Living in Trondheim
A student city on the Norwegian coast. Here is what it costs, how to get around and what to learn before you land.
A city built around NTNU
Trondheim is home to NTNU, the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. Life in Norway reports about 42,000 students, with Trondheim campuses at Gløshaugen, Dragvoll, Øya and Elgeseter, and describes the city as very much a student city.
Student life centres on Samfundet, the red-brick student society building that hosts concerts and events all year, and on student clubs, especially sports clubs.
NTNU students pay a SiT semester fee of NOK 700 (exchange students from partner universities are exempt). SiT runs student services including housing.
What a month really costs
| Item | Figure |
|---|---|
| Single room, shared bath and kitchen (NTNU) | NOK 4,500 to 6,500 a month plus utilities |
| Food (NTNU estimate) | at least NOK 3,600 a month |
| Public transport (NTNU estimate) | at least NOK 500 a month |
| Average 2-room flat, private market (SSB 2025) | NOK 11,850 a month |
Sources: NTNU practical information for students; Statistics Norway rental survey 2025. Prices change, so always check the official pages.
Finding a room at the start of the autumn semester can be hard, especially near the centre or campus. Look at SiT housing first, then the private market on finn.no and hybel.no, and start early.
Buses, trams and the student discount
Buses and trams run on AtB. Trains go through Entur. AtB gives students 40% off the 30-day travel pass, which includes the night buses and the night tram.
- You must be 34 or younger and carry a valid student ID.
- International students need both their institution ID and a valid ISIC card at ticket checks.
- Buy in the AtB app.
Source: AtB, student in Trondheim. Check atb.no for current prices.
Your first week in Norwegian
Most students get by in English, but a few Norwegian phrases for the bus, the housing office and the campus café open doors faster. Start with the free Norwegian course, then go deeper with Mondosol+.
We teach you to do this on your own, one short lesson at a time. Coming soon: Mondosol teachers as mentors on the ground.
Ready to plan your move?
Get the Norway move guides, unlock every course with Mondosol+, or talk it through with Elio, who has lived in Norway for 16 years.
See Mondosol+Book a relocation call
No affiliate links on this page. The eSIM guide we link to has its own affiliate disclosure. Sources: NTNU, AtB, Statistics Norway, Life in Norway. Checked October 2026.