Are you planning to move to Stockholm and looking for an apartment to rent? Finding a place to live in the Swedish capital can be a real challenge, especially for expats and students. The housing market is competitive, and things work differently than in other countries. In this clear and useful guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know to rent an apartment in Stockholm—step by step.
1. Understanding the Rental Market in Stockholm
Stockholm is a growing city that attracts many people expats, professionals, and students. As a result, demand for apartments is very high, and prices are among the highest in Sweden.
2. Two Types of Rental Contracts
In Sweden, there are two main rental types:
- Förstahandskontrakt (first-hand contract): A direct rental agreement with the landlord. These are very rare in Stockholm, and you usually need to wait on a queue for years to get one.
- Andrahandskontrakt (sublet or second-hand contract): This is the most common option for newcomers. You rent from someone who is already the official tenant, with the landlord’s approval. These rentals are often limited to 6–12 months.
3. Where to Search for an Apartment
Here are some reliable websites to find rental listings:
- Blocket.se – popular for sublets
- SwedBNB – short term rental
- Qasa.se – modern and secure
- Samtrygg.se – guarantees payments
Popular Neighborhoods in Stockholm
- Södermalm: Trendy and artistic
- Kungsholmen: Calm and close to the center
- Vasastan: Family-friendly with shops
- Östermalm: Chic and residential
- Norrmalm: In the heart of downtown
4. Steps to Rent an Apartment
- Search actively listings go fast
- Contact landlords quickly and politely
- Schedule a visit (in-person or online)
- Read and sign the contract carefully
- Pay a security deposit (usually 1–2 months’ rent)
- Do a move-in inspection
As in any major city, rental scams unfortunately exist in Stockholm, especially on platforms like Facebook. It’s important to stay alert to certain warning signs. Be cautious if the landlord asks you to pay before even visiting the property, if the price seems unusually low, or if they refuse to show you the place or provide a false address. Also be wary if the photos look too good to be true or, on the contrary, are blurry and unprofessional. You should never send any money without having signed a contract and obtained concrete proof that the property actually exists.
6. Living in a Swedish Apartment
Living in an apartment in Sweden can be a very pleasant experience, but it also requires adapting to the local culture. Silence is highly valued, especially in the evenings, and residents are expected to respect their neighbors’ peace and quiet. Many buildings have shared laundry rooms that often need to be booked in advance. Waste sorting is taken very seriously, with strict rules to follow. Finally, many buildings operate as housing cooperatives, meaning that common rules are established and must be respected by all residents.
Final Tip: Stay Patient and Organized
Renting an apartment in Stockholm can be stressful at first, but with good preparation, fast responses, and a clear profile, you’ll improve your chances. Don’t get discouraged persistence is key.
And once you move in, you’ll enjoy living in one of the most beautiful and organized cities in Europe.
