Food shopping in Norway can be expensive, especially if you are used to lower prices elsewhere in Europe. However, the supermarket you choose has a real impact on your weekly budget. The cheapest supermarkets in Norway are usually discount chains such as REMA 1000, Kiwi and Coop Extra, while larger full-service stores often charge more. With a little planning, it is possible to find cheap food in Norway without relying on a very limited diet.
This guide explains where locals often shop, which products tend to cost the most, and how to compare grocery prices in Norway. Prices vary between towns, regions and individual products, so treat the comparisons as useful general guidance rather than a fixed national ranking.
The cheapest supermarkets in Norway
Norway’s grocery market is dominated by a few large groups. NorgesGruppen operates Kiwi, Meny, Spar and Joker. REMA 1000 is a separate discount chain, while Coop operates stores including Coop Extra, Coop Prix, Coop Mega and Obs. Their formats are quite different, and that matters when you are trying to control your food budget.
1. REMA 1000
REMA 1000 is one of the strongest choices for a low-cost weekly shop. Its stores focus on a relatively simple selection of everyday goods, including milk, bread, pasta, rice, vegetables, frozen food, household products and basic toiletries. The limited range helps keep the shopping experience straightforward and often keeps prices competitive.
REMA 1000 is particularly useful if you buy mostly store-brand or standard products. You may not find every specialist ingredient, premium brand or international product, but the essentials are usually easy to locate. Many shoppers use REMA for a complete basket rather than visiting several stores.
The exact price advantage depends on promotions and the item you need. A branded product may be cheaper at another supermarket during a campaign, so it is still worth checking weekly offers. For a basic shop, however, REMA 1000 is commonly considered one of the cheapest supermarkets in Norway.
2. Kiwi
Kiwi is another leading discount chain and a popular answer to the question of where to buy cheap food in Norway. Its stores are found in many towns and neighbourhoods, making it convenient for both residents and visitors. Kiwi carries the main products needed for everyday cooking, with a strong focus on affordable options.
Kiwi often promotes discounts on fruit and vegetables, and its own-brand products can be good value. The range is usually smaller than at Meny or Spar, but that can make it easier to avoid impulse purchases. If you are cooking simple meals with potatoes, rice, pasta, vegetables, eggs and basic meat or fish, Kiwi can work well for a budget-conscious shop.
Because prices and campaigns change, Kiwi is not always cheapest for every individual item. Compare the total basket instead of focusing on one product. A supermarket that is cheapest for coffee may not be cheapest for fresh produce or toiletries.
3. Coop Extra
Coop Extra is Coop’s main discount format and is often among the best places for low grocery prices. Stores are generally larger than many Kiwi or REMA 1000 branches, which means they may offer a broader selection of fresh food, frozen products and household goods.
Coop Extra can be especially useful for families and people doing a larger weekly shop. The Coop membership programme may provide bonuses, member prices or access to special promotions. The value of membership depends on how often you shop at Coop and which offers are available, but regular customers should look into it.
Coop Extra also sells Coop’s own brands. These products can lower the cost of staples such as flour, cereal, canned food, dairy products and cleaning supplies. Check the unit price, since a larger package is not automatically better value.
4. Coop Prix
Coop Prix is a smaller neighbourhood format. It can be a practical choice when you need a few items quickly, but it is not always the best option for a full budget shop. Smaller stores may have a more limited range, and convenience can sometimes come with higher prices.
That does not mean Coop Prix should be avoided completely. Local promotions, member prices and clearance products can make individual purchases worthwhile. If it is the closest shop, buying only what you need may also help you avoid transport costs or an unnecessary trip across town.
5. Bunnpris
Bunnpris stores vary considerably by location. Some have competitive prices on selected staples and regular promotions, while others are more convenient than cheap. It is worth checking the weekly offers if you live near one, particularly for products such as coffee, snacks, frozen food and household goods.
Bunnpris can be useful in areas where the larger discount chains are not nearby. Still, compare prices before assuming it is one of the cheapest supermarkets in Norway. A convenient location does not always mean the lowest total bill.
Which Norwegian supermarkets are usually more expensive?
Full-service supermarkets tend to offer a wider selection and a more pleasant browsing experience, but they are often not the first choice for a strict food budget.
Meny
Meny is known for its broad selection of fresh food, seafood, meat, cheese, prepared meals and international ingredients. It can be an excellent place to find a particular product or higher-quality ingredient. However, a full weekly shop at Meny may cost more than the same basic basket at Kiwi, REMA 1000 or Coop Extra.
Spar
Spar stores often have a useful range of everyday goods and fresh products, but they are commonly priced above discount supermarkets. Weekly promotions can make selected items attractive. Spar may be a sensible option when it is nearby or when you are looking for a specific product, but it is rarely the cheapest place for every category.
Joker and local convenience shops
Joker and other small convenience stores are valuable for late-night shopping and quick top-ups. They generally have fewer products and higher prices than large discount stores. Use them for emergencies, not as your main destination for a large grocery shop, unless a particular local deal changes the calculation.
How grocery prices in Norway compare by product
The biggest savings often come from comparing categories rather than choosing one supermarket and never looking elsewhere. Some products have small price differences, while others can vary significantly between brands, pack sizes and promotions.
- Bread: Basic sliced bread and crispbread are usually more affordable than bakery loaves and speciality products. Discount chains often have several low-cost options.
- Dairy: Milk, yoghurt and cheese can be expensive, especially for branded or imported products. Store brands and larger packs may offer better value.
- Meat: Meat can take up a large part of a Norwegian food budget. Chicken, minced meat and ready-to-cook products can be particularly costly. Compare price per kilogram and look for reductions close to the use-by date.
- Fish: Fresh fish may be expensive, although frozen fish, canned fish and seasonal promotions can be more affordable.
- Fruit and vegetables: Seasonal produce is usually the best value. Frozen vegetables are also useful for reducing waste and keeping costs predictable.
- Pantry staples: Rice, pasta, oats, flour, lentils, beans and canned tomatoes are among the easiest ways to build inexpensive meals.
- Snacks and drinks: Soft drinks, sweets, convenience snacks and alcohol can quickly increase the bill. These products are often poor value when compared with basic ingredients.
When comparing grocery prices in Norway, look at the price per kilogram or litre rather than only the shelf price. A small packet can appear cheaper but cost more once you calculate the unit price. Norwegian supermarkets normally display this information on or near the price label.
Ways to reduce your food budget in Norway
Plan a few meals before shopping
A simple meal plan can prevent expensive last-minute decisions. You do not need to plan every meal for an entire month. Choose three or four dinners, check what you already have, and make a list of the remaining ingredients. This approach is particularly helpful in Norway, where an unplanned meal from a convenience shop or takeaway restaurant can be expensive.
Use store brands
Norwegian supermarkets sell several own-brand ranges. The packaging may look basic, but many products are suitable for everyday cooking. Try store-brand oats, pasta, rice, flour, canned tomatoes, beans, frozen vegetables and cleaning products. For some items, the difference between the cheapest and most expensive brands is mainly packaging and marketing.
Shop around promotions
Weekly offers can make a noticeable difference, especially for meat, coffee, cheese, breakfast cereal and household goods. Many chains publish their offers online or in their apps. Avoid buying something just because it is discounted, but use promotions to choose between similar products or stock up on items that you already use.
Buy seasonal and frozen produce
Seasonal fruit and vegetables usually provide better value and better flavour. Frozen vegetables can be even more practical because they last longer and create less waste. They work well in soups, curries, pasta dishes, stir-fries and casseroles.
Cook larger portions
Cooking enough for leftovers can lower the cost and save time. A pot of soup, chilli, lentil stew or pasta sauce can provide several meals. Portion leftovers into containers and refrigerate or freeze them promptly. This also reduces the temptation to buy expensive ready-made food after a busy day.
Check reduced-price sections
Many supermarkets discount products that are close to their use-by date. These items can be excellent value if you intend to eat them soon or have freezer space. Check the condition and date carefully, and do not buy more than you can use.
Bring your own bags and avoid small top-up trips
Shopping bags cost money in Norway, and several small trips can lead to impulse purchases. Carry reusable bags and combine errands where possible. A planned shop at a discount supermarket is usually cheaper than frequent visits to the nearest convenience store.
Shopping for cheap food in Norway as a visitor
If you are travelling in Norway, supermarkets are one of the easiest ways to reduce daily costs. Hostels, cabins and holiday apartments often have kitchens or shared cooking facilities. Even without a full kitchen, you can buy yoghurt, fruit, bread, cheese, boiled eggs, canned fish and other simple foods for breakfast and lunch.
Look for a Kiwi, REMA 1000 or Coop Extra near your accommodation. In small villages and remote areas, there may be fewer choices and higher prices because of transport and local operating costs. If you are driving between destinations, buying basic supplies in a larger town can sometimes save money, but avoid filling your car with perishable food you cannot store safely.
Norwegian supermarkets sell alcoholic drinks under strict rules. Beer and some cider products are available in grocery stores, but sales usually stop in the evening and are more restricted on Sundays. Wine and spirits are sold through Vinmonopolet, not ordinary supermarkets. Alcohol can make a travel budget rise quickly, so include it when planning your spending.
Are discount supermarkets always the cheapest?
No. Discount chains are often the best starting point, but there is no single shop that has the lowest price on every product. A promotion at Meny or Spar may beat the normal price at a discount store. Local competition can also affect prices, and some stores have different campaigns from week to week.
The most useful strategy is to choose a low-price supermarket for most of your basket, then compare selected products when the savings justify an extra stop. If you are only buying a few items, travel time and transport costs may outweigh a small price difference. The cheapest food Norway strategy is therefore a combination of supermarket choice, meal planning and sensible buying habits.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest supermarket in Norway?
REMA 1000, Kiwi and Coop Extra are generally the leading low-cost choices. The cheapest option for you depends on the products you buy, current promotions and which stores are available in your area.
Is Kiwi cheaper than REMA 1000?
Neither chain is consistently cheapest for every item. Both are usually competitive for a basic grocery shop. Compare the total price of your regular basket, including fresh food, dairy, pantry products and household items.
Is Coop Extra expensive in Norway?
Coop Extra is a discount format and is usually priced competitively with Kiwi and REMA 1000. Coop membership offers and own-brand products can make it especially good value for regular shoppers.
Where can I buy cheap food in Norway?
Start with REMA 1000, Kiwi or Coop Extra. Choose store-brand products, use seasonal ingredients, compare unit prices and check reduced-price sections. Cooking at home is generally much cheaper than eating out or buying ready-made meals.
Why is food so expensive in Norway?
Norway has high labour and operating costs, and many food products are affected by transport costs, import rules, agricultural policies and a relatively concentrated grocery market. Prices can also be higher in remote locations where distribution is more difficult.