Municipality

Mariestad Municipality – facts, statistics, and insights

Mariestad Municipality is located on the shores of Lake Vänern and offers a unique combination of small-town charm, proximity to water, and a rich cultural heritage. The municipality is known for its beautiful setting, historic town center, and strategic location between Stockholm and Gothenburg. With a diverse business sector and good transportation links, Mariestad is a place where both companies and families can thrive.

Population and Demographics

Mariestad has a population of just over 24,000 residents. The population is relatively evenly distributed between the town and the countryside, with Mariestad’s urban area serving as the natural center of the municipality. In recent years, the municipality has experienced stable population development, which is a sign of strength in a region where many smaller municipalities face depopulation.

The age distribution reflects the national average, but Mariestad has a slightly higher proportion of older residents. This places demands on welfare services but also opens up new opportunities in healthcare, social care, and senior activities.

Taxes, Welfare, and Municipal Services

The total municipal tax rate (excluding church fee) in Mariestad is 32.74%. The breakdown is as follows:

• Municipal tax: 21.26%
• County council tax: 11.48%
• Funeral fee: 0.29%
• Church fee (voluntary): 1.37%

Tax revenues fund schools, preschools, elderly care, social services, and cultural and recreational activities. Mariestad invests heavily in providing high service levels, from well-maintained parks to a broad association life. The challenge ahead is to maintain service quality as more elderly require care.

Economy and Labor Market

The business sector in Mariestad is broad, characterized by small and medium-sized enterprises, but there are also larger employers in manufacturing, the public sector, and retail. The municipality has long been a hub for the food industry and technology companies, while tourism and visitor activities are becoming increasingly important.

Unemployment is close to the national average, and the municipality actively works to attract new companies and create more jobs. An exciting trend is the increased focus on sustainability and green transition, with Mariestad positioning itself as a testbed for hydrogen technology and climate-smart transport.

Education and Business Sector

Educational opportunities in Mariestad are good, from preschool to adult education and vocational colleges. The upper secondary school offers several vocational programs that meet the needs of the local business sector. The collaboration between schools and companies, providing students with internships and contacts in working life, is particularly noteworthy.

The municipality also invests in skills development for adults, especially in technology and industry. This strengthens both the labor market and long-term growth.

Geography and Attractions

Mariestad is sometimes called “The Pearl of Vänern” – and it’s easy to see why. The municipality offers a fantastic archipelago, beaches suitable for swimming, hiking trails, and nature reserves. The historic town center with the Cathedral and the harbor environment attracts both tourists and locals, as does the Göta Canal passing just outside town.

• Vänern’s archipelago – perfect for boating and fishing
• Historic buildings and charming cobblestone streets
• Rich cultural calendar with festivals, markets, and exhibitions
• Proximity to Tiveden National Park and Kinnekulle

Whether you enjoy outdoor activities, history, or small-town pulse, there is something for everyone in Mariestad.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Mariestad Municipality

• What is the municipal tax rate in Mariestad?
  Total 32.74% (excluding church fee) – of which 21.26% is municipal tax and 11.48% county council tax.
• What is the population of Mariestad Municipality?
  Approximately 24,000 people.
• Who are the largest employers?
  The municipality itself, manufacturing industry, retail, and healthcare sector.
• What makes Mariestad unique?
  The location by Vänern, the historic town center, and the focus on climate-smart technology.
• How is the service provision for children and the elderly?
  High service levels with investments in preschools, primary schools, and elderly care.