Municipality

Boxholm Municipality – facts, statistics, and insights

Boxholm Municipality in Östergötland is a small but proud rural community with roots dating back to the ironworks days. Here, classic Swedish industrial history meets a nature-close everyday life, and residents carry a strong local identity. Boxholm is perhaps best known for its cheese and its ironworks, but today it is a place for both family life and small business, surrounded by lakes, forests, and open landscapes.

Population and demographics

Boxholm is one of the smaller municipalities in the country, with a population that has recently been around 5,400 residents. The atmosphere is calm and secure, where many know each other, and distances are short. The population structure is mixed – there are both families with children and a significant proportion of seniors. A challenge is to attract younger residents to stay or move here, which the municipality actively works on through various initiatives in housing, leisure, and employment opportunities.

Taxes, welfare, and municipal services

In Boxholm, the municipal tax rate is 21.82%, while the county council tax is 11.55%. Combined with the burial fee (0.29%), the total tax burden (excluding church fee) amounts to 33.37%. The church fee is 1.42% for members of the Church of Sweden.

Tax revenues are used for most aspects affecting daily life: schools, elderly care, childcare, recreational facilities, and technical services such as water and sewage. Despite the municipality's small size, the level of service is high – there is proximity to both schools and health centers, and the municipality works to maintain good quality even when resources are limited. Wise management of tax money is essential in a small municipality, but Boxholm often succeeds in delivering welfare with heart.

Economy and labor market

Boxholm has traditionally been a mill town, where Boxholm's mill was once the major employer. Today, the business sector has diversified somewhat, but industry remains important, as does the public sector. Many residents commute to nearby towns such as Mjölby or Tranås for work.

• Largest employers: Boxholm Municipality, industrial companies, and smaller service companies.
• Unemployment is usually slightly below the national average.
• The business climate is characterized by small businesses and an entrepreneurial spirit.

The challenge ahead is to create new jobs and attract investments, but there are also opportunities – for example, within green industries and tourism.

Education and business

Boxholm offers primary schools with high staff density and engaged teachers. The municipality also provides adult education and collaborates with neighboring towns for upper secondary education. Many students choose to continue their studies in larger cities, but the municipality works to create attractive educational environments locally.

The business landscape includes classic industry, small service companies, as well as agriculture and forestry. Boxholm's cheese is perhaps the most well-known brand outwardly. There is an active community life and growing interest in local food production and sustainability.

Geography and attractions

Boxholm is situated in scenic surroundings by Lake Sommen, with large forests and excellent opportunities for outdoor activities. Here, you can hike, paddle, fish, or simply enjoy the tranquility. Some gems include Malexander's bathing spot, the industrial environment in Boxholm, and the beautiful oak landscapes around the Svartån river.

• Lake Sommen with its clear water and rich birdlife
• Historical industrial sites and Boxholm's railway museum
• Several nature reserves and hiking trails

It is a municipality where it's easy to find your favorite spot, whether you want to be active or just relax.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions about Boxholm Municipality

• What is the municipal tax rate in Boxholm?
  The municipal tax rate is 21.82%. The total tax burden excluding church fee is 33.37%.
• What are the tax revenues used for?
  The tax revenues finance schools, elderly care, childcare, infrastructure, and leisure activities.
• How many people live in Boxholm?
  Approximately 5,400 people are registered residents in the municipality.
• Who are the largest employers?
  The municipality itself, industrial companies, and smaller service and retail businesses.
• What is Boxholm most known for?
  Boxholm's ironworks and the classic Boxholm cheese, as well as the proximity to Lake Sommen.