Student Housing in Stockholm – How to Find Accommodation

Stockholm is a vibrant and dynamic city, home to some of Sweden’s top universities, including Stockholm University, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, and Karolinska Institute. As Sweden’s capital, Stockholm offers a rich student experience, but finding affordable student housing can be challenging due to high demand and limited availability.

This guide will help you navigate the housing market and find suitable accommodation as a student in Stockholm.

Types of Student Accommodation in Stockholm

There are several types of housing options available, depending on your budget and preferences.

1. Student Dormitories (Corridor Rooms)

• Price Range: 4,000 – 6,500 SEK/month
• What to Expect: A private room with shared kitchen and sometimes shared bathroom.
• Pros: Affordable, social environment, good for making friends.
• Cons: High demand, waiting lists can be long.

2. Student Apartments

• Price Range: 6,500 – 10,000 SEK/month
• What to Expect: A private studio or shared apartment for students.
• Pros: More privacy, no shared facilities.
• Cons: Higher rent, often requires advance planning.

3. Private Rentals

• Price Range: 10,000 – 16,000 SEK/month
• What to Expect: Renting a private apartment from a landlord.
• Pros: More independence, suitable for couples or long-term stays.
• Cons: Expensive, long-term leases often required.

4. Second-Hand Rentals (Subletting)

• Price Range: 6,000 – 12,000 SEK/month
• What to Expect: Renting a room or apartment from another student or private landlord.
• Pros: More availability, flexible lease terms.
• Cons: Higher rent, risk of scams, informal contracts.

Where to Find Student Housing in Stockholm

Finding housing in Stockholm requires early planning and persistence. Here are the best resources to help you secure accommodation:

1. SSSB (Stockholm Student Housing)

• The largest student housing provider in Stockholm.
• Offers corridor rooms, student apartments, and shared housing.
• Requires queue registration – sign up as early as possible!
• Website: www.sssb.se

2. Stockholm’s Universities Housing Offices

• Some universities provide housing for international students.
• Availability is limited, so apply early.
• Stockholm University: www.su.se
• KTH Royal Institute of Technology: www.kth.se
• Karolinska Institute: www.ki.se

3. Private Housing Websites

• Blocket.se – Popular site for second-hand rentals.
• Bostad.stockholm.se – Stockholm’s municipal housing queue.
• Facebook Groups – Search for "Stockholm student housing" or "Stockholm bostad".

Tips for Securing Student Housing

Stockholm’s housing market is highly competitive, so follow these tips to improve your chances:

1. Register Early – Sign up for SSSB and other housing queues as soon as possible.
2. Consider Short-Term Rentals – Stay in temporary housing while searching for long-term options.
3. Use Social Media – Many students sublet their rooms via Facebook groups.
4. Avoid Scams – Never pay rent upfront without a signed contract.
5. Check with Your University – Some universities offer housing to international students.

Cost of Living in Stockholm

Stockholm is one of the most expensive cities in Sweden, so it’s important to budget carefully. Here’s an estimated monthly cost breakdown:

Expense Category	Estimated Cost (SEK)
Rent	4,000 – 12,000
Food	2,500 – 4,000
Transportation	650 – 950
Internet & Mobile	300 – 600
Leisure & Entertainment	1,500 – 3,000
Miscellaneous	500 – 1,500
Total	9,000 – 18,000

For a detailed breakdown, see our guide on Cost of Living in Sweden.

Student Life in Stockholm

Despite being a big city, Stockholm offers a great student experience with numerous activities, events, and a strong academic environment.

Student Organizations

• Universities have student unions that organize social events, career fairs, and networking opportunities.
• Examples: THS (KTH Student Union), SUS (Stockholm University Student Union), MF (Medical Students’ Association at Karolinska Institute).

Events & Activities

• Annual Gasques & Sittnings: Traditional student dinners with singing and entertainment.
• Stockholm Culture Festival: A major cultural event held every August.
• Outdoor Activities: Stockholm has beautiful parks, islands, and nature reserves.

Transportation in Stockholm

Stockholm has a well-developed public transport system, making it easy for students to get around.

• SL Card (Public Transport Pass) – Monthly student pass costs 650 – 950 SEK.
• Bicycles – Stockholm is bike-friendly, and many students choose to cycle.
• Commuter Trains – Useful for students living outside the city center.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How difficult is it to find student housing in Stockholm?

Finding student housing in Stockholm is very competitive, especially before the semester starts. Register early for SSSB and university housing to improve your chances.

2. Can international students get guaranteed housing?

Some universities offer guaranteed housing for international students, but spots are limited. Check with your university’s housing office.

3. How much does student housing cost in Stockholm?

• Corridor rooms: 4,000 – 6,500 SEK/month
• Student apartments: 6,500 – 10,000 SEK/month
• Private rentals: 10,000 – 16,000 SEK/month

4. Can I work while studying in Stockholm?

Yes! International students can work part-time. Learn more in our guide on Working While Studying in Sweden.

Final Thoughts

Finding student housing in Stockholm can be challenging, but with early planning and persistence, you can secure a good place to live. Whether you prefer a student dorm, shared apartment, or private rental, Stockholm offers a fantastic student experience with high-quality education and an exciting city life.

If you're planning to study in Sweden, check out our guide on Swedish Universities for more information.