- 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. In fact, Stockholm ranked 72nd out of 209 cities in the 2021 Mercer Cost of Living survey. This is a big jump from its 2020 ranking of 133rd. While cheaper than cities such as Brussels, Luxembourg and Madrid, Stockholm is more expensive than Barcelona, Prague and Toronto. 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. In Stockholm, rent for a three-bedroom apartment in an upmarket location can be exorbitant. That said, 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 May 2022. Note that prices may vary depending on product and service provider.
Accommodation (average monthly rental) |
|
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre |
SEK 25,000 |
Three-bedroom apartment outside of city centre |
SEK 18,000 |
One-bedroom apartment in city centre |
SEK 14,000 |
One-bedroom apartment outside of city centre |
SEK 10,000 |
Food and drink |
|
Milk (1 litre) |
SEK 11.30 |
Dozen eggs |
SEK 34 |
White bread |
SEK 27 |
Rice (1kg) |
SEK 28 |
Chicken fillets (1kg) |
SEK 110 |
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) |
SEK 69 |
Public transportation |
|
City centre bus/train fare |
SEK 39 |
Taxi rate per km |
SEK 24 |
Petrol (1L) |
SEK 20 |
Eating out |
|
Big Mac Meal |
SEK 85 |
Coca-Cola (330ml) |
SEK 22.50 |
Cappuccino |
SEK 41 |
Local beer (500ml) |
SEK 70 |
Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant |
SEK 800 |
Utilities |
|
1 min prepaid mobile tariff |
SEK 1.22 |
Internet (uncapped ADSL per month) |
SEK 350 |
Utilities (average per month for a standard household) |
SEK 780 |
Further reading
►For more information on finances, have a look at our page on Banking, Money and Taxes in Sweden
Expat Experiences
"Groceries are surprisingly affordable. Public transport is pricey, but certainly worth it. Accommodation is not easy to find and rent is high, but the quality of housing, when you're eventually able to secure it, is excellent. Eating out, and drinks at pubs or clubs are very steep too." Read more about Steve, a South African expat, and his experience living 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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