Living in Kungsholmen: Student Life in Stockholm's Island District

Exploring the vibrant district of Kungsholmen in Stockholm is an adventure waiting for every international student. Nestled in the heart of Sweden's capital, this island combines the charm of historical landmarks with the buzz of modern urban life. It's a place where the journey of education intertwines seamlessly with the discovery of new cultures and experiences.

This blog delves into the multifaceted life of an international student in Kungsholmen – from the practicalities of finding accommodation to immersing oneself in the local attractions and lifestyle. Join us as we unfold the unique aspects of studying and living in one of Stockholm's most dynamic districts.

Moving to Stockholm soon and looking for shared accommodation in the city? Check out our listings on Hemavi!

What makes Kungsholmen a suitable city for international students?

Kungsholmen in Stockholm presents itself as an attractive location for international students for various reasons:

• Diverse and Vibrant Community: Kungsholmen is known for its mix of residential and commercial areas, offering a lively atmosphere. This district is characterized by diversity and inclusivity, making it a welcoming place for students from different backgrounds​​.
• Cultural and Recreational Activities: The district has several parks, like Rålambshovsparken, which are popular for outdoor activities and socializing. Kungsholmen also boasts cool outdoor bars, restaurants, and cafes that overlook the water, providing a great environment for relaxation and meeting new people​​.
• Proximity to Educational Institutions: Its location in Stockholm makes it convenient for students studying at nearby universities, such as Karolinska Institutet (KI), KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Stockholm University. Kungsholmen's urban setting allows easy access to various campuses and educational resources​​​​.
• Housing Options: Kungsholmen offers a range of accommodation options suitable for students. From shared apartments to more private living spaces, the area provides diverse choices that can fit different budgets and preferences​​.
• Public Transport and Connectivity: The public transportation system in Stockholm, including Kungsholmen, is efficient, making it easy for students to navigate the city and access different parts of Stockholm for both academic and leisure activities​​.
• Safety and Quality of Life: Stockholm is known for its high safety standards and quality of life, aspects that are also reflected in Kungsholmen. This makes it a secure and comfortable place for students to live and study​​.

Overall, Kungsholmen's combination of a vibrant social scene, proximity to educational institutions, diverse accommodation options, efficient public transport, and a safe environment makes it a suitable and attractive location for international students.

What is the cost of living in Kungsholmen as an international student?

As an international student in Kungsholmen, Stockholm, your cost of living will encompass various expenses. Here's a breakdown based on the latest information:

• Accommodation: The rent varies widely depending on the type of housing. Student dormitories range from 2,500-5,000 SEK per month ($240-$480). For shared apartments, the cost is between 3,000-6,000 SEK ($290-$575) per month. Studio apartments can cost from 5,000-9,000 SEK ($480-$865), and one-bedroom apartments range from 8,000-12,000 SEK per month ($770-$1,155)​​.
• Food and Groceries: An international student in Stockholm should budget around 2,000-3,000 SEK ($190-$290) per month for food and groceries. Specific prices for items such as a basic lunchtime menu in the business district is 144 SEK, and a combo meal in a fast food restaurant is around 100 SEK​​​​.
• Transportation: Monthly transportation costs are expected to be around 700-1,000 SEK ($70-$100). This includes the use of public transportation and may vary depending on how often you travel​​.
• Other Personal Expenses: These include costs for clothing, entertainment, and leisure activities, which can total around 1,500-2,500 SEK per month ($145-$240)​​.
• Health Insurance: The cost for health insurance depends on the provider and the level of coverage, but it generally ranges from 1,000-2,000 SEK per month ($100-$190)​​.
• Educational Expenses: Tuition fees will vary based on your course or program. For example, at Stockholm University, fees for Humanities/Social Sciences/Law are around 90,000 SEK per academic year, and for Sciences, approximately 140,000 SEK. These fees can range from 90,000-140,000 SEK depending on the specific program​

Overall, students in Stockholm should budget for at least 9,450 SEK per month to cover all living costs. This estimate is inclusive of rent, which is likely the largest part of the budget​​. It's important to note that these figures can vary based on individual lifestyle and spending habits​​. To manage your budget effectively, consider student discounts, shared accommodations (which you can find through Hemavi!), and public transportation. Planning and careful budgeting are key to managing your expenses as an international student in Stockholm.

How can I find accommodation in Kungsholmen as an international student?

Finding accommodation in Kungsholmen, Stockholm, as an international student involves exploring various options and being vigilant against potential scams. Here are some key strategies and tips to help you in your search:

• University Services: Universities like KTH offer accommodation services to international students, assisting them in finding housing in Stockholm. Some student groups may have guaranteed housing, while others may need to find housing on their own. Check with your university for eligibility and application processes​​.
• Housing Queues and Student Unions: Services like SSSB (Studentbostäder i Stockholm) provide housing specifically for students. You can collect credit days even before you become a member of the student union. This system requires registration and patience, as it operates on a queue system where you earn points the longer you are registered​​.
• Private Market and Online Platforms: Websites like Hemavi offer listings for private housing. These platforms are popular and generally safe for finding housing, but it's crucial to never pay anything in advance and to always request a video call with the owner before making any commitments​​.
• Subletting: Renting a sublet is a common approach for finding accommodation. Be cautious of scams, especially on platforms that lack user verification. Always verify the landlord's identity and never make payments before seeing the apartment and signing a contract​​.
• Facebook Groups: Local Facebook groups can be useful for finding available rooms or apartments.

Remember, the housing market in Stockholm can be competitive, with high prices and long waiting times. Start your search early and explore multiple options. Always exercise caution and ensure any agreements are formalized with proper contracts.

What are some popular attractions for international students residing in Kungsholmen?

Kungsholmen, a vibrant district in Stockholm, offers a range of attractions that are particularly appealing to international students. Some of the most popular sites and activities include:

• City Hall (Stadshuset): This iconic building is a key feature of Stockholm's skyline and an example of Swedish Grace architecture. The City Hall is known for hosting the annual Nobel banquet and offers a panoramic view of Stockholm from its tower.
• Rålambshovsparken: This park, also known as Rålis, is a popular spot for relaxation and social activities. It features a skatepark, playgrounds, an amphitheater, and a basketball court. During the summer, it becomes a hub for outdoor cinema, attracting film enthusiasts.
• Hornsbergs strand: Located on the northern end of Kungsholmen, this area is perfect for walks with views over Ulvsunda Lake. In the summertime, it turns into a bustling beach hangout.
• Kronobergsparken: This centrally located park is ideal for outdoor activities and picnics, making it a great spot for students to unwind.
• Shopping and Dining: Kungsholmen is home to numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes, particularly along Hantverkarhgatan and Fleminggatan. For those interested in shopping, many places offer a variety of fashion items and often feature live music.
• Cultural Activities: The district also hosts various cultural and musical events throughout the year, providing a rich experience of local arts and entertainment.

These attractions offer a blend of cultural, recreational, and social experiences, making Kungsholmen an exciting place for international students to explore and enjoy during their stay in Stockholm​​​​​​.

Conclusion

Kungsholmen offers an enriching experience for international students in Stockholm, blending academic opportunities with a vibrant cultural and social life. The district's iconic attractions, such as City Hall and Rålambshovsparken, along with ample shopping and dining venues, make it an ideal place for students to thrive academically while enjoying diverse cultural experiences. Kungsholmen stands out as a dynamic locale that successfully combines the rigors of study with the joys of urban living and cultural exploration.

If you're looking for shared accommodation in Stockholm, check out our listings on Hemavi!