Unemployment rate in Sweden 2023, by age group

The unemployment rate in Sweden in 2023 was highest among the young population from 15 to 24 years, where 22 percent were unemployed. It was lowest among people from 65 to 74 at just four percent, followed by those between 45 and 54. The unemployment rate in Sweden was 7.7 percent in 2023. 

Higher unemployment rate among men

Traditionally, there has been a slight difference in the unemployment rate among the genders. The unemployment among women was lower than among men over the past decade. However, in 2023, the unemployment rate was marginally higher among women than men. 

Unemployment benefits

Unemployed individuals in Sweden have the possibility to receive unemployment benefits (A-kassa). To receive the benefits, the unemployed needs to be registered at the Swedish Public Employment Service (Arbetsförmedlingen), needs to be ready to take a job at any time, and must have had a job for at least six months during the last year. In 2022, nearly 228,000 individuals in Sweden received such benefits.