Accommodation in Stockholm

The rental market in Stockholm is highly regulated, with a long waiting list. Property prices in Stockholm are high and are generally considered to be overvalued.

Most expats rent accommodation in Stockholm. Since it’s fairly challenging to find a first-hand rental apartment, expats will rely on their network of local friends to find a place to stay in the city. Subletting is quite common in Stockholm, but downsides include having to relocate when the contract is over, so if you take this route, you may have to move multiple times a year.

Areas and suburbs in Stockholm

Stockholm has 14 unique residential districts, offering something for both young expats and families. The city has a top-notch public transport system, so no matter where you live, you’ll have easy access to buses, trains, and subways.

If you’re young and want to be close to the city’s nightlife, consider living in Södermalm, Vasastan, or Kungsholmen. While rents in these areas are higher, you’ll be near restaurants, public transport, and beautiful green spaces.

Solna is a great option for young families looking for a quieter, more affordable area with city amenities. It’s just outside the city centre and has plenty of parks and activities for the whole family. Djurgården and Östermalm are also fantastic places to raise a family, although they are more expensive.

Read Areas and Suburbs in Stockholm to learn more about the city’s diverse neighbourhoods.

Types of accommodation in Stockholm

Apartments are the most common type of housing in Stockholm. Most are unfurnished but include basic features like bathrooms and kitchens.

It’s harder to find larger houses, especially in the city centre. If you’re looking for family-friendly homes, the suburbs outside Stockholm are a better option. Many buildings in the city centre are old and have height restrictions, but many have been renovated.

When choosing an apartment, consider its proximity to public transport. Stockholm’s winters can be harsh, and the cost of driving and parking in the city is steep, so you need to be prepared to navigate those freezing months.

Finding accommodation in Stockholm

To find a home in Stockholm, start by browsing online property portals and local newspaper websites for listings. If possible, use your personal network to find housing, as this can often be faster than doing it alone. You can also consider working with estate agents who have valuable expertise and knowledge of the local market.

Private and government housing

Many rental properties in Stockholm are secured through Bostadsförmedlingen (the Housing Service). You must pay a fee and submit an application detailing your preference. Once a suitable home becomes available, they’ll assign it to you. That said, the waiting list is usually long, so many people rent directly from private landlords, frequently at higher prices.

Be cautious when dealing with private landlords. Some may try to charge you a down payment before you’ve even seen the property. Others may raise the rent or overcharge for furnished apartments due to high demand.

To avoid issues in the Stockholm rental market, stick to reputable property websites and act quickly when you find a place you like. While finding a home through official channels can take years, it’s typically worth it in the end.

Since renting in Sweden can be complicated, working with a real estate professional might be a good idea. If you plan on staying in Sweden long-term, you can consider buying property in Stockholm.

Useful links

• Homii
• Qasa
• Stockholm Housing, Rooms, Apartments, Sublets

Renting accommodation in Stockholm

Sweden has a housing shortage, especially in Stockholm. Subletting is common, but locals often prefer living in their own homes because it’s usually cheaper than renting them out.

Making an application

If you’re subletting an apartment, which is likely when you first arrive in Stockholm, you won’t need a personnummer (personal number) to sign the lease. You can contact the landlord to view an apartment you’re interested in and apply directly with them. The landlord will frequently ask for proof of income and a copy of your ID before approving you and signing the lease.

Leases, costs, and fees

It’s common to pay a deposit equal to one month’s rent. You’ll usually need to give three months’ notice when you want to move out, so ensure you carefully read the lease before signing. If the apartment is in good condition when you leave, you’ll get your deposit back.

Have a look at Accommodation in Sweden for detailed information on the rental processes in the country.

Utilities in Stockholm

In Sweden, heating and water are typically included in your rent, while gas and electricity bills are often your responsibility.

Electricity

If you’re an expat renting in Sweden, your electricity bill will likely stay in your landlord’s name, especially if you’re in a second-hand rental. Stockholm Exergi is one of the largest energy providers in Stockholm, but other companies like Vattenfall and E.ON are also common.

If you’re buying a property or renting directly from the owner, you can use an online price comparison tool to choose your electricity provider. You can pick between a fixed or variable rate, where the variable rate changes based on when demand is highest. You can pay your bills automatically, online, or through e-billing.

Gas

Piped natural gas isn’t widely used in Stockholm, but companies like Stockholm Gas AB and Gasnätet Stockholm AB manage about 31 miles (50km) of gas pipes. These mostly serve businesses, although some households in Stockholm, Solna, and Sundbyberg use them too.

Stockholm is focusing on sustainability, so the use of natural gas is decreasing, with a shift toward biogas.

Water

Stockholm Water and Waste (Stockholm Vatten Och Avfall) handles water services in the city. Water is usually included in your rent, but if you own a home, the previous owner must transfer the water account to your name.

Ensure you read the water meter when you move in to avoid billing errors. Once the account is in your name, you can adjust your services on the Stockholm Water and Waste website. Bills are often sent every three months, but you can request monthly billing. The easiest way to pay is through automatic bank debit.

Bins and recycling

Stockholm Water and Waste also manages waste collection. In most rentals, waste fees are covered by your landlord, and this is often included in the rent.

If you own a home, you can choose how frequently your rubbish is collected. You can have general waste picked up every week or every two weeks. You can also sign up for food waste collection, which is picked up every two weeks, and select how often general waste is collected. There’s an option for garden waste collection every two weeks from April to October.

With the combined food and general waste plan (the most common), you’ll receive two bins: one for food waste and one for everything else. You can find over 200 recycling stations around Stockholm for paper and packaging recycling. For larger items, electronics, or hazardous waste, you can visit recycling centres in areas like Bromma, Lövsta, Sätra, Vantör, Rinkeby, Roslagstull, and Östberga.

Useful links

• Stockholm Exergi, Vattenfall, and E.ON
• Stockholm Gas AB and Gasnätet Stockholm AB
• Stockholm Water and Waste

Further reading

• Keeping in Touch in Sweden has more on phone and internet connections in the country.