The Million Homes Programme
What does it mean?
The Million Homes Programme (Miljonprogrammet) was Sweden's most ambitious housing policy initiative ever. Between 1965 and 1974, over one million homes — both rental and cooperative — were built to solve the acute post-war housing shortage. The programme was funded through government loans and subsidies, resulting in large-scale residential areas with functionalist architecture across the country.
Today, million-programme properties face enormous renovation needs. Many of these homes have not been renovated since they were built, and the need for pipe replacement, facade upgrades, and energy efficiency improvements is urgent. Renovations have become controversial because they often lead to steep rent increases that force existing tenants out — known as renovation evictions (renovräkningar). The programme remains crucial for Sweden's housing supply, with an estimated 1.5 million people living in these areas.
Key Points
- Over 1 million homes built between 1965 and 1974
- Aimed to solve the post-war housing shortage through industrial construction
- Resulted in large-scale suburban areas like Tensta, Rosengård, and Bergsjön
- Major renovation needs — an estimated 300,000 apartments require full renovation
- Renovations often lead to renovation evictions affecting low-income residents
Practical Tip
If you live in a million-programme area facing renovation, contact the Tenant Association (Hyresgästföreningen) early. You have the right to influence the scope of renovation and to negotiate the rent increase. Document the apartment's condition before renovation begins.