Moving to Sweden for your studies is an exciting adventure, but we understand—it can also feel a little overwhelming. You’re not just thinking about your courses but also wondering how to manage your expenses in a country where the cost of living might feel higher than what you’re used to. Don’t worry, though! We are here to guide you through the basics of the cost of living in Sweden, so you can plan your budget confidently.
Whether you’re a single person or an international student, this guide will break down the expenses you need to consider. Look at the cost of living in Sweden and understand your expenses and their management wisely. Let’s make this journey easier for you!
Table of contents
- Average Cost of Living in Sweden: An Overview
- Monthly Costs of Living in Major Swedish Cities
- Cost of Accommodation in Sweden
- Cost of Studying in Sweden
- Cost of Transportation in Sweden
- Cost of Food in Sweden
- Cost of Utilities in Sweden
- Miscellaneous Costs in Sweden
- Tips for Managing the Cost of Living in Sweden
- FAQs on Cost of Living in Sweden 2025
Average Cost of Living in Sweden: An Overview
The average cost of living in Sweden depends on various factors like location and lifestyle. Understanding the cost of living in Sweden is crucial for students. Along with this, careful planning helps students balance their expenses. Below we have mentioned the average cost of living in Sweden to make it easy for students to understand.
| Category | Average Cost (SEK) | Price Range (SEK) |
| Dining Out | ||
| Meal at an Inexpensive Restaurant | 135.00 | 100.00–200.00 |
| Meal for 2 (Mid-range Restaurant) | 800.00 | 580.00–1,500.00 |
| McDonald’s Combo Meal | 101.62 | 95.00–120.00 |
| Tuition Fees | ||
| Bachelor’s Degree Programs | 80,000 – 130,000 | |
| Master’s Degree Programs | 90,000 – 200,000 | |
| Groceries | ||
| Milk (1 liter) | 16.00 | 12.00–21.00 |
| Bread (500g) | 28.96 | 17.50–43.00 |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) | 118.96 | 70.00–170.00 |
| Apples (1kg) | 30.00 | 15.95–40.00 |
| Transportation | ||
| One-Way Ticket (Public Transport) | 37.00 | 30.00–43.00 |
| Monthly Pass | 835.00 | 624.00–1,050.00 |
| Gasoline (1 liter) | 18.86 | 17.49–22.00 |
| Rent (Monthly) | ||
| 1-Bedroom Apartment (City Centre) | 9,365.78 | 6,500.00–17,000.00 |
| 1-Bedroom Apartment (Outside Centre) | 7,130.82 | 5,000.00–12,000.00 |
| 3-Bedroom Apartment (City Centre) | 15,448.66 | 11,000.00–29,000.00 |
| Utilities & Internet | ||
| Utilities (Electricity, Heating, etc.) | 1,207.40 | 637.50–2,615.38 |
| Internet (60 Mbps, Unlimited) | 347.45 | 239.00–500.00 |
| Leisure & Miscellaneous | ||
| Gym Membership (Monthly) | 396.46 | 269.00–600.00 |
| Cinema Ticket | 159.50 | 139.00–220.00 |
| Jeans (Levis or Similar) | 877.53 | 400.00–1,200.00 |
Monthly Costs of Living in Major Swedish Cities
The Monthly Living Costs in Major Swedish Cities vary greatly depending on where you choose to live. For example, Stockholm, the capital, is the most expensive, due to high rent and food prices. Gothenburg is slightly more affordable, while Malmö, offers better value for students.
Choosing budget-friendly cities like Uppsala or Malmö can ease financial stress. We have mentioned the Monthly cost of living in Swedish CIties and a comparison of them in the table mentioned below.
| City | Monthly Cost (SEK) | Notes |
| Stockholm | 10,000 – 13,000 | Higher rent and food prices. |
| Gothenburg | 8,500 – 11,500 | Slightly cheaper than Stockholm. |
| Malmö | 8,000 – 10,500 | Affordable for students. |
| Uppsala | 7,500 – 9,500 | Popular with international students. |
| Lund | 8,000 – 10,000 | Compact and student-friendly. |
Also Read:
- Cost of Living in Spain for International Students [2025]
- Cost of Living in Maynooth, Ireland for Students [2025]
Cost of Accommodation in Sweden
Rent is the largest expense in Sweden, especially for students. The cost of living in Sweden varies depending on whether you live in the city centre or outside. Shared accommodation or university dormitories can reduce costs significantly.
If you’re studying in cities like Stockholm or Gothenburg, you might face higher rents compared to smaller cities. Planning ahead and applying for student housing early can help you secure affordable and convenient options, easing your Sweden living cost per month. Here we have mentioned the cost of accommodation in Sweden.
| Type of Apartment | Average Monthly Rent (SEK) | Range (SEK) |
| 1-Bedroom (City Centre) | 9,365.78 | 6,500.00–17,000.00 |
| 1-Bedroom (Outside Centre) | 7,130.82 | 5,000.00–12,000.00 |
| 3-Bedroom (City Centre) | 15,448.66 | 11,000.00–29,000.00 |
Note: To save costs, consider shared accommodation or university dormitories.
Cost of Studying in Sweden
Studying in Sweden is a major part of the cost of living in Sweden. It involves tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students, alongside living expenses. However, the country offers numerous scholarships and financial aid opportunities. Below is a breakdown of tuition fees and additional costs to help you plan effectively.
| Degree Level | Annual Tuition Fee (SEK) | Notes |
| Bachelor’s Degree Programs | 80,000 – 130,000 | Tuition varies by course and university. |
| Master’s Degree Programs | 90,000 – 200,000 | Specialized courses may cost more. |
| Doctoral Programs | Free | Tuition-free for all international students. |
Additional Costs
| Expense | Monthly Cost (SEK) | Notes |
| Application Fee | 900 | Non-refundable, paid during application. |
| Health Insurance | 300 – 500 | Some universities provide free insurance for students. |
| Study Materials | 500 – 1,000 | Books and supplies may vary depending on the course. |
Cost of Studying on the Basis of University
The cost of studying varies in according to each university and program in Sweden. Here’s an updated overview of select Swedish universities, their QS World University Rankings for 2025, and their tuition fees for international students:
| University | QS World Ranking 2025 | Tuition Fees (INR) |
| Karolinska Institutet (KI) | 49 | 14L – 16L per year |
| KTH Royal Institute of Technology | 74 | 26L – 32L for full course |
| Lund University | 75 | 21L – 28L for full course |
| Uppsala University | 103 | 3.6L – 5.5L per semester |
| Stockholm University | 128 | 7L – 10L per year |
| Chalmers University of Technology | 139 | 25L for a full course |
| University of Gothenburg | 194 | 21L (Bachelor’s); 14L (Master’s) |
| Linköping University | 304 | 6L – 10L per year |
| Umeå University | 456 | 45L for a full course |
Notes: Please note that tuition fees can vary based on the specific program and are subject to change. It’s advisable to consult the official university websites for the most current information.
Cost of Transportation in Sweden
Sweden offers a reliable and extensive public transportation system, which is ideal for students. Public transport is well-integrated and includes buses, trains, and trams, making commuting easy. Cycling is a popular and cost-effective option for those living near their universities.
Students can benefit from discounted travel passes, reducing their cost of living in Sweden while enjoying sustainable and affordable commuting options. Look at the cost of transportation in Sweden to manage your commuting expenses.
| Item | Average Cost (SEK) | Range (SEK) |
| One-Way Ticket (Local Transport) | 37.00 | 30.00–43.00 |
| Monthly Pass | 835.00 | 624.00–1,050.00 |
| Gasoline (1L) | 18.86 | 17.49–22.00 |
Cost of Food in Sweden
Groceries in Sweden are reasonably priced compared to dining out. While eating out in Sweden can be pricey, especially for students on a budget. While treating yourself occasionally is fine, cooking at home is a more affordable option.
For students, prioritizing home-cooked meals and limiting restaurant visits can help significantly reduce the cost of living in Sweden. We have mentioned the cost of food in Sweden for students which includes grocery as well as dining out.
| Item | Average Cost (SEK) | Range (SEK) |
| Milk (1L) | 16.00 | 12.00–21.00 |
| White Bread (500g) | 28.96 | 17.50–43.00 |
| Rice (1kg) | 36.00 | 20.00–47.00 |
| Eggs (12) | 41.59 | 28.00–54.00 |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) | 118.96 | 70.00–170.00 |
| Inexpensive Meal | 135.00 | 100.00–200.00 |
| Meal for Two (Mid-range) | 800.00 | 580.00–1,500.00 |
| McDonald’s Combo Meal | 101.62 | 95.00–120.00 |
| Domestic Beer (0.5L draught) | 75.00 | 50.00–90.00 |
| Cappuccino | 44.41 | 25.00–60.00 |
Cost of Utilities in Sweden
The cost of Utilities is a major part of the cost of living in Sweden. It includes electricity, heating, water, and garbage collection, which costs about 1,207.40 SEK monthly for an 85m² apartment. However, smaller accommodations or student dormitories often have lower utility bills
Students should look for bundled offers or student-specific deals to save money. These costs are manageable if shared with roommates or included in rental agreements. Below ae the cost of utilities in Sweden for international students.
| Item | Average Monthly Cost (SEK) | Range (SEK) |
| Electricity, Water, Garbage | 1,207.40 | 637.50–2,615.38 |
| Mobile Plan (10GB+ Data) | 277.02 | 150.00–399.00 |
| Internet (Unlimited) | 347.45 | 239.00–500.00 |
Also Read:
- Cost of Living in Hawaii for International Students [2025]
- Cost of Living in Philippines for International Students in 2025
Miscellaneous Costs in Sweden
Entertainment and personal expenses vary depending on your lifestyle. Sweden also offers free or low-cost activities, such as exploring parks and museums. Clothing costs can add up, so plan your shopping wisely. Many stores offer student discounts, so always check for deals.
Balancing your leisure expenses while prioritizing essential costs ensures you can enjoy your stay in Sweden without financial stress. Find the miscellaneous costs in Sweden in the table below.
| Item | Average Cost (SEK) | Range (SEK) |
| Cinema Ticket | 159.50 | 139.00–220.00 |
| Fitness Club (Monthly Fee) | 396.46 | 269.00–600.00 |
| Pair of Jeans | 877.53 | 400.00–1,200.00 |
Tips for Managing the Cost of Living in Sweden
Managing expenses in Sweden can feel challenging, but it is essential for international students. Below we have mentioned the tips that can make it easier. Implementing these tips can help you live comfortably in Sweden without straining your budget.
- Start Your Search Early:
Student housing in Sweden is in high demand. Dormitories and shared apartments are the most budget-friendly options, but they fill up fast. Begin your search early and register with housing platforms or university housing services. - Cook at Home:
Eating out is expensive in Sweden, with even simple meals costing hundreds of SEK. By cooking at home, you can significantly cut down expenses. Plan meals, buy ingredients in bulk, and take advantage of supermarket discounts. - Use Student Discounts:
Student discounts are a lifesaver. Carry your student ID everywhere to save on public transport, museums, gyms, and sometimes groceries. Always ask if a store or service offers discounts. - Biking is Budget-Friendly:
Public transport in Sweden can be costly. A bike is a one-time investment that saves money in the long run. Plus, it’s eco-friendly and a fun way to explore the city while staying active. - Secondhand Shops:
Sweden has a strong culture of sustainability. You can find affordable furniture, clothes, and even books in secondhand shops or online marketplaces. It’s a great way to furnish your space or refresh your wardrobe without overspending.
Understanding the cost of living in Sweden is key to managing your budget as an international student. While expenses like rent and dining out are high, planning ahead and adopting cost-saving habits, can make life in Sweden more affordable. Sweden’s high quality of life makes it worth the expense. By staying financially disciplined, you can focus on enjoying your studies and creating unforgettable memories. Planning your finances well in advance helps you avoid last-minute crises and ensures a stress-free student experience.
Hope you liked reading our blog about the Cost of Living in Sweden. For a stress-free stay during your study abroad adventure, choose Fly Homes. Call 1800572118 to reserve your ideal accommodation abroad with ease.
FAQs on Cost of Living in Sweden 2025
The average cost of living in Sweden for a single person is around SEK 9,000 to SEK 12,000 per month. This includes expenses for food, transportation, and entertainment, but rent is additional.
How much does the cost of living in Sweden for an Indian family amount to?
For an Indian family living in Sweden, the cost can range from SEK 20,000 to SEK 25,000 monthly. This includes rent, food, transportation, and other living expenses, depending on the city.
The Sweden living cost for international students is estimated between SEK 8,000 to SEK 12,000 per month. This includes food, transport, and personal expenses but does not cover rent.
What is the cost of living in Sweden with rent?
The cost of living in Sweden with rent varies. Rent can range from SEK 5,000 to SEK 10,000 for a one-bedroom apartment in the city. Therefore, the total cost could range from SEK 13,000 to SEK 18,000 monthly.
How much should a family of 4 budget for the cost of living in Sweden?
The cost of living in Sweden for a family of 4 can range from SEK 25,000 to SEK 35,000 per month. This includes rent, food, transportation, and other regular expenses.
Is the cost of living in Sweden high for students?
The cost of living in Sweden for students can be moderate but varies based on location. On average, students may spend around SEK 8,000 to SEK 12,000 monthly, excluding rent.
What are the main expenses for students in Sweden?
The main expenses for students in Sweden are rent, food, transport, and personal costs. Public transportation is affordable, but rent and food can take up a large portion of the budget.
What is the cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Sweden?
The cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in Sweden varies between SEK 7,000 and SEK 12,000 per month, depending on the city and location.
What is the cost of living in Stockholm for a single person?
The cost of living in Stockholm for a single person is higher compared to other cities. Expect to pay SEK 12,000 to SEK 15,000 per month for rent, food, and other expenses.
Are there ways to reduce living costs in Sweden as a student?
Yes, students can reduce living costs by cooking at home, using student discounts, and choosing affordable housing options such as shared apartments or student dorms.
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