Sweden is a country of natural beauty, rich history and progressive culture. From the stunning coastline to the rolling hills and deep forests, Sweden has something for everyone.
The country is also known for its high standard of living and welcoming communities, making it a popular destination for those looking for a new home.
But with so many amazing cities and towns to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start your search.
That’s why I’ve put together a list of the best places to live in Sweden, complete with all the information you need to decide if it’s the right fit for you.
So get ready to discover the hidden gems of this magnificent country!
Table of Contents
Best places to live in Sweden
1. Stockholm: The Capital of Cool
Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is often referred to as the Venice of the North thanks to its beautiful waterways and charming old town.
But it’s much more than just a pretty face. Stockholm is a thriving city with a rich cultural scene, excellent restaurants, and a bustling nightlife.
One of the best things about Stockholm is that it’s surrounded by water and green spaces. Take a walk or bike ride along the city’s numerous parks and promenades and you’ll quickly see why so many people love to live here.
You’ll also find plenty of museums, galleries, and cultural events to keep you entertained.
The population of Stockholm is around 1 million people, making it the largest city in Sweden. Despite this, it still feels like a small town, with a tight-knit community and a low crime rate.
As you might expect, the cost of living in Stockholm is high compared to other parts of Sweden. However, the quality of life here is unparalleled, with excellent public transportation, top-notch healthcare, and a strong sense of community.
If you’re looking for a vibrant city with a high standard of living, Stockholm is definitely worth considering.
Related: Stockholm vs Copenhagen: Which Is Better to Visit?
2. Gothenburg: The Hidden Gem of the West Coast
Gothenburg, often overlooked in favor of its more famous cousin Stockholm, is a real hidden gem. Located on the west coast of Sweden, Gothenburg is a charming city with a relaxed vibe and plenty of green spaces.
One of the best things about Gothenburg is its proximity to the ocean. If you’re a fan of seafood, you’ll love the fresh, locally caught fish that’s available in the city’s restaurants (in fact, the good seafood is easily one of the best reasons to move to Sweden in my books).
And if you want to get out and explore, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to go sailing, kayaking, or fishing.
Gothenburg is home to around 570,000 people, making it a mid-sized city by Swedish standards. Despite this, there’s plenty to see and do, including museums, galleries, and cultural events.
The city also has a thriving university scene, with students making up a large portion of the population.
The cost of living in Gothenburg is lower than in Stockholm, making it an attractive option for those looking for a high standard of living at a more affordable price. With its relaxed pace of life, friendly locals, and excellent public transportation, Gothenburg is a great place to call home.
3. Malmö: The Cultural Hub of Southern Sweden
Malmö, located in southern Sweden, is a city with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. The city is known for its stunning architecture, including the iconic Turning Torso building, as well as its numerous museums, galleries, and cultural events.
One of the best things about Malmö is its location, with Copenhagen just a short train ride away. This makes it easy to explore both cities and experience the best of what Scandinavia has to offer.
Malmö also has a thriving food scene, with plenty of restaurants serving up delicious local cuisine.
The population of Malmö is around 340,000 people, with plenty of energy and excitement given its young and diverse population that keeps things lively.
The cost of living in Malmö is lower than in Stockholm and nearby Copenhagen, making it an attractive option for those looking for a high standard of living without breaking the bank.
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4. Lund: The Student Capital of Sweden
Lund, also in southern Sweden, is a charming university town with a rich history and a youthful vibe. With two large universities and a thriving student population, Lund is a city that’s always buzzing with energy.
One of the best things about Lund is its location, with both Malmö and Copenhagen just a short train ride away. In fact, it’s for this exact reason that many people choose to live in Lund despite working in either Copenhagen or Malmö, as it’s close but cheaper and still a very nice place to live.
Lund also has a beautiful old town, with cobbled streets and charming buildings that are perfect for a leisurely stroll.
The population of Lund is around 120,000 people, with students making up a large portion of the population. Despite its small size, there’s plenty to see and do, with plenty of cultural events, restaurants, and bars to keep you entertained.
5. Uppsala: The Intellectual Heart of Sweden
Uppsala is found in central Sweden and is a city with a rich intellectual history and a thriving cultural scene. Home to one of the oldest universities in Sweden, Uppsala is a city that’s always full of energy and excitement.
The population of Uppsala is around 190,000 people, with students making up a large portion of the population. Despite its small size, there’s plenty to see and do, including a cultural scene that’s much more vibrant than you’d expect of a city of this size.
One of the most impressive landmarks in Uppsala is the Uppsala Cathedral, a stunning medieval church that dominates the city’s skyline. The cathedral was built in the 13th century and has been the site of many important events in Swedish history, including the coronations of several Swedish monarchs.
Another important cultural landmark in Uppsala is the Gustavianum Museum, located on the grounds of Uppsala University. This fascinating museum is home to an extensive collection of scientific and cultural artifacts, including an ancient Egyptian mummy, a replica of the solar system and a collection of Swedish folk costumes.
For nature lovers, the Linnaeus Garden is a must-see destination in Uppsala. This beautiful botanical garden is named after Carl Linnaeus, a famous Swedish botanist and naturalist who lived in Uppsala in the 18th century. Visitors can stroll through the garden and admire its collection of exotic plants and flowers, or relax in the peace and quiet of this green oasis.
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6. Helsingborg: The Gateway to the South
Helsingborg is a charming coastal city located in southern Sweden, just a short ferry ride from Denmark. This vibrant city has a rich history and a number of interesting sights to explore. Here are some of the must-see sights in Helsingborg:
One of the best things about Helsingborg is its location, with easy access to both Copenhagen and the beautiful Swedish countryside. Take a stroll through the city’s beautiful parks and gardens, or visit one of the many museums and galleries that call Helsingborg home.
The population of Helsingborg is around 130,000 people, making it a relatively small city by Swedish standards. Despite this, there’s plenty of energy and excitement, with a young and diverse population that keeps things lively.
Make sure you check out Kärnan Tower when you’re here! This historic tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Helsingborg, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding coastline. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for a bird’s eye view of the city, or simply enjoy a relaxing stroll through the park at its base.
7. Umeå: The Capital of Northern Sweden
Umeå is a vibrant city located in northern Sweden. This city is known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural scenery.
One of the main sights in Umeå is the Umeå University, which is one of the largest universities in Sweden and is renowned for its high-quality education. The university campus is home to several stunning buildings and is surrounded by beautiful parks and gardens, making it a popular destination for visitors.
Another popular attraction in Umeå is the Umeå River, which is surrounded by lush green forests and is popular for fishing, canoeing, and hiking. For anyone who likes the great outdoors, Umeå should definitely be on your list of the best places to live in Sweden.
In fact, one of the best things to do in Umeå is to explore the surrounding forests and hills. Take a hike or bike ride through the stunning countryside, or enjoy a picnic in one of the many parks and gardens. You can also go fishing, boating, or kayaking in the nearby lakes and rivers.
Another popular outdoor activity in Umeå is skiing or snowboarding in the winter months. With plenty of ski resorts in the area, there’s something for everyone, from beginner to expert skiers.
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8. Eskilstuna: A Growing City with a Rich History
Eskilstuna is a historic city located in central Sweden, with Eskilstuna Museum, which is housed in a beautiful 19th-century building, showcasing the history and cultural heritage of the city.
The population of Eskilstuna is around 100,000 people, making it a growing city by Swedish standards.
In addition to its rich history, Eskilstuna is also surrounded by stunning natural scenery, with forests, lakes, and rolling hills all around. There are numerous outdoor activities to enjoy in the area, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Some popular outdoor activities in Eskilstuna include hiking and biking through the countryside, fishing and boating in the nearby lakes, and skiing or snowboarding in the winter months.
9. Västerås: A Thriving City with a Rich Cultural Scene
Västerås, located in central Sweden, is a city with a rich history and a thriving cultural scene. The city is known for its numerous museums, galleries, and cultural events, as well as its beautiful parks and gardens.
One of the best things about Västerås is its location, with easy access to both Stockholm and the Swedish countryside. Take a stroll through the city’s beautiful parks and gardens, including the stunning Gustavsvik Park, which is known for its scenic views and recreational activities such as fishing and boating.
In addition, one of the main sights in Västerås is the Västerås Castle, which is one of the largest and best-preserved castles in Sweden. The castle was built in the 16th century and features beautiful Renaissance architecture, stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and a museum showcasing the history of the castle and the city.
With a population of around 130,000 people and a lower cost of living than in Stockholm, you can easily see why Västerås makes it on any list of the best places to live in Sweden.
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10. Jönköping: A City Rich in Culture and History
Jönköping is located in southern Sweden, in the county of Jönköping. It is situated on the shores of Lake Vättern, one of the largest lakes in Sweden.
In fact, thanks to this lake, Vätterstranden is a popular beach located in the city. With its beautiful scenery and ample opportunities for swimming and other water sports, it’s a top destination for both locals and tourists alike.
The population of Jönköping is around 130,000 people, making it relatively mid-sized by Sweden’s standards. Despite its size, Jönköping has a friendly and welcoming feel, with a tight-knit community and a strong sense of pride in the city’s history and culture.
It’s also a city steeped in history and culture, and there are numerous sights to see and experiences to be had. One of the most notable is the Jönköping Museum, which provides a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past and its important role in Swedish history.
11. Örebro: A City Rich in History and Nature
Örebro is a city in central Sweden with a rich history, and there are numerous historical sights to explore.
One of the most notable is the Örebro Castle, a historic castle located on an island in the River Svartån that was built in the 14th century. It now serves as a museum, showcasing the history of the castle and the city.
The Wadköping Open-Air Museum is also a must-see. This museum is a reconstructed 19th-century town that allows visitors to experience life in rural Sweden during that time period.
Finally, if you end up deciding to move to Örebro, Stortorget will become one of your go-tos. This is the main square in Örebro and is surrounded by historic buildings and charming cafes, making it a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
12. Linköping: A City in Southeastern Sweden
Linköping is a city in southeastern Sweden that is rich in history and culture. With a population of around 140,000 people, Linköping is a relatively large city that offers the best of both worlds – the excitement of urban living and the peace and tranquility of the countryside.
One of the best things about Linköping is its stunning parks and gardens. In the summer, the city is alive with the sounds of birds and the scent of blooming flowers, and in the winter, the parks are transformed into a winter wonderland. For those who love the outdoors, there are plenty of opportunities to hike, cycle, or simply enjoy a picnic in the sun.
Linköping is also home to a number of historic sites and cultural attractions, including the impressive Linköping Cathedral, the oldest brick building in Sweden, and the city’s beautiful main square that is home to a number of cafés, restaurants, and shops.
13. Marstrand: A Beautiful Seaside Town
Marstrand is a beautiful seaside town located on the west coast of Sweden. With a population of around 3,000 people, Marstrand is a small and peaceful town that is perfect for those who love the outdoors.
The main attraction of Marstrand is its stunning coastline, with miles of pristine beaches and rugged cliffs that are perfect for swimming, hiking, or simply relaxing. For those who love boating, Marstrand is a paradise, with plenty of opportunities to explore the waters of the Baltic Sea.
In addition to its natural beauty, Marstrand is also home to a number of historic sites, including the impressive Carlsten Fortress, which dates back to the 17th century and offers stunning views of the town and the sea.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or a lively coastal town, Marstrand is the perfect place to call home.
14. Solna: The Quiet Beauty of Sweden
Solna is a charming city located just north of Stockholm, Sweden, making it a popular choice for people working in Stockholm who may not want to live in the capital itself.
This city is not only known for its natural beauty, but also for the fact its home to three of Sweden’s stunning royal palaces. One of the most famous palaces in Solna is Ulriksdal Palace, which was built in the 17th century and is now used as a residence for the Swedish royal family. The palace features stunning Baroque architecture, beautiful gardens and is open to the public for tours.
Another popular palace in Solna is Haga Palace, which was built in the 19th century and is also used as a residence for the Swedish royal family. The palace is surrounded by beautiful parks and gardens and is a popular destination for tourists.
Solna Church is also a popular sight. This beautiful church is one of the oldest in the region, dating back to the 12th century. Visitors can admire the church’s impressive stained glass windows and intricate carvings, or simply enjoy a peaceful moment of reflection.
In a slightly different tone, the city is also home to the Mall of Scandinavia, the largest shopping center in Scandinavia. It can make a nice counterbalance to the peaceful surroundings of Solna.
15. Gävle: A City with a Rich History and Beautiful Architecture
Gävle is a city located in eastern Sweden, in the county of Gävleborg. With its population of about 130,000 people, Gävle is a relatively large city that is steeped in history and boasts a rich cultural heritage.
One of the best things about Gävle is its stunning architecture. The city is home to a number of beautiful buildings, including the Gävle Castle, which dates back to the 17th century and is now a museum, and the Stora Hotellet, a magnificent hotel that was built in the 19th century and is now one of the city’s most popular landmarks.
You also shouldn’t miss the Gävle Goat, a giant straw goat that is erected each year during the Christmas season. Because…why not!
16. Visby: A Medieval Town on the Island of Gotland
Visby is a medieval town located on the island of Gotland, in the Baltic Sea. With a population of around 22,000 people, Visby is a small and peaceful town that is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture and stunning coastal landscapes.
One of the best things about Visby is its stunning medieval city walls, which were built in the 13th century and are now one of the town’s most famous landmarks. In addition to its walls, Visby is also home to a number of churches and monasteries, including the St. Mary’s Cathedral, which dates back to the 12th century and is one of the largest and most impressive buildings in the town.
For those who love the outdoors, Visby is a paradise, with miles of pristine beaches and stunning coastal landscapes that are perfect for swimming, hiking, or simply relaxing. In the city itself, don’t miss the Almedal Park, which is a lush green space filled with walking trails and picnic areas.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or a town steeped in history and culture, Visby is the perfect place to call home.
17. Karlskrona: A Historic Seaport Town on the Baltic Sea
Karlskrona is a historic seaport town located on the Baltic Sea in southeastern Sweden. With a population of around 35,000 people, Karlskrona is a small and peaceful town that is famous for its well-preserved maritime heritage and stunning coastal landscapes.
One of the best things about Karlskrona is its stunning architecture, including the impressive Karlskrona Naval Museum, which is housed in a former naval arsenal and showcases the city’s naval history.
In addition to its museums, Karlskrona is also home to a number of parks and gardens, including the beautiful Stora Parken, which is a green space that is perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic in the sun.
For those who love the sea, Karlskrona is an excellent place to call home. The town is surrounded by miles of pristine beaches and stunning coastal landscapes, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore the waters of the Baltic Sea, either by boat or by kayak. In particular, the Karlskrona Archipelago is a group of islands that are home to picturesque lighthouses and scenic walking trails.
Is it expensive to live in Sweden?
When it comes to cost of living, Sweden can be considered an expensive country, especially when compared to other countries in Europe. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the high cost of living is largely due to the high standard of living that Swedes enjoy.
The cost of living in Sweden’s major cities such as Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö can be particularly high, with high prices for housing, food, and other essentials. However, these cities also offer high salaries and a strong economy, which can help offset some of the costs.
In smaller cities and towns, the cost of living is generally lower. For example, in Eskilstuna, Västerås and Umeå, the cost of living is significantly lower than in the larger cities, making these towns a good option for those looking to save money while still enjoying the benefits of living in Sweden.
In general, the cost of living in Sweden is influenced by the high standard of living and the quality of services offered, so it’s important to consider this when deciding where to live.
But despite the high costs, the excellent standard of living and the many opportunities for work, recreation, and exploration make Sweden a great choice for those looking to build a new life in one of Europe’s most beautiful countries.
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Where do most foreigners live in Sweden?
In Sweden, the largest population of foreigners can be found in the major cities such as Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö. These cities offer a diverse range of job opportunities and cultural attractions, making them a great choice for those looking to experience Swedish life to the fullest.
Additionally, the fact that these cities are larger and have a more diverse population means that they are more accommodating to people from different backgrounds.
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What is the safest place to live in Sweden?
It’s difficult to determine a single “safest” place to live in Sweden as the country is generally considered to be one of the safest in the world. Some cities that are often considered to be particularly safe though include Lund, Uppsala, and Linköping.
Crime rates are low across the country, and people enjoy a high standard of living and a high level of safety in their daily lives. That said, there are always some cities and regions that are known to have lower crime rates and a higher sense of safety than others.
These cities have low crime rates, strong economies, and a good quality of life, making them a great choice for those looking for a safe place to live. Additionally, smaller cities and towns in rural areas are also known for their low crime rates and strong sense of community, making them a great choice for those looking for a safe and secure place to live.
Ultimately, the level of safety in any given place will depend on a number of factors, including the local economy, the size of the population, and the presence of law enforcement.
However, with its low crime rates and high standard of living, it’s safe to say that Sweden is one of the safest countries in the world, and that people living there can feel secure and confident in their daily lives.
So which is the best place to live in Sweden?
Sweden is a country that truly has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for bustling cities, charming towns, or stunning natural beauty.
From the historical sights in Uppsala and Eskilstuna to the outdoor adventures in Marstrand and Gävle, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this beautiful country.
And with its strong economy, excellent quality of life, and welcoming people, it’s no wonder that so many people are choosing to call Sweden their home.
Of course, before deciding to settle somewhere (and if you have the chance to do so), it’s worth visiting a few of the cities that piqued your interest to see how you like things on the ground.
So why not pack your bags and start exploring the best places to live in Sweden today? Your next home awaits!