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Everyday life Archives - Study in Sweden

<p class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-paragraph standard">Moving to another country to study is a huge task and has a lot of costs along the way. Let's not forget you're advised to pack very lightly, so you have to leave a lot of books, clothes and furniture behind. SO how do you start a new life on a budget? Join me on this 2 part series on how I made myself at home and saved ALOT of money by choosing second hand. Part 1 is a basic intro and quick guide to second hand shopping in Sweden.</p>



<h2>Why shop secondhand?</h2>



<p>To start, Sweden is an ideal destination for living your best thrift life because <a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2017/11/19/sweden-a-second-hand-paradise/">second hand shopping</a> is very common - so there are plenty of options, no matter your city, your needs or your taste. Check out Sara's packing tips for <a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2020/07/10/packing-for-sweden-the-essentials/">what's absolutely essential to bring</a> and you can easily find the rest second hand.</p>



<p>Beyond saving money, another huge plus is a <a href="https://sweden.se/climate/">reduced impact on the environment</a>. ↗️ Consumption of new goods is not only expensive, and a waste of raw materials, but there's plenty of items in good condition that have a long life ahead of them, and throwing them away into landfills is not sustainable. You can read more about second hand as sustainable shopping in Katharina's <a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2019/02/03/sustainability-challenge-second-hand-shopping/">sustainable challenge blog.</a></p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
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<p>I understand why someone may find second hand dodgy because you don't know where the item is coming from and we have to be super careful with hygiene especially during the pandemic. I would still encourage you to take some time to show some love to some pre-loved items and take the extra steps to wash and sanitize accordingly.</p>



<p>Lastly, honestly, it's just SO MUCH FUN!! You find some interesting (sometimes super weird) things that you wouldn't find in ordinary stores, and that's super entertaining for me.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-medium wp-image-30267"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se/app/uploads/2020/07/IMG_20190807_144255-225x300.jpg" alt="Rack of colourful sweaters at Emmaus Borås" class="wp-image-30267"/><figcaption> Rack of sweaters at Emmaus Borås / Photo: Lusanda</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Okay, where and how?</h2>



<p>So you're curious but you have no idea where to start your search? Here are some ideas to help you get started!</p>



<h2>Online shops</h2>



<p>We're in the digital age (obviously, you're reading this right now) so here are some online options to click and thrift:</p>



<ul><li><a href="https://www.sellpy.se/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sellpy</a> ↗️ - mostly clothes, beauty and some furniture with an easy to use website</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-large wp-image-30271"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se/app/uploads/2020/07/Screenshot-83-1024x459.png" alt="Frontpage of Sellpy's website. " class="wp-image-30271"/><figcaption>Photo: Sellpy / sellpy.se (screenshot)</figcaption></figure>



<ul><li><a href="https://www.blocket.se/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Blocket</a> ↗️ - the largest Swedish public selling platform with anything and everything including accommodation, sports equipment and electronics. They have an app too, which is mostly written in Swedish so have Google Translate handy!</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-large wp-image-30270"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se/app/uploads/2020/07/Screenshot-82-1024x418.png" alt="Frontpage of BLocket's website." class="wp-image-30270"/><figcaption>Photo: blocket / blocket.se (screenshot)</figcaption></figure>



<ul><li><a href="https://www.myrorna.se/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Myorna</a> ↗️ (online) - Countrywide franchise with ordinary stores - clothes, furniture and collectables</li><li><a href="https://secondhand.se/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Secondha</a><a href="https://secondhand.se/">nd.se</a> ↗️ - Online site by Erikshälpen (see <strong>Shopping IRL</strong> below) with a wide variety of books, clothes, collectables, furniture and more</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-large wp-image-30272"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se/app/uploads/2020/07/Screenshot-84-1024x461.png" alt="Frontpage of secondhand.se." class="wp-image-30272"/><figcaption>Photo: Erikshälpen Second Hand / secondhand.se (screenshot)</figcaption></figure>



<ul><li><a href="https://www.tradera.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tradera</a> ↗️ - an auction site with mostly clothes at a bargain with some high end brands, so you can take a chance bidding for some high quality rare items</li><li><a href="https://www.beyondretro.com/">Beyond Retro</a> ↗️ (online) do you like retro fashion? This is the thrift site for you! You even have the option to shop by decade.</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-large wp-image-30282"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se/app/uploads/2020/07/Screenshot-89-1024x460.png" alt="Frontpage of Beyond Retor's website." class="wp-image-30282"/><figcaption>Photo: Beyond Retro / beyondretro.se (screenshot)</figcaption></figure>



<p>Pro tip: Pay attention to delivery costs and look to free delivery for extra £££ savings!</p>



<h2>Facebook</h2>



<p>Facebook groups are very popular for pre-loved goods across Sweden so it's a simple scroll through your marketplace to find a bicycle, sofa, ski shoes or practically anything. You can also search the term "Loppis" + your city for groups specific to where you'll live. Check for an international student's group for your university where graduating students also post items (and sometimes accommodation) for cheap starter packs (e.g. cutlery, plates, wifi routers etc.)</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-large wp-image-30276"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se/app/uploads/2020/07/Screenshot-88-1024x410.png" alt="Screenshot of Facebook Marketplace Borås." class="wp-image-30276"/><figcaption>Photo: Facebook Marketplace Borås / facebook.com (screenshot)</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-heading">Language</h3>



<p>Most posts are in Swedish and Facebook translations can get a bit weird (<a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2018/03/20/not-give-up-learning-swedish/">another reason to study some basic Swedish</a>). So in your posts or responses, make sure to add that you're English speaking to avoid any language barriers that make contact with the seller more difficult.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-heading">Payment</h3>



<p>If you haven't yet gone through the process of getting a personnummer, Swedish ID, Swedish bank account, Mobile Bank ID then eventually <a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2018/10/21/useful-apps-to-help-you-navigate-life-in-sweden/">Swish</a>, make sure to ask if sellers will accept cash. <a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2019/11/17/guide-to-use-money-in-sweden-welcome-to-the-most-cashless-country-in-europe/">Sweden is very cashless</a> so Swish is so popular that people may assume that's how you'll pay, but you won't have that set up within your first week in Sweden.</p>



<p><strong>***A word of caution</strong> - please be careful, don't send any money before you see the product for yourself and you can confirm its legit.***</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-heading">Delivery</h3>



<p>Another consideration is sellers are often very far away from you and if you're buying a big item like a sofa, you may need to arrange collection. When I bought my sofa bed for only SEK 400, I found a group that connects drivers to people who need a lift or a delivery called <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1591698267763632" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">"Vem Kor" for Borås</a>. ↗️ I found someone to collect a trailer, drive me there, then deliver to my apartment and they only charged me SEK150. SEK 550 in total total is waaaay cheaper than the same model from Ikea at SEK 3000 (excluding delivery).</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-large wp-image-30268"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se/app/uploads/2020/07/IMG_20190907_141136-1024x768.jpg" alt="Rows of leather sofas for sale at second hand store." class="wp-image-30268"/><figcaption>Second Hand Sofa at Erikshälpen Borås / Photo: Lusanda</figcaption></figure>



<p>Check for posts where the seller is able to deliver to make it easier. If you don't mind carrying a smaller chair, or vase you can also try public transport but make sure not to hurt your muscles carrying anything too heavy on your own just to save money. If it's too far and delivery or transport is too expensive maybe it's not worth it. Be patient, keep searching and don't worry, you'll find what you're looking for!</p>



<h2>Shopping IRL</h2>



<p>So you want the in person experience? I hear you, nothing beats seeing and touching furniture or clothes in real life and luckily there are plenty of stores around Sweden selling only second hand. There are some common franchises like:</p>



<ul><li><a href="https://www.myrorna.se/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Myorna</a> ↗️ Clothes, furniture and electronics</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-large wp-image-30269"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se/app/uploads/2020/07/Screenshot-81-1024x445.png" alt="Frontpage of Myrorna's website." class="wp-image-30269"/><figcaption>Photo: Myorna web / myrorna.se/ (screenshot)</figcaption></figure>



<ul><li><a href="https://www.rodakorset.se/vad-vi-gor/second-hand/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Röda Korset</a> ↗️ (The Red Cross) Rest assured you're shopping for a good cause as proceeds go to Red Cross charities</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-large wp-image-30274"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se/app/uploads/2020/07/Screenshot-86-1024x447.png" alt="Frontpage of Röda Korset's website." class="wp-image-30274"/><figcaption>Photo: Röda Korset / rodakorset.se (screenshot)</figcaption></figure>



<ul><li><a href="https://erikshjalpen.se/second-hand/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Erikshälpen</a> ↗️ is devoted to working for children's rights across 17 countries so shopping here has added purpose</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-large wp-image-30275"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se/app/uploads/2020/07/Screenshot-87-1024x452.png" alt="Frontpage of Erikshälpen's website." class="wp-image-30275"/><figcaption>Photo: Erikshälpen / erikshjalpen.se (screenshot)</figcaption></figure>



<ul><li><a href="http://emmausbjorka.se/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Emmaus Björkå</a> ↗️ - Shops across Gothenburg, Borås and Malmö</li><li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/BeyondRetroSweden/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Beyond Retro</a> ↗️ - Retro fashion destination with an online store</li></ul>



<p>I hope to travel one day to <a href="https://www.retuna.se/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Returna</a> ↗️ the world's first recycling mall where everything sold is recycled / reused / has been organically or sustainably produced, which sounds like my dream come true!</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-large wp-image-30265"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se/app/uploads/2020/07/mg_2933-1024x683.jpg" alt="Man reupholstering a black, wooden chair in Returna." class="wp-image-30265"/><figcaption>Photo: Lina Östling / retuna.se</figcaption></figure>



<ul><li> Google Maps - expand your search. I still encourage you to search "Second hand" + your Swedish city (e.g. "Second hand Malmö" or "Second hand Lund") to find your local stores. You'd be surprised how little this blog has managed to cover and how many stores are out there just waiting for you to explore.</li></ul>



<ul><li> Your University and Student Union - Remember to contact your university's international office for some help, and to stay in contact with your student union. They might host a tour or have student guides for your city or they may host their own Loppis or Second hand events! Another weird tradition in some student housing is finding furniture and other items left in the entrance or common rooms. They're left there for anyone to take for free so you never know when you might stumble on a desk being given away.</li></ul>



<p>I hope this intro to second hand shopping outlets has inspired you to make the more sustainable and cost saving choice when shopping for your new life in Sweden. Stick around for Part 2 where I'll take you on a virtual tour of second hand shops Borås (where I live) with some tips for your next shopping outing!</p>

Second-hand student savings part 1: Why and where?

<p>One of the reasons why sometimes people postpone their dreams is the thinking of "the money is not enough". However, many times that can be solved simply by controlling expenses. In this blog, I will give some budgeting tips to keep your expenses as student in Sweden in the minimum. Therefore, you will be able to enjoy this beautiful country without worry about your pocket.</p>



<h2>Cost of living</h2>



<p>Everyone wants to know about cost of living in Sweden. However, it is very difficult to answer the questions because there are many factors like: city where you live, if you are single, if you have family, if you are vegetarian, etc.</p>



<p>I did a chart with monthly spendings according to 3 perspectives one friend that really saves money, the other that don't really care about money and me. (Let me be clear we all three are students that live alone)</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se//app/uploads/2021/11/Skarmbild-104.png" alt="A chart of different costs for international students that have different approaches to budgeting. Thrifty people spend less (SEK 5 100), big spenders spend more (SEK 10 000), and Camilo (the author) spend somewhere in between those (SEK 7 000). " class="wp-image-36804"/><figcaption>A chart of different costs for international students that have different approaches to budgeting, ranging from 5 100 SEK, 7 000 SEK, to 10 000 SEK as total amount of montly living costs. Photo: Julia</figcaption></figure>



<p>*This chart is about monthly spendings after being settle in Sweden, if you are new, you will spend some extra stuffs in order to settle down</p>



<p>If you give a check to the chart, there are thousands of difference between each budget. My expenses are in the middle of my thrifty friend and the big spender. Of course, there were some months I spend less and some I was off my budget. In that way, I learn how to manage a balance between saving money and also enjoy Sweden.</p>



<p>So, Let me share tips for your budget in each category!</p>



<h2>Housing</h2>



<p>The cost of housing in Sweden's major cities can be very high, this also varies if you prefer an apartment for yourself or if you can share it with 2 or more people. In the chart above at the beginning you can see that my rent and the rent of my thrifty friend is 3500 SEK, we both have a room with its own bathroom, we share a kitchen with more people, also the rooms are not in the central area, but they are accessible to the center. On the other hand my big spender friend decided to rent a studio apartment but a little further from the center.</p>



<p>I must say that to really save in housing as a student in Sweden, the best option is to rent a room in the university housing, the rent for these varies between SEK 3,000 and SEK 7,000 for a single student. But it is always the cheap option.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se//app/uploads/2021/01/Moving-Home-Time-GIF-by-Make-it-Move-1024x576.gif" alt="An animated house and tree appear from a green line." class="wp-image-33498"/><figcaption>Photo: Giphy</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Groceries - food</h2>



<p>The cost of groceries and food is the most variant of the chart above, it depends basically on the diet and if you are willing to cook every day.<br><br>My thrifty friend spends only 1000 SEK per month, he avoids eating meat every day and cooks all the time. In my experience I have a budget of 1800 SEK, because I like to cook only from monday to thursday. On fridays and weekends I like to invest more money visiting different restaurants.</p>



<p>My big spender friend rarely cooks and most of the time he buys pre-made food or a lot of pizza (lots of pizza !!), his budget is 2000 SEK (I have seen bigger budgets for food anyway)</p>



<p>My advice would be to cook and freeze the food because that helped a lot in your savings, also preparing food with friends reduces spending and you eat much better, in addition to sharing the experience with people.<br> Don't forget that saving is not synonymous of&nbsp; isolation!! In Sweden it is totally normal have your tupper with food or your thermos with coffee. You don't really need to spend what your friends spend, you can have good time with your friends without buying food all the time. Also, you will notice that most of the people in Sweden cook themselves , lunch or dinner outside is most of the time for big occasions</p>



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se//app/uploads/2021/01/Driving-Be-Right-There-GIF.gif" alt="A bear driving through a supermarket on a mobility scooter. The caption reads 'Be right there'." class="wp-image-33503"/><figcaption>Photo: Giphy</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-heading">Books</h2>



<p>Since most of the material universities require can be found online or in university libraries, books shouldn't be a budget problem. But if you like regular books instead of e-books or pdfs you must remember that they are not very cheap.<br><br>My advice would be that if you will&nbsp; buy or spend in books for the university, try to find second-hand offers or books from older students. On the other hand, if you are a lover of reading novels, poems or others. I would recommend an e-reader, in this way you do not generate more luggage when it is time to leave Sweden.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se//app/uploads/2021/01/The-Middle-Books-GIF.gif" alt="Boy holding two hardback books. The caption reads 'These are my friends. My best friends in the world'." class="wp-image-33504"/></figure>



<h2>Transportation</h2>



<p>Checking the comparison budget chart above, you will notice that one my friends doesn't spend in transportation at all, that can be possible if you live in a small city of Sweden, or if you bike or walk a lot. There also some friends that prefer to pay housing near the university in order to avoid paying transportation. In my case, I paid monthly (student price) because during autumn and winter is difficult to bike and also I really love use transportation in Sweden.</p>



<p>My advice would be to try the first month (ticket) and check if you really need to pay monthly, don't make the mistake to pay half year ticket or three months ticket from the top. Also the first month is usually when new students visit around, in that way the monthly ticket will be a very good deal.</p>



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se//app/uploads/2021/01/Commuting-comedy-Central-GIF-by-Broad-City.gif" alt="Two women rushing to a metro train but reach it just as the doors are closing. They miss the train." class="wp-image-33505"/><figcaption>Photo: Giphy</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Mobile and gym</h2>



<p>Mobile is not a big spend in Sweden, if you are student you will get a different options and also don't expensive ones. When you arrive to Sweden, your future university will give you a sim card, it is not mandatory to use that one, I suggest to be patient to search other offers. Besides, around Sweden the internet is amazing, you can have free access in squares, coffees, libraries and of course university. In that way, you will always be able to be connected.</p>



<p>Gym in Sweden is another issue, you will see many people going to the gym and train, and I must say that is not expensive as I thought, there are offers for students from 200SEK monthly and I consider this price not expensive. However, Sweden is well know for the nature, so basically Sweden is your free gym. You don't need to pay a gym to be in shape, you can run around the forest or lakes. Also, hiking and walking around the city, it is completely normal in Sweden. Finally , there are some student housing that includes gym and saunas, try to check that too.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se//app/uploads/2021/01/Cat-workout-GIF.gif" alt="Cat sitting upright in a backet. Two dumbbells lie unsued on the floor beside the basket." class="wp-image-33506"/><figcaption>Photo: Giphy</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Leisure</h2>



<p>Now we can talk about lifestyle! In your leisure time you are the only one with the power of control your budget. However, as i mentioned before, saving is not equal to isolation.</p>



<p>You are not the only one trying to save money, I think that suggest your friends activities where people can split the cost is a good idea, also you can have very good deals around Sweden called "afterwork", there are places where buying a single beer allows you eat buffet or pizza. Of course , going to this places all the time can be boring after a while, so try to plan picnic or dinner with friends too. In chart above there is a big difference between budgets, but it is not a matter of going out less or more, is about what you do when you go out.</p>



<p>I consider is nice to spend sometimes in yourself like parties or nice dinners. At least some weeks and the others you can try to do other cheap activities.</p>



<p>Both extremes are not good, I have some friends that worry too much about spend a lot that they don't go out at all, and also I have other friends that spend too much and have budget problems the next month. I think is better to find a balance and in Sweden the balance is totally possible , it is just a matter of planning your budget.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se//app/uploads/2021/01/Party-partying-GIF-by-Topshelf-Records.gif" alt="A room full of students partying. A long-haired guy is crowdsurfing in the middle of the room." class="wp-image-33507"/><figcaption>Photo: Giphy</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Extras and some last advice</h2>



<p>Some extras that are not mention in the chart above is the money you will spend at the beginning. Don't forget that the first month in Sweden is always the most expensive, don't freak out and be prepared , after settle yourself you will find a balance for sure.</p>



<p>Try to buy Hygiene products (Shampoo, toothpaste, soap, etc) not monthly. If you buy this products from the beginning for about half year , then you will not have problem in your monthly budget.</p>



<p>Also try to buy clothes in your home country , Sweden have sale periods but there are not really cheap. Other option is to buy in second hand stores, that can be very cheap and you can find stuffs in very good conditions.</p>



<p>Finally, there are offers in facebook groups or markets because many people is constantly moving out and they sell many things in good prices.</p>



<p>I hope this blog can help you about how much you can spend in Sweden, but as I show you, budgets can be very different, but that is not an excuse to enjoy Sweden.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-heading">Other blogs about money and cost of living in Sweden</h2>



<ul><li><a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2019/10/19/the-student-money-diaries-cost-of-living-in-sweden-2019/">Student Money Diaries: Cost of Living in Sweden 2019</a></li><li><a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2020/01/02/student-money-diaries-budget/">Student Money Diaries: Six resolutions for your student budget</a></li><li><a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2019/11/17/guide-to-use-money-in-sweden-welcome-to-the-most-cashless-country-in-europe/">Guide to use money in Sweden: Welcome to the most cashless country in Europe</a></li><li><a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2020/03/14/student-money-diaries-living-in-a-university-town-lund/">Student Money Diaries: Living in a university town – Lund</a></li><li><a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2019/03/31/must-try-swedish-foods-that-cost-less-than-2-eur/">Must-try Swedish foods that cost less than 2 EUR</a></li><li><a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2019/03/30/my-student-money-diary-part-two/">My student money diary: part two</a></li></ul>

Cost of living and budgeting tips for students in Sweden

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After I decided to evaluate my financial health, I started to think about how much I spent over a year in Sweden. As a result, I couldn’t come up with a fixed amount but I had a general overview of my spendings.&nbsp; So, in this post, you will find living expenses when studying in Sweden. However, the cost of living primarily depends on where you live and individual lifestyle. It may also change over time. So, let's find out more about the cost of living in Sweden, 2019!</span></p>



<h2><strong>A famous Swedish pop band ABBA in their iconic song summarize the situation for us:</strong></h2>



<p class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-paragraph standard">Money, money, money<br>Must be funny<br>In the rich man's world<br>Money, money, money<br>Always sunny<br>In the rich man's world<br>Aha aha<br>All the things I could do<br>If I had a little money</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/ETxmCCsMoD0
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Also, excellent blog posts written by my fellow digital ambassadors in previous years inspired me to write one for 2019. So far, posts that have inspired me to write this post include:</span></p>



<p><a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2016/01/17/cost-of-living-in-sweden-2016/">Andaç's post about the cost of living</a> took us back to 2016. Time flies! <a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/author/andac/page/6/">Andaç</a> writes another<a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2017/01/09/cost-of-living-sweden-2017/"> blog post about the cost of living in 2017. </a>Additionally, <a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2018/01/30/cost-of-living-sweden-2018/">&nbsp;Anita's post</a> has shed light on the cost of living in Sweden in 2018. At this time 5 years ago, Marta brought our attention to the fact that <a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2015/02/20/your-personal-finance-guide-to-stockholm/#comments">Sweden is expensive</a>.&nbsp; My wallet and I agree that she is still right. On the other hand, <a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/author/emma/">Emma</a> in the outstanding <a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2019/01/31/student-money-diary/">student money diary </a>writes that:</p>



<p class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-paragraph standard">"Sweden is as expensive as you hear, and also is not as expensive as you hear."</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-large wp-image-28189"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se/app/uploads/2019/10/ulf_lundin-outdoor_fika-7130-1024x683.jpg" alt="Friends having coffee together." class="wp-image-28189"/><figcaption>Photo: Ulf Lundin/imagebank.sweden.se</figcaption></figure>



<h2><strong>How much money do you need to live in Sweden?</strong></h2>



<p>According to the Swedish Migration Agency, it is essential to be able to support yourself financially for your studies if you are applying for a residence permit. That means you need to show that you have secured <span style="font-weight: 400;">maintenance</span> such as scholarship, grant, own bank assets for the period of your studies. Also, your maintenance should cover for the whole period in which you are applying for a residence permit.</p>



<p>In <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.migrationsverket.se/English/Private-individuals/Studying-in-Sweden/Universities-and-university-college.html" target="_blank">Migrationsverket website</a> ↗️ it is stated that:</p>



<p>"The maintenance requirement for people applying <strong>during 2018</strong> is at least <strong>SEK 8,190 per month</strong>. For applications that are received by the Migration Agency on <strong>1 January 2019 or later</strong> the maintenance requirement is at least<strong> SEK 8,370 per month</strong>."</p>



<p>This table below shows various scenarios regarding the financial support required for a residence permit</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone wp-image-28077"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se/app/uploads/2019/10/min-300x184.jpg" alt="Screenshot of Swedish Migration Agency website showing maintenance requirement." class="wp-image-28077"/><figcaption>Photo: the <a href="https://www.migrationsverket.se/English/Private-individuals/Studying-and-researching-in-Sweden/Higher-education/Residence-permit-for-higher-education.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Swedish Migration Agency</a> ↗️</figcaption></figure>



<h2><strong>Accommodation</strong></h2>



<p>Let's start with fixed expenses in a month! Rent is the largest expense like everywhere else. For example, I live in a corridor room with a shared bathroom and kitchen in Campus Norrköping. My rent is around SEK 2800. I also pay extra SEK 7 every time I do laundry. In this case, except for doing laundry, residents don't need to pay any other bills. Thanks to my university's offer I was lucky enough not to worry about finding accommodation. It was a pretty good deal!</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-large wp-image-28096"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se/app/uploads/2019/10/jerker_andersson-lighting_up_winter-7059-1024x681.jpg" alt="Apartment building covered in snow." class="wp-image-28096"/><figcaption>Photo: Jerker Andersson/imagebank.sweden.se</figcaption></figure>



<p>However, this may not be the case for bigger cities. The monthly rent varies depending on location and type of accommodation you have such as private flat, shared apartment, or student dorms. Stockholm has definitely higher rents compared to other cities in Sweden. A little creativity never hurts anyone. I still appreciate how <a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/author/elke/">Elke</a> turned a challenge into a solution and find her unique way to find housing in Stockholm. Check out Elke's brilliant post: <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/2015/10/27/yeay-i-live-in-a-container/" target="_blank">Yeay, I live in a container!</a></p>



<p>Other larger cities like Malmö, Gothenburg are also more expensive than small cities like Norrköping, Linköping, Halmstad or Jönköping.&nbsp; In most of the cases, the monthly rent prices are between SEK 2,800 and SEK 6,500. For a general overview of accommodation, you can visit <a href="https://studyinsweden.se/life-in-sweden/accommodation/">studyinsweden.se.</a></p>



<h2>Food</h2>



<p>The budget for food varies according to your eating habits. It really depends on what kind of food and where you eat. The average amount you spend a month on food changes on whether you choose to go out to eat or cook your meals at home.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-large wp-image-28165"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se/app/uploads/2019/10/WhatsApp-Image-2019-10-19-at-17.15.54-768x1024.jpeg" alt="Shelves of fresh fruit in a grocery store." class="wp-image-28165"/><figcaption>Photo: Hazal</figcaption></figure>



<h3>Let's take a closer look at prices for food.</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-large wp-image-28169"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se/app/uploads/2019/10/WhatsApp-Image-2019-10-19-at-17.15.55-768x1024.jpeg" alt="Shelves of fresh vegetables at a grocery store." class="wp-image-28169"/><figcaption>Credit: Hazal</figcaption></figure>



<h3><strong>Grocery Shopping</strong></h3>



<ul><li>Banana (1 kg) - SEK 22</li><li>Orange (1 kg) - SEK 25</li><li>Tomato (1 kg) - SEK 40</li><li>Bread (900 gr) - SEK 30</li><li>Yogurt (500 gr) - SEK22</li><li>Milk (1 Liter) - SEK 12</li><li>Butter (500 gr) - SEK 47</li><li>Egg (10p) - SEK30</li><li>Feta Cheese (400 gr) - SEK 50</li><li>Gouda Cheese (500 gr) - SEK 70</li><li>Rice (White), (2kg) - SEK 35</li><li>Pasta (Spaghetti), (1kg) - SEK 14</li><li>Ice Cream (1,5l) - SEK 37</li><li>Frozen Vegetables (550 gr) - SEK 25</li><li>Orange Juice (1l) - SEK 17</li><li>Pasta (Ready Meal), (400 gr) - SEK 55</li></ul>



<p>Check out the website <a href="https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=Sweden" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a> to get more up-to-date information about the cost of living in Sweden. Most of the prices on the web-page are more or less in line with the current prices.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-large wp-image-28125"><img src="https://cms.studyinsweden.se/app/uploads/2019/10/miriam_preis-vegetarian_tapas-7082-1024x683.jpg" alt="People eating dinner at a restaurant." class="wp-image-28125"/><figcaption>Photo: Miriam Preis/imagebank.sweden.se</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-si-study-tsw-tsw-heading">Eating and drinking out</h3>



<p>Prices for daily lunch menus usually including a main dish, salad buffet, bread, coffee, and biscuits start around SEK 85- 150&nbsp; in most restaurants. Some places even offer a %10 student discount if you have a valid student ID. If you would like to go out to enjoy a nice dinner there are many options from casual to fancy restaurants. For instance,&nbsp; in a mid-range restaurant the dinner for two including a main dish, a bottle of wine, dessert, and coffee costs between SEK 900-1500. If you go to a pub, an average price would be around SEK 70-80 for a glass of beer, SEK 120-150 for a cocktail, and SEK 70-90 for a glass of wine. In a café or coffee shop, a cup of coffee (bryggkaffe) costs around SEK 35.</p>



<h2>Other Expenses</h2>



<ul><li>Toothpaste (125 ml) - SEK 23</li><li>Handsoap (500 ml) - SEK 25</li><li>Tampons (32p) - SEK 50</li><li>Sanitary Napkin (15p) - SEK 27</li><li>Toilet Paper (6p) - SEK 29</li><li>Monthly gym membership - SEK 350</li><li>Standard women's haircut in the city center - SEK 350</li><li>A cinema ticket - SEK 135</li><li>Second-hand bicycle - SEK 800</li><li>Visit the health centre/doctor (Public) - SEK 200</li><li>Transportation (Bus &amp; Tram), 24h ticket - SEK 52</li><li>Transportation (Bus &amp; Tram), 30-day ticket - SEK 520</li><li>Mobile (40 GB surf, SMS, calls) - SEK 295</li></ul>



<p>So, I have a lesson learned while I am writing this post. I may need to start my own student money diary like Emma did. It would help me get on the path to a more organized life. Hopefully!<br><br>Follow us on <a href="https://blogs.studyinsweden.se/">the Study in Sweden blog</a> to stay updated on more posts about student money diaries in Sweden! :)<br><br>Do you have any questions about living expenses in Sweden? Leave a comment below and let us know!</p>



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Student Money Diaries: Cost of Living in Sweden 2019

The definitive guide of student life in 4 major cities in Sweden! Hope this is useful for budgeting as well! Contributions from Gimmy, Dena and Francesca. Here is the link to the original document ↗️ so you can click on the links.

Stockholm vs Lund vs Uppsala vs Göteborg - Study in Sweden

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Stockholm vs Lund vs Uppsala vs Göteborg

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My name is Raghuraman and I'm from India 🇮🇳. I studied a Master's in General Management at Stockholm School of Economics.

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