Accommodation and living costs in Europe

Sweden is expensive but predictable. A good reference point is the amount the Swedish Migration Agency requires from students from outside the EU/EEA: at least SEK 10,656 a month (2026). Study in Sweden breaks down the previous threshold of SEK 10,584 like this:

• accommodation – SEK 4,900,
• food – SEK 2,770,
• local transport – SEK 550,
• phone and internet – SEK 400,
• other expenses – SEK 1,964.

Rent is usually SEK 3,000–7,000 a month, depending on the city and the location.

Start your search for accommodation with your university – some guarantee housing to international students, and most help you find a room in a student residence (korridorsrum) or with a local student housing company. To get a contract directly from such a company, you usually have to join a housing queue (bostadskö). Watch out for scammers: being asked for money before you have seen the flat is a warning sign.