stadsnära

Stadsnära is a Swedish term, literally "city-close," used to describe development, housing, and services located near a city's core or well-connected to it. In urban planning and real estate discourse, it denotes areas that offer short travel times to workplaces, schools, shops, and cultural life, typically achieved through proximity to public transit, walkability, and mixed-use design.

The concept is employed by municipalities and developers to promote densification around central neighborhoods, transit-oriented development, and the reuse of existing infrastructure. It encompasses housing affordability, sustainability, and quality of life, with an emphasis on reducing car dependence and supporting active transport.

However, the term is not precisely defined and varies by context. Critics point out that "stadsnära" can be used marketingly to justify higher prices and gentrification, potentially excluding lower-income groups if not accompanied by inclusive housing policy. It is often connected to broader ideas such as urban regeneration, smart growth, and proximity-based service provision.

Overall, stadsnära remains a flexible label in Swedish urban policy and planning, reflecting a goal of integrating housing, work, and services within reach of city life.