Sandnes, a rapidly growing city in Norway’s Rogaland county, is increasingly seen as a smart alternative to Stavanger in the real estate market. With more affordable housing, strong infrastructure, and excellent proximity to one of Norway’s most important business hubs, Sandnes offers a compelling opportunity for buyers, renters, and property investors alike.
Why Sandnes Is Attracting Attention
Stavanger, the energy capital of Norway, is known for high property prices and tight market conditions. In contrast, Sandnes combines affordability, convenience, and modern living, making it a practical choice for:
- First-time buyers
- Young professionals and families
- Long-term investors
Thanks to its location just 15 km from Stavanger and a well-developed transportation system, living in Sandnes doesn’t mean compromising on accessibility.
Location and Accessibility
One of Sandnes’ biggest strengths is its connectivity:
- By train: 20 minutes to Stavanger Central Station
- By car: Quick access via E39 highway
- By bus: Regular and efficient public transport
This makes Sandnes ideal for daily commuters, especially those working in oil, energy, education, or tech sectors in Stavanger.
Property Prices: Sandnes vs Stavanger
Let’s compare typical property costs in both cities (as of 2024–2025):
In Stavanger:
- Average price per m²: €5,500–€6,500
- 80 m² apartment in the center: €440,000+
- Detached home: From €600,000
In Sandnes:
- Average price per m²: €4,000–€4,500
- 80 m² apartment in the center: Around €340,000
- Townhouse or duplex: €300,000–€400,000
- Detached home: From €450,000
👉 Buyers can save up to 30% by choosing Sandnes over Stavanger.
Most Popular Areas to Buy in Sandnes
Sandnes features a mix of vibrant urban areas and peaceful suburbs. Here are some of the top locations:
- City Center: Walkable, well-connected, €4,500/m²
- Bogafjell: Family-friendly, new builds, ~€4,200/m²
- Sandved & Ganddal: Green and quiet, €3,800–€4,200/m²
- Figgjo & Hana: Up-and-coming, good value, €3,500–€3,800/m²
Each district suits a different lifestyle, whether you prefer central convenience or a more relaxed suburban vibe.
Infrastructure and Urban Development
Sandnes is investing in quality-of-life improvements that benefit both residents and property values:
- New energy-efficient housing developments
- Excellent schools and kindergartens
- Public parks, bike lanes, and green zones
- Strong focus on sustainable city planning
As the city grows, these efforts make Sandnes not only more livable but also a smart long-term investment.
Rental Market Potential
With demand growing steadily, Sandnes offers strong rental opportunities:
- 1-bedroom apartment: €1,000–€1,200/month
- Rental yield: 3.5–4.5% annually
The city attracts renters who work or study in Stavanger but want lower living costs. This ensures consistent tenant demand and stable returns for landlords.
Pros and Challenges of Buying in Sandnes
✅ Key Advantages:
- Significantly lower prices than Stavanger
- Excellent connectivity
- Strong infrastructure and public services
- Rising demand and steady property value growth
- Sustainable, livable environment
⚠️ Challenges:
- Urban expansion may affect green areas
- Infrastructure must scale with population
- Balancing development with local character
Still, city planning is actively addressing these concerns to ensure balanced growth.
Final Thoughts: Is Sandnes the Right Choice?
If you’re looking to buy property in Norway — either to live, rent out, or invest long-term — Sandnes is a smart and future-proof option. With its blend of affordability, access to Stavanger, and modern amenities, the city checks all the boxes.
Now is the right time to explore the Sandnes real estate market before prices rise further and supply tightens.
