Sweden Unemployment Rate — 2026 Data, Trend & Forecast
Sweden's unemployment rate was 8.90% in August 2026, up from 8.60% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 8.70%.
Sweden's unemployment rate stands at 8.90% as of August 2026. The unemployment rate currently sits at 8.90% (up from 8.60% in the prior month). Across the tracked window it has ranged between 5.90% and 9.80%, and is 0.20% higher than a year ago.
The trend
Among the 227 economies tracked on this platform, Sweden ranks #60 on unemployment rate by latest value. It rose from 8.60% in the previous month, and compares with a year-earlier 8.70%.
What's driving it
Joblessness tracks the business cycle, labour-force participation and structural shifts in industry, and tends to lag changes in output.
Recent readings
| Period | Unemployment rate |
|---|---|
| Aug 2026 | 8.90% |
| Jul 2026 | 8.60% |
| Jun 2026 | 8.90% |
| May 2026 | 8.80% |
| Apr 2026 | 8.50% |
| Mar 2026 | 9.30% |
| Feb 2026 | 8.40% |
| Jan 2026 | 8.10% |
Data: Source: OECD (terms permit extract/distribute, incl. commercial, with citation). Figures carry an effective date; confirm with the source before relying on them.
Frequently asked questions
What Is the Unemployment Rate in Sweden in 2026?
Sweden's unemployment rate was 8.90% in August 2026, up from 8.60% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 8.70%.
Is the unemployment rate rising or falling in Sweden?
It rose in the latest reading — 8.90% in August 2026 versus 8.60% a month earlier. Year on year it is higher.
What is unemployment rate?
It measures the share of the labour force that is without work but actively seeking a job.