Cost Comparison 2025

StockholmvsLondon

Sweden
United Kingdom

Overall

💰

+11.8%

Stockholm is 11.8%more expensive

Rent

🏠

+41.7%

Housing is 41.7% higher

Dining

🍽️

+11.8%

Restaurants 11.8% pricier

Groceries

🛒

0.0%

Food shopping 0.0% same

Comparing the cost of living between Stockholm, Sweden and London, United Kingdom reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Stockholm is more expensive than London by approximately 11.8%. 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 Stockholm are lower than in London by 29%. A one-bedroom apartment in Stockholm's city center costs around SEK 15,000, while the same in London is approximately £2,500.

Dining out in Stockholm offers significant savings compared to London. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs SEK 120 in Stockholm versus £18 in London.

Public transportation in Stockholm is more expensive, with monthly passes at SEK 970 compared to £180 in London.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Stockholm can expect to spend approximately SEK 4,702 per month (excluding rent), while in London, the same lifestyle would cost around £716. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about SEK 16,457 monthly in Stockholm versus £2,505 in London. 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

Item
Stockholm, Sweden
London, United Kingdom

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
SEK 15,000
£2,500
1BR Outside Center
SEK 11,000
£1,800
3BR City Center
SEK 25,000
£5,500

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
SEK 120
£18
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
SEK 800
£80
Cappuccino
SEK 45
£4
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
SEK 70
£6

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
SEK 13
£1
Bread (500g)
SEK 25
£2
Eggs (12)
SEK 35
£3
Cheese (1kg)
SEK 100
£10

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
SEK 39
£3
Monthly Pass
SEK 970
£180
Taxi Start
SEK 50
£4
Gasoline (1L)
SEK 18
£2

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
SEK 1,000
£200
Internet (60 Mbps)
SEK 300
£35
Mobile Minute
SEK 1
£0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Stockholm to London, 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 London 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

Stockholm

Cost of Living Index85
Rent Index60
Purchasing Power Index100

London

Cost of Living Index95
Rent Index85
Purchasing Power Index90

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Stockholm more expensive than London?

Yes, Stockholm is approximately 11.8% more expensive than London overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

How much salary do I need in Stockholm compared to London?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your London salary when living in Stockholm. For example, if you earn $50,000 in London, you'd need about $55,882 in Stockholm for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Stockholm and London?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 29%, 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, London provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Stockholm if you prioritize earning potential, or London for affordability.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Stockholm vs London?

In Stockholm, a single person needs approximately SEK 15,702 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about SEK 34,457. In London, these figures are £2,516 for singles and £6,005 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Stockholm and London 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 London to maintain your lifestyle from Stockholm

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-15 • Data sourced from multiple providers