Local newspapers in Norway have experienced a notable 7.6% growth in digital readership in 2025, indicative of their relevance in the everyday lives of citizens. This rise is juxtaposed with a decline in readership for larger city newspapers, which saw a decrease of 5%, and national newspapers that slipped by 1.5%. Randi S. Øgrey, CEO of the Norwegian Media Businesses Association, highlights this trend as a testament to the vitality and importance of local newsrooms across the country.

Despite the growth in digital readership, the data reveals an overall decline of 1.9% across 176 newspapers surveyed between 2024 and 2025 when considering both print and digital formats. Interestingly, while 23% of the population still reads printed newspapers daily, 70% engage with at least one online newspaper each day, reflecting a significant shift in consumer habits. Additionally, the statistics show that three-quarters of Norwegians are streaming videos, and 22% listen to podcasts, suggesting a diverse media consumption landscape that local newspapers must navigate.

This growth in digital readership for local newspapers points to the critical role they play in keeping communities informed and engaged. As local outlets adapt to changing preferences, it underscores the need for continued investment in local journalism to ensure these sources remain robust and responsive to their audiences. The implications of this trend highlight the potential for local papers to thrive even in an evolving media environment, provided they maintain their relevance and engagement with readers.