Getting settled

Your guide to life in Helsinki

Starting a new chapter in Helsinki? You’ve come to the right place. This guide is designed to help you navigate the essentials of life in Finland’s capital, with everything from finding a place to call home to connecting with the local community. Below, you’ll find sections on housing, schools, community, and healthcare, each packed with useful facts, helpful links, and articles to ensure your transition is as smooth as possible. Let’s get started!

Find your home in Helsinki



Securing a place to live is the foundation of getting settled in Helsinki. Whether you’re renting an apartment, exploring co-living options, or considering homeownership, the city offers a variety of choices to suit your lifestyle. Learn about the housing market, practical tips for finding a home, and resources to help you make informed decisions.


Tervetuloa
kotiin

Housing in Helsinki facts

80k Foreign residents in Helsinki

Eighty thousand residents of
Helsinki hold a foreign citizenship,
compared to about 373,000
in all of Finland.

Helsinki facts and figures 2024

1000 Euros per month

Most homes with two rooms and a kitchen in Helsinki cost about EUR 800–1,100 per month, and most homes with three rooms and a kitchen cost about EUR 1,000–1,500 per month. The rents of furnished homes are slightly higher.

infoFinland

357k Number of households

The total number of households in Helsinki.

Helsinki facts and figures 2024

47.8% Rent a flat

In Helsinki, 47.8% of apartments are rental properties, while 41.2% are owner-occupied.

Helsinki facts and figures 2024

51.1% One-person households

In Helsinki, 51.1% of homes are single-person households, followed by 29.0% with two people, 9.7% with three, and 10.2% housing four or more, showcasing the city’s varied living arrangements.

87% Of people live in apartment

Most people in Helsinki live in apartment buildings (kerrostalo). But you’ll also find row houses (rivitalo), semi-detached houses (paritalo), and detached homes (omakotitalo) throughout the city.

Choose your adventure


Check out our interactive map and choose your own path—from the hipster hideouts of Kallio to the stylish boutiques of Punavuori, the peaceful shores of Lauttasaari to the buzz of downtown Kamppi. Each neighbourhood has its own quirky vibe just waiting for you to discover. Pick a spot, zoom in, and dive into Helsinki’s local magic—without ever losing your sense of wonder!

Education for all ages

Helsinki takes pride in its world-class education system. From international schools to public options and daycare for the little ones, there’s something for every family. Learn how the Finnish education system works, find the right school for your needs, and explore resources to help your children thrive.

Life-long
learning

Education in Helsinki facts

93% of children take part in early education

Ninety-three per cent of 3–6-year-old children in Helsinki take part in early childhood education.

Helsinki facts and figures 2024

100 City-run comprehensive schools

Helsinki has 100 City-run comprehensive schools, providing education for a total of 45,000 children and young people.

City of Helsinki

47.8% Rent a flat

In Helsinki, 47.8% of apartments are rental properties, while 41.2% are owner-occupied.

Helsinki facts and figures 2024

89% Of children choose the local school

Eighty-nine per cent of children starting primary school in Helsinki choose the local school close to home.

Helsinki facts and figures 2024

Healthcare in Helsinki


Helsinki’s healthcare system ensures high-quality, accessible care for everyone. From registering for a health centre to understanding public and private healthcare options, this section provides everything you need to stay healthy and informed. Explore the facts, links, and tips for navigating healthcare in Finland.

Wellbeing

Healthcare in Helsinki facts

683€ Maximum annual payment

Helsinki has set a maximum annual payment limit of 683 euros for standard public social and health services. If your costs exceed this ceiling, the city will then provide most further services at no cost. The real costs incurred by medical care are much higher, but tax revenue covers this.

Healthcare and social services

33€ Regular visit to the doctor

The city may ask clients to pay a small fee for some public health services.

Healthcare and social services

71% Feel at least fairly healthy

Based on survey data from 2023.

Helsinki facts and figures 2024

84.1 Women (years)

Life expectancy at birth (2023).

Helsinki facts and figures 2024

79.0 Men (years)

Life expectancy at birth (2023).

Helsinki facts and figures 2024

Community in Helsinki


Helsinki’s healthcare system ensures high-quality, accessible care for everyone. From registering for a health centre to understanding public and private healthcare options, this section provides everything you need to stay healthy and informed. Explore the facts, links, and tips for navigating healthcare in Finland.

Wellbeing

Community in Helsinki facts

150 Nationalities

Helsinki is home to over 150 nationalities, making it one of the most multicultural cities in Finland.

3 Main languages

While Finnish and Swedish are the official languages, English is widely spoken, and you can hear various other languages across the city due to its diverse population.

500 Neighbourhood associations

Helsinki has over 500 neighbourhood associations that organise events, maintain community spaces, and strengthen local identity.

Helka