Sundsvall

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Neighborhoods

Insights into Sundsvall’s key neighborhoods to help newcomers choose the best location for living.

Sections

Overview of Sundsvall’s Neighborhoods

Sundsvall is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its own unique character, housing options, and amenities. The city center (Stenstan) is the heart of Sundsvall, while surrounding areas like Nacksta, Skönsberg, and Granloholm offer more suburban living. Here’s a breakdown of the main neighborhoods:

1. Stenstan (City Center)

  • Housing Types: Primarily apartments in historic stone buildings (hence the name "Stenstan," meaning "Stone Town"). Many buildings date back to the late 19th century and feature charming architecture.
  • Rental Costs: Apartments in Stenstan are in high demand, with one-bedroom apartments (1 rum och kök) typically costing around 6,000–8,000 SEK/month. Larger apartments can range from 10,000–15,000 SEK/month.
  • Purchase Costs: Buying an apartment (bostadsrätt) in Stenstan costs approximately 25,000–35,000 SEK per square meter, depending on the building’s condition and location.
  • Availability: Limited due to high demand, but new developments and renovations occasionally open up opportunities.
  • Local Amenities: Excellent access to shops, restaurants, cafes, cultural attractions, and schools. Sundsvall’s main train station is also located here.
  • Transportation: Well-connected by buses and within walking distance of most amenities.

2. Nacksta

  • Housing Types: A mix of rental apartments and cooperative housing (bostadsrätter). Many buildings are mid-20th-century apartment blocks.
  • Rental Costs: More affordable than Stenstan, with one-bedroom apartments starting at 4,500–6,000 SEK/month.
  • Purchase Costs: Prices are lower than in the city center, averaging 15,000–20,000 SEK per square meter.
  • Availability: Moderate availability, with a mix of private landlords and housing companies offering rentals.
  • Local Amenities: Supermarkets, schools, and parks. It’s a family-friendly area with a quieter atmosphere.
  • Transportation: Well-served by buses, with easy access to the city center (10–15 minutes by bus).

3. Granlo and Granloholm

  • Housing Types: Suburban-style living with a mix of apartments, row houses (radhus), and detached houses (villor).
  • Rental Costs: Apartments range from 5,000–7,000 SEK/month, while houses can cost 10,000–15,000 SEK/month.
  • Purchase Costs: Detached houses typically cost 2–4 million SEK, while row houses are slightly cheaper.
  • Availability: Good availability, especially for families looking for larger homes.
  • Local Amenities: Schools, healthcare centers, and recreational areas. Granloholm has a more modern feel compared to Granlo.
  • Transportation: Regular bus services to the city center (15–20 minutes).

4. Skönsberg

  • Housing Types: Primarily apartments, with some row houses and detached homes.
  • Rental Costs: Affordable, with one-bedroom apartments starting at 4,000–5,500 SEK/month.
  • Purchase Costs: Apartments cost around 12,000–18,000 SEK per square meter, making it one of the more affordable areas.
  • Availability: Moderate availability, with options for both rentals and purchases.
  • Local Amenities: Supermarkets, schools, and proximity to Sundsvall’s industrial areas, making it convenient for workers.
  • Transportation: Well-connected by buses, with a short commute to the city center (10 minutes).

5. Alnö (Island Suburb)

  • Housing Types: Predominantly detached houses and summer homes, with some apartments.
  • Rental Costs: Houses typically cost 8,000–12,000 SEK/month.
  • Purchase Costs: Detached houses range from 2.5–5 million SEK, depending on proximity to the water.
  • Availability: Limited, as it’s a popular area for families and retirees.
  • Local Amenities: Beaches, nature reserves, and a peaceful, rural atmosphere. Schools and small shops are available.
  • Transportation: Connected to the mainland by a bridge, with regular bus services (20–30 minutes to the city center).

6. Södermalm

  • Housing Types: A mix of apartments and row houses, with some newer developments.
  • Rental Costs: Apartments range from 5,000–7,000 SEK/month.
  • Purchase Costs: Apartments cost around 18,000–25,000 SEK per square meter.
  • Availability: Moderate, with newer developments offering more options.
  • Local Amenities: Close to the city center, with parks, schools, and shops nearby.
  • Transportation: Excellent bus connections and walkable to Stenstan.

Housing and Accommodation Procedures in Sundsvall

Finding accommodation in Sundsvall involves several steps, and it’s important to understand the local rental and purchase processes.

1. Renting a Property

  • Rental Market: The rental market in Sundsvall is competitive, especially for centrally located apartments. It’s common to rent through housing companies (bostadsbolag) or private landlords.
  • Key Housing Companies:
    • Mitthem: The largest municipal housing company in Sundsvall.
    • Private landlords: Listings can be found on websites like Blocket.se or BostadsPortal.
  • Application Process:
    • Register with housing companies to join their queue system (kösystem). The longer you’ve been in the queue, the better your chances of securing a rental.
    • Provide proof of income and references if required.
  • Deposit: Typically one to three months’ rent.

2. Buying a Property

  • Process:
    • Search for properties on websites like Hemnet.se or Booli.se.
    • Engage a real estate agent (mäklare) to assist with the purchase.
    • Secure financing through a Swedish bank (a mortgage, or bolån). Non-residents may face stricter requirements.
    • A property inspection (besiktning) is usually conducted before finalizing the purchase.
  • Costs: In addition to the purchase price, buyers pay a 1.5% stamp duty (lagfart) and a fee for registering the mortgage (pantbrev).

3. Short-Term Accommodation

  • For temporary stays, consider serviced apartments, Airbnb, or hotels. These are more expensive but provide flexibility while you search for long-term housing.

Transportation in Sundsvall

Sundsvall has an efficient public transportation system, making it easy to commute between neighborhoods.

  • Buses: Operated by Din Tur, with frequent services connecting all major neighborhoods.
  • Cycling: Sundsvall is bike-friendly, with dedicated paths in many areas.
  • Trains: Sundsvall Central Station connects the city to Stockholm, Umeå, and other major cities.
  • Driving: Parking is available in most neighborhoods, but fees apply in the city center.

Tips for Finding Accommodation in Sundsvall

  1. Start Early: The housing market can be competitive, so begin your search as soon as possible.
  2. Use Multiple Platforms: Check housing company websites, real estate portals, and local Facebook groups.
  3. Learn Swedish: While many Swedes speak English, knowing some Swedish can help you navigate housing listings and communicate with landlords.
  4. Understand Contracts: Rental contracts are legally binding, so ensure you understand the terms before signing.
  5. Be Prepared for Winter: If renting or buying a house, ensure it’s well-insulated and equipped for cold weather.

Sundsvall offers a variety of housing options to suit different lifestyles and budgets. Whether you prefer the historic charm of Stenstan or the suburban tranquility of Alnö, you’ll find a neighborhood that meets your needs.