More second homes in inland northern Sweden than previously thought

Hemavan has a large number of second homes. For the first time, researchers have now mapped how many there actually are.

ImageJohnér Bildbyrå AB

Officially, Sweden has approximately 612,000 second homes. But according to a new study, many more are used as second homes – without being counted in the statistics.

“While second homes historically have been associated with detached houses, such as cottages and cabins, this research highlights the growing role of alternative dwellings, including mobile homes, apartments, caravans, and recreational vehicles,” says Amrei Aubrunner, doctoral student at the Industrial Doctoral School at Umeå University and first author of the study.

Ten municipalities studied

The study is based on both government data and survey results. The researchers counted detached houses and apartments with no permanently registered inhabitants – a sign that they are used as second homes. They also contacted all 58 campgrounds in the area to count mobile dwellings that are seasonally or permanently stationed.

Mobile dwellings often do not contribute to tax revenues due to them being registered as private vehicles.

By analysing these data, the study reveals how these accommodations are shaping second-home tourism, particularly in urban centres, ski resorts, and nature-based tourism destinations. Ten municipalities are included in the study: Arjeplog, Arvidsjaur, Dorotea, Lycksele, Malå, Norsjö, Sorsele, Storuman, Vilhelmina and Åsele.

The findings reveal that within the study area, mobile dwellings and apartments increase the total number of second homes by approximately 11 per cent compared to official statistics. In some places, such as Vuoggatjålme in the municipality of Arjeplog, these alternative forms of housing are up to 2.5 times more common than traditional houses.

Second homes in the form of mobile homes and apartments are significantly more common than traditional houses in some areas.

ImageJohnér Bildbyrå AB

“This emphasises the importance of analysing second homes based on their use rather than their dwelling type. This issue is especially relevant for countries with property taxes, like Sweden, as mobile dwellings often do not contribute to tax revenues due to them being registered as private vehicles,” says Amrei Aubrunner.

High impact on local development

The studied municipalities in northern Sweden have fewer than 50,000 inhabitants combined. With a population density of just 0.8 inhabitants per square kilometre, it’s challenging to maintain infrastructure such as roads, schools, and healthcare facilities, as well as to develop the economy by attracting businesses and creating jobs.

“Second-home tourism significantly impacts the local economy and communities. Our findings show the need for data-driven policies that consider all types of second homes and ensure inclusive planning and development,” says Amrei Aubrunner.

Number of second homes (of which mobile homes and apartments)  

Storuman: 4592 (311)
Vilhelmina: 3431 (205)
Arvidsjaur: 1872 (175)
Arjeplog: 1867 (424)
Lycksele: 1827 (123)
Sorsele: 1414 (200)
Dorotea: 1383 (143)
Norsjö: 1027 (19)
Åsele: 1016 (28)
Malå: 651 (186)