Stockholm spans across 14 different islands. Before deciding where to buy or rent a place in Stockholm, you need to understand the different neighbourhoods to determine which will fill your requirements.
Here are some things to think about when choosing a neighbourhood in Stockholm:
- Distance to your school/work
- Budget
- Requirements of your family/children
- Availability of schools in the area
Inner-city neighbourhoods
The Old Town (Gamla Stan)
This one is included for interest since the chances of finding a rental property here are slim to none. However, take the time to stroll through the area and explore the island's cobblestone streets and quaint eateries.
Norrmalm
Norrmalm is host to Stockholm's busy Central Station. Aside from the many shopping streets like Drottninggatan that house Stockholm's largest retail stores, this neighbourhood is also home to the National Parliament building. Accommodation options here are sparse and are at the higher end of property prices in the city.
Södermalm
If you're looking for a trendy area with everything from boho chic to artistic flair, Söder is a great place to start your search. Apartments around the main street Götgatan are pricey, while the southern parts are more affordable and perfect for forward-thinking youngsters who enjoy city life and its accompanying sounds. Some of the outer Söder areas are more residential and suited to families.
Kungsholmen
Kungsholmen is located on an island across the water from Norrmalm. If you're fine with a bit of a commute to the city centre, it's a nice residential neighbourhood with everything you need in terms of restaurants, cafés, and grocery stores ' and of course public transport connections to the other islands.
Djurgården
One of the smaller neighbourhoods in Stockholm, Djurgården has several green areas that are perfect for a picnic with the kids after a visit to the open-air museum/zoo at Skansen. Expect to pay around SEK 7,000 for a 15m² room in a shared apartment and around double for a one-room apartment.
Vasastaden
Vasastaden has some great residential areas that will work well for expats with families. This quiet neighbourhood is a good blend of quaint architecture and modern cafés; perfectly suited to expats who want more affordable options while avoiding the touristy areas in Stockholm.
Östermalm
This is a residential area suited to anyone with deep pockets. It's the most exclusive neighbourhood in Stockholm and boasts luxury retail stores, impressive architecture, and expensive restaurants. If that sounds out of your budget, feel free to roam the beautiful Humlegården and Royal Library in the area free of charge.
Suburban and residential areas outside the city
Bromma
To the northwest of Stockholm is Bromma, a residential area with lots of opportunities for sports and active lifestyles. The neighbourhood has sports arenas and a large stadium, as well as an international school for children of expats.
Danderyd (Djursholm and Stocksund)
Home to another international school, this area includes the suburbs of Djursholm and Stocksund. A 20-minute commute will have you back in the city for work while your family can enjoy the water views and child-friendly surrounds.
Solna and Sundbyberg
Just outside of Stockholm, the residential neighbourhoods of Solna and Sundbyberg can be found. It takes no more than a 20-minute commute to the city centre, yet rental and purchase prices are considerably lower. There are lots of parks and recreational areas for families with kids or young crowds who want to get away from the busy city.
If none of these neighbourhoods strikes your fancy, have a look at Lidingö, Helenelund and Kista (outer Stockholm's ICT hub) with slightly longer commute times.
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