Sweden is a beautiful Nordic country with a high standard of living and innovative design.
Crime per 100,000 Swedes averaged 15,000 from 2010 to 2020.
Most crimes are property crimes, but some are violent. Despite Sweden’s safety, some cities have higher crime rates.
Sweden’s 10 most dangerous cities will be examined in this article.
Find out which cities made the list and why.
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10 Most Dangerous Cities in Sweden
Sollentuna
Sollentuna, Sweden’s 75,000-person municipality, is in Stockholm County.
Despite being one of Sweden’s wealthiest areas, its crime rate is higher than average.
Sollentuna’s most common crimes are property crimes like house break-ins, muggings, robberies, car thefts, and vandalism.
Drug-related crimes and assaults are also a concern.
Protecting yourself and your property in Sollentuna is essential.
Car theft is common in the area, so don’t leave valuables in your car.
When you’re away, lock your doors and windows.
Walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas, can lead to muggings and assaults.
Intoxicated people may be violent, so avoid them.
With a crime index of 64.22, Sollentuna is safer than many other Swedish cities.
However, you must remain vigilant and protect yourself and your property.
Boden
Boden, in northern Sweden, has 28,000 residents.
Its 60.92 crime index is high for a small town.
Assaults, vandalism, and theft are Boden’s top crimes.
Avoid alcohol-related confrontations in Boden to avoid assaults.
If you’re in danger, call the police or ask nearby businesses or bystanders for help.
In addition, Boden has a problem with vandalism, especially in parks and bus stops.
Be cautious and report suspicious behavior to the authorities.
Petty theft, home break-ins, and car thefts are common in Boden.
Locking doors and windows protects you and your property, especially when you’re away.
Finally, be careful using ATMs and carrying large amounts of cash.
Helsingborg
Helsingborg, in southern Sweden, has 110,000 residents.
While it is a popular tourist destination and a beautiful city to explore, its 55.95 crime index is higher than other cities in the region.
To stay safe in Helsingborg, be aware of the risks and take precautions.
Helsingborg’s tourist and poorly lit nighttime areas are prone to muggings and robberies.
Avoid carrying cash or expensive jewelry, and keep your belongings close.
In a dangerous situation, comply with the attacker’s demands and ask nearby businesses or bystanders for help.
Drug-related crimes are also a problem in Helsingborg, where police raid drug dealers and seize drugs.
Report drug-related suspicious behavior to authorities.
Finally, Helsingborg has a lot of theft, especially in public places.
Beware pickpockets in crowds, and keep your bags, purses, and wallets zipped.
Malmö
The southern Swedish city of Malmö is the third largest.
Despite its vibrant culture and multiethnic population, its 55.9 crime index is higher than other cities in the region.
Drug crimes, from possession to trafficking, are Malmö’s most common.
To stay safe in Malmö, be vigilant and avoid drug-related crime areas.
Keep your belongings close, especially in crowded areas, and avoid intoxicated people.
Avoiding Malmö’s dangerous neighborhoods is also important, especially at night.
Drug-related suspicious behavior should be reported to the authorities.
Malmö police have been actively fighting drug trafficking and related crimes for years.
Almhult
Almhult is a small and quaint municipality located in the southern part of Sweden.
It is known for its beautiful landscapes, outdoor activities, and charming architecture.
Despite its peaceful nature, Almhult has a higher crime rate when compared to other areas in the region, with a crime index of 53.24.
Physical attacks because of someone’s skin color, ethnic origin, gender, or religion are a rare but concerning issue in Almhult.
Such hate crimes can occur in any location, and it’s important to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior to the authorities.
In some Almhult neighborhoods, authorities report problem drug users and dealers.
Avoid drug-related crimes and people who appear to be under the influence.
Ask nearby businesses or bystanders for help if you feel unsafe.
Nevertheless, Almhult police are actively fighting hate crimes and drug offenses.
They’ve taken steps to protect residents and visitors.
Gavle
Gavle is a city with a rich history and culture known for its beautiful architecture, museums, and parks.
Despite its many attractions, its 50.74 crime index is higher than other areas in the region.
Drug-related offenses are a major issue in Gavle, where authorities report problem users and dealers.
Addiction, social marginalization, and criminal activity are often linked to these crimes, which harm individuals and communities.
Local police have been fighting drug crimes and helping addicts.
Vandalism and theft are also issues in Gavle.
The police have reported many residential and commercial thefts.
This type of crime can happen anywhere, so be vigilant and protect yourself and your property.
In public and crowded places, keep your belongings safe.
To reduce property crimes, report suspicious behavior to the police.
Uddevalla
On Sweden’s west coast, Uddevalla is home to about 34,000 people.
However, the regional crime index for Uddevalla is high at 50.55.
Crime rates in Uddevalla have risen over the last three years, worrying locals and tourists.
A major concern is the high number of muggings and robberies in Uddevalla, particularly in popular areas or areas that are not well-lit at night.
Visitors should maintain vigilance, refrain from bringing cash or pricey jewelry, and keep their belongings close at hand.
Authorities in Uddevalla report problem drug users and dealers in some neighborhoods.
Any drug-related suspicious behavior should be reported to the police by visitors.
Additionally, Uddevalla is plagued by theft, vandalism, and other property crimes.
Numerous thefts from homes and businesses have been reported to the police.
Visitors should secure their possessions in crowded and public areas.
Borlange
The municipality of Borlange, which has a population of about 50,000, is situated in the country’s center.
Sadly, the municipality’s crime index is 49.39, higher than other localities.
Drug crimes are Borlange’s main issue. Authorities have reported problem drug users and dealers in some areas of the municipality.
Drug users may resort to criminal activity to obtain drugs, including theft and robbery, which can create an unsafe environment for residents and visitors.
This can also lead to increased violence, putting individuals at risk.
Borlange also has property crimes like vandalism and theft.
The police have reported many residential and commercial thefts.
This type of crime can happen anywhere, so be vigilant and protect yourself and your property.
Gothenburg
Gothenburg, Sweden’s second-largest city with 600,000 residents, has a crime index of 46.55, lower than other Swedish cities.
However, drug-related offenses and social issues affect city crime rates.
Drug use and trafficking are major issues in Gothenburg.
Addiction, overdose, and infectious diseases spread from substance abuse.
It can also create social problems, such as homelessness, poverty, and family breakdown, which can have long-lasting effects on individuals and the community.
Ethnic segregation, socioeconomic issues, gangs, drugs, religion, and violent extremism plague Gothenburg.
In poor, unemployed areas, this can increase crime.
Nevertheless, a six-stage prevention model called “Trygg i” helps Gothenburg’s police and city increase security and reduce crime. (Safe in).
Gothenburg’s general crime prevention plans include extremist violence and hate prevention.
Stockholm
Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, has a crime index of 46, which is lower compared to other cities in the country.
However, there are still concerns related to drug-related offenses in the city.
Drug use is a concern in Stockholm, with incidents of people using drugs reported in some areas of the city.
Drug use can lead to addiction, social marginalization, and criminal activity, creating negative consequences for the individual and the community.
This can increase violence and other criminal activities, creating an unsafe environment for residents and visitors.
The authorities in Stockholm have been implementing several measures to address drug use in the city.
These include increased police presence in drug-use areas, targeted interventions to help addicts, and public education campaigns about drug dangers.
5 Safety Tips for Traveling to Sweden
Though Sweden is generally a safe country, it’s still important to take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Here are five safety tips for traveling to Sweden:
- Always be aware of your surroundings when visiting a new place. Avoid dark places at night and strangers.
- Secure your belongings. Avoid carrying cash or expensive jewelry, lock your luggage, and keep your wallet in a secure pocket.
- Avoid drug use and possession. Sweden’s drug laws are harsh. To stay safe and out of trouble, avoid drugs.
- Be vigilant and watch your belongings on public transportation. Avoid unmarked taxis and ride-sharing services.
- Before visiting Sweden, learn about the local emergency services and how to contact them. For emergencies, save police and hospital contact information.
Sweden Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Sweden Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sweden a safe country to visit?
Yes, Sweden is generally considered a safe country to visit.
However, visitors should still exercise caution, particularly in urban areas where property crimes, such as theft and vandalism, are a concern.
What should I do if I am a victim of a crime in Sweden?
Report crimes in Sweden to the police immediately.
In case of an emergency, call the national emergency number 112.
You can also contact your embassy or consulate for assistance.
What are some common safety concerns for travelers in Sweden?
Some common safety concerns for travelers in Sweden include property crimes, such as theft and vandalism, particularly in urban areas.
Visitors should also be cautious of pickpocketing and scams, particularly in tourist areas.
In addition, visitors should be aware of the local laws and customs, particularly related to drug use and alcohol consumption.
In my opinion, it is important to always prioritize safety and take necessary precautions when traveling, even in countries known for their high standard of living and safety like Sweden.