- Purchase the complete Expat Arrivals Sweden Guide (PDF)
The cost of living in Sweden is quite high, particularly in the capital city of Stockholm, which is by far the most expensive place in the country. The other side of the coin, though, is that Stockholm salaries tend to be far higher than in the rest of the country.
As in most major cities, it's cheaper to live in Stockholm’s suburbs than the inner city, and the standard of living is just as high. After housing, goods such as food and clothing will account for a big chunk of an expat’s expenses. Alcohol and services, such as haircuts, are also quite expensive in Stockholm, even compared to the rest of the country.
Cost of accommodation in Sweden
Accommodation in Sweden is fairly pricey. Rent for a three-bedroom apartment in an upmarket location in Stockholm can be exorbitant. However, prices generally decrease sharply once one goes outside the inner-city area of Stockholm.
Cost of transport in Sweden
Transport is surprisingly expensive in Sweden. Expats living close to the city are unlikely to need a car thanks to the excellent and extensive public transport network. This can be a pricey option, but is generally cheaper than owning and maintaining a car.
Expats can purchase an SL Access travel card which makes public transport slightly more cost effective. Children, students and senior citizens will often receive discounts.
Cost of schooling in Sweden
The cost of education in Sweden is low if children attend a public school. In Stockholm, where there are many expat families compared to the rest of Sweden, there are quite a few international schools. Tuition at these can be rather steep, though, with high annual fees as well as extra costs such as textbooks, uniforms, extra-curricular activities and school excursions all adding up to a hefty bill at the end of the day.
Cost of healthcare in Sweden
The good thing about high taxes in Sweden is that much of one's healthcare needs are subsidised by the government. A large percentage of the cost of prescription medication and medical procedures and needs are taken care of. A visit to a doctor may require a minimal co-payment, or in some cases, even when seeing a specialist, can be free.
Cost of living chart
Prices are for Stockholm in January 2021. Note that prices may vary depending on product and service provider.
Accommodation (average monthly rental) |
|
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre |
SEK 12,800 |
Three-bedroom apartment outside of city centre |
SEK 9,500 |
One-bedroom apartment in city centre |
SEK 8,000 |
One-bedroom apartment outside of city centre |
SEK 5,800 |
Food and drink |
|
Milk (1 litre) |
SEK 11.40 |
Dozen eggs |
SEK 28 |
White bread |
SEK 22 |
Rice (1kg) |
SEK 26 |
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) |
SEK 65 |
Public transportation |
|
City centre bus/train fare |
SEK 31 |
Taxi rate per km |
SEK 18 |
Eating out |
|
Big Mac Meal |
SEK 80 |
Coca-Cola (330ml) |
SEK 20 |
Cappuccino |
SEK 37 |
Bottle of domestic beer |
SEK 67 |
Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant |
SEK 665 |
Utilities |
|
Internet (uncapped ADSL per month) |
SEK 294 |
Utilities (average per month for a standard household) |
SEK 735 |
Further reading
►For more information on finances, have a look at our page on Banking, Money and Taxes in Sweden
Are you an expat living in Sweden?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Sweden. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
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