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Find your place in Stockholm with a local home finder

For students, companies and professionals, all over the world.

Remoters puts you in touch with a home finder living there, who speaks your language, searches to your criteria, views on your behalf and stays with you through to the signed lease.

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Your home finder, on site
An English-speaking home finder, based on site

They know the neighbourhoods, the rents and how the local market works, and they speak your language.

Shortlists properties and visits them for you

Listings, agencies, local network: they shortlist to your criteria and view properties on your behalf.

Backs your application and negotiates the lease

They present your application to the landlord and negotiate the lease terms for you.

Every step protected, no hidden surprises

Verified home, lease reviewed, secure payment: you sign knowing exactly what you are getting.

5,000+ clients supported
★★★★★ 4.8/5 on Google, 1,100+ reviews
220+ cities
60+ countries

What does a home finder actually do?

Six missions, from the first brief to key handover.

Illustration: scoping the search

They scope your search

Real budget, viable neighbourhoods, size, life constraints. The brief is written before the first listing — that's what saves three months of pointless viewings.

Illustration: local market specialist

They comb the whole market

Portals, local agencies, private landlords: your home finder checks every new listing daily and contacts agencies on your behalf, so nothing slips through.

Illustration: viewings and neighbourhoods

They visit for you

Filmed viewings, an honest report, walks through the neighbourhood at different hours. You no longer need to travel: your home finder does it all for you remotely.

Illustration: price negotiation

They assess and negotiate

Local rent levels, service charges, the state of the property, lease length. Concrete arguments to negotiate the terms — on your side, this time.

Illustration: securing the application

They secure the application

Locally required documents, guarantor, translation, review of the lease and the inventory. This is where foreign applications most often fall apart.

Illustration: saving time when settling in

They stay with you until you're settled in

Inventory, key handover, utilities set-up, first admin steps. Your home finder doesn't disappear once the contract is signed: they remain a valuable contact for any questions about life on the ground.

What you get

Safety

No scams, verified homes, secure payment.

Speed

A home found in a few weeks.

Human

Guided by a local home finder, in your language.

Peace of mind

Everything handled remotely, stress-free.

How it works

Four steps, from your request to the signed lease.

1

We get acquainted

You start by filling in a short questionnaire to tell us a bit more about your search.

2

Free first call

One of our home finders then takes over and contacts you for a free first conversation. The goal? Understanding exactly what you need.

3

The adventure begins

If it clicks and you want to move forward, you receive a tailored quote. Once approved, the search begins!

4

Heading to your new home

Your home finder searches for you, shares their finds, stays with you through to signing the lease — all that’s left is packing your bags.

I describe my search

Why us

Join a community of happy clients.

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Stockholm
Stockholm is the capital of Sweden and one of Scandinavia's largest cities, built across 14 islands where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea. The city is known for its high quality of life, extensive public transport network — including the metro (tunnelbana), commuter trains, and ferries — and a strong international community. The rental market is highly competitive, with the Stockholm Housing Agency (Bostadsförmedlingen) managing a housing queue where average wait times for inner-city regulated apartments exceed 9 years; most newcomers access housing through the open second-hand market. Key neighbourhoods for long-term renters include Södermalm, Vasastan, Östermalm, and Kungsholmen in the inner city, as well as suburban areas such as Solna, Sundbyberg, and Nacka. Rents rose approximately 5–6% year-on-year in 2025, with two-bedroom apartments in central areas averaging around 19,000 SEK/month on the open market (Guestly Homes, 2025).

Stockholm in brief: A highly competitive rental market with two systems — regulated first-hand contracts (long queue, lower rents) and open-market second-hand contracts (faster access, higher rents). Most newcomers rent on the second-hand market. Expect to pay from 8,000 SEK/month for a studio in an outer district to 19,000 SEK/month or more for a two-bedroom apartment in a central neighbourhood (2025 data). Key areas for expats include Södermalm, Vasastan, Östermalm, and Kungsholmen. Register with Bostadsförmedlingen early, prepare your documents in advance, and never pay before viewing.

Stockholm consistently ranks among Europe's most liveable cities, combining a high quality of life with a dynamic international environment. Here are the main reasons people choose to settle here long-term:

  • Exceptional public transport: Stockholm is served by an extensive network of metro (tunnelbana), commuter trains, buses, trams, and ferries. A single monthly pass covers all modes of transport, and the city is also highly cycle-friendly with dedicated bike lanes throughout the urban core.
  • Nature within the city: Built across 14 islands where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea, Stockholm offers immediate access to water, parks, and archipelago nature. Djurgården, Hagaparken, and the Stockholm Archipelago are all easily reachable.
  • Strong international community: Stockholm is home to a large and well-established expat community, with international schools, English-speaking services, and a welcoming, English-proficient population.
  • Culture and innovation: The city hosts world-class museums (Vasa Museum, ABBA Museum, Fotografiska), a thriving tech and startup scene, and a rich cultural calendar. Many museums offer free or low-cost entry.
  • Safety and social infrastructure: Stockholm has low crime rates and a well-functioning public healthcare and education system. High-quality bilingual and international schools are available, particularly in central and suburban areas (Expat Arrivals).
  • Sustainability: Stockholm is a global leader in urban sustainability, with green spaces, clean air, and a strong commitment to eco-friendly urban planning.

Day-to-day life in Stockholm is well-organised and comfortable, though it comes with a higher cost of living than most European capitals. Here is what to expect in practical terms:

  • Getting around: Stockholm's public transport network — metro (tunnelbana), commuter trains (pendeltåg), buses, trams, and ferries — is extensive and reliable. A monthly travel card covers all modes and is the most cost-effective option for daily commuters. The city is also very cycle-friendly, with dedicated lanes across the urban area.
  • Healthcare: Sweden has a public healthcare system (landsting/region). Once registered with Skatteverket and holding a personnummer, you are entitled to subsidised healthcare. Private clinics are also available for faster access.
  • Language: Swedish is the official language, but English is widely spoken throughout Stockholm, including in shops, restaurants, public services, and workplaces. Most official documents and services are available in English.
  • Schooling: Stockholm has a large number of bilingual and international schools, making it well-suited for families with children. International schools are particularly concentrated in central and suburban areas.
  • Shopping and daily life: Major supermarket chains (ICA, Coop, Lidl, Willys) are found throughout the city. Eating out and alcohol are relatively expensive compared to other European cities. Many museums and cultural venues offer free or low-cost entry.
  • Administrative registration: Upon securing a rental and moving in, register your address with the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) to obtain your personnummer — a personal identity number required for opening a bank account, accessing healthcare, and most other services.

Stockholm's rental market is characterised by high demand and limited supply, making it one of the most competitive in Northern Europe. According to Boverket (2024/2025), 255 out of Sweden's 290 municipalities report a housing shortage, and Stockholm is among the most affected. The city's official vacancy rate sits at around 1.3% (Investropa, 2025), reflecting the acute scarcity of available rentals.

The market operates through two parallel systems. First-hand contracts (förstahandskontrakt) are allocated through the official housing queue managed by Bostadsförmedlingen (the Stockholm Housing Agency), where apartments are assigned based on accumulated queue time. The average wait for a centrally located apartment exceeds 9 years, and popular areas like Södermalm or Vasastan can require 15–20 years of queue time (HomeSpotter, 2025). Second-hand contracts (andrahandskontrakt) — sublets from primary leaseholders — are the main route for newcomers and expats. These are available more quickly but at open-market prices, which are roughly 60–80% higher than regulated rents (Investropa, 2025). The average time to secure a second-hand rental has doubled to approximately 28 days in 2025, signalling a tightening market. Rents rose approximately 5–6% year-on-year in 2025, with inner-city neighbourhoods like Östermalm and Vasastan commanding premiums of 20–30% over outer areas.

Stockholm's neighbourhoods each have a distinct character, and the right choice depends on your lifestyle, budget, and proximity to work or schools. Here is an overview of the main areas for long-term renters:

  • Östermalm: The most upscale inner-city district, known for its grand architecture, luxury boutiques, embassies, and the historic Östermalmshallen market. Rents are among the highest in the city. Ideal for those seeking a prestigious central address.
  • Vasastan: A lively, residential neighbourhood popular with young professionals and families. Close to the city centre, with excellent cafés, restaurants, and green spaces. Rents are high but slightly below Östermalm levels.
  • Södermalm: A vibrant island to the south of the city centre, known for its creative scene, independent shops, and diverse restaurant offer. Very popular with expats and young professionals. Rents are high, and queue times for regulated apartments are among the longest in the city.
  • Kungsholmen: A residential island to the west, offering waterfront promenades along Lake Mälaren, parks such as Rålambshovsparken, and a calmer atmosphere. Slightly more affordable than Östermalm or Södermalm, with two-bedroom apartments typically ranging from 14,000–17,000 SEK/month (Investropa, 2025).
  • Hammarby Sjöstad: A modern, eco-friendly waterfront district south-east of the centre. Popular with families and professionals seeking newer housing stock and good transport links.
  • Solna, Sundbyberg, and Nacka: Well-connected suburban municipalities offering lower rents than the inner city while maintaining easy access to central Stockholm by metro or commuter train. Increasingly popular with expat families.
  • Farsta, Skärholmen, Vällingby, and Hässelby: More affordable outer districts, suitable for those prioritising budget over central location.

Stockholm is one of Scandinavia's most expensive rental markets. Rents have risen approximately 5–6% year-on-year in 2025, driven by a persistent housing shortage across the Stockholm region (Investropa, 2025). The rental market is split into two systems: regulated first-hand contracts (förstahandskontrakt), which offer lower, rent-controlled prices but require joining a housing queue that can take 9 years or more on average for inner-city apartments (Bostadsförmedlingen); and second-hand contracts (andrahandskontrakt), which are more readily available but priced at open-market rates. For most newcomers and expats, the second-hand market is the practical starting point. Budget at least 10,000–12,000 SEK/month for a modest studio or one-bedroom in a well-connected area, and upwards of 18,000–20,000 SEK/month for a two-bedroom apartment in a sought-after central neighbourhood.

Rental prices in Stockholm vary considerably depending on apartment size, location, and the type of contract. According to 2025 market data, a studio apartment on the open (second-hand) market typically ranges from 8,000 SEK/month in outer districts to 13,000 SEK/month or more for a furnished unit in the inner city. A one-bedroom apartment in a central neighbourhood averages around 14,000–17,000 SEK/month, while the same size outside the centre can be found from approximately 9,000 SEK/month. A two-bedroom apartment in prime central areas such as Södermalm, Vasastan, or Kungsholmen averages around 19,000 SEK/month (Guestly Homes, 2025). Suburban districts like Hägersten, Skärholmen, Farsta, and Vällingby offer more affordable options, generally 20–30% below inner-city rates. It is important to note that regulated first-hand rents are significantly lower than open-market second-hand rents — newcomers should budget for second-hand market prices, which are roughly 60–80% higher than official regulated rents (Investropa, 2025).

Renting in Stockholm comes with specific pitfalls that newcomers should be aware of:

  • Paying before viewing: Never transfer a deposit or any rent payment before you have visited the apartment in person and signed a written lease agreement (hyresavtal). Scammers frequently request advance payments, claiming to be abroad (HomeSpotter, 2025).
  • Ignoring the contract type: Confusing a second-hand contract (andrahandskontrakt) with a first-hand contract (förstahandskontrakt) can lead to unexpected terminations. Always clarify which type of contract you are signing and what protections apply.
  • Underestimating the housing queue: Many newcomers assume they can quickly obtain a regulated first-hand rental. In reality, the average wait through Bostadsförmedlingen exceeds 9 years for inner-city apartments (HomeSpotter, 2025). Register early and explore parallel channels.
  • Accepting unverified listings: Listings with unusually low rents, landlords unwilling to provide identification, or requests for payment via untraceable methods are strong warning signs. Use reputable platforms and verify landlord identity through official channels.
  • Not reading the lease carefully: Ensure the lease complies with Swedish rental law (Jordabalken, chapter 12). Pay attention to notice periods, deposit conditions, and subletting clauses before signing.
  • Overlooking utility costs: Some rentals exclude heating, electricity, or internet from the monthly rent. Always confirm what is included to avoid unexpected additional costs.
  • Register with Bostadsförmedlingen immediately: Even if you do not need housing right now, register with the Stockholm Housing Agency and pay the annual fee. Queue time is your most valuable asset for accessing regulated first-hand rentals in the future.
  • Use multiple search channels simultaneously: Combine Blocket Bostad, Qasa, Hemnet, and direct landlord websites with Facebook expat groups and personal networks. In 2024, approximately 15% of rentals were sourced through referrals (Guestly Homes, 2025).
  • Prepare your dossier in advance: Have your proof of income, employment contract, credit report (UC-rapport), and ID ready before you start applying. Landlords move quickly in this market.
  • Never pay before viewing: Always visit the apartment in person before signing any contract or transferring any money. This is the single most effective way to avoid rental fraud.
  • Understand your contract type: Know whether you are signing a first-hand or second-hand contract, and what protections each offers under Swedish rental law (Jordabalken, chapter 12).
  • Consider suburban areas: Neighbourhoods like Solna, Sundbyberg, Nacka, and Hammarby Sjöstad offer good value and strong transport links to the city centre, often at significantly lower rents than the inner city.
  • Budget for rent increases: Stockholm rents have been rising at 5–6% per year (Investropa, 2025). Factor this into your medium-term financial planning.
  • Check what is included in the rent: Always confirm whether heating, hot water, electricity, and internet are included in the quoted monthly rent to avoid unexpected additional costs.

Navigating Stockholm's competitive rental market can be challenging, especially for newcomers and expats unfamiliar with the local system. Remoters provides personalised rental search support to help you find long-term accommodation in Stockholm efficiently and safely. This includes guidance on identifying the right neighbourhood for your needs and budget, assistance with preparing a strong rental application dossier, support in understanding Swedish lease agreements and tenant rights, and access to a curated network of verified listings and local contacts. Whether you are relocating for work, family, or a change of lifestyle, having expert local support can significantly reduce the time and stress involved in securing a quality long-term rental in Stockholm.

What our clients say

Anais
Arnaud
Anais
Our son has to continue his studies in Stockholm for a period of 2 years. By chance we discovered Remoters and we were contacted by Anaïs who lives locally. Very active and professional, she gave us a lot of information about the particularities of life in Sweden. She advised us on the different neighborhoods and offered us several rentals, she carried out the visits of the apartments on our behalf. She was an admirable contact for us. The search was quick, efficient, while perfectly respecting our specifications. Thank you to Anaïs for her kindness and professionalism, I recommend her services 100%.
Anais
Randa
Anais
Madame Anaïs Ortega was a remarkable help. She immediately put us at ease and maintained excellent contact with us. She was direct, clear and understood our needs with agility. Despite a very short search period, thanks to her precision and dedication, she was able to find us the apartment we were looking for. She accompanied us to the end with pleasure, taking care of every detail.
Anais
Eric
Anais
In the context of a search for a shared place in Stockholm, we were put in touch with a great home finder (Anais): for the equivalent of agency fees in France, we were able to rely on her expertise, her knowledge of the area, her availability and her kindness. She was a great intermediary with the owners, attentive to our needs. If we had to do it again, we would do it with our eyes closed.
Anais
Anne
Anais
Hello, we were lucky to have Anais Ortega's help, Mathilde (my daughter) is now well settled in her very nice apartment, she is very happy, and is starting her new life with enthusiasm thanks to Anais. A thousand thanks to Anais

When you arrive, aim for a second-hand contract (andrahandsuthyrning): it is almost the only supply available straight away. First-hand contracts, with regulated rents, go through the Bostadsförmedlingen queue, with a wait of seven to ten years for a central one-bedroom. Sign up anyway on arrival, for about SEK 250/year, and search in parallel on Blocket, Qasa, HomeQ or Bostadsportalen.

ID, proof of income or an employment contract, sometimes an employer letter, and very often a personnummer. This Swedish identity number, issued by Skatteverket once you meet the residence conditions, is essential to finalise a lease and open a bank account. Apply as early as possible: without it, everything slows down considerably.

Allow from SEK 8,000/month for a studio on the outskirts, and SEK 10,000 to 15,000/month in the centre. Farsta, Skärholmen, Vällingby and Hässelby are the cheapest; Hammarby Sjöstad, Liljeholmen, Solna and Sundbyberg stay affordable and well linked by the SL network. Plan for a deposit of two months' rent; water and heating are often included.

The first risk is a fake listing: the tight market attracts fraud, so never pay a deposit before you have visited and signed a written contract. The second is subletting without consent: insist on the head landlord's written permission, otherwise the lease can be cancelled. Finally, be wary of very low rents, often first-hand contracts that newcomers cannot access.

A rental search in Stockholm usually costs between €500 and €800: the range we have seen across the searches carried out in Stockholm since February 2025. The exact price depends on your search; your home finder sets it in a written quote, free and with no commitment.

You pay online through the platform, never directly to the home finder. The security deposit and local fees (agency, check-in inventory) are not included.

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