Cost of Living: Bologna vs Stockholm (2026)
Italy vs Sweden — relocation comparison
Settler Essentials
Sources: EIU · Freedom House · Startup Genome · IEA · official immigration portals
The Short Version
- •Rent is 38% cheaper in Bologna ($1130/mo vs $1816/mo for a 1BR city centre).
- •Summers are dramatically warmer in Bologna (31°C vs 20°C).
- •Bologna is safer by homicide rate (0.6 vs 1.1 per 100k).
- •Stockholm scores higher on democracy (9.4 vs 7.6 / 10 EIU).
- •Street-level English is easier in Stockholm (71/100 vs 29/100).
Bologna vs Stockholm — Common Questions
Is Bologna cheaper than Stockholm?▾
Bologna is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $1130/month in Bologna vs $1816/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, Bologna or Stockholm?▾
Bologna is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Bologna has a rate of 0.57 per 100,000 and Stockholm has 1.10 per 100,000.
Should I move to Bologna or Stockholm?▾
Stockholm edges ahead 75 to 68. Bologna isn't far behind — it depends what matters to you. See the full comparison above for rent, safety, internet speed, climate, and democracy scores to decide which city fits your priorities.
Is it easier to get residency in Bologna or Stockholm?▾
Bologna: no specific remote work visa. Stockholm: Sweden Self-Employment Permit (complex process, 2 years (renewable)). See each city's profile page for full requirements.
Which has better weather, Bologna or Stockholm?▾
Bologna is warmer in summer (31°C vs 20°C). Stockholm has milder summers, which suits those who prefer cooler weather. Climate preference is personal — use the weather section above to compare seasons.
Can I live in Bologna or Stockholm without speaking the local language?▾
Stockholm is easier for street-level English (71/100) than Bologna (29/100). That's the score that matters for doctors, landlords, and bureaucracy. Office English can still run higher than street English in both cities.
Don't agree? Take the quiz and see what fits you.
Factor in your salary, family size, weather preferences, and deal-breakers.
Related comparisons