Are you planning to fly to Sweden or the UK to pursue higher education? Both destinations are among the top choices for international students, offering world-class universities, vibrant cultures, and exciting opportunities. However, one of the most significant factors to consider before making your decision is the cost of living. In this blog, we will break down the cost of living in Sweden vs the UK, covering everything from groceries, transportation, and utilities to accommodation, dining, and leisure.
Cost Of Living Calculator
| Description | Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| Total Cost of Accommodation | 100 |
| Total Cost of Transport | 50 |
| Total Cost of Utilities | 30 |
| Total Cost of Food | 70 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 250 |
The Average Cost Of Living In Sweden Vs The UK In 2025
| Category | Sweden (SEK / month) | UK (GBP / month) |
| Groceries | 2,500 – 3,000 | £200 – £250 |
| Transportation | 400 – 900 | £45 – £150 |
| Utilities (basic bills) | 1,240 | £238 |
| Internet | 374 | £31 |
| Mobile Phone Plan | 269 | £13 |
| Entertainment & Leisure | 800 – 1,000 | £100 – £150 |
| Accommodation (Student Housing) | 3,500 – 6,000 | £600 – £1,200 |
Detailed Breakdown Of The Cost Of Living In Sweden Vs The UK
The average monthly cost of living for a student in the UK in 2025 ranges between £1,100 and £1,600, depending on the city, with London being the most expensive. In Sweden, students can expect to spend around SEK 8,000 to SEK 11,000 per month. These estimates vary based on factors such as location, lifestyle, type of accommodation, and personal spending habits.
1. Cost Of Accommodation In Sweden Vs The UK
Sweden
Sweden offers a variety of housing options for both students and professionals, although accommodation costs can be relatively high, particularly in major cities such as Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö. Student housing typically ranges from SEK 3,500 to 6,000 per month. Prices vary significantly depending on location, with city-centre apartments being the most expensive. More affordable options can be found in student residences or in areas outside the city centre. To manage costs, many students opt for university-provided housing or shared apartments.
| Student Accommodation | Monthly Cost in SEK | Monthly Cost (INR) |
| 1 bedroom apartment in city center | 10,000 – 15,000 | 94,600 – 141,900 |
| 1 bedroom apartment outside the city | 6,000 – 10,000 | 56,760 – 94,600 |
| Student accommodation | 3,500 – 6000 | 33,110 – 56,760 |
UK
Student accommodation in the UK typically ranges from £600 to £1,200 per month, or even higher depending on the city and location. With UniAcco, you can explore a wide selection of student accommodations across your preferred UK city. While options outside of London or in smaller towns may be more affordable, overall housing costs in the UK remain higher than in many other European countries. Purpose-built student accommodations (PBSAs) are a popular choice, offering a variety of price points based on the amenities, location, and size of the city.
| Student Accommodation | Monthly Cost in GBP | Monthly Cost (INR) |
| 1 bedroom apartment in London | 1000 – 1500 | 119,900 – 179,850 |
| 1 bedroom apartment in other cities | 700 – 1100 | 83,930 – 131,890 |
| Student accommodations | 600 – 1200 | 71,940 – 143,880 |
2. Cost Of Studying In Sweden Vs The UK
Sweden
When it comes to education, the country is known for its top-ranked universities, a safe and student-friendly environment, and modern, innovative teaching methods. Language isn’t a barrier either, since many programmes are taught entirely in English, making it accessible for international students.
Tuition fees for undergraduate programmes typically range from SEK 95,000 to SEK 135,000 per year, while postgraduate programmes can cost between SEK 120,000 and SEK 180,000 per year.
| University | QS World Ranking 2026 | Average Cost Of Studying (SEK) |
| Lund University | 72 | 100,000–345,000 |
| KTH Royal Institute of Technology | 78 | 110,000–155,000 |
| Uppsala University | 93 | 100,000–145,000 |
| Stockholm University | 143 | 90,000–140,000 |
UK
The UK is one of the most popular study-abroad destinations, home to some of the world’s top-ranked universities. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across various fields, allowing students to find courses that best match their academic and career goals.
Tuition fees vary depending on the course and institution. On average, undergraduate programmes range from £11,400 to £38,000 per year, while postgraduate programmes typically cost between £17,000 and £22,000 per year.
| University | QS World Rank 2026 | Average Cost Of Studying (GBP) |
| Imperial College London | 2 | £31,750 – £50,638 |
| University of Oxford | 4 | £28,950 – £59,690 |
| University of Cambridge | 6 | £25,734 – £69,000 |
| University College London (UCL) | 9 | £23,000 – £45,000 |
| University of Edinburgh | 34 | £26,500 – £43,300 |
Also Read: Top Universities In UK: Best Colleges & Universities In UK
3. Cost Of Groceries In Sweden vs. the UK
Groceries make up a significant portion of the monthly budget for both students and residents in Sweden and the UK. The cost of staple food item such as milk, bread, rice, eggs, and fresh produce can vary between the two countries due to differences in supply chains, taxation, and local food production.
On average, your grocery expenses in the UK range from £200 to £250 per month, while in Sweden, they typically fall between SEK 2,500 and 3,000. Being aware of these cost differences is key to budgeting effectively for everyday essentials while studying or living abroad.
| Groceries | Sweden (SEK) | UK (GBP) |
| 1 liter of regular milk | 16.05 | 1.25 |
| 500g loaf of fresh white bread | 28.66 | 1.24 |
| 1 kilogram of rice | 35.22 | 1.64 |
| A dozen eggs | 41.67 | 2.95 |
| 1 kilogram of cheese | 114.59 | 7.13 |
| 1 kilogram of chicken meat | 117.18 | 6.62 |
| 1 kilogram of apples | 30.53 | 2.22 |
| 1 kilogram of bananas | 26.1 | 1.22 |
| 1 kilogram of oranges | 29.77 | 2.11 |
| 1 kilogram of tomatoes | 42.02 | 2.56 |
| 1 kilogram of potatoes | 17.09 | 1.24 |
| 1 kilogram of onions | 16.57 | 1.16 |
| One head of lettuce | 22.6 | 0.86 |
| 1.5-liter bottle of water | 14.09 | 1.17 |
Also Read: Best Hacks For Shopping For Groceries On A Budget As A Student
4. Cost Of Eating Out In Sweden Vs The Uk
Dining out and social meals play an essential role in student life, offering opportunities to explore local cuisine and socialise with peers. However, restaurant prices differ dramatically between Sweden and the UK, with significant implications for students’ entertainment budgets and social activities.
| Eating Out | Sweden (SEK) | UK (GBP) |
| Budget meal at a casual restaurant | 140 | 15 |
| Three-course dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | 800 | 65 |
| A combo meal at McDonald’s or a similar fast food spot | 109 | 8 |
| Draft beer (0.5 litre, local) | 75 | 5 |
| Standard cappuccino | 45.68 | 4 |
| 0.33-litre bottle of Coke or Pepsi | 26.47 | 2.00£ |
5. Transportation Cost In Sweden vs. the UK
| Particulars | Sweden (SEK) | UK (GBP) |
| Single ride fare for local public transport | 37 | 2.5 |
| Standard monthly public transport pass | 860 | 70 |
| Base fare for taxi ride (standard rate) | 59 | 4 |
| Cost per kilometre by taxi (standard rate) | 20 | 1.59 |
In Sweden, students typically spend between SEK 400 and SEK 900 per month (approximately ₹3,200 to ₹7,200) on public transportation, depending on the city and the type of pass. In Sweden, major cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö offer student discounts on monthly public transport passes covering buses, trams, metros, and commuter trains.
On the other hand, in the United Kingdom, student transportation expenses range from £45 to £150 per month (approximately ₹5,400 to ₹18,000) depending on location and travel needs. Students can save on travel with options like the 18+ Student Oyster photocard in London for discounted access to buses, trams, Tube and trains, and the 16–25 Railcard, which offers 1/3 off most train fares nationwide.
Also Read: UK Public Transport Made Easy: How to Travel Anywhere Like a Local
6. Utility Costs In Sweden Vs The UK
Beyond rent, students must budget for essential utilities and communication services that keep them connected to both their academic responsibilities and loved ones back home. The cost of electricity, heating, internet, and mobile phone services represents a significant monthly expense that varies considerably between Sweden and the UK.
| Particulars | Sweden (SEK) | UK (GBP) |
| Basic utilities | 1,240 | 238 |
| Monthly Mobile Phone Plan (Calls and 10GB+ Data) | 269 | 13 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | 374 | 31 |
Also Read: Utility Bills In The UK: A Complete List With Examples
Many student accommodations, especially those booked through UniAcco, offer all-inclusive rent, which means utilities like electricity, water, and internet are already covered. This makes it easier for students to manage their monthly budget without worrying about fluctuating bills.
7. Entertainment & Leisure Costs Sweden Vs The UK
Leisure activities, including gym memberships, sports facility rentals, and movie tickets, enhance quality of life but contribute to overall living expenses. The cost of entertainment varies between Sweden and the UK due to factors including wage levels, local demand, and cultural norms. Official cost-of-living databases and government cultural statistics offer detailed benchmarks to help compare expenses in these areas.
| Particulars | Sweden (SEK) | UK (GBP) |
| Monthly gym membership for one adult | 391.33 | 34.56 |
| Hourly tennis court rental (weekend rate) | 255.43 | 11.75 |
| Movie ticket for an international release (one person) | 159.5 | 10 |
8. Healthcare Cost In Sweden Vs The UK
Sweden
In Sweden, the cost of healthcare for international students varies based on the length of stay and coverage status. For students staying longer than one year, once registered and holding a Swedish personal identity number, they receive healthcare benefits at the same subsidised patient fees as Swedish citizens, which is affordable.
| Category | Cost (SEK) | Cost (INR) |
| Subsidised Doctor’s visit | SEK 200 – SEK 300 | ₹1,550 – ₹2,325 |
| Medical Prescription | SEK 50 – SEK 200 | ₹388 – ₹1,550 |
| Monthly Private health insurance | SEK 500 – SEK 1,000 | ₹3,875 – ₹7,750 |
UK
In the UK, international students must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of their visa application. This fee provides full access to the NHS during their stay. The IHS also applies to those staying after graduation on a Post-Study Work (PSW) visa. Below is a breakdown.
| Type Of Visa | Duration | Total IHS Fee (Approximate) |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 3 years | £2,328 |
| Master’s Degree | 1 year (rounded) | £1,164 (incl. extra months) |
| Post-Study Work (PSW) | 2 years | £1,552 |
Also Read: Healthcare in the UK | International Students
Key Cost Insights for Students
- Overall Living Costs: Sweden is slightly more affordable, with the cost of living (excluding rent) being 0.3% lower than in the UK.
- Rent Matters: Housing is a major differentiator, rent prices in Sweden are 32.5% lower, making it a budget-friendly choice for students compared to the UK.
- Total Monthly Expenses: When rent is included, Sweden comes out 9.4% cheaper overall than the UK.
- Eating Out: Dining is marginally more affordable in Sweden, with restaurant prices 4.8% lower than in the UK.
- Groceries: Expect to pay a little more in Sweden, where grocery costs are 9.3% higher.
- Purchasing Power: Students in Sweden enjoy a stronger economy, with local purchasing power 10.4% higher than in the UK.
Part-time Job Opportunities For Students
Sweden
International students must be enrolled in a full-time academic programme and hold a valid residence permit to work part-time in Sweden. During term time, working up to 20-30 hours weekly is advised, with full-time work allowed during holidays.
Most jobs require Swedish fluency for service roles, but English-speaking positions exist in larger cities and specific sectors like hospitality and tech.
| Category | Details |
| Popular Jobs | – Research Assistant- IT Support- Retail Store Assistant- Barista- Babysitter- Café Worker- Administrative Assistant- Tutor- Student Ambassador |
| Average Salary | 90–130 SEK/hour(Up to 200 SEK/hour for specialised or freelance roles) |
| Finding Jobs | – Arbetsförmedlingen- Blocket Jobb- Jobbsafari- University career offices |
UK
Students with a Tier 4 (General) student visa can work part-time within defined restrictions: up to 15–20 hours per week during term time, and full-time during breaks. English is the primary working language, making the job market highly accessible for most international students.
| Category | Details |
| Popular Jobs | – Online Tutor- Campus Ambassador- Library Assistant- Teaching Assistant- Retail Worker- Student Content Creator- Hospitality Staff |
| Average Salary | £8–£15 per hour |
| Finding Jobs | – Campus career portals- National job boards- Localised recruitment sites |
Summing Up!
In the end, both Sweden and the UK offer exceptional education and enriching student experiences, but the right choice depends on your budget and goals. Sweden is ideal for those looking for affordable living, innovative teaching, and a safe environment, while the UK stands out for its globally known universities, cultural diversity and strong career prospects.
Whichever you choose, finding the right accommodation is key, and UniAcco makes it simple with a wide range of verified, affordable, and comfortable student housing options tailored to your needs. Start your journey today with UniAcco and book your perfect student home hassle-free!
FAQs
Q.1 Is Sweden more expensive than the UK?
Ans: It is generally cheaper to live in Sweden compared to the UK, with Sweden’s overall cost of living being about 16-29% lower than in the UK. However, specific expenses like groceries can be slightly higher in Sweden, while housing and utilities tend to be significantly more expensive in the UK, especially in cities like London.
Q.2 Are taxes higher in the UK or Sweden?
Ans: Sweden has higher income tax rates than the UK, especially for middle- and high-income earners. However, those taxes fund extensive public services like healthcare, education, and childcare.
Q.3 Is healthcare free in Sweden?
Ans: In Sweden, healthcare costs for international students depend on their length of stay and the type of coverage. Students staying in Sweden for over a year and registered with a Swedish personal identity number are eligible for the same affordable, subsidised healthcare rates as Swedish citizens.
Q.4 Sweden vs UK, which country has a better quality of life?
Ans: Sweden generally offers a better quality of life than the UK, with higher scores in safety, low pollution, and social welfare, complemented by excellent healthcare and strong environmental consciousness. However, the UK provides a more favourable climate and greater cultural diversity, which some may prefer depending on personal priorities.
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