Understanding typical monthly expenses will help you prepare financially and make informed decisions before starting your studies. Stockholm offers a high standard of living, and living costs reflect this. The estimates below are intended as general guidance. Actual expenses will vary depending on accommodation type, lifestyle, and personal spending habits.
Estimated monthly living costs
Category
Estimated monthly cost (in SEK)
Housing
SEK 6,000 – 10,000
Food
SEK 3,000
Insurance
SEK 500
Local transportation
SEK 650
Hobbies & leisure
SEK 2,000
Total estimated monthly costs
SEK 12,150 – 16,150
Housing
Housing is typically the largest expense for students in Stockholm. Costs depend on accommodation type (student housing, shared apartment, or private rental), location, and whether utilities are included.
We recommend starting your housing search early by exploring both SSE housing and the broader Stockholm housing market. For more information and external resources, please visit our landing page, 'Additional Options for Student Housing.'
Once admitted to any of our programs, you can begin searching for housemates and connecting with peers through the Goin' app. This platform allows you to engage with current and newly admitted students to share experiences, practical advice, and tips for settling in at SSE and in Stockholm.
Food
The food estimate includes groceries and occasional meals out. Preparing most meals at home can help keep costs manageable.
Students can also bring homemade lunches to campus and use the available facilities to heat their meals.
Insurance
You are responsible for arranging appropriate insurance coverage during your stay in Sweden.
This typically includes home insurance as well as any additional personal coverage required during your stay.
Local Transportation
Stockholm has a reliable and well-developed public transportation system, including buses, metro, commuter trains and boats.
A monthly allows unlimited travel within the region. Students are eligible for discounted fares.
Hobbies and leisure
In this category, you would cover costs for a gym membership, student activities, social events, clothing, entertainment, and other personal expenses. Spending varies according to individual preferences and lifestyle.
While living costs in Stockholm can be higher, you would have access to several discounts that can help reduce everyday expenses.
Student discounts
As an SSE student, you will receive access to student discounts through Mecenat, Sweden’s official student discount provider.
The Mecenat app is a free mobile application that provides your digital student ID (Mecenat card/CSN card) and gives access to thousands of student discounts across Sweden. The app also functions as valid proof of student status when accessing student travel discounts with providers such as SJ (national rail) and SL (Stockholm public transport).
Student discounts - Mecenat
Student discounts can help reduce your overall living expenses throughout your studies in Stockholm. Careful financial planning will help ensure a smooth transition to life in Stockholm and a successful start to your studies at SSE.
Key Features of the Mecenat App
Digital Mecenat card – Your valid student ID is always available on your mobile device.
Student discounts – Access to thousands of discounts on electronics, clothing, food, streaming services, technology, and more — both online and in stores.
Travel discounts – Serves as valid proof of student status when purchasing discounted travel tickets with public transportation providers.
