Municipality

Karlskrona Municipality – facts, statistics, and insights

Karlskrona Municipality is a place where sea and history meet in a unique way. With its UNESCO World Heritage city, its archipelago, and its naval heritage, Karlskrona stands out as Blekinge's gem. The municipality offers both city life and proximity to nature, and has long been an important hub for both business and defense.

Population and Demographics

Karlskrona has around 66,000 residents, making it the largest municipality in Blekinge. The population is relatively young compared to the national average, largely thanks to the university and defense activities that attract students and young families. There is an exciting mix of native Blekinge residents and newcomers from other parts of the country – and indeed an increasing proportion of people with a foreign background, contributing to the city's diversity.

Tax, Welfare, and Municipal Services

The municipal tax rate in Karlskrona is 21.65%, while the county council tax is 12.04%. Together with the funeral fee of 0.29%, the total tax burden amounts to 33.69% (excluding the church fee). The church fee is voluntary and is 1.34% for members of the Church of Sweden.

Tax revenues are used to finance everything from preschool, schools, and elderly care to rescue services and road maintenance. In recent years, Karlskrona has invested heavily in welfare and safety, with new schools, more elderly homes, and increased access to recreational activities. However, challenges remain – not least the need for new housing and adaptations to an aging population.

• Municipal tax: 21.65%
• County council tax: 12.04%
• Funeral fee: 0.29%
• Church fee (voluntary): 1.34%
• Total tax burden (excluding church fee): 33.69%

Economy and Labor Market

Karlskrona has a strong labor market with a mix of public sector, tech companies, and defense. Defense is one of the largest employers thanks to the Naval Base and defense activities. At the same time, the IT and telecom sectors have grown rapidly, with companies like Telenor and software firms putting Karlskrona on the tech map. Unemployment is slightly below the national average, and the municipality actively supports entrepreneurship and new businesses.

The economy is stable, but the municipality faces challenges in meeting growing needs within welfare and infrastructure. Investments in schools, healthcare, and public transportation have been prioritized in recent years.

Education and Business Sector

Blekinge Institute of Technology (BTH) is one of Karlskrona's proudest assets and attracts many young people. The university offers particularly strong programs in IT, engineering, and sustainable development. This has created an innovation-driven environment where new ideas and companies can flourish.

The business sector is diverse – from traditional industries to modern tech companies and creative industries. The archipelago and proximity to the sea have also made tourism and hospitality important income sources, especially during the summer months.

Geography and Sights

Karlskrona is built on 33 islands and offers a stunning archipelago environment. The city center is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its unique Baroque planning and naval history. Attractions include the Naval Museum, Stumholmen, and King’s Island Fort. Archipelago traffic makes it easy to explore small islands and secret beaches, and cycling paths along the coast offer beautiful views year-round.

• UNESCO World Heritage – city center
• Naval Museum and defense historical sites
• Archipelago, swimming, and nature experiences

FAQ – Common Questions about Karlskrona Municipality

• How high is the municipal tax in Karlskrona?
  The municipal tax rate is 21.65%. The total tax burden (including county council tax and funeral fee, excluding church fee) is 33.69%.
• How many residents does Karlskrona have?
  Approximately 66,000 people live in Karlskrona Municipality.
• Who are the largest employers?
  The Swedish Armed Forces, Karlskrona Municipality, Blekinge Institute of Technology, and several large IT and technology companies.
• What is unique about Karlskrona?
  The city's naval heritage, UNESCO World Heritage site, archipelago, and strong connections to defense and technology.