Municipality

Gislaved Municipality – facts, statistics, and insights

Gislaved Municipality, located in the Småland inland, is a place where history and entrepreneurial spirit meet. Here, forests and lakes coexist with a strong industrial climate and a vibrant community life. Gislaved is known for its innovative capacity, proximity to nature, and a lively rural landscape that attracts both families and entrepreneurs.

Population and Demographics

Gislaved has approximately 29,000 residents, distributed across several towns and smaller communities. The municipality is known for its diversity, with residents from many different countries, contributing to an exciting mix of cultures. There are both young families, seniors, and many who have moved here due to job opportunities and closeness to nature. Population growth has been stable, although some years stand out with clear peaks in inbound migration.

Taxes, Welfare, and Municipal Services

The municipal tax rate in Gislaved is 21.99%, with a regional tax of 11.76%. The funeral fee is 0.29%, and for members of the Church of Sweden, an additional church fee of 1.47% applies. The total tax burden excluding the church fee amounts to 33.75% – a level close to the national average.

Tax revenues are used to finance schools, elderly care, childcare, culture and leisure, as well as infrastructure. In recent years, the municipality has invested in modern schools and digitalization within healthcare, while increased pressure on elderly care has led to new investments in both staff and accommodations. Welfare services in Gislaved are often ranked highly, not least thanks to the strong engagement from community organizations and close cooperation between various actors.

Economy and Labor Market

Historically, Gislaved has been a center for the Swedish rubber and plastics industry. Although the major tire manufacturers no longer dominate as before, the entrepreneurial spirit remains. Several small and medium-sized companies in manufacturing, logistics, and technology have emerged. Unemployment is close to the national average, but there is often a shortage of certain skills – especially within technology, healthcare, and education.

• Major employers: Gislaved Folie, Gislaved Gummi, and various subcontractors for the automotive industry.
• Several startups within IT and environmental technology have established themselves in recent years.
• The municipality actively collaborates with the business sector to attract new investments and create more jobs.

An interesting detail is that many residents commute to nearby towns such as Värnamo and Anderstorp, which broadens the labor market more than initially expected.

Education, Business, and Future Opportunities

Gislaved has a well-developed school system with both municipal and independent options, as well as adult education and high schools. Particularly technical programs have a good reputation, aligning with the needs of the local industry. The municipality has invested in strengthening cooperation between schools and businesses – for example, through internships and various projects.

The business sector is characterized by small enterprises and innovation. There is a strong tradition of "doing it yourself," and the municipality has become known for its support for new entrepreneurs. There is also a growing tourism industry, especially thanks to the natural surroundings and various events.

Geography and Attractions

Gislaved is a municipality with great landscape variation. Forests, lakes, and open countryside offer excellent opportunities for outdoor activities year-round. Isaberg, one of southern Sweden's most popular outdoor areas, attracts skiers, cyclists, and hikers. Store Mosse National Park and the winding waters of the Nissan River are also popular excursion destinations.

For culture enthusiasts, there are several museums, art galleries, and an active music scene. Gislaved is also known for its many sports clubs and vibrant community life – hosting everything from motor and cycling races to music festivals and markets.

FAQ about Gislaved Municipality

• What is the municipal tax rate in Gislaved?
  The municipal tax rate is 21.99%. Combined with the regional tax, the total tax burden (excluding church fee) is 33.75%.
• What is Gislaved best known for?
  The municipality has a long tradition of industry, especially in rubber and plastics, and is also known for its outdoor life around Isaberg.
• How is the labor market?
  The labor market is diverse with many jobs in industry and technology, but there are also growing opportunities in services, IT, and tourism.
• What about schools in the municipality?
  Gislaved has modern schools with a focus on technology and collaboration with local businesses, as well as several adult education options.
• What are the main attractions?
  Isaberg, Store Mosse National Park, and the Nissan River are among the most visited places.