Quick guide: Housing in Helsinki essentials
Moving to a new city is exciting, but there’s plenty to figure out along the way—and finding a place to live is high on that list. If you’re moving to Helsinki and feeling overwhelmed, we’ve got you. This guide will help you navigate Helsinki’s housing scene, whether you’re renting or buying, so you can settle in stress-free.
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Neighbourhoods in Helsinki
Each area in Helsinki offers something unique, from seaside charm to peaceful green spaces. The city’s efficient public transport system ensures you’re never far from the action, no matter where you live.
Here’s a quick overview—check out our full Helsinki neighbourhood guide for more.
- City centre: Staying somewhere central like Kamppi or Kruununhaka is ideal if you want to be in the middle of it all, with plenty of shops, cafés, and restaurants.
- Southern Helsinki: Areas like Punavuori, Ullanlinna. and Eira charm with their historic architecture, abundant parks, and prestigious apartments.
- Western Helsinki: For a peaceful pace, explore Töölö, Munkkiniemi, and Haaga, which offer open green spaces, proximity to the city centre, and seaside access.
- Eastern Helsinki: Head to areas like Kallio and Sornainen for lively, urban culture. Vallila and Käpylä bring a touch of nostalgia with old wooden houses, and further east, Herttoniemi and Vuosaari give great waterfront views.
Explore more Helsinki neighbourhoods
Where to search for housing in Helsinki
Most people in Helsinki (about 87%) live in apartment buildings (kerrostalo). But you’ll also find row houses (rivitalo), semi-detached houses (paritalo), and detached homes (omakotitalo) throughout the city.
Start your search on these main websites:
- Oikotie: for renting and buying
- Vuokraovi: only for renting
- Etuovi: only for buying
- SATO and Lumo: for quick rental moves
Set up alerts for the specific types of homes you’re interested in so you can schedule a viewing as soon as the right place pops up. Not all of these sites are in English, but Google Translate can help you navigate them.
Renting in Helsinki
Renting is a smart way to ease into life in Helsinki, offering flexibility while you explore the city. At the start of 2024, average rents in Helsinki were:
- 22.20€ per square metre in the free market
- 14.50€ per square metre in state-subsidised housing
Some furnished apartments are available for a slightly higher price.
Be sure to factor in these additional costs:
- Water: 15-25€/month
- Internet: 15-30€ (if not included)
- Electricity: 30-200€ (depending on the season)
For a more detailed breakdown of living expenses, check out our Helsinki cost of living guide here.
Most rental properties require a 12-month contract to start. Depending on the landlord or agency, you might be able to get the rental contract in English. If not, you can ask a Finnish-speaker to review it before signing.
If you have any questions about your lease, contract, or rent, you can contact the Tenants Association.
Buying a home
When you’re ready to put down roots in Helsinki, buying a home can be a great option. The most affordable homes typically cost around 3,000€ per square metre, though prices vary by location and property type.
Most homes showcase the city’s commitment to environmental care, with top-notch insulation, energy-efficient heating, and smart waste management systems. Living green is easy here.
But be sure to factor in potential renovation costs—especially in older buildings. While historic properties offer plenty of charm and character, they may need updates to plumbing, electrical systems, or other features.
Moving in: Admin essentials
Once you’ve found your new home (congratulations!), there are a few admin tasks to take care of:
- Register your address with the Digital and Population Data Services Agency.
- Set up electricity and internet (if not included).
- Get home insurance (required for most tenants and homeowners).
- Learn the house rules, including things like quiet hours, shared spaces, waste sorting, and maintenance contacts.
Once that’s all sorted, it’s time for the fun part: explore your new neighbourhood , meet your neighbours, and maybe even throw a housewarming party!
Make yourself at home
Welcome to your new home in Helsinki. Before long, you’ll understand why Finland is known as the world’s happiest country and see just how easy and enjoyable life in Helsinki can be.
For more on Helsinki housing and local regulations, check the websites linked to in this guide: