The Swedish Consumer Agency’s calculations of reference values for some of the most common household expense categories

Abstract

This chapter reviews the work of the Swedish Consumer Agency in producing “reasonable living expenses.” It provides an example of an expert-led reference budget standard that is grounded in social statistics and behavioural data, and supported by work with social surveys and focus groups. It also explains the Swedish Consumer Agency's work of calculating the costs of the goods and services that households usually need in order to achieve a “reasonable standard of living.” The chapter demonstrates the calculations that cover both individual and common household costs, focusing on the basic needs required to live decently in Sweden. It points out that the reference budget standards and values are ascertained from official statistics and information produced by research institutes, agencies, and expert organisations.