How much does a Skald make

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Skald

44 500 kr

Authors etc.

44 200 - 45 200 kr / month

Women earn 98% of what men do.

Kultur, media, design

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Skald

Average salary 44 500 kr
Males 45 100 kr
Females 44 200 kr
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What does a Skald do? – Tasks and work environment

A Skald works with creating and performing poetry, stories, and songs, often rooted in Nordic tradition and history. Tasks can range from writing epics and poems to performing before audiences at cultural events, schools, or festivals. Many Skalds combine their creative work with teaching, lectures, or author assignments. The work environment varies greatly – some work from home or in their own studio, while others are employed by cultural institutions, theaters, or museums. The profession is characterized by a high degree of independence and often requires the ability to work on projects and handle irregular hours.

Salary development over time

The salary for Skalds has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,000 SEK per month, rising in 2023 to 42 100 SEK, and further up to 44,500 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 11.3% over three years, which is slightly higher than the general salary growth for similar cultural professions. Behind this positive trend are, among other factors, a growing demand for cultural workers capable of bringing historical stories to life and an increased appreciation for oral storytelling in education and public activities. The digitalization of new audience formats has also contributed to broadening the job market for Skalds, positively impacting salaries.

Skald salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 44,500 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 44,200 SEK/month
  • Highest salary: 45,200 SEK/month
  • Hourly wage: 268 SEK
  • Women: 44,200 SEK/month
  • Men: 45 100 SEK/month
  • Women’s share of men’s salary: 98%

Education and qualifications

To work as a Skald, a background in literature, language, or cultural history is usually required, along with strong creative and oral storytelling skills. Many have a university degree in humanities, but self-study and practical experience are also highly valued in employment or assignments. It is common to combine artistic education with courses in rhetoric or pedagogy to meet job market demands.

  • Formal degree: Bachelor's degree in literary studies, Nordic languages, or cultural history (3 years)
  • Courses/certifications: Rhetoric, oral storytelling, writing
  • Internships/assignments: Experience in stage performances, authorship, or adult education
  • Prerequisites: Good language skills, interest in Nordic mythology and cultural heritage
  • Self-studies: Personal writing, workshops, and participation in storytelling networks

Many Skalds also work on recreating historical environments and traditions at museums or Viking festivals, making the profession a living link between past and present. The oral tradition still plays a central role, especially in educational contexts and cultural heritage events.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Benefits within the Skald profession can include free cultural trips, appearance fees, residencies or writing grants, and opportunities for skill development through courses and workshops. Flexibility in working hours and the ability to combine different assignments are often appreciated within the profession.

Challenges and competition

The competition for permanent positions as a Skald is high, as the number of advertised jobs is limited and many work as freelancers or project-based employees. A growing interest in cultural heritage and storytelling has opened new opportunities in schools, museums, and events. Challenges include irregular income, the pressure to constantly innovate, and the need to market oneself to secure assignments. Regional differences in job availability exist, with greater opportunities in areas with a strong cultural sector or tourism industry.

Tips for aspiring Skalds

To succeed as a Skald, it is good to be both creative and persistent, with a strong passion for storytelling. Building a network of cultural actors and actively participating in storytelling workshops or literary events can help gain visibility. Good communication skills and the ability to adapt stories to different audiences are crucial, as is the courage to perform publicly and try new formats. Flexibility and the ability to combine tasks, such as teaching and authorship, increase chances of getting assignments. Self-discipline and independence are important, as many Skalds run their own projects. An interest in Nordic history and cultural heritage also helps create credible and engaging stories.

Key facts about Skald

  • Salary range: 44,200–45,200 SEK/month
  • Education level: Bachelor's degree in humanities is common
  • Typical employment: Freelance or project-based
  • Gender distribution: Women earn 98% of men's salary
  • Available jobs: 620 positions within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a Skald can have built a personal audience and established collaborations with cultural institutions, schools, or event organizers. Many move on to work as authors, lecturers, or educators in oral storytelling. Some choose to specialize in cultural heritage or museum education, while others take leadership roles in storytelling networks or projects. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, demand for cultural workers remains stable, especially in areas combining storytelling and education. With 620 available jobs, there are good opportunities for those who are flexible and willing to work in various project-based forms.

Common questions about Skald

  • What does a Skald earn?
    - A Skald has an average salary of 44,500 SEK per month, with a range between 44,200 and 45,200 SEK.
  • How do gender differences look for Skald salaries?
    - Women earn 44,200 SEK on average, which corresponds to 98% of men's salary at 45 100 SEK.
  • What education is required to become a Skald?
    - Most commonly, a bachelor's degree in humanities, with courses in storytelling and practical experience also important.
  • What does the job market look like for Skalds?
    - There are 620 available jobs in the profession, with good opportunities for those who are flexible.
  • What tasks does a Skald perform?
    - Tasks include writing, performances, teaching, and bringing cultural heritage to life.
  • Are there regional salary differences for Skalds?
    - Regional differences may occur, especially where the cultural sector is stronger.
  • What personal qualities are important for Skalds?
    - Creativity, communication skills, self-discipline, and an interest in cultural heritage are key qualities.

Richard Andersson

Richard Andersson - 2025-07-05 05:04:22

Occupation
Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Skald is 45200 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed officials with a unspecified education. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 44500 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Skald is 44200 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Multiple sectors. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 44900 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
25-34 37400 kr 37500 kr
35-44 43700 kr 43700 kr
45-54 47900 kr 48300 kr
55-64 48700 kr 48900 kr
Snitt 98% 44300 kr 44500 kr
* Empty columns indicate that the statistical data was insufficient to allow for a statistically significant conclusion.
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Skald has the SSYK code 2641, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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