For many companies, renting office space in central Oslo is a goal in itself – offering high visibility, proximity to public transport, and an attractive urban environment for both employees and clients. But what does it actually cost to rent an office in the heart of the capital, and what should you consider before making a decision?
In this article, we take a closer look at what “central Oslo” really means, which factors influence rental prices, and how you as a tenant can find the right balance between location, quality, and space efficiency.
What does “Central Oslo” really mean?
The term “city center” can mean different things depending on who you ask. In the commercial property sector – among brokers and landlords – it typically refers to the inner city, mainly covering the area between Jernbanetorget and Nationaltheatret, including Kvadraturen and the surrounding blocks.
To further refine the definition, the center is often divided into:
- Central East (Grønland, Youngstorget, Tøyen)
- Central (Kvadraturen, Jernbanetorget – Stortinget)
- Central West (Grensen, Pilestredet, Tullinløkka, Solli Plass, Stortinget – Solli Plass)
Areas such as Aker Brygge, Vika, Tjuvholmen, and Bjørvika are often treated as separate sub-markets, as they have distinct rental levels and profiles. For many tenants, however, “central Oslo” refers to a broader area – where public transport is easily accessible and proximity to the city adds clear value for employees and clients.
What influences the price?
Several factors affect office rental prices in central Oslo:
- Location and accessibility: Proximity to major transport hubs like trains, subways, and buses has a direct impact on price. The easier it is for staff and clients to reach, the higher the rent.
- Building standard and age: Newly built or fully refurbished properties command higher prices than older buildings with simpler technical standards. Modern ventilation, energy efficiency, and quality common areas all contribute to higher rents.
- Level of customization: If the premises require a total refurbishment or bespoke fit-out for one tenant, costs will naturally increase.
- Floor level and views: Corner offices, top floors, and bright spaces with open views typically rent for more than lower floors or less exposed locations.
Price levels in Central Oslo (2025)
In a previous article, we discussed how rental levels in Oslo vary significantly between districts. Looking specifically at central Oslo – the inner city and Kvadraturen – market data and signed leases in 2025 show a clear range:
- Top 25% of contracts: approx. 4,750 NOK/m²/year
- Bottom 25%: approx. 3,200 NOK/m²/year
- Average: around 4,000 NOK/m²/year for good, modern premises
These figures refer to standard BTA (gross area) rents. Additional common costs typically range from 400–700 NOK/m²/year, depending on the property’s operational quality and level of service.
Rental price reflects more than just location – it also indicates quality, flexibility, and overall experience. Top-tier buildings often feature superior architecture, modern technical solutions, well-designed shared spaces, and professional amenities such as cafeterias, meeting facilities, and reception services. More affordable properties may have simpler standards but can still offer a strong central address and accessibility.
Finding the right balance
While having an office in central Oslo brings visibility and prestige, it’s worth taking an honest look at your company’s real need for location, space, and presence at the office.
Many businesses find they can optimize both costs and satisfaction by:
- Mapping actual office use: How many employees are physically present at once? How much “under-occupancy” can be tolerated without affecting workflow?
- Assessing strategic location: Does everyone need to be within a short walk of Karl Johan, or is proximity to a subway or train line sufficient?
- Balancing location and quality: For some, address and client proximity are crucial. For others, a building with better lighting, modern facilities, and a lower price point may outweigh being a few minutes farther from the center.
- Involving employees: What motivates people to come to the office – being close to the city, having a good cafeteria, natural light, or simply a great work environment?
Ultimately, the goal is to find the right combination of location, quality, and efficiency that reflects your company’s identity and provides value in everyday operations.
Summary
Office rental prices in central Oslo in 2025 generally range between 3,200 and 4,750 NOK/m²/year, depending on quality, location, and customization. For most companies, the average level sits around 4,000 NOK/m², plus common costs.
Having an office in the city center offers excellent visibility, easy access for employees and clients, and proximity to everything – but it comes at a price. It’s worth carefully evaluating how central your company truly needs to be, and which qualities deliver the most value for your business and team.
About the Author
This article was written by Lauritz Kittelsen, advisor at Spacefinder. He specializes in office leasing and helps small and medium-sized companies find the right spaces – both strategically and financially – across the Oslo area.