Cost of Living in Sweden
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The cost of living in Sweden is quite high and Stockholm, its capital city, is the most expensive place in the country. However, it's often the case that in Stockholm salaries can be higher than in the rest of the country.
It's cheaper to live in Stockholm’s suburbs rather 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 part 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 quite expensive. Rent for a three-bedroom apartment in an upmarket location in Stockholm can be exorbitant. However, prices generally decrease steeply once one goes outside the inner city area of Stockholm.
Cost of transport in Sweden
Transport is expensive in Sweden. Expats living close to the city are unlikely to need a car due 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 a discount.
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. These can be very expensive with high annual fees as well as extra costs such as textbooks, uniforms, extra-curricular activities and school excursions.
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 February 2020. Note that prices may vary depending on product and service provider.
|
Accommodation (average monthly rental) |
|
|
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre |
SEK 20,000 |
|
Three-bedroom apartment outside of city centre |
SEK 13,000 |
|
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 12 |
|
Dozen eggs |
SEK 30 |
|
White bread |
SEK 23 |
|
Rice (1kg) |
SEK 25 |
|
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) |
SEK 65 |
|
Public transportation |
|
|
City centre bus/train fare |
SEK 40 |
|
Taxi rate per km |
SEK 15 |
|
Eating out |
|
|
Big Mac Meal |
SEK 80 |
|
Coca-Cola (330ml) |
SEK 25 |
|
Cappuccino |
SEK 40 |
|
Bottle of domestic beer |
SEK 65 |
|
Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant |
SEK 700 |
|
Utilities |
|
|
Internet (uncapped ADSL per month) |
SEK 300 |
|
Utilities (average per month for a standard household) |
SEK 750 |
