Municipality

Södertälje Municipality – facts, statistics, and insights

Södertälje is one of the most dynamic municipalities in Stockholm County, known for its multicultural population, strong business sector, and strategic location between Lake Mälaren and the Baltic Sea. Here, large industry coexists with scenic natural areas and a vibrant community life, making the municipality a place for innovation and well-being.

Population and Demographics

Södertälje has long been a melting pot for people from all over the world. The municipality has over 100,000 residents, placing it among Sweden's larger municipalities. The population is relatively young compared to the national average – many are families with children, and the proportion of residents with a foreign background is among the highest in the country.

The rapid population growth over the past decades has put the municipality on the map but also created demands for housing development and services. What stands out is the mix of cultures, languages, and traditions that shape both everyday life and the local economy.

Taxes, Welfare, and Municipal Services

Södertälje Municipality has a municipal tax rate of 20.15%, which, combined with the county council tax (12.38%) and funeral fee (0.2%), results in a total tax burden of 32.53% (excluding church fee). For members of the Church of Sweden, an additional church fee of 1.03% applies.

Tax revenues are used to fund schools, elder care, social services, public transportation, and culture. Södertälje has invested in strengthening welfare, but faces challenges due to rapidly increasing needs – especially among youth and newcomers. Overall, municipal services maintain a good standard, but pressure on schools and social services is high, requiring constant prioritization.

• Significant investments in children and youth activities
• Expanded care and nursing homes
• Wide range of recreational activities and sports facilities

Economy and Labor Market

Södertälje is renowned for its heavy industry – both Scania and AstraZeneca have their headquarters here, making the municipality one of Sweden’s most important industrial cities. The job market is broad, offering positions in research, engineering, logistics, and healthcare.

The business sector is strongly export-oriented and attracts workforce from across the region. At the same time, there are challenges with relatively high unemployment, especially among youth and individuals without upper secondary education. The municipality actively works on initiatives to increase employment and improve integration into the labor market.

Education and Business

Södertälje offers a varied range of educational opportunities, from preschool to higher education. KTH has a branch here, fostering collaboration between academia and industry – especially in engineering and natural sciences. Schools and high schools have received extra resources to meet the needs of a growing and diverse student body.

The business landscape is dominated by the automotive and pharmaceutical industries, but small businesses and commerce also play an important role. There is a strong entrepreneurial spirit, especially among new Swedes, resulting in many restaurants, shops, and service companies with an international flavor.

Geography and Attractions

Södertälje is beautifully situated between Lake Mälaren and the Baltic Sea, with both archipelago and deep forests within the municipality. The city is famous for its lock – one of the busiest in the world – connecting Mälaren with Saltsjön.

• Torekällberget – open-air museum with historical environments
• Tom Tits Experiment – Sweden’s largest science center
• Several nature reserves and beaches along the water

Södertälje is also a sports city with strong traditions in basketball, ice hockey, and football, visible at both elite and youth levels.

Frequently Asked Questions about Södertälje Municipality

• What is the municipal tax rate in Södertälje?
  The municipal tax rate is 20.15%. Together with the county council tax and funeral fee, the total tax burden amounts to 32.53% (excluding church fee).
• What is Södertälje known for?
  Strong industry (Scania, AstraZeneca), multiculturalism, sports, and proximity to both Lake Mälaren and the Baltic Sea.
• Are there universities or colleges in the municipality?
  KTH has a branch in Södertälje, focusing on engineering and collaboration with industry.
• What is the state of the job market?
  A broad business sector with many industrial jobs, but also challenges with unemployment among youth and newcomers.