Go to main navigation Navigation menu Skip navigation Home page Search
STOCKHOLM SCHOOL
OF ECONOMICS

Housing

Finding a place to live in Sweden can be challenging, particularly in cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg. It's a good idea to start looking for accommodation as soon as possible. Websites like Blocket and Hemnet are good resources for finding rental properties and buying homes.

Resources for finding rental properties and buying homes

  • Hemnet
    (https://www.hemnet.se) - A leading platform for buying and selling homes in Sweden, including Stockholm.

  • Blocket
    (https://www.blocket.se) - A general classifieds website that includes a section for rental and buying properties, including apartments and houses.

  • Bostad Direkt
    (https://www.bostaddirekt.com) - A platform specializing in long-term rentals, including apartments and rooms.

  • Booli
    (https://www.booli.se) - A real estate marketplace offering both rental and buying options in Stockholm and other parts of Sweden.

  • Airbnb
    (https://www.airbnb.com) - A well-known platform for short-term rentals, offering various options for temporary stays in Stockholm.

  • The local Sweden website
    (https://www.thelocal.se) specifically focuses on news and insights related to Sweden. It can be a valuable resource for expats and internationals looking for housing, jobs, events, and other relevant information in Stockholm and other cities in Sweden.

More information about housing in Sweden

  • Rental Market
    The rental market in Stockholm can be competitive, with limited availability and high demand. Some apartments are rented based on a queue system. Apart from Blocket Bostad, you can also look at sites such as the Local, Samtrygg and Renthia. 

  • Rental Contracts
    In Sweden, you can rent apartments via a first-hand or a second-hand contract. A first-hand contract means you rent directly from the landlord, whereas a second-hand contract is via the main tenant. A first-hand contract is typically permanent, unless you break the rental rules. Second-hand contracts are usually fixed term, and easier to get. It's important to carefully review the terms and conditions of your rental contract before signing.

  • Subletting (Second-hand contract)
    Subletting, which is basically the same thing as a second-hand contract, is common in Stockholm. It's important to (for example): 1) Verify contract legitimacy and the subletter's legal right, 2) Review terms like duration, rent, and payment conditions, 3) Understand your tenant rights under Swedish law, 4) Clarify maintenance and repair responsibilities, 5) Discuss included utilities and separate payments, 6) Inquire about subletting restrictions, 7) Discuss the security deposit amount and conditions.

  • Rent Control
    Rent control is a system that limits the amount landlords can charge for rent in certain areas. This means that the rent for a particular apartment may be regulated by the government, and landlords cannot increase the rent beyond a certain amount.

  • Deposit
    It's common for landlords to require a deposit equal to one or two months' rent. The deposit is usually returned at the end of the rental period, as long as the apartment is in good condition.

  • Housing Associations
    Housing associations, or "bostadsrättsförening" in Swedish, are common in Stockholm. These are cooperative housing arrangements where members own a share in the property and pay a monthly fee for maintenance and other services.

  • Housing Costs
    Housing costs in Stockholm can be high, and it's important to budget for rent, utilities, and other expenses. You may also be eligible for housing subsidies or assistance, depending on your income and other factors.