This study examined long-term socio-economic patterns among women aged 18–64 who suffered violence leading to inpatient care. Using data from Swedish national registers for 1992–2005, 6,085 such cases were compared to a random population sample of 55,016 women. Women exposed to violence had less paid work, lower income and a higher risk of claiming means-tested income support. Exposure to violence resulted in long-term negative economic consequences for women with all levels of education. Violence against women is thus related to low income and social exclusion – both as a cause and consequence.