Economic inequality is widening among Swedish families, with single-parent households hit hardest, according to a new survey that has sparked concern among child welfare organizations. The data, collected by polling firm Verian between January 30 and February 21, reveals that 29% of low-income single parents and couples with children struggle to provide adequate food for their families.
The findings paint a troubling picture of increasing hardship in one of the world’s most developed welfare states. The survey was commissioned by a coalition of organizations working against child poverty in Sweden: the Swedish Red Cross (Röda Korset), Save the Children Sweden (Rädda Barnen), the Swedish Union of Tenants (Hyresgästföreningen), and Majblomman, a non-profit focused on improving the lives of children in need.
“We see that single parents without a high income are going through a very, very difficult time in Sweden right now,” said Åse Henell, director of Majblomman.
Cost of living crisis hits working families
Despite being employed full-time, a growing number of parents report that they cannot make ends meet. According to the Verian survey, nearly one in three single parents with monthly earnings below 30,000 SEK (about 2,620 EUR) have experienced food insecurity—a nine-point increase compared to 2024. For couples with children earning less than 43,000 SEK (approx. 3,760 EUR) per month, the situation is similarly precarious.
In addition to food insecurity, 58% of respondents said they were unable to afford extracurricular or recreational activities for their children, limiting access to experiences that are crucial for development and social integration.
Sweden’s welfare model under scrutiny
These findings challenge the widespread perception of Sweden as a bastion of social equality. While the country maintains a robust welfare state, economic pressures—rising rents, food prices, and energy costs—have increasingly strained lower-income households, particularly those led by single parents.
Child-focused organizations have long warned that poverty in Sweden is becoming more visible and more harmful to children’s health, education, and future opportunities. The latest data adds urgency to calls for targeted welfare reforms and increased support for families at risk.
Growing demands for political response
The organizations behind the survey are urging the Swedish Government to act swiftly. Proposals include improved housing benefits, more generous child allowances, and better access to subsidized meals in schools.
Without intervention, they warn, a generation of Swedish children could grow up with reduced opportunities, perpetuating cycles of poverty in a country that has historically prided itself on social mobility and equal opportunity.
