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Crime rate in Sweden

Crime Rate in Sweden: A Nuanced Picture


The crime rate in Sweden is low compared to the international average, although there has been an increase in recent years, particularly in certain areas.


Murder Rate:

  • In 2021, the murder rate in Sweden was 1.08 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants.

  • Comparison: The European average murder rate is 3.1 per 100,000 inhabitants.

  • Increase: However, the murder rate in Sweden has increased in recent years. In 2022, it reached its highest level in 20 years with 62 deaths.

  • Reasons: The increase is linked, among other things, to gang violence and the use of firearms.


Other Crimes:

  • The total number of crimes in Sweden has decreased in recent years.

  • Comparison: Compared internationally, the crime rate in Sweden remains below average.

  • Regional Differences: However, the crime rate in Sweden is distributed differently across regions. In large cities such as Malmö and Gothenburg, the rate tends to be higher than in rural areas.


Specific Crimes:

  • Burglaries: The number of burglaries in Sweden has decreased in recent years.

  • Theft: Theft, especially pickpocketing, is common in Sweden.

  • Drug Crime: Sweden has a problem with drug crime, particularly the trafficking and consumption of narcotics.


 Travel guides for Sweden can be found here on Amazon!*


To summarize:

  • Crime rates in Sweden are generally low, but there are regional disparities and increases in certain areas.

  • Murder Rate: The murder rate has increased in recent years, particularly in large cities.

  • Other Crimes: The overall number of crimes has decreased, but theft and drug-related crime remain issues.


Important to note:

  • Statistics: Crime statistics may be incomplete and not fully reflect the actual level of crime.

  • Perspective: It is important to compare crime rates in Sweden to those of other countries.

  • Safety Recommendations: Before your trip, please inform yourself about the current security situation in Sweden and take the usual precautions.


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Some pics from Gotland:


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