How much it costs to live on Svalbard? Detailed Breakdown of our Expenses in the Northernmost Town

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How much does it actually cost to live on Svalbard? In this video I go through all of our monthly expenses to give you an idea of what living in Longyearbyen, the World's Northernmost Town costs. Let me know if you like this video, and want me to do more sit down chats like these! :)
0:00 Introduction
00:40 Why I wanted to make this video
01:36 Explaining
04:08 Skillshare
05:27 Housing on Svalbard
06:50 Snowmobiles
08:20 Our Monthly Budget
08:25 Common Wage in Longyearbyen
09:25 Monthly Expenses Breakdown
15:18 Monthly Insurance Costs
16:31 Total Costs
18:40 Outro
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About Cecilia:
Cecilia Blomdahl is originally from Sweden and moved to Svalbard 6 years ago. She works as a photographer and videographer in Longyearbyen, and with her social media channels. Check her out on tiktok and instagram! Here on youtube she posts videos about her daily life in her cabin with her boyfriend Christoffer and her dog Grim, living just outside of Longyearbyen. Subscribe for videos about her daily life as well as adventures on an island close to the North Pole. They have polar bears there!

[@carrieannarnold9169]

If only one person can tell you that you are doing a great job, then I want to be that person. I can’t imagine how hard it must be to keep motivated to put out content as much as you do. It’s a lot of hard work. I want you to know that I appreciate it. I look forward everyday to seeing a new vid. Makes my day and enjoy my morning coffee and watching. I understand that no one tells you often enough that you are appreciated. I’m all the way in Texas and want you to know how much your channel means to me.

[@CeciliaBlomdahl]

😭😭😭 Thank you so much for this lovely comment 🧡🧡🧡

[@saratexas5181]

Here’s another Texan 🐄 who love traveling to Svalbard with every video 🐻‍❄️. Thank you for being such a great storyteller and for giving us practical info like this video!

[@ovehlu]

Amen🙏🏼!

[@laurasophie9361]

Great comment; I feel the same :-)

[@vbtell]

Feel the same! Thank you so much for your videos!

[@Blonde_Sky_Bunny]

Finally someone who uses actual numbers and not percentages! This is soooo helpful thank you so much 🙏🏻

[@CeciliaBlomdahl]

I'm so glad it was helpful!! :D

[@mondkindler239]

Cecilia, you truly inspire me so much. I am 22 years old and have been struggling a lot with depression, anxiety and all that good stuff in the last months. Ever since finding your channel your videos provide me with peace. Your warmth, your energy, your loving nature and just the way you take us into your life is so kind! I dearly appreciate it and it shows me what kind of life I want to build for myself. Thank you for your content and your presence! Much love from Germany❤️

[@imwhoamike]

I’m from USA im 24 we can be friends

[@marystuart6180]

It's so helpful and affectionate that you're showing us your expenses and living costs and living conditions in general on Svalbard. Most people shy away from finances and find it kinda unsuitable to talk about. So as a young adult it's so important to find people like you from whom we can learn to break the taboos and profit from your experience 😊🙌🏻

[@alanholck7995]

The unusual thing isn’t that she lives in the most northern settlement in the world; the truly unusual thing is that she loves going to the dentist.

[@CeciliaBlomdahl]

Hahahah 🤣

[@barbaravyse660]

I hate it. But still go twice a year.

[@prinzezze]

@@barbaravyse660 twice a year? That’s a lot! Is it free or something like this that where you live??

[@amor2874]

@@prinzezze it’s standard in the US to go every 6 months

[@americaneclectic]

My semi-annual visits to dentist in US are covered. If I need expensive work like crowns, I must pay at least 1/2.

[@dhohum8425]

Today I learned that Svalbard is more affordable than where I live in the US 🤯 The two expenses that stood out to me were: food costs (of course) and electricity. The cost of electricity shocked me!

[@Saravon]

The prices are very similar to the SF Bay Area and LA.

[@hell-o-kitty1976]

Im in Southern California, homes are $800k!! City taxes are 10% and the homelessness is insane. Renting a room in a home or an apartment is $ 700 to $800. An apartment is $1500 to $2000 for studio or 1 bedroom. No parking!!!! For the car!

[@mrscuteas]

Americans have very low electricity costs compared to Australia, quarterly for two adults on average between $500-$600 (one working from home full time) I hear of families paying over $1200 every quarter which is why we choose to line dry and not use a dryer

[@waldemarsikorski4759]

@@hell-o-kitty1976 "Insane", is that standard or metric?

[@vk2ig]

@@mrscuteas Put solar on your roof if you can afford the upfront cost - it pulls the electricity bill down, especially when running the air-conditioner in summer. We didn't bother getting solar until we decided we wanted airconditioning.

[@1969elder]

In the US, cost of living differs greatly depending where you live. I’m in Texas and in a small town. A family of 4 can make it on about 2500 to 3500 a month depending on your lifestyle and size or type of house you have. A friend of mine lives in California and has a smaller house yet pays about 7000 a month just on basic living expenses. He also pays a lot more in taxes as we don’t have a state tax and he does. We included monthly maintenance fees, no perishable items like toilet paper paper towels female needs, etc. it’s funny how all over the world (basing this from my Navy days) how much cost of living changes based in where you live. BUT…. It is always higher to live near any military base. Love your videos and thank you for sharing. This Texan tips his hat to ya! (The most unique thing I have found watching your videos is how well your accent is compared to us in the states. It would be hard for anyone around here to guess where you come from unless you aren’t speaking English. Just an observation.)

[@hardtogetnamehere]

I’m in California also. My mortgage is $1830/month. Total home expenses are less than $2500/month. We bought our home 4 years ago. We have several acres and raise a large amount of farm animals. That is less than $500/month. Cost of living varies greatly from areas of the state. I would never live in the Bay Area or the LA/San Diego area.

[@Yawnzee_]

@@hardtogetnamehere yea it's very expensive I'm a San Diego native and I pay close to 1000$ per month just for a studio. I'm saving up to leave California it's just to expensive to live here especially if it's just you alone, alot of native californians are leaving for the same reason.

[@LindaKayHolevas]

Thank you for your service to our country. You are appreciated! 🇺🇲 🇺🇲 🇺🇲 🇺🇲 🇺🇲 🇺🇲 🇺🇲

[@sanjeevchauhan3613]

Love Texas... most businesses are moving from Cal to Texas. Dems are ruining the cities

[@hillaryandmichaelcrymes3702]

Agreed! My parents two bedroom in St. Louis Missouri cost them $55,000 (purchased in 2011) but in places like New York or Los Angeles the same sized house is probably closer to $500,000 which is insane to me

[@michaelchandler490]

My comment is not about the content of this particular episode, but rather how your channel made me feel good to see other northern living peoples. I’ve lived for over 30 years on Baffin Island in the Canadian Arctic and the northern landscape and way of life is not often reflected on You Tube. It was just nice to see another part of our circumpolar community.

[@stevesharpe3370]

How do you make money there? Where do you people work ?

[@eo6826]

It’s hard to express how much I enjoy your videos. It *almost* doesn’t even matter what you’re talking about (although all of your topics are so interesting!) I always just appreciate how calming and inspirational they are! 🤗

[@helenakoivisto4459]

I agree.

[@weatherandsky]

I was just thinking the same thing!! :)

[@lisajackson5577]

I agree!

[@missmoonstone6260]

I couldn’t live anyplace that didn’t have trees and daily sunshine, but I’m fascinated by your life. I find your videos so relaxing. I would love to live in a cabin, but one with great water pressure 😀. Hi Grim!

[@livingintheforest3963]

Be careful what you wish for a lot of people think living in a cabin out in the middle of nowhere is just the most wonderful thing in the world but there are a lot of challenges when you live off the grid or in the country or you have snow it is not as easy as you think. I laugh at people from LA and Arizona who say oh I would love to do that but when you go through some winter storms and tough weather and total isolation you will see it is not so easy. Her videos make everything look beautiful and wonderful but in reality a lot of these harsh environments are a lot of work and very difficult. I have lived off the grid for three years now and it is not easy! It is extremely beautiful but it is isolating and very difficult at times.

[@Borderlinegoldenretriever]

😂 same here, trees and sunshine make me happy so I couldn’t live without them

[@margietucker1719]

I am the same, I have to be able to garden..I love green grass, trees, all my flowers, etc...the butterflies, dragon flies, hummingbirds, etc. Svalbard has a stark, bleak kind of beauty that's not for everyone. It would be a fascinating place to visit. But for me, only to visit.

[@rockermystic]

@@livingintheforest3963 OP said she WOULDN'T want to live remotely. Living in a cabin =/= living "off grid".

[@tillwill3232]

@@livingintheforest3963 how did you survive when you live far away from civilization, can you give some details im curious how it works

[@suemurphy1730]

You are speaking my language (literally)! Your costs of living aren't all that different from ours in northern New England. The food costs may be a bit higher, but considering everything has to be shipped by boat or air, they are quite reasonable. I think for many folks, having a clear picture of yearly expenses is a good way to avoid financial trouble (and turmoil in a relationship). It is especially important to do before any big decisions - like buying a house or vehicle, contemplating retirement, etc.

[@tuirevalkonen1462]

I just came back from Svalbard. I was working there for a month. I watched your videos before arriving at the Svalbard. It was easy to travel there because I already knew a lot about Svalbard. Thanks for you videos. Now, after the trip, it’s also nice to watch updates and videos. At the same time, I remember how wonderful a month I had there.Thank you!

[@jonash5555]

Great, it seems like you enjoyed your time there. I am thinking about going there next year for 6-8 months with family....in your opinion, is it safe to live there?

[@pdxyadayada]

I fully agree. Cost obfuscation is commonplace in our ‘credit driven’ economy (in the states). It’s a sad state of affairs. Corporations and banks would prefer to keep us from discussing this…

[@goqsane]

Watch the US economy collapse in the next 3-4 months, followed by the world economy. No lessons learnt from 2008. Nothing was ever cleaned up. It's time to say bye-bye to Centralized Finance run by Financial Terrorists.

[@Saiya888]

Cecilia, your videos are super helpful and insightful. I stumbled upon a couple of other videos about Svalbard a while ago and thought that the cost of living was crazy expensive because everything has to be shipped over from the mainland. After watching your videos, I have to say, the cost of groceries isn't that much different from where I live (Canada). As always, thanks for all the effort your put into your content =)!

[@CeciliaBlomdahl]

Thank you so much! :) Glad it was helpful! 😍

[@clareoclareo2626]

Excel-ant video :)

[@clareoclareo2626]

Not sure if you have done this already..but a video about how to visit. Travel route , how to book accommodation , what a tourist can do say in a 4 day visit.

[@daniellereid01]

This is true. I live in the B.C. interior and the cost of food is high. Thanks for the video 💕

[@heatherireland2810]

Hello fellow 🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦 I’m in central Alberta and prices are nuts right now and that will probably change due to the protests. Sigh…

[@marieleelee]

Like you said, considering everything you have to pay for and the place you live in I don't think it's that bad. I imagine getting rid of the car/snowmobile would make your life significantly more difficult which makes no sense. I'm glad you did this, you were right this was very interesting!

[@redsequins8078]

Being a teacher, I would love to know more about the school system. How do the kids get to school? Are they bussed? Do you guys ever have snow days? Do they go year-round? Or do they get the summers off? Do they go until 12th grade? Are there any behavior issues? How much do teachers make? Thanks!! I love your videos so much!!

[@gretardum8286]

I believe they have the same schoolsystem as we have on the mainland in Norway.

[@lizstewart7113]

Very interesting questions. I'd love to know about this topic also.

[@mrs.boudreaux3331]

​ @Liz Stewart Yes, this is a great question.

[@carochan86]

Also do kids move off the island

[@vbtell]

I asked this a month or so ago and would love to know as well!

[@Brian_Moser1118]

this is actually a great video, not only for your channel but also for the economy of the region that was a low population that is actually in decline and its a good video for those looking to visit or relocate. you are the pioneer of Svalbard !

[@CeciliaBlomdahl]

Thank you so much! :):)

[@orclovesprince]

Hi Cecilia! Thank you so much for making this video! I was wondering about this recently. It's incredible how surprisingly affordable it is to live in Svalbard, contrary to what one might think. Cost of living keeps rising everywhere, and it is truly outrageous in some places.

[@Sofia-Lala]

Fun fact re minimum wage, we don't have it in Norway!!🤯 And I guess it goes for Sweden too?? It's because we have way way stronger unions than the US. It's normal to talk about salaries among colleagues at a workplace, so if someone's salary is off, you talk to your employer. If they don't agree, you go to your union and they fix it for you.

[@versatildoom]

This was very insightful. I've actually been learning Norwegian for the better part of a year in the hopes of visiting and maybe living there one day. Seeing these numbers actually makes the dream seem more realistic for me. It looks so amazing to live there.

[@patricepalmer1909]

I started learning Norsk about 1 month ago. Same dream. Best of luck to you!

[@nadinekore6308]

I had assumed it was triple the cost it is... but no, it is pretty affordable to live in the forever snow & darkness. My favorite season beside summer is Fall, when the leaves on trees turn red and the nights are windy and slightly rainy... Here's hoping you travel around Spain or France in December so you get to see Fall (our winter is in Jan/March 😂)

[@jenniferbonutti2158]

This is fascinating. I live in the USA in Michigan. I am raising 3 boys and we own a small home in metro Detroit. I have to say that your monthly expenses are WAY less than I would have expected. Raising three boys is expensive especially with college looming just a year away. Our expenses are way above yours and I always thought it was much more expensive to live across the pond! But…just in health insurance every year we pay $8,000 out of pocket. That does not include any alternative care doctors that insurance doesn’t cover at all. Somehow we make it work. Thank you for sharing your expenses, it was super interesting. 😊❤️-Jen

[@crystalw8050]

Keep in mind that she’s averaging each of their weekly income to just under $800US. So they don’t make as much and their expenses are less. It’s relative.

[@dione6388]

Europe, mostly, is much cheaper than the US. Healthcare is, mostly, free.

[@Ellary_Rosewood]

I was honestly quite surprised at the total cost at the end. I was expecting it to be double that amount! Groceries are definitely expensive, but I thought that everything else was pretty decently priced, especially compared to what I was used to spending when I lived in California (don't live in the U.S. anymore and I my living expenses are about $500-$600 USD now). Thank you for another wonderful video! I always look forward to when you upload! 🥰

[@MsThePrettiest]

Including rent?! If yes, then wow!

[@Ellary_Rosewood]

@@MsThePrettiest Yup! I live in a very affordable country (if you are making U.S. dollars). 🙂

[@fluffyMajestic]

@@Ellary_Rosewood What country?

[@Ellary_Rosewood]

@@fluffyMajestic Georgia. 🇬🇪

[@havard8160]

I just have to say this, and this is 110% true: you really are the best youtuber ever in my opinion! I have been subscribed for some years, and I feel watching you is so relaxing. I hope you and your beautiful family doing well! I am very grateful to watch you, and your family! Much love to you, Grim and Christoffer, from North-Norway😜🥰

[@SaHayes-it2uw]

Yes this lady and the CottageFairy woman...so relaxing and interesting.

[@havard8160]

@@SaHayes-it2uw yes, so easy to agree on that! The are so awesome😆

[@TheLaLaLatteLand]

The peaceful clips at the beginning and throughout your videos bring such calm energy. Beautiful photography and cinematography! 😍🏔❄️🌊

[@CeciliaBlomdahl]

Thank you so much 😍

[@Hermandbl7]

I discovered Svalbard by following Dan and Kika and thereby found you and your channel. I love the way you share your experience of your life in that remote land and the appreciation you have for the specialness and unique beauty of the northern part of this world. Of course, Grim is a happy companion to have on those long winter days/nights.

[@dirtyjeepgirl3774]

Loved hearing that Grim has his own insurance! Such a key thing to have for your pet 🐾

[@klaire74]

In The Netherlands is usual to have insurance for our pets. Medical costs are huge if you don't have. I pay for my 2 cats 45 euro per month . For dogs also we must pay a sort of tax to the city hall, every year (but I guess is normal- we have parks for dogs, special places where they can do their business and other useful things for dog owners)

[@performance_testing]

What is a grim? Cannot translate this word

[@vald9698]

@@performance_testing, it`s the name of their dog, the one who appears briefly in the video in the beginning.

[@keridowns187]

So excited when u put up a new video ,I found your channel by accident and now myself and my partner are hooked ! We have nearly watched all ur videos. We find your life fascinating and would love to live your life. Grim of course is an added bonus ! 😍We love just watching ur life in the cosy cabin ! Thank so much for sharing it with us !

[@CeciliaBlomdahl]

Oh wow thank you so so much! :)

[@Magicallyamberr]

You make us remember that we can have happiness in different, off the grid places. Thank you for sharing the details.

[@broot6443]

I am from Estonia and growing up I always had an idea that Norway is extremeeeely expencive place to live. So honestly, your numbers did surprise me as they are not as high as I thought they would be. Thank you for making these videos! It is very helpful!

[@christoffersprck7234]

This is svalbard. Norway is way moore costley.😊

[@grahampitt4104]

Cecilia, it would be interesting if you did a video about how the people on the island have been affected by Covid and how things are now. For example, because you are relatively isolated on an island has covid not been so much of an issue? I would find that interesting.

[@Nickalzz]

What a weird question.

[@alhelimartinez3256]

Thank you for sharing all of this! I'm also always curious what a normal lifestyle costs in different places. I'm shocked at the cost of groceries! 😳 Recently food costs have been increasing where I live, (and probably all across the US) but I still can't imagine spending that much on regular grocery trips. Even if you're trying to budget and keep costs down. It's not like you can really have a garden on your property to help. Thank you for all your interesting and beautiful videos! I always find your narraration so soothing. 😊 Lots of love from Washington state!

[@casia25]

Hi Cecilia, could you talk more about people who live on Svalbard? Were they born there, or maybe imigrated at some point? Who actually chooses living on Svalbard? I love that place but we all agree that it's quite remote and gives this senses of being separated from the rest off the world. And thanks for your amazing videos!

[@Elliethewanderer]

There is no native population on Svalbard, and pregnant women travel to mainland Norway to give birth, but there are children who grow up there. As for the population, a lot of Norwegians and other Scandinavians. But also a few from other parts of the world. There are some russians living there too, but not as many as it used to be when they were mining coal more there.

[@prinzezze]

People aren’t allowed to give birth there so nobody is born there.

[@maryannebrown2385]

@@prinzezze I wonder why?

[@cookiemonster59263]

@@maryannebrown2385 the hospital is not equipped for it and they want to ensure that the women get the best healthcare possible in case anything happens. She covered this in a video before but I can't remember how long ago it was, unfortunately - I do remember she discusses it briefly in her tour of Svalbard videos!

[@magnusb6311]

Officially, they have to go to the mainland because of the capabilities of the hospital. Naturally, sometimes babies dont always follow the schedule so to say that no-one is born there is wrong. It happens that babies come a bit to early and is actually born on Svalbard. I cant seem to find when last someone was born there but I think it was in 2019 or 2018. There may be a number of reasons why one would want to live in Svalbard. Usually it is a combination of things that might attract one to live there. I list some below. - Some people take a temporary job and find that they love the place and continue on living there. - Nature lovers that love the the different nature to what they are used too. - You mentioned it is remote and separated from the rest of the world. Well, for some of us, that may just be the thing we search or need. - "Tax haven", there is no doubt about it that Svalbard has extremely low taxes compared to most countries in the world. Current levels is as low as 8% (if you are not a citizen of a Nordic country (Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Aaland Islands, Faroe Islands or Iceland). Basically one pays 8% up to 12 folketrygdens grunnbeløp which means the 12 times to national insurance amount. This is currently 106,399 NOK. Take that X 12 and we are up to 1,276,788 NOK which equals in todays value of US$ 143,399. After an individual reaches this amount they will start paying 22% on the amount over that. Few people in Svalbard is making more than 1275K NOK a year Now, add to this, if you have your own company in example Sweden and you would be able to make equal to 1275 NOK a year you would pay probably near 70% in total income tax and social fees. Svalbard don't even have social fees. If you are a WFM contractor or you run your own business where you don't have to be where you conduct your services you never pay more than 22%. - Your the type of person that wants to get away from the hustle and bustle. - You are different and don't feel that you belong in your own culture or society. Most people in Svalbard tend to be very open minded and non-judgmental. Anyone seem to be welcome no matter ethnicity, color, gender, gender identity/gender roles, persuasion and so on. Everyone seem to be welcome. - Some people come from poorer countries or countries where it is hard to get a job that pays enough for self reliance and still have a good quality of life. These are mainly from Asia, Oceania, Africa. There is quite - Effective isolation from relatives. - Want to experience something different. - Studies.

[@Richard_Barnes]

Thank you for your openness and honesty 🙏🏻 I keep an Excel spreadsheet for us both too 🙂 We live in 🇬🇧 in a small 2 bedroom house and I think for your costs, you are doing very well 😃 Considering what you ‘own’ in terms of being able to live in such an incredible place on our Earth, it’s well worth paying for. I can’t even imagine how it must feel to live there when the sky lights up like it does. Just incredible.

[@robertmcdonald1419]

Good morning from the frozen north of Canada. I sympathize with the remoteness, costs ect. Coffee is a mental savior. Love your channel!

[@rhoadestraveled]

I feel my anxiety subside when I can watch your videos of you tucked away in a cabin living your best life. Thank you for sharing. My living expenses are $8550 per month USD.

[@CeciliaBlomdahl]

Oh wow! That feels like a lot 😶🧡

[@rhoadestraveled]

@@CeciliaBlomdahl it is! I have a family of 4.

[@crystalw8050]

Can I ask what your combined income is per month? How can you afford that! I feel for you :(

[@jeffr985]

That is insane....Makes no sense to me. Where do you live? I do not want to make assumptions here but that seems extreme to me unless you make a lot money and choose to live to that standard. My wife and I make pretty good money but our expenses per month are about half that amount and we have 2 kids as well.

[@YeshuaKingMessiah]

That’s a huge monthly amt u choose to expend.

[@abigat0r]

We’re Northern UK and per person we spend around £1,100 (13,231 NOK) a month for everything which I think is pretty low here! & we put the rest into savings 😊 our tax is automatically deducted from our pay check each payday! I’m soooo intrigued into living in Svalbard, looks so dreamy

[@AmericanEnglishBrent]

Awesome! My wife, my dog, Hank, and I are addicted to your videos. Thanks so much! Say hello to Grim for us, please. 😀

[@CeciliaBlomdahl]

Thank you so much!! :):)

[@moosespeak6140]

What I have living in Montana is mine and I live on $1900 a month. When a gf of mine seen what my budget was and what I make she was shocked. I have nice things but not alot of excess like most people today. She told me"You really live...You don't just survive, your happy". I told her happiness was a state of mind and I'd give it all up to just live and be free in nature. Just me and my dog. I enjoy watching your videos. It's the human element, connection with those we have things in common with. Although your a world away, your still so close. Thank you for sharing all of this info it was very helpful and humble

[@suje8032]

It’s so refreshing to see someone so open abut their income and spending. In the USA everything is a secret.🤐 Also, $4000 a month for 2 people is substantial considering the remoteness of the place. You can live with that amount in certain places in US.

[@ankiking]

It also would depend on the income….

[@keldon1137]

considering how remote svalbard is and that everything needs to be shipped there imo its actually quite cheap, esp considering fact that wages in such remote places are usually higher due to isolation etc.

[@williamardenjr116]

No clue where all of you live, but I haven't made 4000 a month since I was in the Navy. Everything here where I'm at is about 2k

[@sianswinton4623]

This was super interesting! I’m soooo terrible at budgeting so this level of preparation is mad to me but I want to get there! This is actually a lot less than I thought it would be!

[@adriennelee26]

I can tell you you've got a great deal on pet insurance! I'm in the US and I pay $122 per month for my two dogs. And that doesn't even cover well visits. My grocery bill for our family of 4 (plus dogs and cats) is ridiculous.

[@NikkiPumpkin31]

When I lived in New Jersey in 2014 that’s where I grew up my rent for a two bedroom apartment was $1450. I am in Ohio USA now for seven years the apartment I’m lucky it’s a two bedroom apartment it’s $ 650 a month. And my car insurance is $69 a month my car is paid for so I have no car payment. $125 a month for Wi-Fi and my little cable app to give me like 10 cable channels and some local stations I also pay like $100 a month for electric,water is anywhere from $50 to $80 a month. I also Pay $12.99 a month for Amazon prime and I pay $23 a month for Sirius radio I was paying six dollars a month for service radio for a year but it just went up. Its just me and my 17-year-old son at home and then whatever we have to pay for food. Cell phone $45 a month. I think for food it’s over $750 a month to eat monthly for us 2.

[@neeko4676]

I just reviewed my budget today, so this is perfect timing. I cancelled 5 subscriptions that we don't use. It's crazy how much they add up. $10-15/month doesn't seem like a lot until you have a bunch of them.

[@CallieMasters5000]

That makes sense to pay Christoffer to do all the cooking! 😁 You might do another video where you show how to live cheap in Svalbard, like getting a job that includes housing or food, no luxuries, sharing apt., odd jobs, fishing/hunting food, free entertainment & local services, etc.

[@ilarious5729]

How to budget travel/live there for short amount of time would definitely be interesting 👍

[@kaydublin5164]

Enjoyed this video, I’m in the US, we are taxed to death, unless you budget or our well off you can go into debt very easily, cost of living is insane. Your home and country look so beautiful and relaxing. 🤗

[@dnmurphy48]

hahahahaa, in the US total tax take across all sources (Fed, State, Local) is about 25% of GDP. The OECD average is about 33% and Norway about 38%. You might think you are over taxed, but you have some of the lowest rates. But you have the worst government services, you have to pay more for yourself that the state covers in many other countries (eg health). It's very difficult to compare countries when their system of government are so different.

[@margietucker1719]

Taxed to death in the US? You have no idea about taxes. Europe and Scandinavian countries are taxed MUCH MORE heavily than we are! That's why they have "free" health care. Those high taxes pay for it. I know many Europeans who have moved to the US, mainly to escape the taxes, which in some countries amounts to 50-60% of their income.

[@vk2ig]

Reading the comments on this video from people in the USA, it seems the tax rates must vary substantially. During my visits to various parts of the USA I noted that there are different state and "city" taxes, so maybe that's the cause of the variation? I would think that the European countries would have higher tax rates than the USA as they have to fund the government services provided to the people. Here in Australia, on my income I pay about $5100 base tax rate then 32.5 cents in every dollar above $45k, so someone on $100k gross per annum will pay about 23% tax (i.e. $23,000) which means they get $77,000 net over the year. But then we have 10% GST (Goods & Services Tax) which applies to almost everything except fresh produce. So if someone buys, say, a packet of biscuits (cookies in US speak) then there is an extra 10% added in. If someone spends all of their net income then they're likely to pay another 10% or $7000 in GST (they buy $70k of goods or services and pay another $7k in tax on it as GST), which pushes the overall tax to $30k or 30%. There are some added bits and pieces depending on what you buy, e.g. there are some taxes buried in petrol (gas in US speak) but that varies on a state-by-state basis. So it's probably closer to that OECD average of 33%.

[@ed9910]

That's amazing. You get a lot for your money up there. You could not get all of this here. The average salary seemed super low, free healthcare balances it out. In our area a family of 4 could easily pay $2500 on health ins per month and that is on top of your employer paying some. Amazing lifestyle you have creates. Thanks for sharing!

[@chutneysmith6469]

Her healthcare isn't free. Her substantial taxes pay for it.

[@SirShiv7]

I've backpacked most of my adult life across the globe and was supposed to go exploring in your country before the world shut down a few years ago and I ended up losing my ticket; I was so upset I didn't get a chance to see everything. Just wanted to thank you for giving such detailed descriptions of your every day life and the culture - some people might not understand but being able to truly experience other people's way of life is a fascinating opportunity to see how different AND how similar we all are!

[@cycletricity]

Today I learned that cost of living in Svalbard is comparable to my home town in the UK and yet quality of life up there is so much better!

[@craftyShirleyG]

Very interesting. I lived in a remote village in Alaska for two years. For a two bedroom apartment I paid $1700 USD. I also had to pay for internet, electric, phone and groceries. So yeah I think it's very reasonable for such a remote place

[@chocmeltingcake]

You have inspired me to visit Svalbard. I am planning a trip for summer 2023. Your cost of living is much better than I would have thought.

[@Excitable67]

Definitely a LOT more expensive to live there than where I live. What you pay for things in the US really depends on where in the country, and even the state, you live. Your one bed apartments are expensive, but I recently found that rents here have gone way up since my renting days. But, you can find cheaper rent. You just have to go looking for it. So, if something is available in your budget, you can get a nice place much cheaper. Our insurance options (house, car, etc.) are customizable, so they can be relatively affordable. You can shop around to different companies to find the price and coverage that suits your needs. The amount you have to pay in electric is astronomical! I almost choked when I saw the amount you pay! Gas for heating seems pretty expensive, but you also live in a MUCH colder climate than I do (though, during winter, it doesn't seem like it. I am in Northern IL near Lake Michigan) and would be using it a lot more then other places. Food costs are astronomical there compared to here, too. But, here, costs can be due to the types of foods eaten, size of household, etc. We have the choice of stores to go to and can control costs by getting cheaper brands (if they suit our needs) and some stores are cheaper than others for the same items. All in all, if nothing else, this video made me feel a LOT better about MY bills! LOL Very interesting information. It is interesting to see the comparisons of costs of someone living in a different country.

[@ljcharie]

It would be great to learn more about how you plan journeys to the cabins, how you choose routes and know where is safe? How do you learn this?

[@tekla5487]

I admire how well you plan your expenses (also when it comes to rules on sharing expenses with your partner)!

[@Bettinasisrg]

Wow, American here, my elecricity average $150 month, mobile phone $50, Internet $50, car ins $50, gas $50, food (1 person) $150, I make $15,000 a year and I pay the lowest you can for these things. I'm paying a mortgage $500, also very low but I'm at the end of 30 year mortgage. I am older and disabled (not on disability for other Americans) I used to be able to work more. Kids are grown and having kids of their own. I was a single parent which was tough but good for my kids because they learned to work and be self sufficient. Thanks for the breakdown! It's very tough here without insurance and minimum wage not being a livable wage and we have many thousands of working poor or homeless people. It's everyone for themselves and too many wealthy people complain about their taxes helping those less fortunate, unfortunately.

[@nataliebaatjies5233]

This is awesome Cecelia the more I watch your content the more I feel motivated and inspired to live a life full of adventure, intention and gratitude!

[@CeciliaBlomdahl]

You can do it! 🧡

[@DarleneMW]

I envy your cost of living in Svalbard. My hubby and I retired from New Jersey to North Carolina where he is from and we are saving TREMENDOUSLY. I honestly believe we wouldn’t have been able to live in New Jersey on what we get in retirement benefits because every State in the U.S. is different in terms of cost of living.

[@margietucker1719]

True! I moved from Illinois to Texas...things are MUCH better here.

[@morellana908]

Completely agree. I live in NJ however plan on moving to Ga next year. The cost of living in the Garden State is too much.

[@shamelesshussy]

Thanks for carpetbagging and making things too expensive for Southern people.

[@LStottmann]

Actually I was thinking you spent much more than that for everything you have. That’s awesome! I would love to visit Svalbard one day, what a dream!

[@rickwatson1000]

Fanatic channel ! Thank you for your prospective and sharing cost of living in Svalbard . The cost of living here just outside of San Antonio Texas my mortgage for a 2300 SF 8 year old home on 2 acres including taxes of $6400. per year, insurance and bank loan of 2.75% rate is $1887. Water & Electricity $150. per month. I bought it just before the housing boom for $300,000. Dollars. Pricing has gone through the roof here with building supplies and labor cost. To build this house 4/12/2022 will cost + - $ 485,000.

[@lizstewart7113]

Very enjoyable video. I live in America & it is so interesting to see the differences in our monthly expenses. Thank you for showing the amounts in dollars & euros also. I'm like you Cecelia...I love having an organized budget. That way you don't end up accidentally over spending on non-neccesities to the detriment of your monthly bills. Your vlogs are wonderful. It's amazing to be able to see parts of your lives in an area that I will certainly never have the privilege of visiting. Hope you are both enjoying the returning daylight. 🌞💞

[@AC-cg3bv]

Really interesting! Can't believe you think it's fun budgeting though!! I live in a Cardiff and my total expenses for bills (no food) including rent, car is about €993! Rent and food quite a bit more there but had expected that. Really interesting to see the differences! No need for a snowmobile here!!😁

[@justmyopinion2]

The cost of health insurance in the US is *outrageous.* At one point, we were paying $1,800 US dollars per month for four people. I am curious to know in the end how much money is paid in Norway for insurance and how much cheaper it is than the US, or isn't. You have a beautiful and simple life there, no chaos or crowds of people fighting for space.

[@dnmurphy48]

In Norway it is a state system and you pay state-mandated insurance, typically 7-8% of salary. US healthcare is managed so differently, there is no real comparison. eg in the US premiums rise with age and pre-existing conditions, not in Norway. Norway's system is pretty similar to most European ones. American costs are so high for two main reasons - millions choose to not have insurance or can't afford it, so the cost falls on to those who do have it; then you have malpractice insurance which can be as much as 25% of a doctor's income in some states, especially for paediatricians. A comprehensive national system \+ tort aw reform would change the picture quite a bit in the US. Norway spends about 10% of GDP as healthcare, the US about 16% (and has worse outcomes)

[@maryannebrown2385]

@@dnmurphy48 Does the Norwegian system also include dental care?

[@hell-o-kitty1976]

Blame Obama care! Before Obama care, my monthly insurance was $150 a month. Your current payment is paying for the people that can't afford insurance payments.

[@vk2ig]

@@dnmurphy48 As an outside observer, I think it would take a brave President to try introducing a comprehensive national system \+ tort law reform ... it would be just as suicidal as introducing gun laws - they'd be lucky to last to the mid-terms! Too many people have their fingers in the existing pie, and will fight tooth and nail to keep things the way they are.

[@kellyc2425]

Cecilia, here's an example of some American monthly expenses converted to Norwegian Kroner for comparison: Annual household income - 1,330,300 nkr Mortgage - 10,265 nkr Truck payment - 6673 nkr Car payment - 3592 nkr Electricity - 2694 nkr Cable TV/internet - 2541 nkr Cell phones (2) - 1032 nkr Groceries - 8981 nkr

[@PhanglyPhish]

I am also the budget master in our house. Ironically I am terrible at math, but using Excel or a budgeting app makes it more like a puzzle that I enjoy. Plus I am a worrier/saver so it makes me feel a bit more safe and in control!

[@christieyurth2087]

You have inspired me to set up a better budget. My husband and I will be combining our household with our son's soon and we will be paying according to our income. He will pay three shares because he has two children and we will be paying two shares. Our son makes the most money and we are retired. I will be keeping us on track in the household, he and my husband will keep the business on track. Wish us luck.

[@mmbturtle5134]

Prices seem pretty similar to here in Canada, but the house insurance was much lower, I was jealous. It's nice that your communication expenses are low, it would make living there more comfortable I am sure.

[@vk2ig]

Svalbard has a fibre link to the mainland with humungous bandwidth - it's one of the advantages of having the Telenor satellite station (for low earth orbiting satellites) on the island, as they need the bandwidth to service the station.

[@jolanas.5426]

This was so interesting! I live in Czechia and I've been to Norway once. (It was awesome, no Svalbard though, the northernmost place I visited was Lofoten). And you've just confirmed to me what I had thought after my visit. You pay basically the same amount of kroner for everything as we do and the average wages are similar in numbers to ours as well, but our tsjekkiske kroner are weaker than yours, 1 NOK is usually ca. 3 czech crowns. So you can buy the same stuff for the same chunk of your wages as we do, but when we travel to Norway, everything is 3x more expensive, as our currency is 3 times weaker. :D So basically, I just went around Norway and saw similar numbers on price tags as in my homeland, but multiplied them by three in my head to know what the stuff would really cost me.

[@vashti82975]

Thank you for your videos! They need to hire you for the tourism board! You make people want to come visit/live there. I swear I've contemplated coming to live there! It's absolutely beautiful and serene. Sunny thoughts from Florida!

[@dimitrisbakouras7302]

That is really affordable and comfortable compared to where I live. I live in Greece and at the moment gas , electricity and petrol prices have sky-rocketed. For example, someone has to pay around 250 - 300 euros in electricity for a 80 m2 apartment, which is ridiculous. Take in consideration , that a median rent in Athens is around 500 euros and a doctor's salary is around 1000 to 1500 euros. If you work at a regular 9 to 5 job which pays around 800 euros , you are basically doomed. That's why many people live with the parents even though they are over 30 years old.

[@lm5608]

Omg 😱

[@awpetersen5909]

That is terrible. I m living in Northgermany. Gas and electricity costs are rising here, too. But nothing in comparison to your costs of living.

[@lm5608]

The potential crisis with Ukraine and Russia will also not help with the energy prices. Unbelievable..

[@awpetersen5909]

@@lm5608 Hopefully there will be an apeasement . Not only because of avoiding exploding gasprices. I don't want people to die. I don't even understand these reckless threats.

[@barbaravyse660]

Wow doctors make so much more in America, but I’m sure you know our healthcare costs are outrageous here.

[@lcmayzl]

Cecilia -- have you considered canning foods? That could help with longer-term *stretching* food stores. You can use the InstantPot canner to process pint jars of food and leftovers for later use....and perhaps dehydrate fruits for later snacks.

[@_f355]

there's no agriculture on Svalbard, so there's no seasonal produce to be canned when it's cheap and eaten when it's expensive. the idea of canning stuff from the supermarket seems weird to me - why bother, why not just go there and buy it fresh?

[@pattietaylor6297]

I too really love coffee! Thank you for your show, it's a great thing for me to learn about a part of this planet that I knew nothing about before. I like your talks and I love the tours of the house and the town and your wonderful Grim and Christopher.

[@stellamartinez3766]

Sunday evening after the Super Bowl in the US...YOU are a breath of real Life & Fresh Air. I appreciate your art!!!

[@sarah_israel]

Hi Cecilia! I just read that the Svalbard seed vault is being opened up again to store some new seeds. Do they allow people to observe this from the outside and if so, will you be able to go check it out?

[@CGermanB]

no, it's OFF limits

[@suzannes5888]

Never - no civilians allowed for security reasons.

[@matts5417]

Thank you for the interesting content. I would have assumed it would cost a little more to live somewhere so remote. The fact that you don't own your land was something I wouldn't have even considered. I live in a coastal city in North Carolina, we live in a fairly modest home and our total expenses are actually quite similar but with differing ratios. Thanks again.

[@michellehurst3797]

When it comes to budgeting our household, and our expenses, I think it's the most fun thing in the world. Girl - I understand! I can't wait to do to the budget for my husband and I when we get paid!

[@lesshustlemorecoffee]

Was very interesting! We always love your grocery store videos lol! Love seeing what all they have different from the states. Would be interesting to see the liquors and wine side of the store! I’m all caught up with your videos now! Yay! Watched from the beginning!

[@lacswe]

That is actually A LOT cheaper than I thought, even +/- 10%. Don't get me wrong, it isn't cheap (what in life is hehe?), but yeah. Considering everything you get from the location, it is very much worth it I bet! When I look at locations to live, or even just traveling, I don't look at the price that much (except to see that I can afford it), I want value. I'd much rather go on a trip or live somewhere for 100.000 SEK if the value I get from it is HUGE, than go on a trip for 5000 SEK, and it is just "meh".

[@user-pd6bd7ir4z]

this comment should go to the top

[@annprince5218]

I'd love to see you explain more about your healthcare there. Here in the US sadly our healthcare/insurance is based in profit. So many here believe misinformation and myths being put out there by those who stand to profit from it. Just an example we pay almost $600 a month and my husband's employer pays another $600 for our insurance premium. We then still have to pay co-pays, deductibles (ours is $5000 up front), out of pocket costs that the insurance companies refuse to pay, taxes for Medicare, Medicaid & Tri-care...and then on top of that our healthcare costs are incredibly high to cover those who are un and under insured...as well as greed of top execs. Your taxes may be higher but financially you still come out way better off then we do.

[@YaYa-jy1yv]

My son and his wife pay $1800/mo in insurance ( USA ) with a huge deductible! They have three young kids but I feel that is outrageous.

[@aruvielevenstar3944]

Wow 😮 I thought the healthcare in the Netherlands was high… back in the 90s I paid 45 euro’s for healthcare each month as a nurse, but nowadays it has gone up to 130 per month, and around 400 euro’s out of your own pocket. Not including dentist

[@williamb.3997]

My situation is similar to yours. Almost same cost (50/50 with employer), same deductible--insurance for one (me). It is crazy.

[@klaire74]

@Arúviel Evenstar yes, but we don't get too much from this...I see this basic insurance of ours like lost money. If I have a serious problem I must pay thousands upfront. And compared with other countries...I get 🤬 when their answer for everything is paracetamol 🤣 Till you are not almost dead, take paracetamol 🤣🤣

[@aruvielevenstar3944]

@@klaire74 klopt😅

[@LindaKayHolevas]

I'm in Oregon & just downsized to a one bedroom apartment & I pay $1,600 a month for it. Add in my car & renters insurance, food & bills, I am sure I am spending at least $3,000 a month just to live. The housing market is crazy here & inflation is real! I just found your channel a couple days ago and I am binging all of your videos now. It's really fascinating to see how you live. The Northern lights are gorgeous! xo

[@ireneferrante2313]

Today's video was very informative,thank you. The cost of living there isn't as high as I thought it would be. Thank you for sharing this.

[@amyl9864]

When I looked back on last years expenses (my bank has a category you can assign to each transaction), I was shocked by how much I ate out versus what I spent in the grocery store - in the US living in a suburb with easy access to it. It was crazy. I just never tracked it until now.

[@vk2ig]

That's how I managed to pay off my mortgage in record time - I tracked how much I was spending on eating out. Started doing things like making breakfast as home, taking my lunch with me to work, etc, instead of buying breakfast and lunch. Still ate out for dinner on weekends, but saved a bucket-load of money which all went into paying off the home loan.

[@JollyDopeSmoker]

Thank you for sharing this! It’s fascinating to see what others’ life costs. It’s such a taboo to talk about these things in Europe and it’s a shame I think.

[@ecampbell5837]

Yes, talking money is considered private in Canada and rude to ask. It’s silly really. We are all paying the same for bills really.

[@shelliebancroft4145]

There that smiling face we all look so forward to seeing and the serenity that surrounds you guys is just breath taking. ❤

[@belindahugheslifestyle]

Your videos are so enlightening, and I look forward to each new one, to see what you have to share, what adventures you went on with Grim and Christoffer, and what's going on on the island. Since the last couple years, I've shifted my lifestyle to order basic pantry staples for the year in one go, shipped directly to the house. Anything else is, as they say, "gravy". That one step has given me back so much time, money, energy and peace of mind. Moreso now, with world events affecting price and availability. Thanks so much for all that you do, Cecilia! Namaste'.

[@evruffles7447]

That was super interesting, I am always so curious how people live/save/spend in different part of the world👍

[@adelelouisecarroll7578]

Could you do a yearly update on the cabin? Like things you would of done differently.. if any etc

[@AlexAmasaOlsen]

Always beautiful shots and a cozy feeling you get, when watching your videos! Had no idea you had to "rent" the land in Svalbard and couldn´t physically own it. Its kinda the same in Greenland, but we dont pay to "rent" the land, its just free. 😎 I also have a similar style video, just about costs in Nuuk, Greenland and it goes to show, that living in the arctic comes at a fairly hefty cost😅 We really are paying a premium for those amazing nights of northern lights and unspoiled nature... Just so you know, I might take some inspiration from all your amazing videos, I really think the internet enjoys getting to know life circumstances in the remote parts of the Artic! Cheers from Greenland🇬🇱

[@diegofrota]

One of greatest vídeos! I Love that! I didn't understand well the numbers, but I will watch again.

[@Swiss239]

Loved this video. I thought it would have been a lot more to live there, due to having to import things in. Thanks for the video's really exciting to see the world through other people.

[@brandonjohnson92]

This surprised me. I was under the impression that Norway was crazy expensive, butI live in San Antonio, Texas and your expenses are roughly about the same as mine; and I live by myself.

[@magnusb6311]

Svalbard is higher than mainland Norway

[@shawni321]

I had to laugh seeing the Circle K, we have them here in California also. Great video, you are so forthcoming with your budget, (I felt nosy) but this might help those who are planning a trip or a major move. It is a truly fantastic place. And the Aurora is free!

[@toycaboodlefanlovetoycaboo510]

I can’t get enough of your videos. The way you live there is just mesmerizing to me!

[@lifeinromania1688]

It's amazing to see the differences from one country to another. I just realized that in my country the average wage is around 700 euros. And if you want to rent a decent sized studio in a good area it's around 250-300 euros ( no amenities included)

[@LCdic09]

That’s a pretty high rent considering the average wage. Where are you from?

[@ilarious5729]

Where's this? I'd live so much better there than where I'm now (Finland) 👀

[@lifeinromania1688]

@@LCdic09 Bucharest, Romania

[@lifeinromania1688]

@@ilarious5729 Hello. In Bucharest, Romania

[@ilarious5729]

@@lifeinromania1688 ah, nice. You have some amazing nature and history, it's actually been on my bucket list for quite some time now, the reasonable prices are just a bonus 😄✌🏼

[@TheVoiceofReason4ya]

I feel very fortunate. I live in one of the most sought after places to live in the world with a 0.4% vacancy rate (Vancouver Island) in a brand new condo, and my total monthly's are under around $700 USD a month. It's allowing me to do my Masters in Psychology. So I can appreciate this very much! Thanks for the breakdown!

[@CeciliaBlomdahl]

Wow!! That sounds amazing! :)

[@TheVoiceofReason4ya]

@@CeciliaBlomdahl It is! Thank you for your videos! You have inspired me to film the islands out here as well!

[@surfnyolly]

I love that you hv insurance in Grim! You are actually living and not just working behind a desk for a company.

[@jlparques]

I am astonished. Your monthly costs are almost identical to ours in Portland, Oregon. Electricity is less and “rent” is more for us (+5,000 NOK/mo for a one bedroom apartment). Food is the same, but it is expensive to eat healthy here. The glaring difference, of course, is that we pay about the same in taxes but healthcare is not free and costs a minimum of $60,500 NOK annually just to have health insurance, which doesn’t include the additional cost of actual care. I enjoy your videos sooooo much! And appreciate you sharing your life with all of us!

[@JaneAnnWynn]

I am LOVING your channel - thank you for all of your hard work and creativity. I am not sure if I might have missed you answering this question but what is animal care like? Do you have a veterinarian hospital? What happens when there is an issue or when a pet needs something? I know I have this situation has come up from time to time with all 8 of my cats as you can imagine. (*Also since I mentioned cats- do people have cats?) Sincerely- J a n e (An extra❤treat and kiss to Grim! Such a sweet Doggo!)

[@vbtell]

She has past videos of going to the vet with Grim. I believe cats are banned from the island.

[@royconnell2506]

Found this very interesting. Always loved your wood stove , was wondering how much you would spend on firewood per month?

[@barbaravyse660]

I love it too! It’s so cozy looking. And I’m so envious cause I live in Miami where it is already too hot for me!

[@Moorandmist]

I reckon a fair amount as I assume the wood has to be shipped in? I heat my cottage in SWA England purely with a wood stove and mine costs around £200 every 3 months. But I only use it in the winter. And that’s only heating it in the evenings and a handful of verrrry cold days.

[@MrsScott-bx8sb]

Family of 6 here in USA living in 900 square foot cottage on 1/2 an acre. Not counting health insurance and retirement, because that comes out of the paycheck before we see it in the bank, our expenses are around $4,000 per month. That includes mortgage with escrow, electric, cell phone, heating fuel, vehicle fuel, internet, vehicle insurance, 1 auto loan, 1 credit card, life insurance, streaming service, and groceries/household needs.

[@TheVintageSoul333]

I am not sure where your sister lives in America probably someplace in California or New York but it's much less expensive than where you live and I am speaking to living in a decent lovely neighborhood. I have lived in four states and have traveled extensively in America. Your fuel is less expensive than ours however our groceries are much less expensive. It depends on whether you rent or own here and whether it's a house or apartment and how many bedrooms. I found it very interesting and it's less expensive for a single person to live there I think then I thought if you didn't have some of those extra expenses. Despite what a lot of people think most full-time jobs in America provide insurance and it includes dental and and vision. If you are unemployed or disabled the government pays for your health insurance and if your job does not it will subsidize your health insurance however some people choose not to do that. Things are not perfect here by far but we have had friends from afar visit and they are amazed how inexpensive most things are. I would love to live where you live that's my kind of environment and landscape thanks for sharing.