Municipality

Växjö Municipality – facts, statistics, and insights

Växjö Municipality is the heart of Småland that combines modern growth with green visions. Here, small-town proximity meets big-city opportunities in a region long called “Europe’s Greenest City.” With its lakes, university, and a constantly growing population, Växjö is something of a Småland engine – both economically and culturally.

Population and Demographics

Växjö has experienced significant growth during the 2000s and now has over 95,000 residents. The municipality attracts young people from across the country, largely thanks to Linnaeus University and an active business sector. The age distribution is relatively even, but it’s clear that Växjö is a student city – almost one in five residents is between 20 and 29 years old. Here, it is easy to find both family homes in suburban areas and international students in the city center.

The population increase has also given the municipality a unique mix of old and new. In the city center, you see both 19th-century houses and ultra-modern buildings of wood and glass. The diversity is palpable, and over 100 languages are spoken in the municipality.

Taxes, Welfare, and Municipal Services

Växjö residents pay a municipal tax of 20.19% and a county council tax of 12%, resulting in a total tax burden of 32.19% (excluding the church fee of 1.46%). The burial fee is 0.29%. Tax revenues primarily fund welfare: education, elderly care, childcare, and social services are the largest expenditures. Växjö has long invested in maintaining high standards for schools and elderly homes, and it was among the first municipalities to introduce digital services in healthcare and social care.

The municipality also distinguishes itself in environmental initiatives, especially through investments in district heating, wooden construction, and climate-smart public transportation. The goal is to be fossil-free by 2030 – a vision reflected in urban planning and everyday life.

• Municipal tax: 20.19%
• County council tax: 12%
• Burial fee: 0.29%
• Church fee (voluntary): 1.46%

The total tax burden (excluding the church fee) is 32.19% – slightly below the national average, which has helped attract both workforce and companies to the area.

Economy and Job Market

Växjö is known for its entrepreneurial spirit and diverse business sector. Here, you find everything from global IT companies and timber industries to small craft businesses. Unemployment is generally below the national average, and the municipality has a reputation for quickly adapting to change. The strongest sectors include education, healthcare, construction, and services.

Linnaeus University contributes to a high level of education and provides the local economy with skills in technology, economics, and environmental sciences. Many young people choose to stay after graduation, giving Växjö an unusually young business climate.

• Strong job market for professionals in technology, IT, and healthcare
• High ranking for business climate in Sweden
• Several major employers, including the municipality itself, Region Kronoberg, and Södra Skogsägarna

Education and Business

Linnaeus University is the city’s academic engine and has put Växjö on the map as a student city. Here, you find programs ranging from teacher training to advanced environmental technology. The municipality also offers a wide range of high schools and an active adult education center.

The business environment is characterized by innovation and sustainability. The timber industry has a long history here, but today, both the IT sector and service companies are growing rapidly. Växjö is also known for its investments in environmental technology and sustainable construction – the city boasts Europe’s largest wooden house district.

Geography and Attractions

Växjö is situated in the middle of Småland’s lake landscape, surrounded by deep forests and open countryside. The city is often called “The City of the Seven Lakes” – water plays a central role in daily life and leisure. Here, you find beaches, canoe trails, and nature reserves within cycling distance of the city center.

Notable attractions include Växjö Cathedral, Sweden’s Glass Museum, and the popular Linné Park. Sports enthusiasts recognize the city from SHL team Växjö Lakers and floorball team Växjö Vipers. And for something unique: Växjö has a library open 24/7 – an unusual service even by international standards.

• Växjö Cathedral – with its distinctive twin towers
• Linnaeus University and campus area
• Europe’s largest wooden house district in Välle broar
• Växjö Lakers – top-level ice hockey
• Scenic Teleborg Palace Park

FAQ about Växjö Municipality

• What is the municipal tax rate in Växjö?
  The municipal tax rate is 20.19%. Combined with the county council tax, it amounts to 32.19%, excluding the church fee.
• What is Växjö known for?
  The city is known for its environmental efforts, university, strong business climate, and its many lakes.
• How is the job market?
  Unemployment is low and the business sector is diverse, with particularly strong industries in technology, education, and healthcare.
• Is there anything unique about Växjö?
  Yes, among other things, Europe's largest wooden house district and a library open around the clock.