Is Sweden cheaper than Denmark?
Denmark and Sweden side by side
Short answer
Yes, Sweden is cheaper than Denmark on average, but it is still well above the EU average. In 2025 the price level index for consumption was 128.4 in Sweden and 140.2 in Denmark (EU average = 100). Food and non-alcoholic drinks stood at 109.9 in Sweden against 120.5 in Denmark. Restaurants and accommodation were 123.4 in Sweden and 143.6 in Denmark.
Why
- The gap is largest for restaurants, hotels and services.
- Consumer services had an index of 137.6 in Sweden and 154.9 in Denmark in 2025.
- Clothing is close: 129.6 in Sweden and 132.0 in Denmark.
Details
Passenger transport services, such as tickets for trains and buses, had an index of 144.8 in Sweden and 158.5 in Denmark in 2025.
Tip
If you visit both countries, plan the restaurant meals for the Swedish part of the trip.
What may differ
The figures are national averages for 2025; prices in Copenhagen and Stockholm can differ from them, and the krona and krone exchange rates move.
Common misconception
Sweden is a cheap country.
What actually happens
Sweden is cheaper than Denmark, but in 2025 its price level was still about 28% above the EU average.
People also ask
- What is cheaper in Germany than in Denmark?
- Is Denmark expensive compared with the rest of the EU?
- Is inflation in Denmark higher than in the EU?
Sources
This answer is for reference only. Prices, fees and taxes change, so check the official sources before you plan your budget.
Cost calculatorRelated questions
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How do you plan a daily budget for sightseeing in Copenhagen?
Start with the fixed costs of the day: in November 2026 a 24-hour City Pass for the metro costs 100 kr., a standard Tivoli entry ticket 230 kr.
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How do you get a cheap train ticket from Copenhagen to Aarhus?
A good way to pay less for the train from Copenhagen to Aarhus is an Orange ticket, bought on dsb.dk or in the DSB app.
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How much is the toll on the Great Belt Bridge?
From 1 January 2026 a single trip over the Great Belt Bridge in a car of 3–6 m costs 235 kr.
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How much is the toll on the Øresund Bridge?
From 14 September 2026 a single trip over the Øresund Bridge in a car up to 6 m costs 470 kr.

