Moving to Sweden
Here is some basic information about Sweden and what it’s like to live here.
Sweden – key facts
- Sweden is a country with just over 10 million inhabitants. It is a very multicultural country with about 15% of swedes born in other countries.
- Almost all swedes speak English besides the official language of Swedish. English is the corporate language among many large companies.
- Sweden has a strong democracy with very low corruption.
- Healthcare, day-care and schools are pretty much free.
Swedish life
- In Sweden, taking short breaks during work is very important, so important that the term ‘fika’ is now a well-known activity around the world.
- The unofficial national dish in Sweden is meatballs, Swedes eat meatballs for Christmas, Easter and most traditional holidays. Another famous dish associated with Sweden is Surströmming (fermented herring). It has a unique smell to say the least, try it when you get here.
- Swedes pride themselves on standing in line to queue for things. So don’t think about cutting in line.
- The weather in Sweden is very important and a common topic of conversation. Talk about the weather to break the ice and start a conversation.
- Sweden is recognised for its contribution to music, with famous artists such as ABBA, Avicii and Roxette.
Climate and weather in Skåne/Copenhagen
Skåne is Sweden’s warmest county and has a coastal climate, but the seasonal variations are large. The coldest month is February with an average temperature of 0.0 °C and the warmest July with +17.1 °C. Snow falls almost every winter, often for very short periods at the beginning of the year.
Cost of living – Approximate prices in SEK
- Meal, inexpensive restaurant – 80-100
- Meal for two people, mid-range restaurant, three-course – 450-950
- Cappuccino (regular) – 35
- Domestic beer (0.5 litre draught) – 65
- Water (0.33 litre bottle) – 20
- Milk (regular), (1 litre) – 10-15
- Train monthly pass (regular price) – 840
- One-way ticket (local transport) – 40
- Gasoline (1 litre) – 15
- Fitness club, monthly fee for one adult – 500
- Cinema, international release, one seat – 130
- 1 Pair of Nike running shoes (mid-range) – 900
- 1 Pair of jeans (Levi’s 501 or similar) – 900
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