Helsinki, Finland
Last updated on May 08, 2023
Summary: The approximate population of Helsinki, Finland is 642,045. People describe Helsinki as a vibrant, modern city with a unique blend of traditional and contemporary culture. Expats love the city's excellent public transportation, its abundance of green spaces, and its friendly people. The weather in Helsinki is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from an average high of 68°F (20°C) in the summer to an average low of 20°F (-7°C) in the winter. The average cost of living in Helsinki for an expat is estimated to be around $2,000 per month. The cost of a one bedroom apartment is around $1,000 per month, while a two bedroom apartment is around $1,500 per month.
What do I need to know about living in Helsinki?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Helsinki, they said:
"Helsinki offers an attractive quality of life. With its beautiful green parks and an old town that stretches along the harbor, Helsinki provides a great mix of urban and nature living. Of the many cultural events and attractions in the city, some of the highlights include the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Aleksanteri Institute, the Design Museum and the Ateneum Art Museum. Strong public transportation and a variety of bike lanes make getting around the city easy. As an expat, you will need to obtain a residence permit and apply for a Finnish personal identity code in order to open a bank account and obtain a Finnish social security number. You will need to submit a valid passport and proof of a secure income as part of the application process. Housing in Helsinki can be expensive, but with a range of options from traditional apartment buildings to luxury, lakefront villas, there is something to meet everyone's needs. Groceries, healthcare, and other necessities are also high compared to other places, so be prepared for the additional costs when budgeting for retirement. Once you are settled, Helsinki offers plenty to explore and enjoy. There are lots of parks and green spaces, with large open-air markets, vibrant art and design scenes, and lots of activities to take part in. Whether you are looking for cultural exploration, outdoor adventure, or just reconnecting with family, Helsinki is an excellent place to call home in your retirement," commented one expat who made the move to Helsinki.
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What do I need to know before moving to Helsinki?
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Helsinki?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Helsinki?
- What is the average cost of housing in Helsinki?
- How do I meet people in Helsinki?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Helsinki?
- What should I pack when moving to Helsinki?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Helsinki?
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- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Helsinki?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Helsinki?
- What is the social scene like in Helsinki?
- What advice to expats in Helsinki have about housing?
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