Cost of Living in Sweden in 2025: Budget Tips for Indian Students

Thinking of studying in Sweden? You’re in for a solid academic experience, scenic landscapes, and a society that runs smoother than a Swedish metro. But here’s the flip side—living in Sweden cost can be high if you don’t plan.

As of 2025, Sweden’s cost-of-living index stands at 54.2 (according to Numbeo), which means it’s cheaper than cities like New York but still pricier than many parts of Europe. For Indian students, this means keeping a close eye on your budget—because between tuition, rent, groceries, and your occasional cinnamon bun, every rupee (and krona) counts.

This guide breaks down living expenses in Sweden, detailing the typical student lifestyle—renting rooms, shopping for groceries, riding the metro, and yes, squeezing in weekend fun. From essential costs to brilliant hacks, we’ll help you map out what life in Sweden looks like financially, all in INR so it’s easier to plan from home.

Living Expenses in Sweden for Students: What’s Included?

Let’s break it down: when you’re budgeting your student life in Sweden, you’re not just thinking about rent and food—you’re planning for the whole experience. The cost of living in Sweden covers six major expenses: housing (rent and possibly a deposit), food and groceries, local transport, utilities and internet, healthcare, and, if you’re a non-EU student, tuition fees.
But let’s be real. There’s more to life than just bills. From occasional fika runs (yes, coffee and cinnamon buns are a thing) to weekend getaways, stationery splurges, movie nights, and the odd winter coat you didn’t know you’d need—there’s always a little extra. These lifestyle add-ons shape your living expenses in Sweden, and trust us, they add up quickly.
To help you stay prepared (and sane), we’ll walk you through what to expect, how much things actually cost (in INR, of course), and how to save without feeling like you’re missing out. Whether it’s scoring student discounts on transport or shopping for groceries at Lidl instead of fancier chains, these insights will help you balance your Swedish budget without sacrificing the student experience.

Housing Costs in Sweden

Rent is likely to be the most significant expense in your budget when you move to Sweden. Whether you’re heading to Stockholm (hello, high rent!) or Gothenburg (a bit easier on the pocket), it’s something you’ll want to plan for well in advance.

According to Numbeo, in 2025, living costs in Stockholm, excluding rent, amount to approximately SEK 12,195 (₹97,560). Move to Gothenburg and you’re looking at about SEK 10,512 (₹84,096)—a little gentler on your wallet. But once you add rent, the Sweden living cost per month can go well over ₹1,20,000, especially in the big cities.

Now, here’s where you can make wise choices. Indian students usually pick between:

• Student dorms or corridor rooms (typically managed by universities or student housing associations)
• Second-hand rooms or shared flats rented privately

Both have pros and cons, but booking early and opting to share can help you save thousands each month.

How Much Does Rent Cost in Sweden?

Pro Tip: Want to lower your cost of living in Sweden? Look beyond Stockholm. Cities like Uppsala, Malmö, or Linköping offer solid universities and more affordable housing. Many Indian students manage their rent within ₹35,000–₹40,000 per month by living slightly outside the city centre and opting for shared spaces.

Food & Groceries

Let’s talk food—because no matter where you are in the world, it’s the comfort of home-cooked meals that keeps you going. In Sweden, groceries don’t come cheap. In 2025, a noticeable spike in food prices occurred, particularly for staples such as dairy, cheese, and even morning coffee.

That said, cooking your meals is still one of the most budget-friendly (and homesickness-curing) ways to survive abroad. Indian students who plan their meals, cook regularly, and shop wisely—such as taking advantage of weekly promotions at Lidl, ICA, or local markets—can easily stay within their budget.

If you’re wondering how this translates to the average monthly cost of living in Sweden, food alone can account for around ₹15,000–₹25,000, depending on your eating habits.

How Much Does Monthly Grocery Cost in Sweden?

Pro tip: If you can’t live without your masala dabba, stock up before flying out. Packing Indian spices, ready-to-eat meals, or even your favourite snacks can help keep both your cravings and your budget in check for a while.

Additionally, for those bringing their families along, the cost of living in Sweden for an Indian family can almost double, mainly due to the inclusion of groceries, school meals, baby food, and occasional dining out. But again, cooking at home keeps it manageable.

So, yes, the cost of living in Sweden might be on the higher side, but with a bit of planning and some budgeting, your plate (and wallet) will be just fine.

Transportation Costs in Sweden

Sweden’s public transport is exactly what you’d expect—clean, punctual, and seriously efficient. Whether it’s metros in Stockholm, trams in Gothenburg, or buses connecting smaller towns, getting around is easy and student-friendly.

If you’re a full-time student, you’re in luck. Most regions offer heavily discounted student passes, which can keep your monthly travel costs predictable and affordable. And if you’re someone who prefers pedalling through the city (hello, sustainable goals!), Sweden’s bike-friendly infrastructure makes that a breeze, too.
Here’s a quick look at what you can expect to spend:

How Much Does Monthly Transport Cost in Sweden?

Pro tip: Buying a second-hand cycle right after you land can be one of your best decisions. It’s a one-time investment (around ₹5,000–₹10,000) that could reduce your commuting costs to nearly zero for months.

When you calculate your living expenses in Sweden, transport won’t take up a considerable chunk, especially if you make the most of student discounts. However, it remains a significant component of your cost of living in Sweden, particularly if you commute to university daily from a nearby suburb or town.

Utilities & Internet

Let’s talk about the behind-the-scenes stuff that makes your student life run smoothly—electricity, water, WiFi, and mobile data. If you’re lucky enough to land a student dorm, utilities are often bundled into your rent. But if you’re renting a private apartment or a shared flat, you’ll need to budget for these separately.

How Much Do Utilities & Internet Cost In Sweden?

Pro tip: Go for bundled plans! Many Swedish providers offer student deals that combine internet and mobile services, saving you both money and hassle.

If you’re planning to bring your family along, keep in mind that the cost of living in Sweden for an Indian family will be higher, especially when it comes to utilities like heating in winter (those bills can be substantial). Still, by sharing a space and managing usage smartly, you can keep this part of your budget under control.

While these might seem like small numbers individually, they add up fast and are an essential part of the cost of living in Sweden overall. Keeping tabs on them means fewer surprises on your monthly bill—and more money left over for fun (or savings!).

Healthcare & Insurance

When you’re studying abroad, health insurance isn’t just a formality—it’s a must-have. Whether you catch a winter cold or need to see a doctor for something more serious, healthcare in Sweden is reliable and student-friendly, but it comes at a cost, depending on your course duration and university.

If your program is longer than a year, you’re usually eligible for Swedish public health insurance, which means you’ll pay minimal fees. For courses shorter than a year, you’ll need a private insurance plan, and that’s where budgeting smartly becomes essential.

How Much Does Monthly Healthcare Cost In Sweden?

Pro tip: Some universities in Sweden automatically include health insurance in their fees. Be sure to double-check this—it could save you a few thousand rupees a year.

When you’re calculating your total cost of living in Sweden, don’t overlook health-related expenses. While they’re relatively affordable compared to other countries, they’re still a part of the overall cost of living in Sweden, especially if you’re not eligible for public coverage right away.

Tuition Fees in Sweden for International Students

Unlike students from the EU/EEA, Indian students are required to pay tuition fees when studying at public universities in Sweden. And while Sweden offers world-class education, it’s not exactly budget-tier when it comes to tuition. The actual amount depends on your course and the university, with engineering and business programs typically sitting at the higher end.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of annual tuition fees:

Typical Annual Tuition (in INR)

• Humanities / Social Sciences: SEK 90,000–110,000 (₹7.2–₹8.8 lakh/year)
• Engineering / Science / Tech: SEK 120,000–200,000 (₹9.6–₹16 lakh/year)
• MBA / Specialised Courses: SEK 160,000+ (₹12.8 lakh and above per year)

Smart move: Many universities and government bodies offer scholarships for Indian students, which can cover part or even all of your tuition. But don’t wait—these scholarships are competitive, and deadlines can be early.

While tuition doesn’t count as a monthly expense, it plays a significant role in your overall living expenses in Sweden, especially if you’re planning a multi-year stay. Add this to your yearly plan when calculating the cost of living in Sweden, and always factor in hidden costs, such as application fees or course materials.

Budgeting Tips for Indian Students and Families in Sweden

Sweden is beautiful, safe, and full of academic opportunities—but it’s also expensive. To ensure your money lasts the entire semester (and beyond), budgeting wisely is crucial, especially when juggling everyday expenses with tuition fees in Sweden for international students.

Here are some tried-and-tested tips that can help Indian students and families stretch their krona and rupee further:

• Book student housing early. Dorms fill up quickly, and missing out could lead you to pricier rentals. Shared flats are your next best bet and can help you save up to ₹20,000/month.
• Carry your masalas and snacks. Indian groceries can be expensive in Sweden, so packing dry goods from home isn’t just a money-saver—it’s a hug from home.
• Bike it. Sweden is incredibly cycle-friendly. A good used cycle (₹5,000–₹10,000) can cut your monthly transport cost from ₹4,800 to nearly zero.
• Track every krona (and rupee). Budgeting apps like Spendee or Buddy can help you see where your money is going, so you’re not caught off guard at month’s end.
• Be a savvy shopper. Hit up discount stores like Lidl and Coop, and don’t shy away from second-hand furniture stores—they’re treasure troves.
• Apply for scholarships early. They’re available for Indian students and can ease the pressure of tuition fees in Sweden for international students. Some even cover living expenses!
• Split the bills. WiFi and mobile plans can be shared with roommates, helping you save around ₹1,000–₹2,000 a month.

Mastering these small moves can seriously lower your cost of living in Sweden, without compromising on your student experience. And when every rupee counts, those small wins start to add up.