Opening a barbershop in Sweden is a realistic way to run your own business, but you need a clear picture of upfront and ongoing costs. Rents and costs vary by city—Stockholm is generally more expensive than Gothenburg or Malmö—and by the size and fit-out of your shop. Everything in this guide is in Swedish kronor (SEK / kr). For licensing and legal steps, see our full walkthrough: How to start a barbershop.
How much does it cost to open a barbershop in Sweden: quick answer
Small barbershop (1–2 chairs): 250,000 – 750,000 kr. Medium (3–4 chairs): 750,000 – 1,600,000 kr. Premium (Stockholm): 2,200,000 kr+. These figures include equipment, rent (deposit plus first months), fit-out, licences and working capital.
Rent and premises: what to expect in Sweden
Rent is one of the biggest fixed costs. Prime high streets and city centres cost more; suburbs and smaller cities are cheaper. Below are indicative monthly rents so you can plan your barbershop budget by area.
- Stockholm (city centre, Södermalm, Östermalm): 15,000 – 55,000 kr+ per month.
- Stockholm (suburbs): 9,000 – 28,000 kr per month.
- Gothenburg (centre, Avenyn): 10,000 – 38,000 kr per month.
- Malmö, Uppsala (city centre): 8,000 – 30,000 kr per month.
- Other cities and towns: 5,000 – 18,000 kr per month.
Landlords often ask for a deposit (e.g. 1–2 months’ rent) and advance rent. Factor in at least 2–3 months’ rent for deposit and first payments when working out your startup costs.
Equipment and licences
For a 1–2 chair setup, expect to spend roughly 85,000 – 260,000 kr on chairs, mirrors, clippers, scissors, wash basins and basic furniture. Licences and registrations (Skatteverket, VAT, local and health compliance) can add 8,000 – 35,000 kr depending on your structure. More detail: how to start a barbershop.
Management software
Barbería Club helps you manage appointments and clients from day one. You can try Barbería Club for free.
Cost breakdown by shop size (SEK)
| Item | Small | Medium | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment | 85,000 – 260,000 kr | 240,000 – 580,000 kr | 580,000 – 1,150,000 kr |
| Rent (deposit + 2 months) | 35,000 – 140,000 kr | 70,000 – 230,000 kr | 120,000 – 420,000 kr |
| Fit-out, licences, marketing | 30,000 – 95,000 kr | 60,000 – 180,000 kr | 100,000 – 280,000 kr |
| Working capital | 35,000 – 110,000 kr | 70,000 – 220,000 kr | 140,000 – 350,000 kr |
| Total (SEK) | 250,000 – 750,000 kr | 750,000 – 1,600,000 kr | 1,600,000 – 2,200,000 kr+ |
Profitability and ways to save
Typical gross margin for a well-run barbershop in Sweden is 60–70%. Break-even often occurs within 6–12 months if location and pricing are right. To keep costs down: consider second-hand or refurbished equipment, negotiate rent or incentives with the landlord, use low-cost marketing (Google Business Profile, Instagram) and run the shop with efficient booking software.
Local SEO and visibility in Sweden
Claim and optimise your Google Business Profile (name, address, phone, opening hours, photos and services). Use keywords like “herrfrisör [stad]” or “barberare [område]” on your site and listings. Encourage Google reviews—they are a major local ranking factor in Sweden.
Frequently asked questions
How much money do I need?
A small barbershop usually needs 250,000–750,000 kr; a medium one 750,000–1,600,000 kr. A premium shop in Stockholm can exceed 2,200,000 kr.
Is it profitable?
Yes. With a good location and operations, many barbershops hit break-even within 6–12 months.
What licences do I need?
You need to register with Skatteverket, register for VAT if applicable, and comply with local and health regulations. Full steps: how to start a barbershop.
How much does the owner make?
An owner who also cuts might earn 28,000–70,000 kr per month in a small shop. With 3–4 barbers, owner income often reaches 55,000–95,000 kr or more per month.
Opening a barbershop in Sweden step by step
For licensing, qualifications and legal requirements, see our full guide: How to start a barbershop.