Municipality

Älvkarleby Municipality – facts, statistics, and insights

Älvkarleby Municipality, beautifully situated at the mouth of the Dalälven river in northern Uppland, is a place where nature plays a central role in everyday life and where the safety of a small community meets proximity to larger cities. Here, river landscapes, historic power stations, and opportunities for active outdoor life come together – while the municipality also offers interesting figures regarding population, economy, and tax levels.

Population and Demographics

With just over 9,000 inhabitants, Älvkarleby is one of Sweden’s smaller municipalities. The population is spread across several localities, with Skutskär being the largest. The municipality has a relatively even age distribution, but like many other places in the country, faces challenges with an aging population and the need to attract younger generations to stay or move here.

The small-scale format often means short distances to services, schools, and nature, which many residents appreciate. At the same time, there is a strong sense of community and local identity, shaping both associations and daily life.

Tax, Welfare, and Municipal Services

The municipal tax rate in Älvkarleby is 22.69%, while the county council tax is 11.71%. This means the total tax burden, excluding church fee, is 34.4%. For members of the Church of Sweden, an additional 1.39% church fee and 0.29% mandatory burial fee apply.

Tax revenues are used to finance a broad range of welfare services – from preschools and primary schools to elderly care, individual and family services, and leisure activities. As a small municipality, Älvkarleby often needs to prioritize resources carefully, but investments in schools and care services are high on the agenda. The health center, libraries, sports facilities, and a vibrant association life are other important parts of the local services.

• Municipal tax: 22.69%
• County council tax: 11.71%
• Burial fee: 0.29%
• Church fee (Church of Sweden): 1.39%

Economy and Labor Market

Älvkarleby is a commuter-friendly municipality, with many residents working in Gävle, Uppsala, or other nearby cities. At the same time, several important employers are located locally, including within the public sector, industry, and hydropower – not least thanks to the historic power station at Älvkarleby. Small businesses also play a significant role, especially in services, trade, and tourism.

Economically, the municipality faces challenges common to smaller communities: balancing welfare costs with a limited tax base. However, proximity to larger labor markets and good transportation links also create opportunities for inward migration and development.

Education and Business

The schools in Älvkarleby have close relationships with students and parents, which many see as an advantage of the smaller municipality. There are primary schools in several localities, and high school students often commute to nearby cities. The local economy is characterized by a mix of traditional industry, hydropower, small enterprises, and growing tourism.

The municipality invests in strengthening cooperation between schools and businesses, including internships and business councils. Support is also available for entrepreneurs and companies wishing to start or develop activities in the area.

Geography and Attractions

Älvkarleby is known for its dramatic river landscape, with rapids, islands, and hiking trails. The Älvkarleby Falls and the old power station are popular excursions, as is Färnebofjärden National Park, which partially lies within the municipality. Fishing in the Dalälven attracts anglers from across the country, and there are plenty of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Historically, the area has played a significant role in Swedish hydropower and engineering – a legacy that still influences the landscape and identity today.

FAQ – Common Questions about Älvkarleby Municipality

• What is the municipal tax rate in Älvkarleby?
  The municipal tax rate is 22.69%. Combined with county council tax and burial fee, the total tax burden is 34.4% (excluding church fee).
• How many people live in Älvkarleby?
  Approximately 9,000 residents, with Skutskär as the largest locality.
• Who are the biggest employers?
  The municipality itself, industry, the energy sector, and smaller companies within trade and services.
• What is unique about Älvkarleby?
  Proximity to the Dalälven river, the power station, fishing, and the tranquility of a small town – yet close to larger cities.
• What is the municipal tax used for?
  Primarily for schools, care services, elderly care, leisure, and culture, as well as local infrastructure and services.