Living in Gothenburg
Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)
Country
Sweden
Monthly Cost
$1,953
Internet
200 Mbps
Safety
5.4/10
Rent (1BR)
$1,069
Living in Gothenburg — Quick Take
Best for: Those open to trade-offs
Cost level: Moderate ($1,953/mo)
Main downside: Requires neighborhood research
Quick Facts
$1,953/mo
Moderate5.4/10
Variable200 Mbps
Fast$1,069
Mid-range$3,970/mo
612K
LargeMonthly Living Cost Breakdown
Who Is Gothenburg For?
The combination of pricing and connectivity works well for online professionals.
Mid-range costs—not rock-bottom, but not painful either.
Similar vibe? Check out Selfoss.
Best Neighborhoods in Gothenburg
4 neighborhoods rated for expats and digital nomads — Linnéstaden tops the list at /10
One of Gothenburg’s most vibrant districts, filled with cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and parks, popular among young professionals and offering a lively urban lifestyle.
Neighborhood ratings based on expat livability, cost, and lifestyle fit. Data reflects current conditions in Gothenburg, Sweden.
Pros and Cons of Living in Gothenburg
Pros
- Reasonable cost of living compared to major Western cities
- Fast internet (200 Mbps) - great for remote work
Cons
- Safety concerns exist - research specific neighborhoods
Job & Income Overview
Avg Local Salary
$3,970/mo
Salary-to-Rent Ratio
3.7x
Housing is manageable on local wages, with a 3.7x salary-to-rent ratio.
Local wages go reasonably far here—enough for a decent life with some cushion.
Cost Insight
Neither cheap nor expensive, Gothenburg offers a middle ground. Budgeting matters but isn't stressful.
For comparison, Selfoss runs about $1,670/month—17% less.
Common Questions About Gothenburg
How much does it cost to live in Gothenburg?
Expect roughly $1,953 monthly. This includes housing, groceries, transport, and utilities.
Is Gothenburg safe for expats?
Gothenburg is variable by neighborhood with a 5.4/10 safety score. Standard precautions apply.
Is Gothenburg good for remote workers?
With 200 Mbps average speeds, Gothenburg is excellent for remote work. Coworking options exist.
How much is rent in Gothenburg?
A 1-bedroom averages $1,069/month. Prices vary by neighborhood and proximity to center.
Calculate Your Cost in Gothenburg
Get personalized estimates based on your lifestyle
Explore More About Gothenburg
NomadIQ Score
out of 10
Good
Quick Stats
Safety Score
5.4/10
Internet Speed
200 Mbps
Monthly Cost
$1,953
Explore Similar Cities
Final Thoughts
Gothenburg is a solid choice for those seeking a change of scenery looking to relocate abroad. With a monthly cost of living around $1,953, a safety score of 5.4/10, and internet speeds of 200 Mbps, the city offers a balanced package for international residents. Whether you're drawn by the culture, the cost savings, or the lifestyle opportunities, Gothenburg deserves a spot on your shortlist. We recommend visiting for a few weeks before making a long-term commitment to ensure it aligns with your personal and professional needs.
Data sources include public cost-of-living datasets, user-reported data, and internal analysis. Last updated: September 2026.
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