Umeå
Sweden
Updated on October 02, 2025
Overview
Umeå is a university city located in northern Sweden, in Västerbotten County. Known as the 'City of Birches', it is an important academic and cultural center with Umeå University as its most prominent institution.
Average cost of living€1,740.00
Quality of Life85/100
Accommodation
Rent room (flat-share)€380.00
1-bed flat (center)€720.00
1-bed flat (outside)€580.00
3-bed flat (center)€1,400.00
3-bed flat (outside)€1,150.00
Buying House
sqm in city center€2,800.00
sqm outside center€2,200.00
Utilities
Basic utilities€85.00
Internet€25.00
Mobile plan€18.00
Transportation
One-way ticket€3.20
Monthly pass€75.00
Taxi start€5.50
Gasoline (1 l)€1.65
Leisure
Cinema ticket€14.00
Fitness club€45.00
Education
Preschool (month)€120.00
Intl. primary (year)€950.00
Demographics
Population 130,000
Metropolitan area population 200,000
Metropolitan area —
Advantages
- ✓ Vibrant university city with young atmosphere
- ✓ Excellent quality of life and public services
- ✓ Rich cultural life and events
- ✓ Spectacular nature and outdoor activities
- ✓ Efficient public transport
Disadvantages
- × Long and very cold winters
- × Limited sunlight during winter months
- × Relatively high cost of living
- × Limited entertainment options compared to large cities
- × Geographic isolation