Boden’s population has already exceeded this year’s forecast by July. With 28,260 residents, the municipality has passed the year-end projection of 28,248 people – a clear sign that more people are choosing to settle here.
Population growth in Boden has been evident for several quarters, and the trend is now confirmed: the municipality is following the strong trajectory that was anticipated – and the forecast for 2025 has already been passed. A surge of new residents during the summer pushed the population beyond the annual target as early as July. Since then, growth has leveled off somewhat, which is normal as many students move on after the summer.
In June, Boden reached 28,172 residents – the highest level since late 2017. After a few years of decline, the population has rebounded strongly, driven primarily by increasing in-migration. The forecast prepared last spring pointed to 28,248 residents by the end of the year. Now, the conditions look favorable not only to meet that figure but to exceed it.
Drivers of growth
Behind this development is both the green industrial transition and a growing labor market in Boden. Stegra’s establishment of the world’s first large-scale green steel plant is moving toward production, and several other companies are signaling expansion. The Swedish Armed Forces are also planning to scale up their operations in Boden. Together, these investments are creating new jobs – and a rising demand for housing close to work.
“This strong development shows that Boden is an attractive place to move to. These are people who want to stay, which gives us stability for the future. Many newcomers also highlight the quality of life they gain when everything is close at hand – what we call närhetsliv. For me, this is proof of the long-term efforts we have made in Boden and something I feel very proud of,” says Magnus Åkerlund, Municipal Director.
Magnus Åkerlund, municipal manager in Boden Municipality.
At the same time, around 3,000 people are living temporarily in Boden for work. What sets the current increase apart is that the new arrivals are settling long-term – they want to build their lives here and become Bodensare. This stability makes the growth so crucial for the municipality’s future.
“For a municipality like ours, growth is absolutely vital. That is why we have made significant investments – in housing, services, and in creating the right conditions for businesses. When more people choose to stay in Boden, we can continue developing the municipality in a sustainable way,” says Magnus Åkerlund.
Focus on housing
Growth also brings new demands. As more people choose to settle in Boden, the need for housing, services, and infrastructure rises. This requires the municipality to meet today’s needs while also planning for long-term development.
“We have land allocations and detailed development plans in place, and we are prioritizing housing for those moving here. It is a challenge, and we hope more developers will see the opportunity to invest in Boden. Growth is expected not only to continue but also to accelerate in the coming years,” says Magnus Åkerlund.
A shift that was expected
When the target of 33,000 residents by 2030 was set, it was ambitious. The development has not been entirely linear, but the direction is clear. The trends that were predicted are now materializing: increasing migration northwards and a growing population choosing Boden as home.
For the municipality, businesses, and future developers, the message is clear – Boden is growing, and this is only the beginning.
