In 2025, local newspapers in Norway experienced a significant growth in their digital readership, increasing by 7.6%. This resurgence contrasts sharply with the decline observed in major city newspapers, which saw a drop of 5%, and national newspapers, which fell by 1.5%. Randi S. Øgrey, the CEO of the Norwegian Media Companies Association, highlighted the essential role local newspapers play in everyday life for citizens, emphasizing that their ability to remain relevant is crucial for maintaining vibrant editorial offices across the country.

The overall readership trends indicate a complex landscape for the media, with 176 newspaper companies reporting a combined decrease of 1.9% in readership from 2024 to 2025 across both print and digital platforms. Significantly, while 23% of the population reads a daily print newspaper, an impressive 70% engage with at least one online newspaper each day. This shift demonstrates a growing preference for digital media consumption among the public, indicating that local newspapers are adapting successfully to changing reader habits.

Additionally, the data reveals broader media consumption patterns among Norwegians, with three-quarters of the population engaging in video streaming and 22% listening to podcasts. These statistics not only underscore the digital shift but also illuminate challenges faced by traditional media in competing for attention against various multimedia platforms. As local newspapers capitalize on their digital growth, there is a pressing need to innovate and enhance their offerings to ensure sustained engagement and relevance in an ever-evolving media environment.