Sweden's Economic Recovery Leaves Low-Income Families, Especially Single Parents, in Crisis

Despite recent improvements in Sweden's overall economy, low-income families, particularly single-parent households, continue to face severe financial hardship and food insecurity. A comprehensive report based on over 1,300 interviews reveals that nearly 80% of low-income single parents have experienced economic anxiety in the past six months, a stark contrast to just 24% in a control group. These single parents earn less than 30,000 SEK monthly before tax, while the slightly better-off cohabiting households earn under 43,000 SEK.

The report highlights that around 276,000 children live in households enduring significant financial strain, according to organizations such as Rädda Barnen and Röda Korset. Economic concerns remain as high as during the height of inflation in 2023. More than half of low-income single parents expressed worries about their family’s financial situation in the next six months. Food insecurity is a pressing issue: half of these families struggle to buy nutritious food, and 40% have admitted to not eating enough themselves. Furthermore, 80% find it difficult to afford family activities, and many have trouble covering transportation costs.

Housing affordability is also a critical concern, with approximately 4% of these families facing eviction risks. Nearly half of the single parents surveyed have had to borrow money to cover basic expenses, and one-third have accrued debts from missed bills.

Ulrika Modéer of Röda Korset underscored the societal consequences, stating, “When children have to stand in food bag queues or go to soup kitchens, we create a more unequal society.” The findings paint a picture of two economic realities in Sweden: one where some families enjoy stronger financial margins and another where many remain trapped in persistent economic anxiety and hardship, particularly the most vulnerable single-parent households.