Municipality

Norrtälje Municipality – Facts, Statistics, and Insights

Norrtälje Municipality is one of Stockholm County's largest by area and offers a unique combination of archipelago life, small-town charm, and growth. Here, idyllic coastal communities coexist with vibrant countryside and a growing central town. Norrtälje attracts families, entrepreneurs, and leisure residents – and has in recent years become a popular place for those seeking proximity to both the sea and the capital.

Population and Demographics

With over 65,000 residents, Norrtälje is steadily growing, and the population is a mix of young families, retirees, and an increasing number of commuters. Many choose to settle here due to the municipality’s scenic location and good connections to Stockholm. During summer, the population swells as holiday homes and archipelago islands are filled with visitors and part-time residents.

The age distribution is relatively even, but the municipality has a slightly higher proportion of older residents than the regional average, and it’s clear that many choose to stay or return after their working years. At the same time, the influx of younger adults and families has gained momentum – especially as new residential areas develop.

Taxes, Welfare, and Municipal Services

In Norrtälje, the municipal tax rate is 19.72%, the county council tax is 12.38%, and the burial fee is 0.2%. The total tax burden, excluding any church fee, is thus 32.1%. If you choose to be a member of the Church of Sweden, an additional 1.03% church fee applies.

Tax revenues primarily fund schools, healthcare, social care, and ongoing community services. Particularly, elderly care is a significant and vital part of the municipality’s budget, along with investments in schools and childcare to meet the growing population. The municipality has also invested in recreational facilities, public transportation, and improved infrastructure, especially in rural areas and the archipelago.

• Municipal tax: 19.72%
• County council tax: 12.38%
• Burial fee: 0.2%
• Church fee (voluntary): 1.03%

In recent years, Norrtälje has focused on improving access to healthcare and social services, which is especially important in a municipality with many seniors and a large geographical spread. At the same time, maintaining the same level of service in both urban and rural areas remains a challenge.

Economy and Labor Market

The municipality’s economy is stable, supported by a broad tax base thanks to inbound migration and a growing business sector. The labor market is characterized by small businesses, the public sector, and seasonal jobs in tourism and services. Many residents also commute to Stockholm, making Norrtälje unusually high in the proportion of commuters for a rural municipality.

The largest employers are the municipality itself, the region, and larger private companies in healthcare, retail, and construction. During summer, demand for labor in restaurants, retail, and the tourism industry skyrockets, and many young people get their first jobs here.

• Strong entrepreneurial spirit
• Key industries: healthcare, education, retail, construction, tourism
• High proportion of commuters to Stockholm

Education and Business

Norrtälje offers a wide range of schools, both municipal and independent, and invests heavily in improving quality in primary and secondary education. The municipality collaborates with local businesses to develop vocational training and internships, helping more young people stay and work locally.

On the business side, the diversity is notable: from agriculture and small-scale food production to tech companies, crafts, and maritime industries. Several companies have chosen to establish here due to the proximity to Stockholm and the expanding Roslagen region.

Geography and Attractions

Norrtälje is known for its beautiful location on the Roslagen coast and has over 10,000 islands, skerries, and rocks within the municipality. The archipelago, lakes, and deep forests make the area a paradise for outdoor activities, swimming, and boating. The town of Norrtälje features a charming city center with cobblestone streets, cafes, and small shops, while picturesque communities like Grisslehamn, Rimbo, and Hallstavik each have their own character and events.

Notable attractions include the Pythagoras industrial museum, Albert Engström’s studio, and Väddö Canal. Throughout the year, festivals and markets are held, and it’s common to see artists and writers inspired by the scenic landscape of Roslagen.

FAQ – Common Questions about Norrtälje Municipality

• What is the municipal tax rate in Norrtälje?
  The municipal tax is 19.72%. Including the county council tax and burial fee, the total tax burden is 32.1% (excluding church fee).
• What is it like to live in Norrtälje?
  You get close to nature and city life, a vibrant community life, good schools, and excellent municipal services – but also the opportunity to live peacefully and close to nature.
• Who are the largest employers?
  The municipality, the region, private healthcare companies, retail, and construction are dominant, but there are also many small businesses.
• What makes Norrtälje unique?
  The combination of archipelago, countryside, and small-town life, with proximity to Stockholm and a rich cultural scene, is unbeatable.