Rent Furnished Apartments – What's Included and Tips to Save

Renting furnished apartments has become increasingly common among students, temporary workers, and those seeking flexibility without investing in their own furniture. But what exactly is included in a furnished apartment rental in Sweden, and how does the price differ from an unfurnished apartment? This guide explores what furnishings are typically included, regional variations, and practical tips for saving money when you rent furnished apartments.

What's Included in a Furnished Apartment?

There is no legally mandated definition of what must be included in a furnished apartment rental in Sweden, which means standards vary between landlords and regions. However, many landlords follow informal norms for what a furnished apartment should contain.

Typically, a furnished apartment includes:

• Bedroom: Bed with mattress, often with nightstands and curtains
• Living room: Sofas, coffee table, bookshelves, and lighting
• Kitchen: Kitchen cabinets, appliances such as stove, microwave, refrigerator, and sometimes dishwasher
• Bathroom: Toilet, shower or bathtub, often with mirror and towel racks
• Entryway: Wardrobe or coat rack

It's crucial to verify exactly what's included before signing the lease. Some landlords offer fully furnished apartments while others provide only the essentials.

Furnished vs. Unfurnished – Which Suits You Best?

Choosing between furnished and unfurnished housing is an important decision affecting both finances and flexibility. Renting furnished apartments means higher monthly rent but lower upfront costs, while unfurnished offers lower rent but requires significant initial investment.

Cost Comparison: Furnished vs. Unfurnished

When renting unfurnished, the landlord often offers a lower base rent, but you must cover furnishing costs yourself. Expenses for furnishing an apartment can quickly reach 15,000–50,000 SEK or more, depending on furniture quality and scope. Therefore, furnished apartments can be cost-effective over short periods, especially if you stay only a few months.

Flexibility and Mobility

Furnished apartments are ideal if you know you won't stay long in one location. You won't need to sell furniture or transport it between cities, saving both time and money.

Furnishing Standards Across Sweden

Furnishing standards vary significantly between regions and between urban and rural areas. In the Stockholm region, where many temporary workers and international renters seek housing, furnished apartments are very common and often well-furnished. University cities like Uppsala, Lund, and Gothenburg also maintain high furnishing standards due to student demand.

In smaller towns and rural areas, fully furnished apartments are less common. Here, "furnished" may mean only basic furniture, while details like lighting, kitchen equipment, or curtains can vary considerably.

Tips for Saving on Furnished Rentals

Negotiate Furnishing Details

Many landlords are willing to adjust which furniture is included to meet your specific needs. Don't need a sofa but want a desk? Ask if this adjustment can lower the rent.

Compare Partially vs. Fully Furnished

Some apartments are offered as "partially furnished" – this option can sometimes cost less than fully furnished but more than unfurnished. Comparing all three options is worthwhile.

Longer Rental Periods

Many landlords offer discounts on monthly rent if you lease for longer than six or twelve months. A longer commitment can offset higher costs and often results in better overall value.

Check Furniture Condition

Always inspect furniture condition before signing. Worn furniture and broken appliances can significantly affect your living environment. If furniture is old or damaged, try negotiating a discounted price or request furniture updates before moving in.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between furnished and unfurnished apartments?

A furnished apartment comes with furniture, kitchen equipment, and other interior details already in place. An unfurnished apartment is empty, and the tenant must cover all furnishing costs. Furnished rent is more expensive per month but has lower upfront costs, while unfurnished is the opposite.

Does a kitchen come with a furnished apartment?

Usually, a furnished apartment includes an equipped kitchen – but the extent varies. Many landlords provide kitchen cabinets, refrigerator, stove, and microwave, but not always dishwasher, countertop, or tall cabinet. Always check the lease to know exactly what's included.

Is it worth renting a furnished apartment?

It depends on your situation. If you're staying temporarily (less than a year), you often save money by renting furnished. If you stay longer than two years, investing in your own furniture for an unfurnished apartment often makes financial sense.

Can I negotiate which furniture is included?

Yes, many landlords are open to adjusting furnishing levels. Ask if furniture can be switched, removed, or added – this can result in a better price or housing that better meets your needs.