Cultural geographer

What does a cultural geographer do? – Tasks and work environment

A cultural geographer analyzes the interaction between humans, society, and the environment. Tasks include investigating how geographical and cultural factors influence population development, urban planning, resource distribution, and environmental changes. Common activities involve data collection, field studies, mapping, analysis, and reporting. Cultural geographers often work on projects and collaborate with other professionals such as urban planners, researchers, and authorities. The work environment is flexible and can vary between office work, teaching, investigations, and fieldwork depending on specialization and workplace.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for cultural geographers has been steadily positive. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, which increased to 43 300 SEK in 2023. Between 2023 and 2024, there was a clearer salary increase to the current level of 46 000 SEK, corresponding to an increase of approximately 6.2% over the period. This growth can be partly explained by increased demand for qualified analysis skills in urban planning and environmental work, as well as a growing need for expertise in sustainable development. The market for cultural geographers has broadened, especially within the public sector and consulting firms. At the same time, the educational level within the profession remains high, positively influencing salary development.

Cultural geographer salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 46 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,100 SEK/month (men), 42,000 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 52,100 SEK/month (men), 50,700 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage (average): 277 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 46 600 SEK, women 45 300 SEK (women earn 97% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data on variation between regions is not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a cultural geographer, a university degree in cultural geography or a related field is generally required. The program includes both theoretical and practical components, with particular emphasis on analysis methods, urban planning, and environmental issues. Internships or fieldwork may be part of the education, and there are opportunities to specialize in areas such as GIS, urban development, or environmental planning.

• Bachelor's degree in cultural geography: 3 years
• Master's degree in cultural geography or urban planning: 2 additional years
• Courses in GIS and statistics: Highly recommended
• Internship: Often part of the education and advantageous
• Prerequisites: Basic university eligibility

Common benefits and compensations

Among cultural geographers, it is common to have benefits such as flexible working hours, wellness allowances, and the possibility of remote work. In the public sector, additional vacation days and pension contributions are often provided. Continuing education and skills development are also regularly offered, especially for those working in academia or larger organizations.

Competition and challenges

Competition for the most attractive positions within cultural geography can be significant, especially in research, education, and larger consulting firms. A limited number of permanent positions means many work on project basis or with temporary assignments. Challenges in the profession include the need for continuous skills development, especially in digital analysis tools and GIS. Good collaboration skills and the ability to communicate complex relationships to decision-makers and the public are also required. However, the demand for specialized knowledge in sustainable development and urban planning is increasing, which can open new opportunities for qualified candidates.

Tips for those who want to become a cultural geographer

To succeed as a cultural geographer, it is good to combine analytical skills with curiosity about societal development and environmental issues. Actively seeking internships and projects during your studies provides valuable experience and networking opportunities. Good teamwork skills are important as much of the work is done in teams and in collaboration with other professionals. Gaining knowledge in digital tools, especially GIS, is often requested by employers. Being communicative and able to explain analyses in an understandable way is an advantage, especially when working with authorities and decision-makers. A structured work approach facilitates handling large datasets and complex projects. An interest in current events and societal trends helps stay relevant in the job market.

Key facts about a cultural geographer

• Educational level: University degree, often a master's
• Work environment: Varied between office, field, and project settings
• Typical employment: Project-based or permanent employment
• Demand: 758 job openings within the profession according to current data
• Special skills: GIS and urban planning are advantageous

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a cultural geographer can advance to roles such as project manager, urban planner, or investigator within the public sector or consulting industry. Some choose to deepen their research or work internationally on development projects. Forecasts from the Employment Service show that demand for cultural geographers and related specialists is relatively stable, with particularly good prospects for those with skills in digital analysis and sustainable development. Opportunities for further education and specialization are good, and the job market is expanding with increasing focus on environmental issues, urbanization, and societal planning.

Frequently asked questions about cultural geographers

• What does a cultural geographer earn?
  - A cultural geographer has an average salary of 46 000 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and workplace.
• What do salary differences between men and women look like?
  - Men earn an average of 46 600 SEK, women 45 300 SEK, which means women earn 97% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a cultural geographer?
  - A bachelor's degree in cultural geography or a related field is required, often supplemented with a master's degree and courses in GIS.
• Are there good job opportunities for cultural geographers?
  - Yes, currently there are 758 job openings within the profession, especially for those with digital skills and experience in urban planning.
• What tasks does a cultural geographer perform?
  - Common tasks include analyzing social structures, field studies, mapping, investigative work, and project management.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a cultural geographer?
  - The highest salary is 52,100 SEK for men and 50,700 SEK for women, while the lowest is 41,100 SEK for men and 42,000 SEK for women.
• What personal qualities are important for a cultural geographer?
  - Analytical skills, teamwork, and communication abilities are particularly important in the profession.