New YorkvsStockholm
Overall
💰-15.0%
New York is 15.0%cheaper
Rent
🏠-40.0%
Housing is 40.0% lower
Dining
🍽️-15.0%
Restaurants 15.0% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-20.0%
Food shopping 20.0% less
Comparing the cost of living between New York, United States and Stockholm, Sweden reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that New York is more affordable than Stockholm by approximately 15.0%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in New York are higher than in Stockholm by 67%. A one-bedroom apartment in New York's city center costs around $3,500, while the same in Stockholm is approximately SEK 15,000.
Dining out in New York is notably more expensive compared to Stockholm. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $20 in New York versus SEK 120 in Stockholm.
Public transportation in New York is more affordable, with monthly passes at $127 compared to SEK 970 in Stockholm.
Grocery shopping in New York is more expensive by approximately 25%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in New York can expect to spend approximately $779 per month (excluding rent), while in Stockholm, the same lifestyle would cost around SEK 4,702. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about $2,727 monthly in New York versus SEK 16,457 in Stockholm. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Stockholm to New York, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from New York to Stockholm requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
New York
Stockholm
Frequently Asked Questions
Is New York more expensive than Stockholm?
No, New York is approximately 15.0% cheaper than Stockholm. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in New York compared to Stockholm?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 87% of your Stockholm salary when living in New York. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Stockholm, you'd need about $43,478 in New York for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between New York and Stockholm?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 67%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Stockholm offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, New York provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider New York if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Stockholm for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for New York vs Stockholm?
In New York, a single person needs approximately $3,279 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $7,227. In Stockholm, these figures are SEK 15,702 for singles and SEK 34,457 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between New York and Stockholm in 2025 shows notable differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Stockholm to maintain your lifestyle from New York
Calculate Salary Equivalence