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I'm a developer in Stockholm, Sweden. Making around $72-75K a year. Pretty average salary around here, I think?



I'm also a developer in Stockholm, but originally from the US. Looking at my taxes from last year, I guess that I also made a similar amount before taxes, and most of my friends earn similar amounts. After taxes this would come out to about $50K.

Previously, I worked in Germany and I earned about the same amount (before taxes), probably a bit more afterwards. However, you can't and shouldn't compare the dollar amounts directly.

First of all, the taxes are higher (especially in Sweden), but you get more out of them. Health care, for instance, is excellent and is completely taken care of, whereas this is usually calculated as a "benefit" in the US. It's not uncommon for Americans to get shafted on the health insurance or to have to pay it themselves if they are independent contractors. Also, vacations benefits here are also very ample compared to the US. Five weeks per year is standard in Sweden, most professionals get six.

Also, I don't need to own a car here. That saves a ton of money, time, and mental health. I bike/walk/take public transport everywhere here. This is only possible in a handful of American cities, of which I have never personally lived in.

Stockholm is expensive, but the quality of life here is worth it. I consider myself very lucky to earn as much as I do, and I enjoy the life that I have here, which you can't put a price on.


How much do you get after taxes?


Around $55K I guess, maybe a little less.


Thanks.

I agree that there are so many things you can hardly put a prize on. Heck, I'm sure for many people living close to Christiania in Kopenhagen is a quality of life they would miss elsewhere.




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