New Books Network “Rurality 2.0”: How City Migrants are Reshaping Norway’s Rural Regions with Tom Bratrud
Dec 8, 2025
Tom Bratrud, an Associate Professor of Social Anthropology at the University of Bergen, explores how city migrants are reshaping Norway’s rural landscapes. He discusses the socio-economic divide between urban and rural areas and the impact of digital connectivity on rural living. Bratrud highlights the cultural revival triggered by urbanites establishing second homes and the tensions that arise between them and local residents. He also delves into the role of social media in these transformations, showcasing how new digital communities influence local dynamics.
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Cabins Outnumber Residents
- Valdres became a hotspot for second homes and in 2018 had more cabins than permanent residents.
- Politicians treat cabin owners as economic contributors and pursue policies to attract them.
Digital Work Sustains Rural Moves
- Digital infrastructure and remote work let people keep city salaries while living in the mountains.
- High-speed internet enables day-to-day urban ties alongside intensive outdoor rural living.
Social Media Validates Moves
- Some migrants use Instagram and Strava to maintain digital communities and get social confirmation after moving.
- Bragging via apps helps migrants gain recognition both online and within local outdoor communities.
