Moving to Sweden in 2026 is a goal many people share. The country is known for its calm atmosphere, strong worker protections, clean cities and high quality public services. But while Sweden is a beautiful and organised place to live, it also comes with real financial responsibilities. To help new immigrants understand what daily life actually costs, this guide explains how much money you need every month, what expenses to expect, and which cities offer the best balance of salary and affordability.
This article is designed for anyone who wants a simple, honest and practical picture of life in Sweden. No complicated terms, no confusing financial details. Just real numbers and useful information to help you plan your move confidently.
Understanding the Real Cost of Living in Sweden in 2026
The first thing to know is that Sweden is not cheap. It is one of the most stable European countries, and stability comes with a price. However, salaries are fair, public services are reliable and workers receive benefits that help balance the cost.
The cost of living depends on:
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Which city you choose
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Whether you live alone or share housing
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Your lifestyle
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Your job type and salary
Below is a clear breakdown of the most common expenses for a single adult.
Monthly Budget Breakdown for Sweden 2026
| Expense | Average Monthly Cost (SEK) |
|---|---|
| Rent for one bedroom (big city) | 10,000 to 16,000 |
| Rent for one bedroom (small city) | 6,500 to 9,000 |
| Food and groceries | 2,500 to 3,500 |
| Transport pass | 500 to 900 |
| Phone and internet | 300 to 450 |
| Utilities | 600 to 900 |
| Health insurance (if needed) | 0 to 400 |
| Leisure and personal items | 800 to 1,500 |
A comfortable monthly budget usually falls between:
SEK 13,000 to 20,000 per month in smaller cities
SEK 18,000 to 25,000 per month in major cities
This is the realistic range for someone living alone with a moderate lifestyle.
Rent Is the Biggest Expense
Rent takes the largest part of your income. Sweden has limited housing in big cities, so competition is high. Many newcomers start with shared apartments to reduce costs.
Average rent in major Swedish cities
| City | One Bedroom Apartment | Shared Room |
|---|---|---|
| Stockholm | 12,000 to 18,000 | 5,000 to 7,000 |
| Gothenburg | 10,000 to 15,000 | 4,500 to 6,500 |
| Malmö | 8,000 to 12,000 | 4,000 to 6,000 |
| Uppsala | 8,500 to 12,500 | 4,500 to 6,000 |
| Västerås | 7,000 to 10,000 | 3,500 to 5,000 |
If you want to save money, look outside major cities. Smaller locations still offer jobs and good quality living with lower rent.
Food and Groceries: What You Actually Spend
Groceries in Sweden are more expensive compared to many countries, but quality standards are high. Most immigrants spend:
SEK 2,500 to 3,500 monthly
Cooking at home saves money. Eating out is more expensive, especially in big cities.
Average food prices in 2026
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Bread: 25 to 35 SEK
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Milk: 12 to 16 SEK
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Chicken (1kg): 70 to 110 SEK
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Rice (1kg): 20 to 30 SEK
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Vegetables (basic mix): 80 to 120 SEK per week
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Simple restaurant meal: 100 to 150 SEK
If you prefer international food products, expect higher prices.
Transport Costs in Sweden
Public transport is reliable, clean and on time. Most people use a monthly travel card.
Transport pass prices
| City | Monthly Pass (SEK) |
|---|---|
| Stockholm | 970 |
| Gothenburg | 850 |
| Malmö | 650 |
| Uppsala | 650 |
| Västerås | 550 |
Some employers contribute to transport costs, which helps reduce expenses.
Utilities and Internet
Utilities include heating, electricity and water. Winter months may cost slightly more because heating is essential.
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Utilities: 600 to 900 SEK
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Internet: 250 to 350 SEK
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Mobile plan: 100 to 200 SEK
The internet is very fast and widely available across the country.
How Much You Need to Earn to Live Comfortably
The cost of living must match your salary. Sweden’s average monthly salaries in 2026 look like this:
| Job Sector | Monthly Salary (SEK) |
|---|---|
| Cleaners | 23,000 to 27,000 |
| Warehouse Workers | 25,000 to 30,000 |
| Restaurant Workers | 22,000 to 28,000 |
| Truck Drivers | 28,000 to 35,000 |
| Healthcare Assistants | 25,000 to 31,000 |
| Registered Nurses | 32,000 to 45,000 |
| IT Support | 28,000 to 38,000 |
| Software Developers | 40,000 to 60,000 |
| Engineers | 38,000 to 55,000 |
| Teachers | 30,000 to 42,000 |
To live comfortably and still save money:
You need a salary of at least SEK 28,000 to 30,000 per month in big cities.
In smaller cities, SEK 23,000 to 26,000 is enough.
This balance helps you manage your expenses without stress.
Best Cities for Immigrants in Sweden in 2026
Choosing the right city matters. Sweden is large and each region offers different experiences.
1. Stockholm
Good for:
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Tech jobs
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Finance roles
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English speaking opportunities
Downside:
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Highest rent in the country
Best for: Skilled workers who want career growth.
2. Gothenburg
Good for:
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Engineering
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Automotive industry
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Port logistics
More relaxed than Stockholm but still modern.
3. Malmö
Good for:
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Hospitality
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Logistics
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Customer service
Close to Denmark, multicultural atmosphere and affordable.
4. Uppsala
Good for:
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Education
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Health care
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Research jobs
Calm, clean and very student friendly.
5. Västerås
Good for:
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Manufacturing
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Warehousing
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Technical jobs
Cheaper housing and lots of mid level job opportunities.
Tips for Living Comfortably as a New Immigrant
1. Share accommodation at the beginning
This reduces your biggest expense and helps you save while adjusting.
2. Use public transport instead of buying a car
Cars are expensive to maintain in Sweden.
3. Cook at home
Meals at restaurants add up quickly.
4. Learn basic Swedish
It helps with integration, better job opportunities and daily communication.
5. Follow seasonal habits
Heating and clothing costs vary by season. Buying winter clothing during sales saves money.
6. Choose smaller cities if you want to save
You will spend less on rent and live more comfortably on a lower salary.
Is Sweden Affordable for Immigrants in 2026?
Yes, but only if you plan your budget properly. Sweden is not a cheap country, but it offers stability, safety, strong public services and a fair work environment. The key is choosing a city that matches your income and being smart with expenses.
Most immigrants who plan well are able to:
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Live comfortably
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Save money monthly
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Bring their families later
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Build long term careers
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Enjoy a peaceful and organised lifestyle
Sweden rewards stability and long term commitment.
Conclusion
Living comfortably in Sweden in 2026 is possible when you understand real costs and plan wisely. With monthly expenses ranging from SEK 13,000 to 25,000, and salaries between SEK 22,000 and 60,000, your lifestyle depends heavily on the job you choose and the city you live in. Sweden remains one of the safest, cleanest and most stable countries for immigrants who want a fresh start.
If you choose the right location, manage your budget and stay patient during your adjustment period, you can enjoy a peaceful life with strong opportunities for growth.
