Pros of Living in Sweden
Many believe that Sweden, a Nordic country in Northern Europe, is one of the best places to live. Here are some of the pros of living in Sweden.
Freedom to Roam
One of the unique aspects of living in Sweden is the freedom to roam, or allemansrätten, which means that anyone can access and enjoy nature, even on private land, as long as they respect the environment and the landowner’s rights. This means that you can hike, camp, bike, cross-country skiing, fish, and pick berries and mushrooms in some of the most beautiful places, without having to pay or ask for permission. Sweden has a rich and diverse natural landscape, with vast forests, lakes, mountains, and islands, that you can explore and appreciate. You can even see the northern lights in some parts of the country.
High Standard of Living
Sweden has one of the highest standards of living in the world, with a strong economy, a low poverty rate, a good average salary, and a high level of education. Sweden also has a universal healthcare system, which provides free or low-cost medical care to all residents. Additionally, Sweden has a generous parental leave policy, which allows parents to take up to 480 days of paid leave per child, and a subsidized childcare system, which makes it easier for parents to balance work, family, and their social life. More good news is that Sweden also has a high level of gender equality, with women having equal opportunities and representation in politics, education, and the workforce.
Innovation and Creativity
Sweden is a global leader in innovation and creativity, with a culture that encourages entrepreneurship, research, and development. Sweden is home to some of the world’s most successful and influential companies, such as IKEA, Spotify, Volvo, H&M, and Ericsson. Sweden also has a vibrant and diverse cultural scene, with a rich history and heritage, as well as modern and contemporary art, music, literature, and design. Sweden is also known for its festivals and celebrations, such as Midsummer, Lucia, and Fika, which reflect its traditions and values.
Education
Sweden has a strong and free education system that provides equal access to education for all, from preschool to university. Sweden ranks among the top countries in the world in terms of educational attainment, literacy, and skills.
Some of the features of the Swedish education system are:
- High-quality and well-trained teachers, who have a high degree of autonomy and responsibility in their work.
- A curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving, as well as values such as democracy, human rights, and sustainability.
- A variety of good education options and pathways, including vocational education, adult education, liberal education, and international schools.
- A generous student finance system that covers tuition fees and living costs for both Swedish citizens and international students.
Sweden is a good place to live as it means having access to a world-class higher education that prepares you for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. It also means being part of a diverse and multicultural society that respects and celebrates different perspectives and backgrounds.
Research
Sweden is a global leader in research and innovation, with a reputation for excellence and impact in various fields. Sweden invests more than 3% of its GDP in research and development, one of the highest rates in the world. The government supports research through direct funding, external funding bodies, and public research foundations.
Some of the advantages of living in a country that prioritizes research are:
- A vibrant and dynamic research environment, with cutting-edge facilities and infrastructure, such as the European Spallation Source and the MAX IV Laboratory in Lund.
- A collaborative and open culture of research, with strong links between academia, industry, and society, as well as international networks and partnerships.
- A high level of innovation and entrepreneurship, with successful companies such as ABB, Ericsson, Sandvik, and Volvo Group, as well as a thriving startup scene.
- A positive impact on society and the environment, with research that addresses global challenges such as climate change, health, and sustainability.
One of the best things about living in Sweden is being part of a nation that strives to advance knowledge and create solutions for a better future. It also means enjoying the benefits of a knowledge-based economy that offers opportunities for growth and development.
Sustainability and Environmentalism
Sweden has a long history of environmental protection, dating back to the first Environmental Protection Act in 1967 and the first UN conference on the global environment in 1972. Since then, Sweden has not looked back, managing to grow its economy substantially while reducing carbon emissions and limiting pollution. Sweden has also adopted a holistic approach to sustainability, integrating environmental, social, and economic aspects in its policies and actions.
One of the biggest challenges facing the world today is climate change, caused by the emission of greenhouse gases from burning fossil fuels. Sweden is well aware of this threat and has set ambitious goals for a fossil-free future. By 2045, Sweden aims to have net zero emissions of greenhouse gases, and 100 percent renewable energy. To achieve this, Sweden is investing heavily in renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, hydro, and biofuels, as well as improving energy efficiency and promoting green transport. Sweden is also a pioneer in carbon capture and storage, a technology that can remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it underground.
Another key aspect of Sweden’s sustainability and environmentalism is its transition to a circular and bio-based economy. This means that Sweden is moving away from a linear model of production and consumption, where resources are extracted, used, and discarded, to a circular model, where resources are reused, recycled, and regenerated. This reduces waste, saves costs, and preserves natural resources. A bio-based economy is one that relies on renewable biological resources, such as plants, animals, and microorganisms, instead of fossil fuels, to produce energy, materials, and chemicals. This reduces greenhouse gas emissions, enhances biodiversity, and creates new opportunities for innovation and growth.
Sweden is also a leader in corporate social responsibility and innovation, which are essential for sustainability and environmentalism. Swedish companies are expected to adhere to high standards of environmental and social performance and to report on their impacts and actions. Many Swedish companies are also at the forefront of developing and implementing green technologies and solutions, such as electric vehicles, smart grids, bioplastics, and green buildings. Sweden also supports a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government, and providing funding and incentives for research and development.
Finally, Sweden is a leader in creating a sustainable and healthy food chain, which is vital for both the environment and human well-being. Sweden has a strong tradition of organic farming, animal welfare, and food safety, and is one of the largest consumers of organic food in the world. Sweden also promotes a healthy and balanced diet, based on the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations, which emphasize plant-based foods, whole grains, fish, and moderate amounts of meat and dairy. Sweden also encourages food waste reduction, through education, awareness, and innovation, such as apps that connect consumers with surplus food from restaurants and shops.
Diversity and Multiculturalism
By exposing people to different ideas, perspectives, and experiences, diversity and multiculturalism stimulate creativity and innovation, which are essential for the development of science, technology, arts, and culture. Sweden is known for its achievements and contributions in these fields, such as the Nobel Prize, IKEA, Spotify, ABBA, and many more. Many of these innovations and creations are the result of collaboration and inspiration from diverse and multicultural sources.
By encouraging people to respect, understand, and appreciate each other’s differences, diversity and multiculturalism enhance social cohesion and democracy, which are the foundations of a peaceful and stable society. Sweden is ranked as one of the most democratic and egalitarian countries in the world, with high levels of trust, participation, and human rights. Diversity and multiculturalism also promote civic engagement and social responsibility, as people learn to value and contribute to the common good.
By offering people the opportunity to learn from and interact with different cultures, languages, religions, and traditions, diversity and multiculturalism enrich personal and cultural experiences, which are important for personal growth and happiness. Sweden is a vibrant and dynamic country, where people can enjoy a variety of cultural events, festivals, cuisines, and lifestyles, as well as travel and connect with other countries and regions. Diversity and multiculturalism also broaden the horizons and perspectives of people, making them more open-minded and curious.
Diversity and multiculturalism are pros of living in Sweden, as they contribute to the country’s social, economic, and cultural development, as well as to the well-being and happiness of its people. Sweden is a proud and successful example of a diverse and multicultural society, where people can live together in harmony and mutual respect while celebrating and learning from their differences. Diversity and multiculturalism are not only a reality but also a value and a vision for Sweden.
Economic Performance
One of the common myths about social democracy is that it hampers economic growth and innovation, due to high taxes and regulations. However, empirical evidence shows that Sweden has maintained a strong and competitive economy, despite having one of the highest tax rates and public spending levels in the world. According to the World Bank, Sweden’s GDP per capita was $54,608 in 2020, ranking 11th among 189 countries. Sweden also ranked 7th in the Global Innovation Index 2020, which measures the innovation performance of 131 economies. Moreover, Sweden has achieved a low unemployment rate of 6.8% in 2020, compared to the EU average of 7.5%.
How does Sweden manage to combine high taxes and public spending with economic prosperity and innovation? The answer lies in the social democratic model of governance, which involves a close cooperation between the state, the market, and the civil society. The state plays an active role in providing public goods and services, such as education, health care, infrastructure, and social protection, which enhance the human capital and well-being of the population. The market, on the other hand, is encouraged to operate freely and efficiently, with minimal barriers to entry and exit, and strong protection of property rights and contracts. The civil society, which includes trade unions, employers’ associations, and various interest groups, participates in the policy-making process and ensures a high degree of social dialogue and consensus. This tripartite arrangement, also known as the “Swedish model”, creates a virtuous cycle of economic development, social cohesion, and political stability.
Social Security
Another benefit of living in a social democratic country like Sweden is the high level of social security and protection that the citizens enjoy. Sweden has one of the most comprehensive and generous welfare systems in the world, which covers various aspects of life, such as health, education, family, unemployment, disability, old age, and poverty. The main objectives of the welfare system are to reduce inequality, promote social inclusion, and prevent social risks. Some of the key features of the Swedish welfare system are:
- Universal health care: All residents have access to free or subsidized health care services, regardless of income or status. The health care system is financed by taxes and organized by the regional and local authorities. The quality and efficiency of the healthcare system are high, as evidenced by the low infant mortality rate (2.5 per 1,000 live births in 2019) and the high life expectancy (82.7 years in 2019) in Sweden.
- Free education: All children and youth have access to free and compulsory education from preschool to upper secondary school. The education system is also financed by taxes and administered by the local authorities. The education system aims to provide equal opportunities and high standards for all students, regardless of background or ability. The academic performance of Swedish students is above the OECD average, according to the PISA 2018 results.
- Family support: Sweden has a generous and flexible family policy, which supports parents and children in various ways. The family policy includes paid parental leave (up to 480 days per child, with 90 days reserved for each parent), child allowance (a monthly cash benefit for each child under 16 years), child care (subsidized and high-quality public or private child care services for children under 12 years), and elderly care (subsidized and high-quality public or private care services for older people who need assistance). The family policy aims to facilitate work-life balance, gender equality, and child development.
- Income security: Sweden has a comprehensive and progressive income security system, which provides income support and insurance for various situations, such as unemployment, sickness, disability, old age, and poverty. The income security system consists of three main components: social insurance (a contributory and earnings-related scheme that covers most workers), social assistance (a means-tested and tax-financed scheme that covers the poorest and most vulnerable groups), and social services (a range of in-kind benefits and services that complement the cash benefits). The income security system aims to prevent poverty, maintain living standards, and encourage work and participation.
Quality of Life
The next benefit of living in a social democratic country like Sweden is the high quality of life that the citizens experience. Quality of life is a broad and subjective concept that encompasses various dimensions of well-being, such as health, happiness, freedom, security, culture, and environment. According to the OECD Better Life Index, which measures the quality of life across 11 dimensions and 41 indicators, Sweden ranks among the top performers in most dimensions, such as health, education, environment, civic engagement, and life satisfaction. Some of the factors that contribute to the high quality of life in Sweden are:
- Happiness: Sweden is one of the happiest countries in the world, according to the World Happiness Report 2020, which ranks 153 countries based on six factors: GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom, generosity, and absence of corruption. Sweden ranked 7th in the overall happiness score, with high scores in all six factors. The happiness of the Swedish people is partly explained by the high level of trust and social capital that they have, both in their interpersonal relations and in their institutions.
- Freedom: Sweden is one of the freest countries in the world, according to the Freedom in the World 2020 report, which assesses the political rights and civil liberties of 210 countries and territories. Sweden scored 100 out of 100 in the overall freedom score, with full marks in both political rights and civil liberties. The freedom of the Swedish people is partly attributed to the strong and long-standing tradition of democracy and human rights that they have, as well as the respect for the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary.
- Culture: Sweden is one of the most culturally rich and diverse countries in the world, according to the UNESCO Culture for Development Indicators, which measure the contribution of culture to development across seven dimensions and 22 indicators. Sweden ranked 4th in the overall culture score, with high scores in most dimensions, such as cultural participation, cultural employment, cultural heritage, and cultural diversity. The culture of the Swedish people is partly influenced by the historical and geographical factors that have shaped their identity and values, as well as the openness and tolerance that they have towards other cultures and lifestyles.
Environmental Sustainability
A fourth benefit of living in a socially democratic country like Sweden is the high level of environmental sustainability that the country achieves. Environmental sustainability is a crucial aspect of development, as it ensures that the natural resources and ecosystems that support human life are preserved and protected for the present and future generations. According to the Environmental Performance Index 2020, which evaluates the environmental performance of 180 countries across 32 indicators and 11 categories, Sweden ranked 4th in the overall environmental score, with high scores in most categories, such as air quality, water and sanitation, biodiversity and habitat, and climate change. Some of the factors that enable the high level of environmental sustainability in Sweden are:
- Policy: Sweden has a proactive and ambitious environmental policy, which sets clear and measurable goals and targets for various environmental issues, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing renewable energy sources, improving waste management, and enhancing nature conservation. The environmental policy is based on the principles of prevention, precaution, polluter pays, and public participation, and is implemented through a combination of legal, economic, and informational instruments. The environmental policy is also integrated with other policy areas, such as economic, social, and foreign policy, to ensure coherence and synergy.
- Innovation: Sweden has a strong and dynamic environmental innovation system, which fosters the development and diffusion of green technologies and solutions, both domestically and internationally. The environmental innovation system is supported by a high level of investment in research and development, a close collaboration between the public and private sectors, and a favorable institutional and regulatory framework. The environmental innovation system also benefits from the high level of education and skills of the Swedish workforce, as well as the high demand and awareness of Swedish consumers and society.
- Action: Sweden has a high level of environmental action and engagement, both at the individual and collective levels. The Swedish people have a high environmental consciousness and responsibility, which are reflected in their lifestyle choices and behaviors, such as recycling, using public transportation, buying organic and fair trade products, and joining environmental organizations and movements. The Swedish people also have a high environmental influence and leadership, which are demonstrated in their advocacy and cooperation with other countries and actors, such as the EU, the UN, and civil society, to promote and advance global environmental governance and justice.
These are just some of the pros of living in Sweden, but there are many more reasons why Sweden is a great place to live. Of course, living in Sweden also has its challenges and drawbacks, which we will look at now.
Cons of Living in Sweden
Sweden also has its share of drawbacks that may make some people think twice before moving there. Here are some of the cons of living in Sweden.
High Taxes
The main source of tax revenue in Sweden is the income tax, which is levied at both the national and the local level. The national income tax rate is 20% for incomes above SEK 537,200 (about $60,000), and the average local tax rate is 32.34%, varying by municipality and county. This means that a high-income earner in Sweden can face a marginal tax rate of over 50%. This coupled with the high cost of living can make it expensive to live in Sweden.
In addition to the income tax, Sweden also imposes a payroll tax of 31.42% on employers, which covers the social security contributions for pensions, health care, unemployment, and parental leave. The payroll tax is calculated on top of the gross salary, making the total labor cost for the employer much higher than the net salary for the employee.
Sweden also has a value-added tax (VAT) of 25% on most goods and services, with some exceptions for food, hotel rooms, books, and cultural events. The VAT is a consumption tax that affects everyone who buys or sells goods and services in Sweden.
The high tax rates in Sweden have several negative consequences for individuals and businesses. For individuals, high taxes reduce the disposable income and the incentive to work, save, and invest. For businesses, high taxes increase the cost of production and the risk of doing business and discourage entrepreneurship and innovation. High taxes also create opportunities for tax evasion and avoidance, which undermine the fairness and efficiency of the tax system. Some people may argue that high taxes are justified by the high quality and quantity of public services that the Swedish government provides. Indeed, Sweden is well-known for its universal free healthcare, free education, generous social security, and extensive public infrastructure. These public services are meant to enhance the well-being and equality of the Swedish people and to promote economic growth and social stability.
However, there is no such thing as a free lunch. The public services that the Swedish government provides are not free but paid for by the taxpayers. Therefore, there is a trade-off between taxes and public services: the more public services the government provides, the higher taxes it has to collect, and vice versa. In this sense, Sweden differs significantly from the United States.
The trade-off between taxes and public services implies that there is an optimal level of taxation and public spending that maximizes the welfare of society. However, finding this optimal level is not easy, as different people may have different preferences and needs for public services, and different views on how to finance them. Moreover, the optimal level may change over time, as the economic and social conditions evolve.
Therefore, the question of how high taxes should be in Sweden is not a simple one, but a complex and controversial one. It depends on many factors, such as the efficiency and effectiveness of the public sector, the elasticity and productivity of the private sector, the distribution and mobility of income and wealth, and the political and cultural values of the society.
Cold and Dark Winters
One of the main challenges of winter in Scandinavian countries is the lack of sunlight during their long winters. Depending on where you live in Sweden, winter can be a hard time as you may experience only a few hours of daylight, or even none at all, during the winter months. This can affect your circadian rhythm, which is the natural cycle of your body that regulates your sleep, mood, and hormones.
Another challenge of the Swedish winter is the bad weather and in particular, the cold temperature. The average temperature in January, the coldest month, ranges from -14.6°C in the north to 0°C in the south. The cold can make you feel uncomfortable, increase your risk of catching a cold or flu, and lower your metabolism. Additionally, the cold can make it harder to participate in outdoor activities, which can affect your physical and mental health.
Language Barrier
One might think that the language barrier is not a big issue in Sweden, since Swedes are known for being great English speakers. According to a study by the Nordic Council in 2021, almost all young Swedes can speak, understand, and write in English. English is taught in schools as a second language from the third grade, and many Swedes consume English media, travel abroad, and have contact with foreigners.
However, speaking English well does not mean that Swedes prefer to speak English, or that they are comfortable doing so. Many Swedes are reluctant to switch to English, especially in formal or professional settings, where they feel more confident and respectful using their native language. Some Swedes may also feel annoyed or offended if a foreigner assumes that they speak English, or does not make an effort to learn the Swedish language.
Swedish life has its pros and cons, like any other country. It is not a perfect place, but it is a great place for many people. Whether you will enjoy living in Sweden or not depends on your personality, preferences, and expectations. You may need to do some research, preparation, and adaptation before you move to Sweden, and be open-minded, curious, and respectful of the Swedish culture and people.
If you’re looking for European travel inspiration, be sure to check out The 5 Most Beautiful Sunset Destinations in Europe!
If you’re planning a trip to Sweden and you’re looking for a place to stay then check out Expedia.