscape. With convenient road and rail connections to surrounding towns and cities, residents can tap into an even wider range of job prospects while still enjoying the municipality’s relaxed coastal lifestyle.

Explore key industries

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Oil and Gas 

Haugesund  is often called the "Oil Capital of Norway." The city has been a hub for Norway’s offshore oil and gas industry since the discovery of oil in the North Sea in the 1960s.

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Technology

Haugesund  is emerging as a center for tech innovation, particularly in energy-related technologies, smart cities, and digital solutions.
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Renewable Energy

With the global shift, Haugesund is growing its renewable energy sector, focusing on wind power, solar energy, and other green technologies.
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Maritime Industry

Haugesund has a long-standing maritime tradition. The port facilities in the region support shipping, shipbuilding, logistics, and marine services.
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Tourism

Haugesund hosts the Norwegian International Film Festival, which boosts the local economy and contributes to its reputation as a cultural center.
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Agriculture & Food

Haugesund is home to a significant agricultural sector, with a focus on dairy, livestock, and crop production. Companies like TINE and Nortura.

Companies in Haugesund

FAQ's

What do I need to know about the Norwegian immigration process?

The requirements depend on your nationality, purpose of stay, and employment status. EU/EEA citizens can move to Norway more easily, while others may need work permits or residency visas.

How does healthcare work in Stavanger?

Healthcare is publicly funded in Norway, providing all residents with access to quality medical services. Stavanger University Hospital is a major healthcare facility in the region.

What educational options are available for families?

Stavanger offers a variety of international and public schools, as well as higher education institutions like the University of Stavanger, which provides programs in English and Norwegian.

What is the average salary in Stavanger?

Salaries in Stavanger vary by industry, with competitive wages in technology, energy, and engineering. For more information on specific salary expectations, consult Norwegian employment resources.

What are the housing options in Stavanger?

Housing options in Stavanger include apartments, townhouses, and family homes. You can find rental and purchase options through various local real estate agencies and online property platforms.