Lappis (Lappkärrsberget) is one of the most popular student accommodations, known for its international community and unique traditions, such as the weekly Lappis scream every Tuesday night. Rent typically ranges between 4,000 and 6,000 SEK (€340–510) per month, depending on the room type. If you prefer quieter surroundings or want to save on rent, suburban areas such as Barkarby or Huddinge can offer larger living spaces at lower costs.

You also have other housing options provided by KTH, such as Teknikringen, Malvinas väg, and others located within or close to the campus. Additional student housing options include private rentals through Blocket or shared flats through platforms like Stockholms studentbostäder (SSSB).

Supermarkets such as ICA, Coop, Lidl, and Willys are the most common places to shop for groceries. Lidl and Willys tend to be more affordable, while ICA and Coop are more widespread and offer membership discounts. Prisma and MatDax are also great options, particularly for international and budget-friendly grocery shopping. Prisma offers a wide variety of international foods, while MatDax is known for its competitive prices on everyday essentials. Planning meals and buying in bulk can help reduce costs. For fresh produce, local markets are also a good option.

The Mecenat card provides student discounts on a wide range of products and services, including public transport, restaurants, clothing stores, and gym memberships. Always check if a store or service offers student discounts before making a purchase, as this can help save a significant amount of money.

Buying new clothing in Sweden can be expensive, but second-hand shopping is a great alternative. Stores such as Myrorna, Stockholm Stadmissions, and Humana offer quality second-hand clothing at reasonable prices. Online platforms like Sellpy and Facebook Marketplace are also useful for finding affordable clothing and furniture.
Many fashion retailers also offer student discounts through Mecenat or Studentkortet. Stores such as Gina Tricot, H&M, Nelly, and Lager 157 frequently provide student discounts, often ranging from 10–20% off. Checking their websites or in-store promotions can help you save money on trendy clothing while staying within budget.

Biking is a popular and economical way to get around in Sweden, especially in cities with well-developed bike lanes. However, purchasing a brand-new bicycle can be costly. Many students opt for second-hand bicycles, which can be found on platforms like Blocket, Facebook Marketplace, Cykelstallet, and even local flea markets. Prices for used bikes vary depending on condition but typically range from 500 to 3,000 SEK (€43–255). It is advisable to check the brakes, gears, and tires before purchasing. A good lock is also essential, as bike theft is common in some places in Stockholm.

Restaurants in Sweden can be quite expensive, with an average meal costing between 150 and 250 SEK (€13–21). However, many restaurants offer lunch deals, known as dagens lunch, which typically cost between 100 and 140 SEK (€8.50–12) and include a main course, salad, bread, and coffee. Fast food options such as MAX Burgers and student deals at convenience stores like Pressbyrån provide more affordable alternatives for eating out.

That said, I would personally recommend buying groceries and cooking your own meals—no pressure, though.

There are also food waste reduction apps like Too Good To Go and Karma, which allow you to buy surplus food from restaurants, bakeries, and grocery stores at heavily discounted prices. It’s a great way to get quality food at a lower cost while contributing to sustainability.

Public transportation in Sweden is efficient but comes at a high cost. A student-discounted SL card costs 650 SEK (€55) per month and provides unlimited access to buses, metros, and ferries in Stockholm. Biking is a popular and economical way to get around, with many dedicated bike lanes available. During the winter, investing in proper clothing is essential for those who choose to cycle.

Sweden’s weather can be unpredictable, with long winters and short but pleasant summers. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, so warm clothing is essential. A good winter jacket, thermal layers, gloves, and waterproof shoes will make commuting much more comfortable. For affordable options, second-hand stores and outlets like Stadium Outlet or XXL often have discounted winter gear. Also, layering is key – Swedish indoors are well-heated, so dressing in layers allows flexibility between the cold outside and warm indoors. Although, what I would suggest is that, buy your winter gears from Sweden, as they have more quality, and are made to withstand the temperatures without any problems.

Sweden has a strong sports culture, with many gyms and recreational facilities available. Gym memberships range from 250 to 600 SEK (€21–51) per month, depending on the facility and location. For those looking for free or low-cost alternatives, Fritidsbanken allows students to borrow sports equipment at no charge, making it easy to try different activities without committing to expensive gear.

Purchasing electronics in Sweden can be more expensive compared to other countries. If possible, consider bringing essential devices from home or buying second-hand through platforms such as Blocket or Tradera. Checking for student discounts on electronics from retailers like Elgiganten or Webhallen can also help reduce costs.

Student life in Sweden offers a balance of academic rigour and social opportunities. Taking advantage of student discounts, exploring second-hand markets, and using public resources can make the experience more affordable. Getting involved in student organisations and local events also helps in building connections and adapting to the new environment.

With careful planning and by making use of the resources available, living in Sweden as a student can be both enjoyable and financially manageable.

 

This blog is written by Varun Venugopal, Smart Electrical Networks & Systems (SENSE) Masters+ student