Competitiveness · scenario
Housing allowances: what do Nordic countries do?
Compare Finnish, Norwegian and Swedish models before choosing tighter targeting, tapering or partial abolition.
Have Nordic countries abolished housing allowances?
No. Finland, Sweden and Norway still operate housing-support systems, but they use income tests, household composition, eligible-cost caps and, in some cases, assets.
Three current models
| Country | Approach |
|---|---|
| Finland | Up to 70% of recognised housing costs after a deductible, with local caps and means tests. |
| Norway | Means-tested support for low-income households with high housing costs; income ceilings. |
| Sweden | Support for families with children and other groups, taking income and some assets into account. |
French scenarios to compare
Keep a tightly targeted allowance, add stronger asset tests, taper support more steeply, or phase out parts of the scheme. Full abolition should be costed against rent arrears, emergency housing and other social benefits.