Labour Market Information: Sweden

National level - Sweden

^{* The years referenced in this report vary, as the data is based on the most up-to-date information available for each indicator, as of December 2024.}

Labour market

As of 1 January 2024, about 10.6 million people lived in Sweden. The gross domestic product per inhabitant was EUR 53 700 in 2022, 51.7% higher than the average of EUR 35 400 per inhabitant in the EU27. Between 2018 and 2022, the GDP per capita increased by 16%.

^{Note: nama_10r_2gdp, Statistics | Eurostat (europa.eu)}

In 2023, more than 5.8 million people were active on the labour market in Sweden. The employment rate was 77.4%, 7 percentage points higher than the EU27 average and almost identical to 2018. In 2023, for women, the employment rate was 75.6%, for men, the employment rate was 79.1%, and for youth, the employment rate was 44.8%, all above the EU average.

^{Note: lfst_r_lfe2emprt, data refer to working age population (15-64), youth age group (15-24)  Statistics | Eurostat (europa.eu)}

In 2023, the unemployment rate was nearly matching the level registered in 2022. In 2023, the unemployment rate returned to the level before the pandemic, when it equalled 6.5% in 2018, and 7% in 2019. The unemployment rate fluctuated compared to the EU27 average in the year(s) 2018 it was below the EU27 average, with rates of 6.5 %, respectively In the year(s) 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 it was above the EU27 average, with rates of 7 %, 8.5 %, 9.1 %, 7.6 %, 7.8 %, respectively. In 2023, it was 1.7 percentage points higher in Sweden than in the EU27.

In 2023, 73.7% of the active workforce were from Sweden, 5.7% from other EU Member States and 19.8 from third countries. In the EU27, as of 2023, the highest proportion of the workforce comes from the respective country (85% on average), while on average a smaller portion is from foreign countries (4.3% from other EU Member States, and 10.5% from third countries).

In 2022, most employees worked in wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles (17.4%), followed by manufacturing (16.4%), construction (10.6%) and administrative and support service activities (8.9%). In terms of number of enterprises, most can be found in professional, scientific and technical activities (22.4%), wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles (13.8%), and construction (13.2%).

In Sweden, the highest proportion of employees (46.1%) worked in large companies with more than 250 employees. These companies accounted for only 0.2% of all enterprises in the country, with just 1 575 of such businesses. 18% of persons employed worked in medium companies with 50 to 249 employees, 17.3% of persons employed worked in micro companies with up to 9 employees, 10.5% of persons employed worked in small companies with 20 to 49 employees and 8% of persons employed worked in small companies with 10 to 19 employees.

Vacancies

In 2024, in Sweden, the occupational groups with the highest occurrence of shortage occupations were: health professionals, building and related trades workers (excluding electricians) and health associate professionals. On the other hand, the occupational groups with the highest occurrence of surplus occupations were business and administration associate professionals, labourers in mining, construction, manufacturing and transport and business and administration professionals.

Read more about labour shortages and surpluses in Europe: Labour shortages and surpluses in Europe 2023 | European Labour Authority (europa.eu)

Job vacancy rate

Regarding the job vacancy rate (defined as the number of job vacancies expressed as a percentage of the total sum of occupied posts and job vacancies), in 2023 this was 2.8 % in the industry, construction and services, nearly matching the EU27 average. This rate has increased by 0.3 percentage points compared to 2022 and it is still above the situation before 2020, when it stood only at 2.4%.

^{Note: jvs_a_rate_r2, Statistics | Eurostat}

The sectors with the highest vacancy rates were human health and social work activities; education; arts, entertainment and recreation; public administration and defence; compulsory social security; administrative and support services.

^{Note: jvs_a_rate_r2, Statistics | Eurostat}

Widely used job portals

Wages

Minimum wage

As of 2024, Sweden did not have a statutory minimum wage and relied on collective bargaining to set wage floors. As collective bargaining in Sweden is high at 88% (OECD-ICTWSS), most workers are covered by some form of wage floor.

Monthly average gross and net earnings

In 2023, the gross average earnings of a single person stood at EUR 3715, while the EU27 average was EUR 3417. The equivalent net wage was EUR 2 827 in Sweden, compared to EUR 2351 in the EU27. Compared to 2018, gross average earnings increased by 2.2% in Sweden and by 19.8% in the EU27. During the same period, the net wages have increased by 3.8% in Sweden and by 22.1% in the EU27.

^{Note: earn_nt_net, Single person earning 100% average, annual rates transformed into 12 monthly payments. Statistics | Eurostat (europa.eu)}

Trends

Go directly to Ageing workforce | Green transition | Remote work| Unemployment

Ageing workforce

As in many European countries the workforce in Sweden is ageing. The relatively low birth rate combined with decreased immigration makes the ageing workforce a growing issue. There are regional differences, in rural areas the concerns regarding an ageing workforce are greater, and several regions with a low population density also have a decreasing population. In such regions labour shortages are expected to increase, especially in the public sector.

Green Transition

Green transition is an international trend with a major effect on the Swedish labour market. In the northern parts of Sweden, the renewable energy sources such as wind and hydro power combined with vast natural recourses, makes the region a centre in the green transition. Thousands of new job opportunities have already been created in the northern parts of Sweden, and the green industries are expected to grow further in the decades to come, which increases the labour demand.

Remote work

In 2023, 31% of employed persons in Sweden sometimes worked from home, compared to 13.3% in the EU27. Additionally, 14.3% of employed persons in Sweden usually worked from home, while in the EU27 it was 8.9%.

^{Note: lfsa_ehomp, Product - Datasets - Eurostat}

Unemployment (e.g. long-term, youth, female, structural or low-skilled)

Despite the significant shortages on the Swedish labour market, the unemployment rate is higher in Sweden than in many neighbouring countries. About 40 per cent of the registered unemployed at the Swedish PES are considered long-term unemployed (unemployed for 12 months or more). The high number of long-term unemployed is a prioritised issue for the Swedish PES, and there are several educational and work experience efforts aimed at the group.

Stockholm

With 2 440 027 inhabitants, Stockholm represented about 23.2% of the population in Sweden in 2023.

The gross domestic product per capita, adjusted for price levels (PPS) in Stockholm was 202.8% of the EU27 average, well above the national average of 151.7%.

The capital region Stockholm is the the largest county in Sweden. The region is characterised by a large service sector. Many of the larger Swedish companies also have a headquarter in the county. Stockholm County have a shared labour market with major parts of Uppsala County and Södermanland County as parts of the work force in Stockholm County is commuting from said counties.

In 2023, more than 1 429 700 people were active in the labour market in Stockholm. 54.5% had tertiary education, 32.4% had secondary education, and 12.5% had primary education. The employment rate in Stockholm was 67.1 % in 2023, 4.7 percentage points higher than the national average in Sweden and in line with 2022 figures.

The employment rate for women in 2023 was 64.7%, men had an employment rate of 69.6%, and for the youth the employment rate was 43.8%. The employment rates for women and men were above the national average, while the employment rate for the youth was below the national average.

^{Note: lfst_r_lfe2emprt, Statistics | Eurostat (europa.eu), data refer to age group 15 years or over}

The unemployment rate in Stockholm was 6.9% in 2023, in line with the national average in the same year and in line with the previous year.

^{Note: lfst_r_lfu3rt, Statistics | Eurostat, data refer to age group 15 years or over}

Vacancies

Stockholm County has a significant number of vacancies in IT and healthcare occupations. The most in-demand roles include software developers, system analysts, and healthcare workers such as nurses and medical specialists. Sectors like retail, education, and construction also report numerous job openings. The IT sector dominates with roles like network engineers and cybersecurity specialists. Healthcare vacancies prominently feature midwives, physiotherapists, and general practitioners. Education-related roles, including preschool and high school teachers, are consistently in shortage, alongside growing opportunities in public administration and logistics.

Shortages

In Stockholm County, there is a demand for IT specialists, including cybersecurity experts and system developers. Healthcare positions, such as specialist doctors and psychiatric nurses, are in short supply. The construction sector needs certified plumbers and scaffolders. The education sector has shortages of preschool teachers and special educators. Additionally, transport roles, such as bus and taxi drivers, are in demand.

Surpluses

Stockholms County has a surplus of labour in key sectors. Office-based roles, such as administrative assistants and payroll clerks, are abundant in administration, economy, and law. The IT sector is affected by a surplus of system administrators and support technicians. In the hospitality industry, there is an oversupply of café workers and cold kitchen chefs, while lighting technicians are overrepresented in culture and media. Additionally, personal assistants and youth leaders are abundant in social services.

East Middle Sweden (Östra Mellansverige)

Go directly to Uppsala County | Södermanland County | Östergötland County | Örebro County | Västmanland County

With 1 763 645 inhabitants, East Middle Sweden represented about 16.8% of the population in Sweden in 2023.

The gross domestic product per capita, adjusted for price levels (PPS) in East Middle Sweden was 130.8% of the EU27 average, well below the national average of 151.7%.

In 2023, more than 929 800 people were active in the labour market in East Middle Sweden. 42.1% had tertiary education, 42.1% had secondary education, and 15.3% had primary education. The employment rate in East Middle Sweden was 59.2 % in 2023, 3.2 percentage points lower than the national average in Sweden and 1.2 percentage points higher compared to 2022.

The employment rate for women in 2023 was 56%, men had an employment rate of 62.4%, and for the youth the employment rate was 42.8%, all below the national average.

^{Note: lfst_r_lfe2emprt, Statistics | Eurostat (europa.eu), data refer to age group 15 years or over}

The unemployment rate in East Middle Sweden was 9% in 2023, 1.4 points higher than the national average in the same year and in line with the previous year.

^{Note: lfst_r_lfu3rt, Statistics | Eurostat, data refer to age group 15 years or over}

Uppsala County

Uppsala County is geographically close to the capital region Stockholm County, and there is a lot of commuters between the counties. Uppsala is home to the oldest university in the Nordics, Uppsala university, hence the level of education is relatively high in the county. The university, and the many public workplaces connected to the university, makes the public sector an important employer in the county.

Vacancies

In Uppsala County, vacancies are notable in healthcare, education, and biotechnology. Healthcare needs include general practitioners, nurses, and biomedical analysts. Education sectors seek primary and secondary school teachers. The growing biotechnology industry has opened roles for research scientists and lab technicians. Retail, hospitality, and construction sectors also report steady demand for workers, with specific needs for cashiers, hotel staff, and skilled tradespeople like electricians and carpenters.

Shortages

Uppsala County reports shortages in several fields. Healthcare demands include specialist doctors, district nurses, and radiology technicians. The IT sector has high demand for system developers and network engineers. Construction roles, such as certified roofers and painters, are in short supply. In education, preschool and special education teachers are needed. Industrial manufacturing requires machine operators, and transport sectors face a shortage of bus and truck drivers.

Surpluses

Uppsala County has a surplus of labour in various fields. Within administration, economy, and law, roles like receptionists and administrative assistants are overrepresented. The IT sector sees a surplus of IT operations technicians and support technicians. In the hospitality industry, there is an oversupply of hotel receptionists and restaurant staff, while gardeners face heightened competition in nature occupations. Additionally, childcare workers and personal assistants are abundant in social services.

Södermanland County

The eastern parts of Södermanland County are geographically close to the capital region Stockholm County, and there is a lot of commuters between the counties. The labour market in Södermanland County faces several challenges as the county has one of the highest overall unemployment rates in Sweden, as well as one of the highest youth unemployment rates.

Vacancies

Södermanland County reports significant vacancies in healthcare, education, and logistics. Healthcare roles include general nurses, midwives, and specialists in elderly care. The education sector seeks teachers for primary and secondary schools, as well as special education instructors. Logistics and warehousing are expanding, with demand for truck drivers and warehouse staff. The construction sector also needs skilled tradespeople such as carpenters and electricians. Retail and hospitality industries add to the job market with roles for sales assistants and restaurant workers.

Shortages

In Södermanland County, labour shortages are evident in healthcare, where there is demand for district nurses, psychologists, and specialist doctors. The IT sector needs software developers and IT security specialists. Construction roles, such as certified carpenters and plumbers, are in short supply. In education, preschool and vocational teachers are needed. Industrial manufacturing faces shortages of welders and assemblers, while social services require social workers.

Surpluses

Södermanlands County features a surplus of labour in several fields. In administration, economy, and law, there is an oversupply of receptionists and employment officers. The IT sector has a surplus of IT support technicians and system administrators. In the hospitality industry, there is an excess of pizza makers and hotel receptionists, while gardeners and landscapers dominate nature occupations. Personal assistants and elderly care workers are also abundant in social services.

Östergötland County

Östergötland County has a large service sector, not least in the larger cities in the county, Norrköping and Linköping. Located in Linköping is also Linköping University, one of the larger universities in Sweden. Unemployment rates vary in the county, from Norrköping in the north-east, with a significantly higher unemployment rate than the Swedish average, to the south-western parts of the county where the unemployment rates are clearly lower than the average in Sweden.

Vacancies

Östergötland County faces notable vacancies in IT, healthcare, and manufacturing. IT roles such as software developers and systems analysts are in high demand. Healthcare positions include nurses, physiotherapists, and specialists in geriatric care. The manufacturing industry seeks machine operators and CNC specialists. Construction also contributes, needing plumbers and electricians. The education sector looks for qualified teachers, particularly in science and mathematics. Retail and service roles, including sales assistants and customer service representatives, are also in demand.

Shortages

In Östergötland County, healthcare roles, such as psychologists, district nurses, and radiology specialists, face shortages. The IT sector has demand for software developers and network engineers. Construction fields require certified plumbers and carpenters. In education, vocational teachers and preschool teachers are undersupplied. Industrial manufacturing has a shortage of welders and machine operators, while transport roles, such as bus and truck drivers, are also in demand.

Surpluses

Östergötlands County has a surplus of labour in key occupations. In administration, economy, and law, there is an oversupply of administrative assistants and receptionists. The IT sector is affected by a surplus of system administrators and IT operations technicians. In the hospitality industry, there is an oversupply of café workers and cold kitchen chefs, while gardeners dominate nature occupations. Additionally, personal assistants and elderly care workers are abundant in social services.

Örebro County

Örebro County is dominated by the city of Örebro, where more than half of the county’s population lives. Örebro is also home to Örebro University. The public sector is an important employer in Örebro County, for instance, Statistics Sweden is located in the county. The manufacturing industry is also slightly larger in Örebro County compared to the average in Sweden, whilst the service sector is smaller than the average in Sweden.

Vacancies

Örebro County, a hub of industrial and logistical activity, faces significant demand for skilled labor. The healthcare sector requires nurses, doctors, and physiotherapists to meet the needs of its growing population. Educational institutions highlight a shortage of preschool and subject-specific teachers, particularly in mathematics and science. Örebro’s manufacturing industry advertises vacancies for machinists, welders, and CNC operators, while the transportation sector requires truck drivers and warehouse personnel. IT roles, including software developers and system administrators, remain unfilled due to the region’s expanding digitalization efforts. Hospitality and retail sectors also report a need for service workers, reflecting Örebro’s economic diversity.

Shortages

Örebro County reports shortages in healthcare, particularly for district nurses, specialist doctors, and physiotherapists. In construction, certified roofers and plumbers are in demand. IT roles, such as software developers and system analysts, face shortages. The education sector needs preschool teachers and special educators, while industrial manufacturing requires vehicle assemblers and machinists. Transport roles, including truck and taxi drivers, are also undersupplied.

Surpluses

Örebro County has a surplus of labour in several sectors. Within administration, economy, and law, roles such as receptionists and employment officers are overrepresented. The IT sector sees an excess of system administrators and IT support technicians. The hospitality industry is affected by an oversupply of hotel receptionists and café workers, while gardeners face competition in nature occupations. Additionally, childcare workers and elderly care workers are in surplus in social services.

Västmanland County

Västmanland County has one of Sweden’s lowest employment rates, one of the highest unemployment rates, as well as one of the highest youth unemployment rates. The labour market is characterised by a large manufacturing industry, close to 20 per cent of the working population in the region is employed in the manufacturing industry.

Vacancies

Västmanland showcases a growing need for healthcare and education professionals. Nurses, doctors, and physiotherapists are in high demand across the county. The manufacturing industry also seeks skilled roles such as CNC operators and electricians. Educational institutions are actively looking for teachers, particularly in STEM subjects. Logistics and warehouse roles, driven by the county’s central location, also show numerous vacancies, making Västmanland a hub of mixed professional opportunities.

Shortages

Västmanland County has labour shortages in construction, particularly for certified carpenters and plumbers. Healthcare roles, such as psychiatric nurses, physiotherapists, and radiology specialists, are in demand. In IT, cybersecurity specialists and software developers face shortages. Education roles, including vocational and preschool teachers, are needed. Additionally, industrial manufacturing has demand for welders and machinists.

Surpluses

Västmanlands County has a surplus of labour in several sectors. Office-based roles, such as administrative assistants and payroll clerks, are overrepresented in administration, economy, and law. The IT sector has a surplus of IT operations technicians and support technicians. In the hospitality industry, there is an oversupply of café workers and cold kitchen chefs, while landscapers dominate nature occupations. Additionally, personal assistants and childcare workers are abundant in social services.

Småland and the islands (Småland med öarna)

Go directly to Jönköping County | Kronoberg County | Kalmar County | Gotland County 

With 882 332 inhabitants, Småland and the islands represented about 8.4% of the population in Sweden in 2023.

The gross domestic product per capita, adjusted for price levels (PPS) in Småland and the islands was 130.2% of the EU27 average, well below the national average of 151.7%.

In 2023, more than 463 600 people were active in the labour market in Småland and the islands. 39.6% had tertiary education, 43.5% had secondary education, and 16.5% had primary education. The employment rate in Småland and the islands was 60.6 % in 2023, 1.8 percentage points lower than the national average in Sweden and in line with 2022 figures.

The employment rate for women in 2023 was 54.5%, men had an employment rate of 66.5%, and for the youth the employment rate was 46.5%. The employment rate for women was below the national average, while the employment rates for men and the youth were above the national average.

^{Note: lfst_r_lfe2emprt, Statistics | Eurostat (europa.eu), data refer to age group 15 years or over}

The unemployment rate in Småland and the islands was 6.8% in 2023, in line with the national average in the same year and in line with the previous year.

^{Note: lfst_r_lfu3rt, Statistics | Eurostat, data refer to age group 15 years or over}

Jönköping County

Jönköping County is the county in Sweden where the manufacturing industry makes up the larges part of the labour market. 22 per cent of the people working in the county is employed in the manufacturing industry, which can be compared to the average in Sweden, which is 12 per cent. In the biggest city in the region, there are several large employers, but the region is well known for its small businesses, and self-employment is widespread in Jönköping County.

Vacancies

Jönköping County has a growing need for workers in healthcare, manufacturing, and education. Healthcare roles include general nurses, midwives, and physiotherapists. Manufacturing industries seek machine operators and production staff, especially in the metalworking sector. Education vacancies focus on teachers for primary and secondary schools. Logistics and warehousing also report job openings, particularly for forklift operators and truck drivers. Retail, hospitality, and construction further contribute to the demand for workers in this region.

Shortages

Jönköping County experiences shortages in construction, particularly certified carpenters and painters. Healthcare positions, such as district nurses and radiology specialists, are in demand. IT roles, including software developers and IT security specialists, face shortages. In education, preschool and high school teachers are needed, while industrial manufacturing requires assemblers and machinists. Social services also have a demand for care providers.

Surpluses

Jönköpings County features a surplus of labour in several sectors. In administration, economy, and law, there is an oversupply of employment officers and payroll clerks. The IT sector is affected by a surplus of support technicians and IT operations technicians. In the hospitality industry, there is an excess of hotel receptionists and café workers. Additionally, assemblers of metal, rubber, and plastic products are overrepresented in industrial manufacturing, and security guards and officers face high competition in the security sector.

Kronoberg County

In Kronoberg County, the manufacturing industry plays an important role. Kronoberg is the home county of one of the largest businesses to emerge from Sweden, IKEA, and it is still an important employer in the region. The company is not only employing people from Kronoberg County, but commuters from surrounding counties too. Växjö, the largest city in the region, is home to the Linnaeus University.

Vacancies

Kronoberg County shows demand across healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics. Healthcare roles include nurses, midwives, and physiotherapists. Manufacturing needs encompass machine operators and CNC specialists. The logistics sector seeks truck drivers and warehouse staff. Education roles, especially for math and science teachers, remain unfilled. The construction industry continues to require carpenters and plumbers, while retail and hospitality industries report a steady need for sales assistants and kitchen staff.

Shortages

In Kronoberg County, certified plumbers and roofers are in demand in construction. Healthcare positions, including specialist doctors and radiology nurses, face shortages. IT professionals, such as software developers and IT security specialists, are needed. The education sector has shortages of vocational and special education teachers. Industrial manufacturing requires assemblers and welders, while transport roles like bus and taxi drivers are also in high demand.

Surpluses

Kronobergs County faces a surplus of labour across several sectors. Within administration, economy, and law, there is an oversupply of administrative assistants and receptionists. The IT sector has an excess of IT operations technicians and system administrators. In the hospitality industry, there is a surplus of pizza makers and hotel receptionists, while recycling workers are overrepresented in cleaning and waste management. Additionally, personal assistants and elderly care workers are abundant in social services, and forklift drivers face competition in the transportation sector.

Kalmar County

In Kalmar County, located on the east coast of Sweden, the service sector makes up a relatively small part of the labour market. Instead, the manufacturing industry is larger in the region than in other parts of Sweden. Öland, Sweden’s second largest island, is an important part of Kalmar County. In the summer months Öland attracts a lot of tourism, generating important opportunities for seasonal employment.

Vacancies

In Kalmar County, vacancies are prominent in healthcare, education, and agriculture. Healthcare positions include nurses, physiotherapists, and general practitioners. The education sector seeks primary and secondary school teachers. Agriculture needs seasonal workers, including farmhands and machinery operators. Retail and hospitality sectors report steady job openings, including roles for cashiers and kitchen assistants. The construction industry adds to the demand for skilled workers like electricians and plumbers.

Shortages

Kalmar County faces shortages of workers in construction, such as certified roofers and painters. Healthcare roles, including psychologists, district nurses, and physiotherapists, are in demand. The IT sector requires software developers and system analysts. The education sector has shortages of preschool teachers, while industrial manufacturing needs vehicle assemblers and machine operators. Transport sectors face a lack of bus and taxi drivers.

Surpluses

Kalmar County experiences a surplus of labour across various fields. Within administration, economy, and law, roles like administrative assistants and payroll clerks are overrepresented. The IT sector sees a surplus of system administrators and support technicians. In the hospitality industry, there is an oversupply of cold kitchen chefs and café workers. Outdoor roles, including gardeners and landscapers, face heightened competition in nature occupations, while personal assistants and childcare workers are abundant in social services.

Gotland County

Gotland is an island in the Baltic Sea, and Gotland County consists of only one municipality that covers the entire island. Gotland County is the least populated county in Sweden, and due to its geographical conditions, the possibilities to commute to and from the county is limited. The labour market differs from the average in several ways. The public sector employs a higher ratio of the population in Gotland County than in any other county, and the same is true for the agricultural sector. Tourism is another important sector in Gotland County, making seasonal employment an important factor during the summer months.

Vacancies

Gotland’s labour market highlights a unique demand for roles in health and education sectors. Key vacancies include nurses, primary school teachers, and preschool teachers. Additionally, skilled workers in construction, such as carpenters and electricians, are in high demand. The tourism and service industries also seek chefs, hotel staff, and waitstaff due to the island’s popularity as a tourist destination. These vacancies reflect both seasonal trends and long-term needs for healthcare and education professionals to support the local community.

Shortages

Gotland experiences a shortage of workers in diverse fields. Certified plumbers, carpenters, and painters are needed in construction. Healthcare demands include psychologists, physiotherapists, and elderly care nurses. IT professionals, such as system developers, are in short supply. The education sector faces shortages of preschool and high school teachers. In industrial manufacturing, machine operators and assemblers are in demand, while social services need care providers and social workers.

Surpluses

Gotlands County faces a surplus of labour across multiple fields. Within administration, economy, and law, there is an oversupply of payroll clerks and employment officers. The IT sector sees competition among system administrators and support technicians. In the hospitality industry, there is an oversupply of hotel receptionists and cold kitchen chefs, while gardeners and landscapers dominate nature occupations. The transportation sector is also affected by an oversupply of logistics coordinators and forklift drivers.

South Sweden (Sydsverige)

Go directly to Blekinge County | Skåne County

With 1 573 064 inhabitants, South Sweden represented about 15% of the population in Sweden in 2023.

The gross domestic product per capita, adjusted for price levels (PPS) in South Sweden was 128.5% of the EU27 average, well below the national average of 151.7%.

In 2023, more than 865 000 people were active in the labour market in South Sweden. 47.2% had tertiary education, 38.6% had secondary education, and 13.6% had primary education. The employment rate in South Sweden was 61.5 % in 2023, in line with the national average and 1.9 percentage points higher compared to 2022.

The employment rate for women in 2023 was 58.8%, men had an employment rate of 64.2%, and for the youth the employment rate was 40.5%, all below the national average.

^{Note: lfst_r_lfe2emprt, Statistics | Eurostat (europa.eu), data refer to age group 15 years or over}

The unemployment rate in South Sweden was 9.3% in 2023, 1.7 points higher than the national average in the same year and in line with the previous year.

^{Note: lfst_r_lfu3rt, Statistics | Eurostat, data refer to age group 15 years or over}

Blekinge County

Blekinge County is the smallest county in Sweden by land area, and the third smallest by population. The county is characterised by a large manufacturing industry, especially in the defence industry and in car manufacturing. The Swedish armed forces are an important employer in the county, both the navy and the air force is present in Blekinge County. The service sector in on the other hands makes up a smaller part of the labour market in Blekinge County than in any other county.

Vacancies

Blekinge exhibits a pressing demand for skilled professionals in the healthcare and IT sectors. Vacancies for nurses, elderly care workers, and general physicians remain consistent. The growing tech industry has created opportunities for software developers and IT system specialists. The county also has a noticeable gap in trades such as electricians and plumbers, alongside a steady need for teachers across all levels. This balance reflects the dual industrial and community service demands of the region.

Shortages

Blekinge County faces a shortage of workers in several fields. In industrial manufacturing, there is demand for machine operators, vehicle assemblers, and industrial painters. Installation and maintenance roles, such as service electricians and vehicle mechanics, are also in short supply. In healthcare, doctors, acute care nurses, and dental hygienists are in demand. Additionally, IT roles like software developers and network technicians face shortages, while preschool teachers are needed in education.

Surpluses

Blekinge County has a surplus of labour across various occupations. In administration, economy, and law, there is an oversupply of administrative assistants and payroll clerks. The IT sector is affected by heightened competition among IT operations technicians and system administrators. The hospitality industry has an excess of café workers and restaurant staff, while the manufacturing sector sees an oversupply of CNC operators and machine operators in food production. Additionally, the security sector faces a surplus of security guards and officers, and gardeners are overrepresented in nature occupations.

Skåne County

Sweden’s southernmost county Skåne has several labour market challenges. Skåne County has one of Sweden’s highest overall unemployment rates, as well as one of the highest youth unemployment rates. Skåne County is a part of Greater Copenhagen as the biggest city in the region, Malmö, is connected to the Danish capital by the Öresund Bridge. The bridge, as well as the ferries in the north-west part of the county, generates a widespread cross-border commute.

Vacancies

Skåne, a bustling region with diverse industries, has a high demand for healthcare professionals such as nurses, doctors, and elderly care workers. The education sector faces shortages of teachers, especially in STEM and preschool education. Skåne’s growing IT industry advertises vacancies for software developers, IT specialists, and network engineers. The logistics and transportation sectors need drivers and warehouse staff, supported by the county’s strategic location. Additionally, the hospitality industry seeks chefs and hotel staff, reflecting the region’s role as a tourism hub. Vacancies in construction, including electricians and carpenters, further emphasize the dynamic nature of Skåne’s economy.

Shortages

Skåne County faces shortages in construction, particularly certified roofers and carpenters. The healthcare sector requires doctors, radiology nurses, and physiotherapists. IT roles, including software developers and network technicians, are in demand. In industrial manufacturing, assemblers and machinists are needed. The education sector is experiencing shortages of preschool and special education teachers.

Surpluses

Skåne County experiences a surplus of labour across many occupations. Within administration, economy, and law, there is an oversupply of payroll clerks and administrative assistants. The IT sector faces high competition among system administrators and IT support technicians. The hospitality industry is affected by an oversupply of café workers and wait staff, while lighting technicians and museum curators are abundant in culture and media. Additionally, forklift drivers and logistics coordinators dominate the transportation sector.

West Sweden (Västsverige)

Go directly to Halland County | Västra Götaland County

With 2 101 461 inhabitants, West Sweden represented about 20% of the population in Sweden in 2023.

The gross domestic product per capita, adjusted for price levels (PPS) in West Sweden was 146.3% of the EU27 average, below the national average of 151.7%.

In 2023, more than 1 171 600 people were active in the labour market in West Sweden. 44.7% had tertiary education, 41.3% had secondary education, and 13.7% had primary education. The employment rate in West Sweden was 63.6 % in 2023, 1.2 percentage points higher than the national average in Sweden and in line with 2022 figures.

The employment rate for women in 2023 was 60%, men had an employment rate of 67.1%, and for the youth the employment rate was 48.2%, all above the national average.

^{Note: lfst_r_lfe2emprt, Statistics | Eurostat (europa.eu), data refer to age group 15 years or over}

The unemployment rate in West Sweden was 7.3% in 2023, in line with the national average in the same year and in line with the previous year.

^{Note: lfst_r_lfu3rt, Statistics | Eurostat, data refer to age group 15 years or over}

Halland County

Halland County is located on the west coast of Sweden. The county is bordering Sweden’s second most populated county, Västra Götaland, in the north, and Sweden’s third most populated county, Skåne, in the south. The proximity to these metropolitan regions affects the labour market in Halland County where cross-county commuting is common. The labour market in Halland County is also characterised by a relatively low unemployment rate, and a high employment rate.

Vacancies

Halland County, known for its coastal tourism and thriving industries, reports high demand for skilled professionals. The healthcare sector is urgently seeking doctors, nurses, and physiotherapists to support its population. The construction industry highlights vacancies for carpenters, electricians, and VVS technicians due to ongoing infrastructure development. In education, there is a pressing need for preschool and special education teachers. Halland’s growing IT sector struggles to fill roles like software developers and network engineers. Additionally, its robust hospitality and retail industries require chefs, waitstaff, and sales assistants to meet seasonal demands. The transportation sector reports a shortage of truck and bus drivers, essential for supporting the region’s logistics and commuting needs.

Shortages

Halland County’s labour shortages span construction roles, such as certified plumbers and roofers, and healthcare positions, including specialist doctors, midwives, and radiology nurses. IT roles like network engineers and security specialists are in demand. The education sector requires special education teachers and preschool teachers. In industrial manufacturing, welders and machinists are needed, while transport faces a shortage of truck and bus drivers.

Surpluses

Hallands County experiences a surplus of labour across various fields. Within administration, economy, and law, there is a surplus of administrative assistants and employment officers. The IT sector faces competition among IT support technicians and system administrators. In the hospitality industry, there is an oversupply of pizza makers and wait staff, while lighting technicians and museum curators face high competition in culture and media. Forklift drivers and logistics coordinators are also overrepresented in the transportation sector.

Västra Götaland County

Västra Götaland County is one of the most diverse counties in Sweden. The metropolitan region surrounding Sweden’s second largest city, Gothenburg, dominates the western part of the county. However, there are more rural areas in eastern and northern parts of the county. The diverse nature of the county is also present in the economy. In the urban areas of the county there is an extensive service sector, but there is also a widespread industrial sector in the county, for instance a large car manufacturing industry.

Vacancies

Västra Götaland, being a dynamic and populous county, has substantial vacancies in engineering, healthcare, and education sectors. Engineers, especially in mechanical and civil domains, are in high demand. Healthcare roles like nurses, medical specialists, and elderly care assistants remain critical. Teachers, both for elementary and secondary levels, are also sought after. The county’s expansive industrial base requires skilled workers like welders, machine operators, and technicians, reflecting its significant industrial and manufacturing footprint.

Shortages

In Västra Götaland County, healthcare positions, such as district nurses, physiotherapists, and radiology technicians, are undersupplied. The IT sector has demand for system developers and cybersecurity specialists. Construction roles, including certified scaffolders and painters, face shortages. The education sector needs vocational and primary school teachers, while industrial manufacturing requires machine operators and assemblers. Transport roles, such as bus and truck drivers, are also in short supply.

Surpluses

Västra Götalands County experiences a surplus of labour across many fields. Within administration, economy, and law, there is an oversupply of receptionists and administrative assistants. The IT sector has an excess of system administrators and support technicians. In the hospitality industry, there is a surplus of pizza makers and restaurant staff, while lighting technicians are abundant in culture and media. Additionally, elderly care workers and personal assistants face high competition in social services.

North Middle Sweden (Norra Mellansverige)

Go directly to Värmland County | Dalarna County | Gävleborg County

With 859 620 inhabitants, North Middle Sweden represented about 8.2% of the population in Sweden in 2023.

The gross domestic product per capita, adjusted for price levels (PPS) in North Middle Sweden was 125.1% of the EU27 average, well below the national average of 151.7%.

In 2023, more than 440 600 people were active in the labour market in North Middle Sweden. 38.5% had tertiary education, 46.2% had secondary education, and 14.8% had primary education. The employment rate in North Middle Sweden was 58.2 % in 2023, 4.2 percentage points lower than the national average in Sweden and in line with 2022 figures.

The employment rate for women in 2023 was 55.6%, men had an employment rate of 60.7%, and for the youth the employment rate was 45.1%. The employment rates for women and men were below the national average, while the employment rate for the youth was above the national average.

^{Note: lfst_r_lfe2emprt, Statistics | Eurostat (europa.eu), data refer to age group 15 years or over}

The unemployment rate in North Middle Sweden was 7.2% in 2023, in line with the national average in the same year and in line with the previous year.

^{Note: lfst_r_lfu3rt, Statistics | Eurostat, data refer to age group 15 years or over}

Värmland County

Värmland County has an unemployment rate close to the Swedish average, however there are differences within the region. In the southern and eastern parts of the county the unemployment rate is higher. In the westernmost municipalities that shares a border with Norway, unemployment is lower. According to the latest population forecast from Statistics Sweden, the population in Värmland County is expected to decline slightly in the upcoming years. This is a challenge for the employers in the region, whom may have to attract labour from outside the county.

Vacancies

In Värmland, vacancies in the forestry industry are prominent, with roles for machine operators and forestry workers in demand. The healthcare sector also seeks professionals such as nurses, general practitioners, and elderly care workers. Educators for primary and secondary schools are essential to meet local educational needs. Additionally, construction roles, including carpenters and masons, are in demand, alongside opportunities in logistics and transportation, reflecting a diverse range of economic activities.

Shortages

Värmland County faces shortages in healthcare, with high demand for physiotherapists, specialist nurses, and psychologists. The construction sector lacks certified carpenters and concrete workers. In IT, software developers and cybersecurity specialists are in demand. Education roles, such as primary school teachers and special educators, are needed, as are vehicle assemblers and welders in industrial manufacturing. Transport roles, including bus and taxi drivers, also face shortages.

Surpluses

Värmlands County features a surplus of labour across multiple fields. Office-based roles, such as administrative assistants and receptionists, are overrepresented in administration, economy, and law. The IT sector is affected by a surplus of system administrators and IT operations technicians. The hospitality industry has an oversupply of café workers and pizza makers, while outdoor maintenance workers are abundant in nature occupations. Personal assistants and elderly care workers are also in surplus in social services.

Dalarna County

Seasonal employment is an important factor in Dalarna County. The mountains attract tourists both from Sweden and abroad in the winter as well as the summer months. Unemployment rates vary throughout Dalarna County. In the south-eastern parts they are at the same level as, or slightly higher than, the average in Sweden. In the northern and western parts however, unemployment rates tend to be significantly lower.

Vacancies

Dalarna has ongoing demand in healthcare, education, and construction sectors. Nurses, elderly care workers, and doctors remain high priorities in the healthcare system. Vacancies for teachers, especially for math and science, are notable. The construction industry seeks skilled carpenters, painters, and electricians. With Dalarna’s reliance on tourism, roles in hospitality, such as chefs and hotel staff, are consistently advertised, aligning with the county’s vibrant seasonal economy.

Shortages

Dalarnas County reports a labour shortage in construction, including certified plumbers, scaffolders, and painters. Healthcare roles, such as specialist doctors, biomedical analysts, and district nurses, are also in high demand. In the IT sector, system developers and IT security specialists face shortages. Pedagogical roles like vocational and special education teachers are needed, as are vehicle mechanics in the maintenance field. Social workers and counselors are in short supply in social services.

Surpluses

Dalarnas County experiences a surplus of labour in key occupations. Office-based roles, such as receptionists and administrative assistants, are abundant within administration, economy, and law. The IT sector sees a surplus of IT support technicians and system administrators. In the hospitality industry, there is an oversupply of pizza makers and kitchen staff, while craft workers, such as furniture carpenters, face heightened competition. The construction sector also sees a surplus of construction workers and construction machine operators, and personal assistants are overrepresented in social services.

Gävleborg County

Gävleborg County is the county in Sweden with the highest youth unemployment rate, and the county also have one of the highest overall unemployment rates. The service sector is relatively small in Gävleborg County compared to the Swedish average. Instead, the manufacturing industry and the public sector makes up a larger part of the labour market than the Swedish average.

Vacancies

Gävleborg County faces a significant shortage of healthcare workers, including nurses and doctors. Teachers are also in high demand, particularly for secondary education. The industrial sector has vacancies for CNC operators, welders, and machine operators, reflecting the county’s manufacturing focus. Additionally, the logistics and transportation sectors advertise for drivers and warehouse personnel. The overall job market showcases a mix of industrial and service-oriented opportunities.

Shortages

In Gävleborg County, there is a shortage of skilled workers in construction, particularly certified concrete workers and plumbers. The healthcare sector requires occupational therapists, midwives, and psychiatric nurses. Industrial manufacturing needs welders and machine operators. In the IT sector, software developers are in short supply, while vocational teachers and primary school teachers are needed in education. The transport sector faces a shortage of bus and taxi drivers.

Surpluses

Gävleborgs County has a surplus of labour in several sectors. In administration, economy, and law, roles such as receptionists and payroll clerks are overrepresented. The IT sector has an excess of system administrators and IT operations technicians. In the hospitality industry, there is a surplus of café workers and restaurant staff, while car detailers are overrepresented in cleaning and waste management. Additionally, agricultural animal caregivers and gardeners face heightened competition within nature occupations.

Middle Norrland (Mellersta Norrland)

Go directly to Västernorrland County | Jämtland County

With 375 935 inhabitants, Middle Norrland represented about 3.6% of the population in Sweden in 2023.

The gross domestic product per capita, adjusted for price levels (PPS) in Middle Norrland was 137.9% of the EU27 average, well below the national average of 151.7%.

In 2023, more than 196 800 people were active in the labour market in Middle Norrland. 37.7% had tertiary education, 47.3% had secondary education, and 14.6% had primary education. The employment rate in Middle Norrland was 59.9 % in 2023, 2.5 percentage points lower than the national average in Sweden and in line with 2022 figures.

The employment rate for women in 2023 was 57.8%, men had an employment rate of 61.9%, and for the youth the employment rate was 47%. The employment rates for women and men were below the national average, while the employment rate for the youth was above the national average.

^{Note: lfst_r_lfe2emprt, Statistics | Eurostat (europa.eu), data refer to age group 15 years or over}

The unemployment rate in Middle Norrland was 6.4% in 2023, 1.2 points lower than the national average in the same year and in line with the previous year.

^{Note: lfst_r_lfu3rt, Statistics | Eurostat, data refer to age group 15 years or over}

Västernorrland County

The labour market in Västernorrland County has strengthened during the last decade. The county used to have one of the highest unemployment rates in the country, but it has decreased and is now below the average in Sweden. This is a part of a trend where unemployment rates in the northern parts of Sweden have decreased when labour demand has risen whilst the demographic development with low population growth at best, and a population decrease at worst, makes it hard to meet the growing labour demand.

Vacancies

Västernorrland’s labour market emphasizes healthcare and industrial roles. Nurses, elderly care assistants, and general practitioners top the list of vacancies. The manufacturing sector demands CNC operators, machinists, and electricians, reflecting the county’s industrial backbone. Educational roles, especially for preschool and primary education, are widely needed. Seasonal tourism-related roles, such as chefs and service staff, also appear, illustrating the county’s varied economic base.

Shortages

Västernorrland County reports shortages in healthcare, particularly for district nurses, occupational therapists, and specialist doctors. Construction roles, such as certified roofers and concrete workers, are in demand. IT positions, including software developers and system analysts, face shortages. The education sector requires preschool and high school teachers, while industrial manufacturing needs vehicle assemblers and machine operators.

Surpluses

Västernorrlands County has a surplus of labour in diverse fields. In administration, economy, and law, there is an oversupply of receptionists and payroll clerks. The IT sector is affected by an excess of system administrators and IT operations technicians. The hospitality industry sees a surplus of pizza makers and restaurant staff, while gardeners are overrepresented in nature occupations. Additionally, elderly care workers and personal assistants are abundant in social services.

Jämtland County

Jämtland County in the northern parts of Sweden, is one of the counties with the lowest unemployment rates. Long-term unemployment is also relatively low, especially the number of unemployed that has been out of work for 24 months or more. The service sector and the public sector are relatively large in Jämtland County, whilst the manufacturing industry is smaller than in most other parts of Sweden. Tourism is an important sector in the region, many people visit Jämtland County to ski during the winter months and to hike in the summer, a pattern that generates seasonal employment.

Vacancies

Jämtland experiences a labour shortage in healthcare, education, and hospitality. Nurses, doctors, and elderly care workers are consistently in demand. Educational institutions seek teachers, particularly in rural areas. The tourism industry, vital to the local economy, advertises roles for chefs, ski instructors, and hotel staff, especially during peak seasons. Additionally, forestry and construction sectors look for machine operators and skilled tradespeople, reflecting the county’s natural resource focus.

Shortages

In Jämtland County, there is high demand for skilled workers in construction, including certified plumbers and scaffolders. Healthcare roles, such as specialist nurses and physiotherapists, are in short supply. The education sector faces shortages of vocational and preschool teachers. In industrial manufacturing, assemblers and vehicle mechanics are needed, while social services have shortages of social workers.

Surpluses

Jämtlands County has a surplus of labour in a variety of occupations. Office-based roles, such as receptionists and payroll clerks, are abundant in administration, economy, and law. The IT sector has an oversupply of IT operations technicians and system administrators. The hospitality industry sees a surplus of café workers and pizza makers, while technical roles, such as property caretakers and industrial electricians, are also overrepresented. Outdoor maintenance roles, including gardeners, face heightened competition in nature occupations.

Upper Norrland (Övre Norrland)

Go directly to Västerbotten County | Norrbotten County

With 525 472 inhabitants, Upper Norrland represented about 5% of the population in Sweden in 2023.

The gross domestic product per capita, adjusted for price levels (PPS) in Upper Norrland was 163% of the EU27 average, well above the national average of 151.7%.

In 2023, more than 278 200 people were active in the labour market in Upper Norrland. 42.6% had tertiary education, 46.9% had secondary education, and 9.9% had primary education. The employment rate in Upper Norrland was 60.7 % in 2023, 1.7 percentage points lower than the national average in Sweden and 1.3 percentage points higher compared to 2022.

The employment rate for women in 2023 was 59%, men had an employment rate of 62.4%, and for the youth the employment rate was 51.3%. The employment rates for women and men were below the national average, while the employment rate for the youth was above the national average.

^{Note: lfst_r_lfe2emprt, Statistics | Eurostat (europa.eu), data refer to age group 15 years or over}

The unemployment rate in Upper Norrland was 5.7% in 2023, 1.9 points lower than the national average in the same year and in line with the previous year.

^{Note: lfst_r_lfu3rt, Statistics | Eurostat, data refer to age group 15 years or over}

Västerbotten County

Västerbotten County has one of the lowest unemployment rates and one of the highest employment rates in the country. There are several big investments being made in the county, most of which in the green industries due to the availability of renewable energy such as hydro energy. This creates a high labour demand which in parts needs to be attracted from other counties and countries, since the population in Västerbotten County is too small to meet the increased demand. Västerbotten County is home to Umeå University, the largest university in the northern parts of Sweden.

Vacancies

Västerbotten’s labour market highlights healthcare and IT vacancies. Nurses, general practitioners, and physiotherapists remain priorities in the healthcare sector. The county’s tech industry demands software developers and IT security specialists. Vacancies in education are also notable, with schools seeking teachers across various subjects. Additionally, the construction industry faces a shortage of electricians, carpenters, and masons. This reflects the region’s balanced focus on technology and infrastructure.

Shortages

In Västerbotten County, there are shortages of healthcare professionals, including psychiatrists, district nurses, and physiotherapists. The IT sector needs network engineers and software developers. Construction roles, such as certified plumbers and roofers, are in demand. Industrial manufacturing has high demand for welders and machinists, while education roles, such as special education teachers and preschool teachers, are also undersupplied.

Surpluses

Västerbottens County experiences a surplus of labour in several fields. In administration, economy, and law, there is an oversupply of administrative assistants and payroll clerks. The IT sector faces competition among system administrators and IT operations technicians. In the hospitality industry, there is an excess of café workers and cold kitchen chefs, while assemblers of metal, rubber, and plastic products are overrepresented in industrial manufacturing. Childcare workers and personal assistants are also abundant in social services.