Cost of Living in Sweden
Last updated on Jan 07, 2024
Summary: The cost of living in Sweden is generally high, especially in the larger cities. A nice one bedroom apartment in Sweden can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 per month, while a nice two bedroom apartment can cost from $1,500 to $3,000 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Sweden can range from $20 to $50 per person.
Is the cost of living in Sweden high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Sweden, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Sweden is generally considered to be high, especially in the larger cities. Prices for basic necessities such as food, housing, and transportation can be quite expensive, and the cost of entertainment and leisure activities can also be quite high. However, the cost of living in Sweden is offset by the high wages and generous social benefits that are available to citizens and residents," said one expat in Sweden.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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Will I save money living in Sweden?
"Living in Sweden may be more expensive than living in the United States in some areas, such as housing and transportation, but it can also be more affordable in other areas, such as food and healthcare. In general, the cost of living in Sweden is lower than in the United States, so it is possible to save money by living in Sweden," remarked one in Sweden.
What is the average cost of housing in Sweden?
If you are thinking about moving to Sweden, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The average cost of housing in Sweden is generally quite high, with prices varying depending on the location and type of property. In general, renting a one-bedroom apartment in a city center can cost around 10,000 SEK (1,000 EUR) per month, while a three-bedroom apartment in a suburban area can cost around 8,000 SEK (800 EUR) per month. Buying a property in Sweden can be even more expensive, with prices ranging from around 2 million SEK (200,000 EUR) for a small apartment to over 10 million SEK (1 million EUR) for a large house," explained one expat living in Sweden.
"I found the housing in Sweden to be outrageously expensive. For what we are paying for a 59sq unfurnished apartment with one bedroom, we could have had a fully furnished apartment or house with at least 1,200sq! Plus a garden and parking! We pay about 6,000sek here while an apartment in Malaysia (in a good area) would cost between RM2000 to RM3,500," said one expat in Stockholm.

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
What are typical rental prices for expats in Sweden?
"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Sweden can vary depending on the location, but generally ranges from around $1,000 to $2,000 per month. For a nice 2 bedroom apartment, the rental price can range from around $1,500 to $3,000 per month," commented one expat living in Sweden.
What appliances are typically included in a rental?
We asked foreigners in Sweden what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:
"Rental properties in Sweden typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, and washing machine. Depending on the property, other appliances such as a dishwasher, microwave, and dryer may also be included," wrote one expat.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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