What does a business economist earn in 2025?

What does a business economist earn in 2025?

Economics and management professions have traditionally been among the best paid in the Norwegian job market. Business economists, who often hold a master's degree in economics and administration, can expect good salary conditions – but how much can you actually earn in 2025? Here you will get an overview of salaries, which factors play a role, and how you can strengthen your own salary development.

Average salary for business economists

In 2025, a typical salary for a business economist is estimated to be between 780,000 and 900,000 Norwegian kroner per year for full-time positions. This is an average for all ages and sectors, but there are significant variations:

• Recent graduates in business economics: Usually start with a salary level around 600,000–650,000 Norwegian kroner.
• After several years of experience: Salary often ranges from 800,000–950,000 Norwegian kroner, especially in the private sector and larger cities.
• Management positions: Chief economists, controllers, and consultants with substantial experience can earn 1 million kroner or more.

Source: Utdanning.no

Factors influencing salary

Several factors have a significant impact on how much a business economist earns:

• Experience and seniority – The longer the tenure, the higher the salary.
• Industry – Business economists in finance, consulting, and oil/gas often have higher salaries.
• Geography – Salaries are highest in Oslo, Bergen, and the Stavanger region.
• Position – More responsibility (for example, as a manager or specialist) usually translates to higher pay.
• Sector – The private sector typically pays better than the public sector.

Examples of salary jumps

A business economist transitioning from an advising position to controller, consultant, or manager can often experience a significant salary increase. Many also combine external education or certification – such as a certified accountant – to enhance their value in the job market.

Skills, competencies, and development opportunities

Business economists possess sought-after skills in an increasingly digitalized job market. Employers look for analytical abilities, an understanding of sustainability and business development, as well as strong communication and leadership skills. Staying professionally updated opens up for better positions and higher salaries.

Salary negotiation as a business economist

Since there is competition for good economists, there is also considerable room for negotiating salary and conditions. Good preparation and knowledge of market levels make you better equipped for salary negotiations. At Lønnsstatistikk.no, you can check salary levels in various industries and regions, and Lønna.no offers simple tools for salary comparison and job searches with specified salary levels.

Career paths and future prospects

The business economics education opens up many career paths, from accounting and auditing to banking, finance, consulting, HR, and management. Salary growth has been steady in recent years, driven by an increased need for financial management and digitalization. With the right skills and experience, you stand strong in the job market with good prospects for increased salary in the future.

How to land your dream job

Are you looking for new challenges or higher pay? On Lønna.no, you can find available positions with visible salary, create CVs and applications, and keep track of application processes. This makes it easier to compare opportunities and systematically work to increase your salary as a business economist.

Summary

• The average salary for a business economist in 2025 is around 780,000–900,000 Norwegian kroner.
• Salary levels depend on experience, workplace, and sector.
• You can increase your salary through clear skill enhancement, job changes, and solid salary negotiations.

Read more about the business economist profession at Utdanning.no.