Step 3: Housing in Sweden
Looking for a place to live in Sweden? Here's where to start your search, and practical tips for your move.
Finding a home in Sweden can look a little different depending on where you plan to live. Wherever you settle, green spaces, forests and water are never far in Sweden – even in the larger cities.
How housing works in Sweden
Sweden’s housing system combines municipal and private housing companies, with both first-hand and second-hand rentals being common.
First-hand contracts are long-term agreements with a housing company or landlord, while second-hand rentals are temporary sublets from someone who holds a first-hand contract or owns their home.
Waiting times for first-hand contracts can be several years in the larger cities, while smaller towns and regional areas often have more direct availability. Buying a home usually requires a Swedish personal identity number and access to local banking services, so many newcomers choose to rent first while getting established.
Where to search
There is no single national housing portal in Sweden, so using several channels when you start your search is a good approach.
Widening your search to nearby districts or surrounding towns can improve your chances. In many regions, reliable public transport makes commuting from neighbouring areas a practical option.
Below is an overview of where to search for housing in Sweden:
Municipal housing companies publish available rentals on their own websites, and some larger cities have a central queue for long-term first-hand contracts. You can find the local housing company through the municipality’s official website, usually under sections like Housing or Accommodation.
Private housing companies and individual landlords advertise rentals directly on their own websites. Many municipalities also compile lists of private landlords.
Private rentals are also advertised through established platforms such as Blocket, Bostadsportal and Samtrygg, where second-hand and short-term options are common.
Regional relocation portals offer housing information for specific cities and regions, often alongside guidance for newcomers. More details on local support are available further down this page.
Many second-hand rentals are offered for a limited period, and you will also find furnished short-term rentals and room rentals in shared homes.
Some larger cities have serviced apartments, usually provided by hotel chains or private companies specialising in furnished long-stay housing. These are less common outside major urban areas.
Tips when renting second-hand
- The landlord usually needs to approve the sublet – asking for confirmation that the sublet is allowed can give you extra reassurance.
- Ask for a written contract before paying any deposit or rent. Be cautious of unusually low prices or requests for payment before a contract is in place.
Local relocation support in Sweden
Once you know where you plan to move, many municipalities and regions in Sweden provide local information to support you. This can include guidance on housing, schools and daily life in the area.
Pets in rental housing
Pets are common in Swedish homes, including apartment buildings. However, rules differ between landlords, so always check your contract or ask before moving in.
Practical tips for moving
If you are bringing furniture or other belongings to Sweden, Swedish Customs (Tullverket) explains what applies when moving from within or outside the EU.
If you are moving with a pet, make sure it meets the entry requirements before you travel. The Swedish Board of Agriculture (Jordbruksverket) explains the rules for bringing pets to Sweden. Swedish Customs describes how border checks for pets work.
Next step
Once your housing plans are in place, you are ready to make the move. Next step explains what happens after you arrive in Sweden, starting with how to be added to the population register.
