Cost of Living in Sweden

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The cost of living in Sweden is quite high, though it is showing signs of easing. Stockholm, the country’s capital city, is by far the most expensive place. It ranked 102nd out of 226 cities in the 2024 Mercer Cost of Living City Ranking, down from 95th in 2023 and 87th in 2022. If you’ll be working in Stockholm, you’ll be delighted to find that salaries in the city are frequently higher than in the rest of the country.

As in most major cities, it’s cheaper to live in Stockholm’s suburbs than in 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 your 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. In Stockholm, rent for a three-bedroom apartment in an upmarket location can be exorbitant. That said, prices generally decrease sharply once you go outside the inner-city area of Stockholm.

If you are seeking more affordable housing, venturing into the suburban areas or smaller cities could be a wise decision. The quality and standard of housing remain high, yet the costs are notably lower. Moreover, the serene environment of the suburbs often serves as a pleasant contrast to the bustling city life.

As an expat moving to Sweden, you will also usually need to pay a month’s rent as a security deposit when initially moving into your new rental property. An additional expense for tenants will be the monthly gas and electricity bills, as water and heating are typically included as part of the rental fee.

Cost of transport in Sweden

Transport is surprisingly expensive in Sweden. If you live close to the city, you are unlikely to need a car thanks to the excellent and extensive public transport network. Although this can be a pricey option, it is generally cheaper than owning and maintaining a vehicle.

You can purchase an SL Access travel card to make public transport slightly more cost-effective. Children, students and senior citizens will typically receive discounts. Those who would like to reduce their transport expenses while improving their health can consider cycling, depending on their proximity to school or work. Sweden boasts exceptional cycling infrastructure, making this a viable option for cycling enthusiasts.

Cost of groceries in Sweden

The price tags on everyday groceries in Sweden can surprise newcomers. Essential items such as milk, eggs, and bread cost considerably more than one might be used to in other countries. Although some imported goods can be rather pricey, Swedish supermarkets offer a wide range of products. Shopping at local markets or opting for shop brands instead of name brands can help mitigate these costs.

Moreover, by embracing local and seasonal products, you can discover a cost-effective way of grocery shopping and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the Swedish way of living, which often revolves around enjoying what each season has to offer. Buying in bulk or leveraging discounts and offers, which are quite common, can also lead to savings.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Sweden

Engaging in recreational activities or dining out in Sweden is somewhat expensive, particularly in high-end establishments in the heart of Stockholm. The price of a meal out can be steep, especially in cosmopolitan areas. That said, more budget-friendly options are always available if you know where to look. Exploring the plethora of food trucks and smaller, quaint cafés can lead to discovering affordable and delicious culinary treasures.

For those who enjoy nightlife, it’s worth noting that alcoholic beverages are expensive, with stringent regulations and high taxes. On the brighter side, Sweden boasts a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, many aspects of which can be enjoyed at a minimal cost or even for free. Many museums and galleries have days when entry is free or discounted.

Cost of education in Sweden

The cost of education in Sweden is low if your children attend a public school. There are quite a few international schools in Stockholm, where there are many expat families compared to the rest of Sweden.

Tuition at these international schools can be rather steep, though, with high annual fees and extra costs such as textbooks, uniforms, extracurricular activities and school excursions all adding up to a hefty bill at the end of the day. That said, international schools are known for offering excellent educational standards, high-end facilities, and a wider slate of extracurriculars.

Cost of healthcare in Sweden

The good thing about high taxes in Sweden is that the government subsidises much of one’s healthcare needs. A large percentage of the cost of prescription medication and medical procedures and requirements is covered. A visit to a doctor may require a minimal co-payment or, in some cases, even when seeing a specialist, can be free.

Although public healthcare in Sweden is exceptional, you have the option of purchasing private health insurance to supplement public care, as some elective procedures may not be covered. The cost of private healthcare varies depending on your level of cover, age, and lifestyle habits.