Municipality

Vara Municipality – facts, statistics, and insights

Vara Municipality is situated in the heart of the Västgötaslätten, a place where the agricultural spirit still beats strongly. Here, tradition meets development, with open landscapes, small communities, and an unusually strong sense of local belonging. Vara is perhaps best known for its fertile fields, but also for a vibrant cultural scene and proximity to both nature and larger cities.

Population and Demographics

Vara Municipality has around 16,000 residents, making it one of the smaller municipalities in Västra Götaland County. The population spans a broad age range—from young families seeking rural tranquility to older residents appreciating safety and access to services. Several smaller towns and villages give the municipality a dispersed population, with Vara being the largest settlement, followed by Kvänum and Vedum.

In recent years, the population has been relatively stable, with slight increases thanks to inward migration and a positive birth rate. Many value the safe environment, closeness to nature, and the opportunity to influence daily life in ways that are difficult in larger cities.

Taxes, Welfare, and Municipal Services

The municipal tax rate in Vara is 21.77%, the county council tax is 11.48%, and the burial fee is 0.29%. The total tax rate is 33.25% for those not paying church fees (which are an extra 1.37% for members of the Church of Sweden). Tax revenues are used to finance everything from schools and care services to roads, libraries, and recreational facilities.

• Schools and Childcare: Vara invests in small classes and proximity between home and preschool/school.
• Elderly Care: The municipality has several well-rated nursing homes and home care services.
• Culture and Leisure: Vara Concert Hall is a regional attraction, and the municipality has an unusually high number of sports clubs and activity options.

Challenges are similar to those faced by many rural municipalities: maintaining good services despite a limited tax base and an aging population. At the same time, there are opportunities in innovative digital services and collaboration between the municipality and civil society.

Economy and Job Market

Vara's job market is dominated by agriculture, the food industry, and small enterprises. Many residents also commute to nearby towns such as Lidköping, Skara, or Trollhättan. Unemployment is slightly below the national average, and the municipality has invested in attracting new companies, especially within green industries and technology.

The largest employers are the municipality itself, followed by companies in food production and machinery manufacturing. In recent years, several smaller businesses have emerged, often linked to local food, eco-products, or tourism. There is also interesting collaboration with neighboring municipalities on business development and infrastructure.

Education and Business

Educational opportunities are good at primary and secondary levels, and Vara's high school collaborates with local businesses and universities in the region. There are initiatives for vocational training in agriculture, technology, and healthcare. Many young people choose to study at universities in Skövde or Gothenburg, but the trend of returning is strong—especially among those wanting to start their own business or work in family enterprises.

• Small Business: Vara has an unusually high number of companies per capita, especially in agriculture, trade, and crafts.
• Innovation: Several initiatives support young entrepreneurs and digitalization of rural businesses.

Geography and Attractions

Vara is surrounded by open fields, beautiful avenues, and small wooded areas. The municipality is ideal for cycling, hiking, and excursions. Vara Concert Hall is perhaps the most famous landmark—a modern meeting place for music and performing arts attracting visitors from across the region. Other attractions include Emtunga Church, the old station community, and several local museums.

Fun fact: Vara features a unique artwork in the form of a giant potato—an appropriate symbol for a community where agriculture has always been central.

FAQ about Vara Municipality

• What is the municipal tax rate in Vara?
  The municipal tax rate is 21.77%, and the total tax excluding church fee is 33.25%.
• What is Vara known for?
  Agriculture, Vara Concert Hall, and a strong local community.
• How is the job market?
  Stable, with a focus on agriculture, food industry, small businesses, and some commuting to nearby cities.
• What educational opportunities are available?
  Several primary schools, high schools, and good opportunities for vocational training.