What does a city treasurer do? – Tasks and work environment
A city treasurer is responsible for the financial management of the municipality or city, focusing on ensuring accurate budgeting, reporting, and financial follow-up. Tasks include preparing budget proposals, analyzing financial reports, handling closing processes, and participating in long-term financial planning. The role also involves collaboration with politicians, department heads, and external parties to provide financial data for decision-making. The work is primarily office-based and requires analytical skills and good communication abilities, as the city treasurer often acts as an advisor on financial matters within the organization.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, city treasurers have seen steady salary increases. In 2022, the average salary was 47,800 SEK per month, followed by 48 200 SEK in 2023 and 50 300 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to an increase of approximately 5.2% over the period. The salary development has been somewhat faster than the average for comparable professions, partly explained by increased demand for qualified financial expertise in the public sector and a growing need for advanced budgeting and reporting skills. Regional differences in salary development exist, but nationally, competition for experienced city treasurers has driven up salaries, especially in larger cities where the labor market is more dynamic.
City treasurer salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 50 300 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 39,500 SEK/month (female, high school education, various sectors)
- Highest salary: 56,300 SEK/month (male, private sector, postgraduate education)
- Hourly wage: 303 SEK
- Men's average salary: 54 000 SEK/month
- Women's average salary: 48 100 SEK/month
- Women's salary as a percentage of men's: 89%
- Regional differences: Salaries tend to be higher in metropolitan regions compared to smaller municipalities.
Education and qualifications
To work as a city treasurer, a university degree in economics, accounting, or a similar field is usually required. Many employers also value experience in financial management within the public sector. Practical experience in budgeting, accounting, or auditing is often advantageous, and further education in municipal economics can be beneficial.
- Bachelor's degree in economics: 3 years, often with a focus on accounting or public economics
- Further education in public administration: Certificates/courses, 1–2 semesters
- Internship or trainee programs: Recommended during or after studies
- Prerequisites: Basic university eligibility and mathematics skills
- Tips for choosing: Specialization in public economics provides an advantage in employment
City treasurers often play a key role in interpreting and translating political decisions into practical financial management, making the profession both strategic and socially impactful. The ability to communicate complex figures in an understandable way is one of the most valued qualities among employers.
Common benefits and compensations
City treasurers are often covered by collective agreements that provide pension rights, generous vacation policies, and insurance. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, flexitime, professional development, and the possibility of remote work depending on the employer and tasks.
Competition and challenges
The competition for city treasurer positions is moderate to high, especially in larger municipalities and regions where qualification and experience requirements are high. A challenge is that the labor market is characterized by a paradoxical situation where there are both recruitment difficulties and a significant number of professionals leaving the profession. High workload during closing periods and the need for continuous competence development in legislation and digital systems demand flexibility and curiosity. At the same time, career paths can be limited in smaller municipalities, prompting many to seek opportunities in larger organizations for further development.
Tips for aspiring city treasurers
To succeed as a city treasurer, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with accuracy and integrity. Gaining practical experience in financial administration early on, such as through internships or part-time jobs, provides valuable insights and networks. A genuine interest in societal issues and public economics is a great asset, as the role often involves balancing political goals with economic realities. The ability to communicate clearly and pedagogically is crucial in dialogues with colleagues and decision-makers. Staying updated on new regulations and digital tools makes it easier to adapt to changes in the work environment. Engagement and a structured approach help manage periods of high workload, and being solution-oriented facilitates tackling complex financial challenges.
Key facts about City Treasurers
- Average salary: 50 300 SEK/month
- Salary range: 39,500–56,300 SEK/month
- Educational level: Bachelor's degree in economics recommended
- Work environment: Office-based, often in the public sector
- Demand: High employment opportunities, especially in larger municipalities
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the role, a city treasurer can advance to senior financial positions such as finance director, budget manager, or controller within a municipality or region. There are also opportunities to specialize in areas like procurement, reporting, or strategic financial management. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that job opportunities within the group of auditors, which includes city treasurers, are large, and the recruitment situation is characterized by a shortage of qualified personnel. Over five years, demand is expected to be unchanged, providing stable long-term prospects for those committed to a career in the profession. Currently, there are 758 job openings nationwide in this field.
Frequently asked questions about City Treasurers
- What does a city treasurer earn?
- The average salary is 50 300 SEK per month, with a range between 39,500 and 56,300 SEK.
- What education is required to become a city treasurer?
- A bachelor's degree in economics, preferably with a focus on public economics, is recommended.
- Are there gender differences in the salary for city treasurers?
- Yes, women have an average salary of 48 100 SEK while men earn 54 000 SEK, which means women earn 89% of men's salaries.
- What are the future prospects for city treasurers?
- Opportunities for employment are considered large, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
- What are the job responsibilities of a city treasurer?
- Budgeting, financial monitoring, reporting, and advising decision-makers are central parts of the role.
- What is the hourly wage for a city treasurer?
- The average hourly wage is 303 SEK.
- Are there regional differences in salaries?
- Yes, salaries are generally higher in metropolitan regions compared to smaller municipalities.
