How much does it cost to live in Sweden?
- See the data table below for detailed numbers
- Check the FAQ section for common expat questions
- Use our free assessment to get personalised results
Understanding the true cost of living before you move is essential for financial planning. This detailed breakdown covers every major expense category in Sweden for 2026, using real data from official sources and cost surveys.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
| Category | Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR, City Centre) | €1,250 | Largest expense |
| Rent (3BR, City Centre) | €1,950 | For families |
| Groceries | €180 | One person, home cooking |
| Public Transport | €95 | Monthly pass |
| Utilities (85m2) | €210 | Electricity, water, heating |
| Dining Out (per meal) | €16 | Inexpensive restaurant |
| Total (Single Person) | €1,863 | Comfortable lifestyle |
Income vs Expenses
| Income Metric | Amount |
|---|---|
| Average Salary (Gross) | €3,510/month |
| Minimum Wage | €No national minimum wage (collective bargaining, ~€1,700/mo effective)/month |
| Salary After Rent (1BR) | €2,260/month |
With an average salary of €3,510 and rent of €1,250, approximately 36% of income goes to housing.
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Cost Indices (vs New York City = 100)
| Index | Score | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living | 68.0 | Moderately cheaper NYC |
| Rent | 22.6 | Much cheaper NYC |
| Groceries | 68.4 | Cheaper NYC |
| Restaurant Prices | 70.8 | Similar to NYC |
| Local Purchasing Power | 133.5 | Higher than NYC |
Money-Saving Tips
- Shop at local markets: Fresh produce is typically 20-40% cheaper than supermarkets
- Cook at home: Eating in saves 60-70% compared to dining out
- Use public transport: Monthly passes are much cheaper than car ownership
- Live outside the centre: Suburbs offer 20-40% lower rent with reasonable commutes
- Compare utilities: Switch providers for electricity and internet to get better deals
- Student discounts: Available for under-26s on transport, museums, and cultural events
Salary by Sector
| Sector | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| It | €38,000 | €48,000 | €65,000 |
| Retail | €22,500 | €32,000 | €45,000 |
| Finance | €49,500 | €71,000 | €99,500 |
| Education | €33,500 | €48,000 | €67,000 |
| Healthcare | €32,000 | €42,000 | €55,000 |
| Engineering | €46,000 | €66,000 | €92,500 |
| Hospitality | €24,500 | €35,000 | €49,000 |
| Construction | €40,500 | €58,000 | €81,000 |
Figures are annual gross salaries in EUR.
Additional Practical Information
The following information is compiled from expat community sources and recent reports to complement the official data above.
- Regardless of location, it is important to begin your housing search well in advance and to be prepared for temporary or short-term solutions, particularly when moving to Sweden for work or study with the anticipation of living there for a long period.
- Security deposits are not mandatory under Swedish law, but landlords or subletting tenants may request a deposit, commonly equivalent to one month's rent. Any deposit terms should be clearly specified in the contract.
Additional data sourced from expat community reports. All information should be verified with official sources.
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Get Your Free VerdictFrequently Asked Questions
How much are utilities in Sweden?
Monthly utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage) for an 85m2 apartment cost approximately €210. Internet typically adds another €20-50/month. In colder climates, heating can significantly increase winter bills.
Is Sweden expensive compared to other countries?
With a cost of living index of 68.0/100 (where NYC = 100), Sweden is moderately cheaper than NYC. Use our assessment tool to compare with your current location.
How much should I save before moving to Sweden?
Based on a monthly budget of €1,863, we recommend saving at least 3-6 months of expenses (€5,589 to €11,178) plus visa/relocation costs. Add a buffer for unexpected expenses during your first months.
Can I live comfortably on a remote worker salary in Sweden?
With a monthly budget of approximately €1,863, a remote salary of €2,000-3,000/month would provide a comfortable lifestyle. Research specific cities for the most accurate picture.
Are there hidden costs of living in Sweden?
Beyond the basics, budget for: health insurance (if not employer-provided), visa fees and renewals, tax adviser fees, initial deposits (rent + utilities), furnishing costs if renting unfurnished, and language courses. These can add €500-2,000 to your first months.